Expert: Fr. Michael - 7/3/2009

Question
Hello Father,
I had a parochial education and, I too, am before Vatican II.  while talking to a friend re; mass, she told me at her church sometime around Christmas the priest, in his sermon, mentioned something about Mary having relations, and other children.  We were taught that this was not true?
And I know many non-catholics believe Jesus had siblings.  But they were non catholic.
I thought she may have misunderstood that the priest may have been discussing someone else and not Mary.  but other catholics thought this seems to be the new belief.  Is this true?  I must not have heard that one.
Would like to hear your thoughts on this.  Thank you.

Answer
The people whom you are describing as "Catholics" are not.  They are Newchurchers, followers of the New Order that became prevalent after Vatican II (1962-1965).  The notion that you are describing is Protestant, and even some Fundamentalist Protestants reject it.

For further information, go to www.traditio.com, The Traditional Roman Catholic Network, and click on Library of Files (FAQs and Traditional Apologetics) and there select FAQ10:  How Do You Explain These Traditional Catholic Beliefs? and the section, "Brothers" of Christ.