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I've been a Catholic for decades; for as long as I can remember.
I have been trying to stop drinking for the last few years. I would have 2-3 IPA beers at the bar going a few times a week. The last time I went I overdid it.
We were moving and so much stress was going on in my life I went to the bar 2-3 times that week and went to 4-6 IPA beers. (One of those times I did get a bit drunk.) The next day I made a vow to my Heavenly Father that I wouldn't drink again.
It’s been 2-3 weeks and there’s so much stress going on in my life. I also think I’m going through a mid-life crisis (I’m 41) and would like to have 2-3 IPA beers again to relax.
But if I do, how much trouble would I get in?
Would this be a serious sin to commit?
Sue G.
{
If I undid my vow to God not to drink, how much trouble would I get in and would it be serious? }
Promises and vows
.
. 2102 "A vow is a deliberate and free promise made to God concerning a possible and better good which must be fulfilled by reason of the virtue of religion,"
(Code of Canon Law, Canon 1191 § 1)
A vow is an act of devotion in which the Christian dedicates himself to God or promises him some good work. By fulfilling his vows he renders to God what has been promised and consecrated to Him. The Acts of the Apostles shows us St. Paul concerned to fulfill the vows he had made. (cf. Acts 18:18; 21:23-24)
"Unlike the simple breach of a promise made to a man, a failure to give to God what has been promised Him is a matter of importance, a very serious offence. This explanation shows us also how a vow is an act of religion, just as any offering made to God."
In the Bible, people took vows so seriously that Jephthah, who made a rash vow to offer the first thing that came out of his house as a sacrifice, carried it out when his daughter fulfilled the conditions (Judges 11:29-40).
Ask God for the grace to carry out your vow. Offer your stresses to him:
“Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you.”
Humble yourself before the Lord and admit you have no power or strength on your own to carry out your vow.
You're looking for a way to weasel out of a commitment you made. Man up and fulfill it. If you break down, there is always the sacrament of Confession where you can receive forgiveness and Mercy.
Eric
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