Ask a Franciscan

a painting of a Mary and Jesus

Was Jesus Born in December? 

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

Are there any saints who were soldiers? What was their faith journey like?
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When Couples Divorce

What happens when a couple divorces? One person may not want a divorce but is unable to stop it in a state where there is a nofault divorce law.
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Fearing God the Father

I find the infant Jesus and the adult Jesus very approachable. When I think of God the Father, however, I am very afraid.
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What Is the Curse of Ham?

What can you tell me about the curse that Noah placed on his son Ham? What about Ham’s brothers, Shem and Japheth? Where is this story in the Bible?
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Stone angel in a cemetery

Is Suicide a Sin?

I once read in a Catholic newspaper that suicide may not be a sin if a person is depressed or mentally ill or does not appreciate that what he or she is doing is wrong. What does the Catholic Church ...
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How Many People Have Received the Stigmata?

Who besides St. Francis of Assisi and St. Padre Pio of Pietrelcina have received the stigmata, the marks of Christ’s five wounds? Have any women received the stigmata?
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Do you have a question for Father Pat McCloskey, OFM? The author of St. Anthony Messenger’s popular “Ask a Franciscan” column is ready to answer your toughest questions!

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Ask a Franciscan

Do you have a question for Father Pat McCloskey, OFM? The author of St. Anthony Messenger's popular "Ask a Franciscan" column in ready to answer your toughest questions!

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