To tattoo or not to tattoo, that is the question? With so many other pressing moral issues, like our culture of death, I’m not sure that I will ever preach about the mutilation one’s skin with compulsive tattooing. I think the Catholic Church would allow tattoos, that are not immoral or satanic, within moderation and depending on what is publicly placed on one’s skin.
There are some tattoos that appear to me to be works of art even if overdone on one’s skin. But, there comes a point when you have to accept the beauty of your body as is, even if the world says you need to improve it with plastic surgery, Botox, tattoos, piercings and sadly sex change mutilation. Perhaps we are being made to hate ourselves and not to see ourselves, no matter what we look like, as beautiful in the eyes of God and there is no need to change the work of art that each person is.
If you love yourself as a work of art of God, you’ll love God and neighbor. Maybe that will lead to a culture of life, always based upon God who creates us in His own image and likeness.
I LIKE THE OPENNESS THAT THIS YOUNG CATHOLIC GUY HAS TO BEING LOVINGLY CORRECTED BY HIS PRIEST ABOUT HIS TATOOS, ALTHOUGH HE DOESN’T COVER THEM FOR THIS VIDEO! YOU CAN WATCH THE FACEBOOK VIDEO HERE.
I think that these kinds of things are best left to a personal pastoral counseling sessions rather than humiliating people from the pulpit in a caustic homily.
4 comments:
"ARE TATOOS, EVEN WORKS OF ART PLACED ON HUMAN SKIN, IMMORAL?" No, they are not.
I don't understand this fascination among some with tattoos. Are the "morally" different from pierced ears, breast augmentation/reduction for purely cosmetic purposes, lipstick, rouge, or eyeliner? What about hair extensions?
Is there something more "demonic" about the tattoo industry than the banking industry, the arms manufacturing industry, the diamond industry?
Does my tattoo of my mother's initials and death date have the be prayed over and "decommissioned"?
You have a TATOO? That’s breaking news!
My priest is a tattoo artist.
Sometimes artificial intelligence is more helpful than mere human intelligence. This is what AI says about the Church’s teaching on TATOOS:
No, the Catholic Church does not expressly forbid tattoos, but it encourages Catholics to consider the intention and content of any tattoo to ensure it reflects their faith and is not disrespectful, harmful, or impulsive. Tattoos that honor loved ones, express faith, or are based on meaningful truths are acceptable, but those that are obscene, promote hate, or are a product of impulsive decisions are not.
What to consider before getting a tattoo:
Reason for the tattoo: Is it for a good reason, or is it to fit in or for the wrong reasons?
Content of the tattoo: Does it reflect something good, beautiful, or meaningful, or is it harmful, disrespectful, or contrary to the Christian faith? Avoid diabolical, ugly, shocking, or obscene images.
Impact on your faith: Will the tattoo help or hurt how you live as a follower of Jesus?
Permanence: Tattoos are permanent, so you should approach the decision with thought and care, considering the long-term implications.
In summary:
The Church doesn't have a specific rule against tattoos, but it emphasizes the importance of the heart behind the choice.
Focus on the intention and the message of the tattoo.
The body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, so be mindful of how you treat it.
If you are unsure, it is best to speak with a priest or someone you trust who shares your faith.
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