一万の難点は一疑問にもならない  J. H. Newman

Blessed John Henry Newman wrote, "Ten thousand difficulties do not make one doubt." What he means is that there is a difference between a doubt and a difficulty. When we start to think through our Catholic faith we would be negligent or stupid not to have some problems. After all, the things we propose as true in the Catholic faith stretch the human mind and heart.

However, many people are worried that they are doubting their faith if they scratch their heads puzzled over our beliefs.

There is a difference between doubt and difficulty. The person with a difficulty says, "How can that be so?" whereas a person who doubts says, "That can't be so!"

The first statement expresses difficulty, but willingness to believe. The second statement expresses cynicism and unwillingness to submit to the Church's teachings. The person with difficulties says, "I believe, Lord; help my unbelief!" The person with doubts says, "I don't believe Lord, and don't bother to help my unbelief!"

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