Homeopath and the Occult

HTS writes: I would be so pleased if you could tell me if all forms of Homeopathy are of the occult. What about the medication " Glucosamine sulphate" taken for sore joints.

HSI: From what we understand about the subject, homeopathic treatment for the most part is a legitimate, if unorthodox, form of treatment. We invite readers to comment.

Vacationing During Lent

DG writes: First I have to say that I very much enjoy your emails. I am a Catholic and we are going away for our vacation on a cruise Feb. 17th. We will be sailing on Sunday and if there is not a Priest on the Ship we cannot attend Sunday Mass. Will that be ok? I am sure hoping there will be a Catholic Priest on board. And also Wed of that week is Ash Wednesday. What is the policy of the Church when one is on vacation. Do we have to fast that day? And another question regarding fasting -- on a fast day can we drink beverages in between our meals like coffee, tea, soda or does that break the fast? Thank you for answering my questions and have a blessed day.

HSI replies: If there is no Priest on board, you can always spend an hour in prayer. Pray to the Holy Spirit. Then read the Sunday readings and reflect on them and share your reflections with your family or frends, if possible. Pray for the needs of others. Ask Jesus to show you how you can share him and his love with others on board in some practical way.

On Ash Wednesday we fast which means we have one full meal and one small meal. You can also have a cup of tea in the morning and evening. The spirit behind this is of more importance. It is to remind ourselves that Jesus died for us and that we also have to empty ourselves to be life-giving to others in word and deed. So it is good to pray, sacrifice and share Jesus with others in some practical wayof kindness or help or concern.

I hope this answers your questions. Wish you a very pleasant cruise and a happy vacation.

Need Answers, Not Assurances

Ivana from Croatia writes: I'm very interested in any site or forum that would help me and other catholics ask or share experiences with neo-protestantism which is spreading like fire, even in my own coutry, which has been known and claimed as 'traditionally' catholic. We are very exposed to false teachers and prophets. I have a lot of questions, but most of my friends just tell me to drop the issue. I have met a lot of protestants lately and I really need answers and advice; not just suggestions to leave things hanging in the air.

HSI: Read the Holy Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church - both of them together provide us with all the answers we need about our faith. The site Holy Spirit Interactive also provides a lot of catechetical information that you will find useful. Once we know WHY we believe WHAT we believe, we don't need to worry about false teachers and false prophets. Please also read the article on False Prophets by Aneel Aranha.