Patrick takes a call from John, a Protestant pastor in Texas, who asks whether the Mass is invalid if a Catholic priest celebrates it while in a state of mortal sin. Patrick explains that the Mass would still be valid, because validity depends on three essential elements: form (the words of consecration), matter (unleavened bread and wine), and intention (the priest’s intention to confect the Eucharist).

Patrick clarifies that while the Mass would remain valid, it could be illicit (unlawful) if the priest knowingly skipped required elements or celebrated without first confessing grave sin. He brings up the history of the Church, citing St. Augustine’s defense against the Donatists, who wrongly claimed sacraments were invalid if the minister was unworthy. Augustine argued that if their logic were correct, no one could ever have confidence in any sacrament, since we can’t see into a minister’s soul. Patrick also notes St. Thomas Aquinas’ reassurance that the very act of a priest celebrating Mass provides moral certainty that his intention is valid.

John connects this with 1 Corinthians 11, where St. Paul warns that those who receive the Eucharist unworthily bring judgment upon themselves, and he shares his growing appreciation for Catholic teaching through Relevant Radio. 

The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.

Patrick takes a call from John, a Protestant pastor in Texas, who asks whether the Mass is invalid if a Catholic priest celebrates it while in a state of mortal sin. Patrick explains that the Mass would&nbsp;still be valid, because validity depends on three essential elements: form (the words of consecration), matter (unleavened bread and wine), and intention (the priest&rsquo;s intention to confect the Eucharist).
Patrick clarifies that while the Mass would remain valid, it could be illicit (unlawful) if the priest knowingly skipped required elements or celebrated without first confessing grave sin. He brings up the history of the Church, citing St. Augustine&rsquo;s defense against the Donatists, who wrongly claimed sacraments were invalid if the minister was unworthy. Augustine argued that if their logic were correct, no one could ever have confidence in any sacrament, since we can&rsquo;t see into a minister&rsquo;s soul. Patrick also notes St. Thomas Aquinas&rsquo; reassurance that the very act of a priest celebrating Mass provides moral certainty that his intention is valid.
John connects this with 1 Corinthians 11, where St. Paul warns that those who receive the Eucharist unworthily bring judgment upon themselves, and he shares his growing appreciation for Catholic teaching through Relevant Radio.&nbsp;
<hr>
The&nbsp;best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It&rsquo;s free and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out <a href="https://relevantradio.com/listen/get-the-app/">here</a>.

Life can get busy, and it's easy to miss out on the captivating moments from your favorite Relevant Radio shows. But now, we've got you covered! "The Best of the Week - Relevant Radio Podcast" brings you the crème de la crème of Relevant Radio's programming. We carefully curate and compile the most engaging and relevant content from the past week, just for you! Get ready to catch up on faith, culture, current events, and personal growth, all in one convenient and easily accessible podcast. It's like having a front-row seat to the most compelling moments from Relevant Radio's diverse range of shows. So, whether you're an active Relevant Radio listener or new to our programming, "The Best of the Week - Relevant Radio Podcast" is your passport to a world of knowledge, growth, and inspiration.

Life can get busy, and it's easy to miss out on the captivating moments from your favorite Relevant Radio shows. But now, we've got you covered! "The Best of the Week - Relevant Radio Podcast" brings you the crème de la crème of Relevant Radio's programming. We carefully curate and compile the most engaging and relevant content from the past week, just for you! Get ready to catch up on faith, culture, current events, and personal growth, all in one convenient and easily accessible podcast. It's like having a front-row seat to the most compelling moments from Relevant Radio's diverse range of shows. So, whether you're an active Relevant Radio listener or new to our programming, "The Best of the Week - Relevant Radio Podcast" is your passport to a world of knowledge, growth, and inspiration.

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