Question:
Dear Brother Ignatius,
I would like your perspective on how to respond to well-meaning but misguided people who keep recommending New Age/alternative "healing" treatments for my child. Because of various neurological issues, my 10-year-old son has had to take an indefinite leave of absence from school. Since the other students were asking after him, we let the parents of his classmates know (in very general terms) what has been going on.
Now we are receiving unsolicited recommendations to see various acpuncturists, chiropracters, and other New Age "healers." I am never quite sure how to respond to these suggestions. Is it acceptable to make a non-commital statement along the lines of, "Thanks for thinking of us"? Or, in the interest of standing up for my faith, should I be making a stronger, unequivocal statement that that sort of thing is incompatible with our beliefs?
Maybe I am being cowardly, but to date I have chosen to go the non-confrontational route because I don't know these people very well, and my sense is that they are well-meaning, albeit misguided.
Also, how should I respond (if at all) to stories about mutual acquaintances who have been "healed" after giving up on regular doctors and getting involved in this occult, New Age stuff? I can't really refute the reality of these "healings;" nevertheless, I want nothing to do with those approaches.
Thank you for your thoughts.
Dear Angelica:
For reference on this subject is the Vatican document, A Christian Reflection on the New Age, and On Some Aspects of Christian Meditation, and the document from the USCCB, Guidelines for Evaluating Reiki as an Alternative Therapy.
These documents either speak directly to various new age activities, or provide principles to guide us. For example, any technique based on "energy flows" is not Christian and should be avoided.
As for all these people suggesting you go to various new age practitioners, I am sorrowed to hear that so many people find no conflict with the faith.
Anyway, there is no problem in politely thanking a person for their suggestion and leave it at that. But, if a person follows up or insists on more of a response you may have to just tell them that such techniques are contrary to your faith.
When they tell you of how others have been "healed", just say, "I praise God for their healing, but I will stay with traditional medicine."
Of course, they will then be offended, and argue that there is nothing against the faith in these techniques. Rather than argue, just simply say, "I understand your view, but for me it violates my faith and will not use those techniques."
If they persist in arguing or pestering you about it then you may have to get more deliberate with, "I have given you my opinion and decision on this subject. I expect you to respect my decision and not bring this subject up again."
If they refuse to respect you, then show them the door with a kick in the rear. 
God Bless,
Bro. Ignatius Mary
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