K.C. and J.C.

My immediate family is Catholic. Every now and then I am asked why I practice this form of japa and how I reconcile it with my Christian faith. Here are a couple of answers:

From Srila Prabhupada (The Science of Self Realization) -

To pratice bhakti-yoga [Loving service to God] means to become free from designations like "Hindu," "Muslim," "Christian," this or that, and simply to serve God. We have created Christian, Hindu, and Muhammadan religions, but when we come to a religion without designations, in which we don't think we are Hindus or Christians or Muhammadans, then we can speak of pure religion, or bhakti.

From Satsvarupa das Goswami -

Q: It occurs to me that I have recently acknowledged an attraction to Christianity although I identify as a devotee of Krishna and feel convinced about it. There are aspects of Christianity that I feel closer to, than a more lofty Krishna consciousness I wish to practice them as it comes more naturally and spontaneous. I was raised as a Christian. Yet I fear that due to my lack of knowledge I may get lost in my spiritual life. I know Christianity and Krishna consciousness do not exclude each other. But whether they can be reconciled in my life in a healthy way, and how. Can you offer any advice?

A: You are right when you say Krishna consciousness and Christianity do not exclude each other. Srila Prabhupada accepted Lord Jesus Christ as an avatar of Krishna. So you can chant on your rosary and attend Sunday mass and pray to Jesus and Mary etc. There is no objection. At the same time since you feel convinced you are a devotee of Krishna, you should chant Hare Krishna, attend the temple and associate with the devotees. It is not spiritual schizophrenia. It would be good if you could find a broadminded Krishna conscious spiritual master who could encourage you and guide you in your dual interests.