Catholic Guilt

For many Catholics, the sense of remorse they feel when doing what is against the teachings of their faith results in a deep sense of Catholic guilt. It is this sense of Catholic guilt that causes many non-believers to feel uneasy about those who profess to be "devout Catholics." They have a sense of fear of the unknown or that in which they do not believe and fear those who believe in those thongs.

For most people the sense of guilt from doing something wrong is a minor thing, even for those of most other faiths. That isn't to say they have no remorse but rather they do it, pray for forgiveness, and continue with life. The practice of Catholicism on the other hand creates a sense of Catholic guilt for many followers in the practice of things most of us take for granted-practicing birth control, occasionally sleeping in on a Sunday morning, pre-marital sex, homosexuality, and divorce.

For those who do not understand the teachings of the Catholic Church, their understanding of Catholic guilt is minimal at best. Even those who have left the Mother Church may experience a sense of Catholic guilt over their decision, though not usually enough to make them return. After all, if they left for certain specified reasons, it isn't likely that anything has changed to make them want to return.

Catholic guilt for some church members can be overbearing to the point that they feel stressed, and even like they are undeserving of God's graces. That isn't to say that this is completely wrong, but such a deep sense of remorse can create havoc within one's life. The key is after the violation is committed, ask for forgiveness, receive absolution, and go forward with the rest of your life knowing you are forgiven.