Catholicism 101: Go Back to Seminary with Fr. Chris Alar - Explaining the Faith

Father Chris Aylar, the director of the Association of Marian Helpers, addresses the audience at the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy. He expresses concern over a study revealing that only 17% of Catholics believe in the fullness of the Catholic faith as the one true faith. Father Chris emphasizes his intention to elevate the Catholic faith rather than belittle other religions. He highlights the uniqueness of Catholicism, which was founded by Jesus Christ, and mentions common misunderstandings about Catholic beliefs such as the Eucharist, Mary, and the Pope. He stresses the importance of sharing the beauty of the faith to prevent the loss of Catholics in families and communities.

Father Chris discusses the significant contributions of the Catholic Church to Western civilization, including the establishment of universities, hospitals, and charities. He points out that the Church is the largest provider of education, feeding, clothing, and sheltering people worldwide. He warns of the potential consequences if the government were to strip the Church of its tax-exempt status, suggesting taxpayers would have to bear the financial burden. He also addresses the proliferation of Christian denominations, questioning how 40,000 could each hold the truth, and emphasizes the Catholic Church's claim to the fullness of truth, tracing its origins back to Jesus Christ.

The speaker delves into the Catholic approach to scripture, arguing that while the Bible is essential, it is not the sole foundation of faith. He cites the Gospel of John to illustrate that not all of Jesus' teachings were written down. Father Chris explains the concept of 'sola scriptura' or 'Bible only' is not supported by the Bible itself and highlights the importance of oral tradition as mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:15. He discusses the origin of the Bible, its relation to the Mass, and the role of the Catholic Church in determining the biblical canon, emphasizing that the Church's authority is necessary to interpret and understand the Bible correctly.

Father Chris shares a personal anecdote involving a former employee, Ed, who believed that the Bible alone is sufficient for faith. Through this story, Father Chris illustrates the necessity of the Catholic Church's authority in accepting and interpreting the Bible. He explains that the Church determined the canon of the New Testament and that accepting the Bible's authority inherently means recognizing the authority from which it came. He emphasizes that the Catholic Church predates the Bible and that the Bible was created to be read at Mass, reinforcing the Church's role in guiding the faithful.

The speaker addresses common misconceptions about the Catholic Church, such as the burning of Bibles, the use of Latin, and the addition of books to the Bible. He clarifies that the Church burned heretical Bibles, not authentic ones, and that the use of Latin was to reach a broader audience. He also corrects the notion that the Church added books to the Bible, explaining that Martin Luther removed certain books from the canon. Father Chris encourages a deeper understanding of the faith and the recognition of the Church's role in preserving and interpreting scripture.

Father Chris discusses the scriptural basis for Catholic teachings, focusing on the authority of Peter as the rock upon which Jesus would build His Church, as mentioned in Matthew 16:18. He refutes the argument that 'petra' in Greek disproves Peter's role, by explaining that Jesus spoke Aramaic, not Greek. He also discusses the Pope's role in defining doctrine and the importance of unity in the Church, drawing parallels to the Supreme Court's role in interpreting the U.S. Constitution.

The speaker defends the Catholic practices of venerating saints, relics, and icons. He likens saints to role models, as in sports, and argues that they provide examples of virtue for the faithful. He addresses the misconception that Catholics worship these items, clarifying that they are used for veneration and as teaching tools. He also discusses the biblical basis for the communion of saints, citing instances where God has worked through secondary agents, such as relics, to perform miracles.

Father Chris introduces the concept of Purgatory, explaining it as a middle ground for souls that require purification before entering Heaven. He cites biblical passages that support the idea of a purifying fire and mentions that prayers for the dead have been a part of Jewish and early Christian practices. He emphasizes that Purgatory is a state of purification, not a place of torment, and that it is a part of the Catholic understanding of the afterlife.

The speaker discusses the practice of infant baptism, arguing that it is akin to being born into a family or a citizenship. He explains that baptism is a way of becoming a child of God and an adopted child in the kingdom of God. He rejects the idea that baptism should be delayed until a person can make an informed decision, as it is a sacrament and part of the journey to salvation.

Father Chris addresses the concept of co-redemption, explaining that it does not imply equality with Christ but rather a shared role in the process of salvation. He cites examples from the Bible where apostles and other figures are called 'co-workers' with Christ, emphasizing that this is about participation in God's plan, not replacing Christ's unique role as the mediator and redeemer.

The speaker concludes by emphasizing that the Catholic Church is essential for salvation, as it is the body of Christ. He explains that while salvation is possible outside the visible Church for those who are ignorant of the faith, those who have been given the gift of the sacraments bear a greater responsibility. He encourages the faithful to cherish and uphold their Catholic faith despite any scandals or challenges.

Father Chris acknowledges the gravity of the clergy abuse scandal within the Catholic Church, expressing deep sorrow and apologizing for the harm caused. He emphasizes that such actions are inexcusable and that the Church must hold perpetrators accountable while also praying for their souls. He implores the faithful not to abandon their faith because of the actions of some priests and to continue to seek healing and justice within the Church.

Father Chris Aylar introduces the Divine Mercy Catholic Bible, a revised standard version with contributions from various Catholic scholars. This Bible aims to provide readers with an understanding of scripture through the lens of God's divine mercy. He invites the audience to obtain a copy through the provided website or phone number, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the Word of God from this perspective.