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Vaughn Collar wrote:

Hi, guys —

I am in the process of writing a novel. One of the main protagonists is a Roman Catholic priest.

In my novel, a technological accident has opened a rift between dimensions. This hypothetical dimension is one where magic is real and prevalent. This priest is exposed to the energies from this dimension. He finds himself able to wield a specific type of magic, where he finds he can heal injuries and cure diseases and such. There are a few other powers, but they are not his major ability.

This priest is troubled by his newfound abilities. But I have asked him to be a person that will “not” use his powers for personal gain, either for power or riches. He is truly a good man, interested only in the welfare of others.

I know the Bible does not treat "magic" well. From history and looking at those that supposedly did use "magic", it is understandable why our distant ancestors treated this, at best, with suspicion.

My question is this:

  • Would this priest be an outcast if his abilities came to light, but had never used them for any personal gain?

Vaughn C.

  { Would the priest in my novel be an outcast if his "magic" came to light but not for personal gain? }

Eric replied:

Vaughn,

Some of the greatest Christian writers (J.R.R. Tolkien, who was a Catholic, and C. S. Lewis) have written novels using magic in a positive sense. What you describe sounds benign. I assume the priest is not invoking spirits or casting spells. Heck, there are historical saints that have had the power to heal injuries and cure diseases (look up "wonderworker").

"Magic" is really not a well-defined concept. In any case the portrayal of benign magic has a well-established pedigree in literature, and I would not worry about it given your description of how you are using it.

Eric

Bob replied:

Dear Vaughn,

No, the priest would not be an outcast, he would actually be commended for not using something that could be considered dubious or of evil origin. 

Peace,

Bob Kirby

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