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?

Quick Questions and Answers

Pat McCloskey, OFM February 26, 2021

I would like a priest or layperson to recite the Chaplet of Divine Mercy beside me as I am dying. Is this a vital preparation for one’s soul to enter heaven?

What Is the Meaning of the Tau Cross?

Pat McCloskey, OFM February 26, 2021

Why do Franciscans so often wear a Tau cross or use it in their artwork? Also, compared to the crosses we usually see, why doesn’t it have a top part?

Was St. Joseph a Virgin?

Pat McCloskey, OFM February 26, 2021

Eucharistic Prayer I refers to Mary, the mother of Jesus, as “ever virgin” but does not use the same expression for St. Joseph. Why?

Share Your Reasons to Remain Catholic

Pat McCloskey, OFM January 29, 2021

Local parishes encourage us to bring nonpracticing Catholics “back into the fold.” I can’t get my adult kids to come regularly because they consider Mass an ancient practice with little or no relevance today. I know many other parents who ...

What Did Jesus Mean by ‘Poor in Spirit’?

Pat McCloskey, OFM January 29, 2021

In Matthew 5:3, Jesus says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” In Luke 6:20b, he says, “Blessed are you who are poor, for the kingdom of God is yours.” Is he talking about ...

The History of the 'Patroness of the Americas'

Pat McCloskey, OFM November 30, 2020

When and by whom was Our Lady of Guadalupe declared “Patroness of the Americas”?

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