Expert: Padraig Caughey - 4/28/2008

Question
I have returned to the Catholic Church from studying various eastern religions.  One of these studies was to learn to open the third eye which came very easy to me. Assuming that utilizing the third eye is an occult practice, through prayers and will I have been able to close this 'eye' however, can it be God's will that I should see through this because it keeps opening when I'm relaxed or I'll wake up and it will be open?  Is it necessarily an occult practice or one that the saints have used?  Sometimes, through this 'round window' I see all sorts of activities - good and bad, saintly or angelic people dressed in white or vibrant colors.  Sometimes I see people who seem to be in purgatory.  Lots of people.  Is seeing through this so-called 'third eye' un-Catholic or am I endowed with a precious gift?  What should I do?!!  I am trying to be saintly and I know the Lord is with me often but I don't know if this is part of the package!

Answer
Hi Elise,

I think Elise you have to judge the source of such phenomena. They could have various origins, ie, from God, from Satan, from self delusion, from imagination, of from mental illness. The basic criteria is, 'By their fruits you shall know them'. Therefore are these phenomena leading you to become a kinder more loving person? Are they assisting you in practicing your faith better?

There are a whole range of other criteria you can use to judge. For instance does the phenomena contradict scripture and the teachings of the Church? The best way of coming to terms with this is to seek out a good Spiritual Director to Direct you and to do exactly what he tells you.One thing for sure is if you are humble and obedient no harm will come to you.

I would be a little troubled that there is a kind of New Age background to all this. But certainly it is not impossible that they might be real and authentic. But as I say place it all in the hands of a good priest.

God Bless

Padraig