Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Father Paul Check recently discussed significant moral challenges facing the Catholic Church in an interview with the Southern Nebraska Register. According to Father Check, contemporary moral controversies, including issues related to sexual identity and ethics, life beginnings and endings, are evident. However, he emphasized a more foundational question: "Who do you say that I am?" This query from Christ to his apostles is pivotal in understanding one's relationship with Him.

Father Check elaborated on the issue of suffering and evil in the world. He posed the philosophical question: "Is God good? How can God be good if there’s so much suffering in the world? How can God be good if evil seems to assert itself in the way it does, and there’s so much violence and pain?"

Discussing his experience as executive director of Courage International, Father Check addressed the Church's outreach to those with same-sex attraction. He stated that individuals are created in God's image and maintain their goodness despite living at odds with divine teachings due to sin or neglect. He highlighted Christ's compassionate approach towards sinners while also calling for conversion.

He noted distinctions between actions considered intrinsically disordered by the Catechism and individual inclinations. These teachings often challenge people who perceive such feelings as natural. Father Check shared insights from those he ministered to who accepted Church teachings through personal sacrifice and perseverance.

Reflecting on his work as a rector of St. John Fisher Seminary, Father Check advised young men discerning priesthood to trust that "the Lord knows his own heart – the man discerning the priesthood – better than he does." He described this journey as an adventure or romance between one's soul and God.

During this Jubilee year themed “Pilgrims of Hope,” designated by Pope Francis, Father Check finds hope in "the cross," which has been called "our only hope" for centuries. He emphasized its role as a healing instrument against sin and death.

Father Check's reflections underscore central tenets of faith while addressing complex moral issues within the Church today.

For further insights, watch Father Paul Check's full interview on the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln YouTube channel at @CatholicDioceseofLincoln.