Is it wrong for parents to name their sons Jesus?

[Michie]

Question: Why is baptizing a baby who is named Jesus allowed by priests? Yes, it’s often a family tradition, but I can’t accept using Jesus’ name as it is not respectful, good or holy.

— Nancy Jackovich, via email

Answer: A matter like this must be understood and assessed in terms of culture. The naming of a male child as “Jesus” is common in the Hispanic cultures of Central and South America. In that setting, it is not offensive at all. Throughout Christendom, many name their children after saints as a way to honor them and bring the intercession and blessings of those patrons. Again, this is seen as honorific to the saints who are named, and that is also the case in Hispanic cultures with the name Jesus. While European and Northern American culture find the practice of bestowing the name of Jesus strange or even offensive, we must understand that no irreverence is intended; in fact, honor is the intention.

Mass attire
Question: With COVID-19, masks are now becoming fashion statements. Is it appropriate to wear one to Mass featuring Disney cartoon characters, professional sports teams and rock band logos? Some parishioners feel that it’s a disrespectful breach of church etiquette, while others don’t see a problem.

Continued below.
Is it wrong for parents to name their sons Jesus?

 

[pdudgeon]

Agreed, when understood in regards to the culture, naming a child Jesus is no more offensive than to name him Joseph, Peter, Paul, Gabriel, Matthew, Thomas, John, or Mark.
In fact, those names are commonly chosen to pay honor the Saint or to God Himself.
And in that way, calling the child by the name of the Saint, or of the Son of God will be a forever memorial of the Saint's or of Jesus' holiness.
In their culture it is a forever act of deep, deep homage and dedication to the Saint, or likewise to The Beloved Son of God, to name a child in this way.