Oh, Dearest Mother, Sweetest Virgin of Altagracia, our Patroness. You are our Advocate and to you we recommend our needs. You are our Teacher and like disciples we come to learn from the example of your holy life. You are our Mother, and like children, we come to offer you all of the love of our hearts. Receive, dearest Mother, our offerings and listen attentively to our supplications. Amen.



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Amanda
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Posted: Nov 21 2007 at 9:46pm | IP Logged Quote Amanda
Hi,

Typing w/one hand here while holding baby, so I hope I can be brief but still clear!

Ds (age 10) was sitting next to me at Mass last Sunday and suddenly responded to the priest's invitation to think about eternal life by saying to me at a normal speaking volume (he has Asperger Syndrome and is socially clueless, although he certainly knows better than to chat during Mass), "How can I do that when I'm not sure I believe?"

I just shushed him, but later, I asked him about it and he said, "I think I'm just so smart" (OK, no false modesty in this guy) "that I can't help considering that it" (the Bible & Church teachings) "might not be true." He seemed a little worried & perplexed. I assured him that everyone, even the saints, had periods of doubt, and that some of the most brilliant minds in history had been Doctors of the Church. I encouraged him to pray about it. Our pastor has been ill, but when he's better, I could suggest that ds speak with him.

What else can/should I do, besides pray? Do I go ahead with all our Advent prayers, reading, and traditions without mentioning this again> What would you all do> He is my oldest dc, so I haven't had anything like this come up before.

Thank you!
Amanda in PA
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Erin
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Posted: Nov 22 2007 at 12:33am | IP Logged Quote Erin
Amanda

There was a little aspiration I remember saying as a teenager "Lord I believe, help my unbelief". It isn't uncommon to have doubts and Satan tries all sorts of tricks. For those who are bright, intellectual pride is a favourite of his.

I wouldn't stress, which it sounds like you're not, I think you're on the right track, you've handled it well mentioning the saints etc. Continue immersing him in his faith, living your faith, that is the most important thing, your faith, sharing in a natural manner.

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Helen
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Posted: Nov 22 2007 at 5:52am | IP Logged Quote Helen
Dear Amanda,
I think Erin gave you very good advice.
Continue to pray and continue to provide moments of prayer for your son. I think I learned the most about my faith through prayer.
Happy Thanksgiving!

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humanaevitae
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Posted: Nov 23 2007 at 12:35am | IP Logged Quote humanaevitae
I have always stuggled with those thoughts as does my dd since she was 3!

In times of doubt,I tend to look on it as a betting decision. If I believe in God, etc... and I'm wrong I haven't lost much...maybe just some sinful "fun". However if I don't believe and I'm wrong, I've earned myself a ticket to hell.
I choose to go with the safe bet!

With my dd I am also relying heavily on apologetics- giving her reasons why the church teaches what it does.



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