Fr. David, can you account for what seems (based on so many questions posted here) to be a growing “traditional” Catholic understanding of “Sunday rest” that seems closer to Orthodox Judaism than traditional Catholic practice? I refer to questions relating to doing homework on a Sunday (always a popular question), shoveling out your driveway after a snowstorm, working in one’s garden as a hobby/relaxation, even going for a family drive on a Sunday. All of these, and more, have been recent posts in terms of “Is it a sin” or “Is it allowed.”
It almost seems that in some quarters the sense is emerging that any physical activity - thus my comparison with Orthodox Judaism - violates “Sabbath rest.” What’s going on in the Church that we’re seeing so much of this? Back in the dim, distant 50’s when Church attendance and family structure were both stronger, there never was any question about - or preaching condemning - family outings or driving or even homework. Really curious.
