Tell Me about Indulgences
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 9, 2026
What is the basis of the Church’s authority to grant indulgences? Our Lord did not mention indulgences specifically to my knowledge.
Posts from:
Pat McCloskey, OFM
Pat McCloskey, OFM, is the Franciscan advisor for St. Anthony Messenger and the writer of its "Ask a Franciscan" column.
Monks, Friars, Brothers
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 8, 2026
What difference is there between a monk, a friar, and a brother? Also, members of religious communities place initials after their family name to indicate the community to which they belong. Where can I find a list of those initials?
How Much Do We Know About Angels?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 7, 2026
I am very interested in angels but haven’t been able to find information about how many categories there are.
Can We Ever Take the Bible Literally?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 6, 2026
When are we to take Scripture literally and when should we not?
Assuring a Person’s Salvation
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 3, 2026
Two readers asked the same basic question about final repentance and salvation.
Should I Forget My Husband’s Abuse?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 2, 2026
I have a bully for a husband. He is always putting me down and yelling.
The Bible and Homosexuality
Pat McCloskey, OFM
April 1, 2026
I am very confused about homosexuality. I know it’s a sin, but I don’t understand why society condemns this so much as compared to other sins.