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?

Why Do We Need Low-gluten Hosts?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

I don’t understand why someone who has celiac disease and is, therefore, allergic to gluten needs a low-gluten host. The bread at Mass changes substantially into the Body of Christ.

Obtaining the Bread and Wine

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

Over the centuries, how have priests managed to obtain the bread and wine needed to celebrate Mass in remote areas? I have always wondered about that.

Confession Assures Us of God's Love

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

I read about a person who went to confession, repenting of not wanting the sufferings that God had allowed. That person was healed. Because I have many sufferings, I did the same thing but was not healed.

Flowers During Lent?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

Years ago, it was not permitted to have flowers in the sanctuary during Lent. Is that still the case? Where is this issue addressed?

Is Giving Annulments Justified?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

Where does the church get authority to give annulments to remarry? I do not think that humans have the right to change God’s law.

People following the bridge and groom in black and white

Catholics and Prenuptial Agreements

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

Please clarify what the church teaches about prenuptial agreements and why.

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