Topic: Can the dead contact the living?

Source of this posting: Moderator response

Date originally posted: January 6, 2003

Moderator who originally posted this source: Kathy Martyn

Question:   Hey there!  Happy new year.  I'm puzzled! Recently, my grandmother has past-away who was very connected spiritually and religiously. She had many encounters with deceased loved ones in dreams, through different signs etc. Before she died her daughters spoke to her about how once she died they like it if she could come visit them, let them know she's still around etc. Well they've been visited by her and at least two members of my family have seen her. Everyone in my family are perfectly healthy, sane, normal people. Doesn't this proof of an after-life and ability to connect with the dead contradict what the church teaches? Would it be against our religion for me to believe them and try to connect with my grandmother myself?  My mom wants to take me to see one of those mediums you see on t.v (for example James Van Praagh) who assume they are seeing your loved one and talk to you through them. Should I avoid this?? Thank you! P.S Quick second question: What does our religious say about Meditation?

Answer: 

Dear Nick,

Good Question. All of us from time to time actually feel the presence of a loved one that has gone before us. We as Catholics ask the saints and loved ones to intercede for us. Is it possible to actually SEE the deceased person? I guess anything is possible.

As far a visiting a medium, I think you would be more productive by making a contribution to a charitable cause.

As for meditation, yes, the Catholic Church is ok with that. Do you have a more specific question about meditation?