Conscience
is the faculty of human reason that makes practical judgments regarding
what is morally right or wrong. In the search for truth, a person
should always turn to a respected authority for enlightenment. Catholics
are encouraged to turn to the teaching authority of the church, namely
to what’s referred to as the magisterium. But those who act in a way that differs from the letter of the law cannot be presumed to be doing so in bad faith. The
decision to do what is right or wrong always remains a personal one.
Catholics are bound to follow their conscience. In the case of Catholics
who have remarried without the benefit of an annulment, the
Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith teaches that Catholics whose
“nullity of marriage cannot be demonstrated” are not permitted to
receive the Eucharist, unless special permission has been given them to
live as “brother and sister.” Read more.
Finding St Anthony Among the Lost Items
Saint Anthony of Padua, though often associated with finding lost articles, was primarily known in his lifetime as a powerful and eloquent preacher. Originally a Canon Regular of St. Augustine, he was inspired to join the newly formed Franciscan order after witnessing the martyrdom of the first Franciscan missionaries in Morocco. His conversion to the mendicant life under St. Francis of Assisi transformed him, deepening his commitment to poverty, humility, and evangelical preaching. Gifted with profound theological knowledge and a captivating speaking style, he traveled across Italy and France, drawing immense crowds with his clear and passionate sermons, converting many and combating heresy with his unwavering faith and intellectual rigor. Beyond his public ministry, St. Anthony was a mystic who enjoyed profound spiritual experiences, most notably a vision of the Infant Jesus. This intimate connection with the Christ Child is a hallmark of his iconography, often depicting him c...
