Does God Really Send People to Hell?

If God is love, why does he allow people to go to hell? Dr. Sri clarifies the Catholic Church's teaching on hell and explains how this teaching should impact us. 

Snippet from the Show

"God extends his arms open wide in mercy but also respects our freedom."

Shownotes

Quotes

 "It's not a, a punishment imposed externally by God, but the condition resulting from attitudes and actions which people adopt in this life." - St. John Paul II

 "The doors to hell are locked from the inside."- C.S Lewis

"M ore than a physical place, hell is the state of those who freely and definitively separate themselves from God, the source of all life and joy."- St. John Paul II

 "Eternal damnation is not God's work, but it's actually our own doing."- St. John Paul II

Scripture References

The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)

Practical Takeaways

1. Be Not Afraid: Trust in God’s grace and not be motivated by fear. Embrace the idea that God's love and mercy are there for anyone who turns back to Him.

2. Avoid Presumption: While God's mercy is abundant, do not take it for granted. Constantly seek reconciliation with God, knowing He respects our freedom.

3. Keep Hope Alive: Have hope for others, especially loved ones who may be away from the church. Share your faith with compassion and prayer, and trust that God is at work in their lives.

4. Pray for the Departed: Always remember and pray for those who have passed on.

Resources

Foundations of Faith: A Journey Through the Catechism of the Catholic Church

Dr. Sri's Events List (2025)

• Aug 2-5: Grand Getaway - Mackinac Island, MI
• Sept 13 - Marriage Weekend - Fort Collins, CO
• Sept 20 - Eucharist Encounter - Tampa FL
• Aug 9: Emmaus: Diocesan Family Conference - Gary, IN
• Oct 8: Legatus - Jacksonville, FL
• Oct 11 - Love and Responsibility Conference - Los Angeles CA
• Oct 13-15 - Madison WI
• Oct 22-24 - Missionaries of Charity - Memphis TN