Ask a Franciscan

Was Jesus Born in December?

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 21, 2024

Do we celebrate Christmas in December because we know he was born in that month? If not, why is his birth celebrated then?

When Will the ‘New Evangelization’ Begin?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 11, 2020

Saint Pope John Paul II several times spoke about a “new evangelization.” What did he mean by that term? When is this supposed to begin?

When a Bishop Resigns

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 11, 2020

What happens to a Catholic bishop when he resigns? Where does he go? Does he still have a rank within the Church? What financial assistance does he receive?

Why Are These Symbols Connected With Saints?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 11, 2020

I have noticed that many paintings of Saint Jerome include a lion lying at his feet. In other paintings there is a skull. I have noticed similar images in paintings of other saints. I am intrigued by these symbols. What ...

Problem With the Stigmata

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 11, 2020

Why do Catholics venerate stigmatics? Why have they been canonized?

To Whom Do Bishops Report?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 11, 2020

To whom do bishops and dioceses report their activities? To archbishops? To cardinals? To the pope?

How Old Is the Earth?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 11, 2020

Does the Catholic Church agree with geologists about the age of the earth? Why would God create dinosaurs, have them roam the earth for millions of years and then create human beings?

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