Ask a Franciscan
Monks, Friars, Brothers
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 8, 2026
What difference is there between a monk, a friar, and a brother? Also, members of religious communities place initials after their family name to indicate the community to which they belong. Where can I find a list of those initials?
How Much Do We Know About Angels?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 7, 2026
I am very interested in angels but haven’t been able to find information about how many categories there are.
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Can We Ever Take the Bible Literally?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 6, 2026
When are we to take Scripture literally and when should we not?
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Assuring a Person’s Salvation
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 3, 2026
Two readers asked the same basic question about final repentance and salvation.
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Should I Forget My Husband’s Abuse?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 2, 2026
I have a bully for a husband. He is always putting me down and yelling.
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The Bible and Homosexuality
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 1, 2026
I am very confused about homosexuality. I know it’s a sin, but I don’t understand why society condemns this so much as compared to other sins.
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Confession Helps in Many Ways
Pat McCloskey, OFM
March 31, 2026
Confession has been a really sore spot for me but, having been raised a Catholic, I do love the Church and all the other sacraments. I am sure there are priests I could go to for confession, but I feel ...
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