I started posting this, Linda, before sending the other. I can't really answer this other than pertains to my own experience. Prophecy IS revelation.....

I personally believe that people through the dark ages could still be in touch with Heaven if they were open to it. Joan of Arc is another example. I don't know about Nostradamus. People are entitled to inspiration and there are psychics out there, too. What we believe about actual prophecy, though, is that it has to pertain to a person's sphere of responsiblity. For instance, the president of our church, only, has the keys to guide our church (the world...) but those serving over smaller organizations can receive revelation pertaining to that organization they run. I have been in presidencies, before, where we would pray for who to put in callings, ie., as teachers, etc. The presidency acts together to have a checks and balances type system, but ultimately its the president's decision. When in both Primary and Young Woman presidencies, I experienced that guidance...and we all did together. (We got the same answers). There was one instance where I didn't feel good about someone, he was put in anyway, but it turned out he was having an affair (and was married to the Bishop's daughter - it was my opinion the Bishop pushed for him because of his being his son-in-law thinking it would be good for him which I couldn't argue with, but after the fact, the truth came out. We had to release him....

I've had revelations in order to guide my own family. Sometimes we don't realize the Holy Ghost is actually talking to us or teaching us but they WANT to. We just have to be willing to listen. (And pray!!!!)

That is why this is a hard thing to argue. You have to hone spiritual listening, though. The still, small, voice. I really don't know what Catholics learn and I'm likely taking it for granted that you know some of the things I'm referring to or talking about, but may not.

I sometimes seem to say unrelated things to people in person, too. Even my husband gets frustrated cause he will be saying something and I'll know what he's getting at so try and interject before he's finished. May not sound like it in saying that, but I'm a good listener. Just jump ahead some times.

My thoughts are flitting around a lot, too, and I should be more deliberate before posting...

One more thing - did you read the thing I *think* I sent in about God seeing all things at once - past, present and future? He is looking at us on the basis of time but viewing from eternity. I guess you could call it kind of a dimensional thing....