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?

Spiritual Role of Fathers

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

What does the Catholic Church teach about the role of fathers in the family? This seems to be a neglected area.

The Sorrowful Mother

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

I recently came across the title "Our Lady of Sorrows" for Mary. I've never heard of this before and wonder about its origin and meaning.

Origins of the Celibacy Rule

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

When did the Roman Catholic Church begin to require celibacy before a man could be ordained a priest? Why? Doesn’t this suggest that marriage is inferior to celibacy?

How Are Bishops Selected?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

How are bishops appointed in the United States? Does this vary from other parts of the world? Are Roman Catholic bishops appointed the same way as Eastern Catholic bishops?

What Is Required of Godparents?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

What are the requirements for being a godparent? Do both godparents have to be Catholic? Must there be a man and a woman? Can godparents be changed later if the first ones turn out not to be very good role ...

How to Count Tithing

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

A Protestant relative says that we must always give 10 percent even if that means not paying certain bills. I do not agree.

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