Where can I go to (in the North East) get answers on deep philosophical questions, which just can't be answered on a forum? I have questions about suffering, answers to prays (or lack there of) and the general nature of God. This really isn't my parish Priest's strong point. I am looking understanding and I'm very frustrated. Most books I read leave me with more questions than answers.

Thank You Doubting Thomas

Dear Didymus,

When you get into philosophy, you have to expect getting more questions than answers. Doing philosophy is a long distance race. I would recommend, however, that you prepare yourself by reviewing something short and sweet like the Baltimore Catechism, especially on the nature of God. If children have been capable of understanding it, you are all the more capable. Now children are used to taking things on faith in the teachings of the Church. They find it natural that the Church not only presents the questions to be asked but the answers to be given. Adults should find it just as natural when they recall that the Church speaks for God. Sometimes adult forget that and instead want crystal clear answers. Failing that, they become skeptics. what you need is a lesson on faith. Faith in the Church gives the basic answers. Thus armed with the faith, you will be ready to dig deeper into philosophical questions.

Dr. Geraghty

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