Harry Gael Michaels

Reflections on Institutional Catholic-Ism Harry Gael Michaels

Many Catholics, today, struggle with issues of faith in the Church and yet, as children, have been intimidated from questioning the "sacred dogma" for fear of jeopardizing their "immortal soul." To a child growing up Catholic the unquestioned authority of priests pre-dispose children to the seductive influences of this kind of power and with priestly robes cast an aura of Godly authority. Speaking as a retired mental health professional this situation is dangerous to the psychological development and wellbeing of children. The power and authority of priests leave many children with such awestruck reverence to the extent that nothing uttered or performed by a priest would dare to be challenged---even by parents. This essay is about Catholic authoritarian dogma and mandatory instruction that can hinder the developmental tasks of childhood from the establishment of basic trust to adolescent identity and beyond. Faith in the Church must be tempered by a healthy regard for the advancement of knowledge, enlightenment and true faith in God's universe.