Catholics have accepted, because of the Scriptures, the importance of some dreams, such as those of Daniel the Prophet, John the Evangelist and two Josephs, the great leader in the Old Testament, and Christ's Foster Father.
We accept the fact that God can use dreams and interpretations, as well as angelic involvement in dreams.
However, the Church has also warned us about the occult use of dreams or visions while sleeping, as dreams can come from many sources.
Dreams can come from the unpurified imagination, especially is one watches movies, and television. Dreams can come from the subconscious and merely be a reflection of our own desires or needs. Dreams can come from indigestion. Satan and other demons may cause dreams as well
One of the most famous quotations in the English language puts dreams above philosophy, which I do not, but dreams and visions form part of the plot and underplots in Hamlet.
Horatio: “O day and night, but this is wondrous strange!”
Hamlet: “And therefore as a stranger give it welcome. There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.”
Hamlet, I.v.164-167
Modern counselors and psychologists put some stock in dreams, but only a Catholic spiritual director can really help with a dream interpretation. I have known some people go before Christ in Adoration and be informed by Christ of the meaning of a dream.
We should not go our of our way to write down or interpret dreams is these happen frequently, unless our directors tell us to do so.
However, balance and moderation are necessary.
Does God speak in dreams? Yes, and if one is in sanctifying grace, one can discern a dream immediately without trouble. Do not get into interpreting other's dreams, however, as that can lead to pride and occult practices.
As in all things, pray and if something brings peace and a closer relationship with God, that thing is good.
We all have discernment, unless we are living in deceit. Pray, reflect, think, act....
