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• A certain young man in our church found interest in poker and gambling to the point that he now works in a casino as a dealer. This has tremendously changed his life as he now works throughout the night and finds himself surrounded by gamblers and compulsive players. He has been approached by gamblers to play in tournaments as he has developed a great talent for poker. He reads many books about poker and watches movies about techniques, etc., to the point where he thinks he cannot accomplish anything but to play poker and win money. He dropped out of school and wants to earn his living by playing cards and gambling. He says that there is so much behind poker, so much thinking, and analysis compared to someone who would be working or studying.   The problem is that he keeps winning money and spends it carelessly. We spoke to him many times, visited him many times, and had him discuss this situation with his Confession Father, yet he still wants to continue in this path because he doesn't know what he wants to do with his life. His problem is that he has nothing other than poker that stimulates him, and says, school is obviously harder than playing cards.   This has greatly saddened his family and led them to a state of hopelessness. His relationship with God is weaker than ever and almost non-existing. I care very much about this young man because I know he has so much potential. I thank God for giving me the ability to communicate with him but I do not know what to do or say anymore, I feel that I am just repeating myself and those around him. I believe that only God will change him and that only through prayer we can achieve.
• I have a relative who is suffering from the grave sin of gambling which is simply affecting all aspects of his life. He tells me that whilst he is fully aware that he is losing a lot of money; it's the great feeling of gambling and adrenalin rise that he loves; and as such "goes back for more". How can I help?