Q: Why don’t you tackle the issue of masturbation in one of your newsletters? I’m sure it would be very helpful to your readers.
A: Actually, it would be counterproductive and not at all helpful. Some issues should be discussed only with your confessor, therapist, and/or spiritual director.
Traditional and orthodox Catholic moral theology provides consistently useful and necessary pastoral care. It is best applied within a relationship in which honest dialogue can be shared and experienced.
Q: Once again, you’ve offered advice in the newsletter that contradicts the teaching authority of the Church. We don’t read this newsletter to be misled or deceived.
A: I’m not repeating the example you gave in your letter because it doesn’t support your observation. I offer only Catholic and orthodox pastoral care and direction in this newsletter, to do otherwise would be a disservice to our readers and is not at all helpful. Pastoral care for people with scrupulosity is what we provide each month. That is our only ministry and our only purpose, and we take the responsibility very seriously.