Msgr. Rossetti

We regularly get asked this question. It must be noted that the Catholic
Church has no official position on acupuncture. Whether procedures are licit for
Catholics are the purview of one’s diocesan bishop. People should first consult
their own pastors for guidance. Our Center does not teach authoritatively. We do
not have that authority. However, I can give an “educated” response and
recommendation based upon our theology, experience and research. But, again,
it is not authoritative Church teaching.

There are two basic schools of thought in answering this question. Both
schools recognize that acupuncture is based upon a philosophy and theology
which are not Christian. Practitioners steeped in the pagan roots of this
treatment will often speak of Universal Life Forces, balancing two opposing and
inseparable forces- yin and yang, and unblocking the flow of qi (energy) along
pathways called meridians, and more.

One school of thought says that acupuncture cannot be divorced from
these underlying philosophical and theological roots. Moreover, if pagan rituals
are done in conjunction with the treatment or if the needles are “blessed” in
these rites, it can be a direct opening to the demonic. Thus, it is not acceptable
for the Christian to engage in it. The other school believes that acupuncture in
Western society can be separated from these Eastern roots. In this case, it simply
uses the inserting of needles in the body to stimulate the release of endorphins
and our natural healing.

I have heard solid, experienced exorcists engage in each of these schools.
What is clear is that if an acupuncturist bases the treatment on pagan beliefs, it is
not recommended for Christians. However, if the practitioner does not profess
such pagan beliefs and is solely engaged in the inserting of needles to release
endorphins, a few theologians have said it is ok. But many exorcists disagree and
flatly believe it is always an opening to the demonic.

The Church has not spoken authoritatively on this question. So this, like
many such questions, are left to the individual to discern. My personal opinion?

Use proven medical treatments based upon traditional and scientifically-
supported medicine, not upon Universal Life Forces and releasing its energy.

Here are some articles addressing this question:
https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=8758
https://www.womenofgrace.com/blog/42049