A recent Pew Research Center study reveals that a significant portion of Americans are engaging in New Age practices like astrology, tarot, and fortune-telling. The study indicates that these practices are viewed as recreational by most participants. Catholic sources, such as Catholic Answers, warn against these activities, citing their contradiction of Catholic teachings. The trend is observed across various demographics, with higher engagement among younger adults, women, and LGBT individuals.
12 days ago
A recent Pew Research study reveals that approximately 30% of Americans engage with New Age practices such as astrology, tarot cards, or fortune-telling at least once annually 1. Astrology is the most popular of these practices, followed by tarot cards and fortune-telling 1. The study indicates that many participants engage in these activities for entertainment purposes 1.
The Catholic Church strongly opposes all forms of divination 1. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, divination contradicts the honor, respect, and loving fear that should be reserved for God alone 1. Catholic Answers apologist Tom Nash warns that engaging in such practices can be spiritually dangerous, potentially leading to vice and related problems 1.
The Pew study identifies specific demographic groups as more likely to engage in New Age practices 1. Hispanic Catholics, Black Protestants, and individuals with no particular religious affiliation show a greater tendency to consult fortune tellers, tarot cards, or astrology 1. Conversely, atheists and white evangelicals are the least likely to participate in these practices 1. Younger adults, particularly women aged 18 to 49, exhibit a higher belief in astrology 1. LGBT Americans are also more likely to engage in these practices, with about half consulting astrology yearly and a significantly higher likelihood of consulting tarot cards compared to non-LGBT adults 1.
Tom Nash connects the increasing popularity of New Age practices with the growing number of religiously unaffiliated individuals, often referred to as "nones" 1. Despite abandoning organized religion, many people still seek deeper meaning and understanding in their lives 1. Nash suggests that without the fulfillment found in Christ and the Catholic Church, individuals may turn to alternative outlets to fill this spiritual void 1.
The Church clarifies licit and illicit seeking of knowledge.
The Catholic Church distinguishes between licit and illicit ways of seeking knowledge, particularly concerning the future or hidden things. Divination, which involves seeking knowledge of future or hidden things through inadequate means, is considered unlawful and often associated with sinister powers or evil spirits . Prophecy, on the other hand, represents the lawful knowledge of the future .
Here's a breakdown:
In summary, the Church condemns divination as a sinful attempt to gain knowledge through unauthorized means, particularly those involving occult or demonic forces. Instead, believers are encouraged to trust in God's providence and seek knowledge through licit means, such as prayer, reason, and the guidance of the Church .