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.
Pope Saint John Paul II , a towering figure of the 20th century, was a staunch critic of socialist ideologies. He recognized the inherent flaws in systems that sought to control economies and societies through centralized planning and state ownership. The pontiff's teachings offered a prophetic warning against the dangers of such regimes, which often led to oppression, poverty, and the erosion of individual freedoms. Recently, a conference organized by the Catholic Association of Propagandists in Spain brought together prominent figures who echoed the concerns raised by the late Pope. Bishop José Ignacio Munilla of Orihuela-Alicante boldly declared socialism an "enemy of the cross," highlighting its incompatibility with Christian values. He emphasized the need for a spiritual renewal, urging individuals to embrace the cross as a path to true happiness and fulfillment. French philosopher Fabrice Hadjadj also addressed the challenges posed by modern society, warning ag...