Ask Father Rudy: Bible Books, Alcoholism, & Practicing your Faith

You've asked four questions for our first try at "Ask Father Rudy". I welcome your questions and will try to answer them for you. Feel free to ask more questions via comment, message on facebook, or e-mail olgnsgbronx@gmail.com. I can't wait to respond to the next set of questions next week Wednesday.

God Bless You!

Fr. Rudy

------------------------------------------------------------------

Question 1:

When looking at bibles, I see that there’s a King James Version and an “NIV”. The NIV has the book of Sirach where the King James Version does not. How come they aren’t in both? How do I decide which version of the bible is the one I should read?

Regarding Sirach:   It's not included in the Protestant versions of the Bible you mean. The Catholic versions have it.

Because in the year 1800 the people who were publishing the KJV decided to remove it and several other books of the Bible. All the versions of the KJV from 1611 to the year 1800 contained it and the other books.

The book of Sirach, which I have read, is an absolutely wonderful addition to the Bible. In the days of the early church, it was often called the "teaching" book because it contained so much wisdom for new Christians. Several New Testament authors quote from it in their writings. It's a shame that so many Christians don't get the full story.

Oh and please note that book of Ecclesiasticus is completely different from the book of Ecclesiastes.

Question 2:

When choosing a church, how do I ignore the drama within the church and continue to minister within that church?

Drama has always existed due to the human nature we all share.  Your faith is based on JESUS and His teachings, thats what will guide your actions and words.  Drama and people usually gives me plenty to pray for and about.  Continuing DOING what the Lord asks you to do and make a difference in the lives of those who are involved in the drama.

Question 3:

What do you recommend as a daily spiritual routine if a person can’t attend daily mass but wants to practice their faith?

Place yourself whenever you consciously think of God, in His presence.  In the train, car, work, school.  Your entire day could be a prayer.  In all those moments God will reach you and guide you. 

Question 4:

If I’m a recovering alcoholic and trying to receive the blood of Christ (which is wine), how do I partake in receiving the blood of Christ?

When you receive Holy Communion in what appears to be bread (the consecrated Host)  you ARE receiving the entire body of Jesus, including His Blood as it were.  Do not feel pressure to consume the Blood of Christ, you are already receiving the Lord in the host.  No need to set yourself up for a fall.  God bless you.
 

Fr. Rudy