Join our host, Bill Maher, as he sits down with Father Chad Ripperger in the latest episode of the "Inflection Point" podcast. This powerful conversation dives deep into the healing of the person and the problems plaguing our world today. Father Ripperger offers profound insights into how the disconnect from reality and the increase in sinfulness have led to a decline in mental health, with many people suffering from various degrees of mental illness.
Father Ripperger discusses the prophecies of Catholic mystics and their relevance to our current issues. He explores the descent from reality, the loss of moral truths, and the impact of technology on isolation and dehumanization. Emphasizing the importance of community and virtue, he reminds us that true health, both spiritual and moral can only be achieved when we live in harmony with the way God designed us.
The human person, according to Father Ripperger, is a rational animal created by God with a specific structure governed by natural law. Sin disrupts our natural inclinations and faculties, creating a conflict between reason and our lower faculties. He highlights the need for a congruent life where mind, body, and spirit are in balance, and discusses the roles of the intellect and will, which are faculties of the soul independent of the body.
While psychology can aid in understanding the person, Father Ripperger points out that its effectiveness depends on the theories employed. He advocates for the Catholic Christian Meta Model of the person, based on Thomistic philosophy, as a coherent framework for guiding psychological therapy. He also touches on the limitations of psychotropic drugs, noting that they may stabilize individuals temporarily but do not address the root causes of mental illness.
Proper therapy and spiritual direction are essential for tackling underlying issues. Father Ripperger shares valuable information on the retreats and resources offered by Monte Cristo LLC, emphasizing the importance of stopping sinning, going to confession, and working on forgiveness as pathways to healing. He also discusses the roles of saints and devotions in the healing process and examines the potential benefits and dangers of near-death experiences and the use of psychedelics in therapy.
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Tune in to this informative episode for a comprehensive understanding of the human person and the journey to true healing.