Ask A Franciscan

Quick Questions and Answers

Feb 26, 2021 Ask a Franciscan
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?
Quick Questions and Answers

What Is the Meaning of the Tau Cross?

Feb 26, 2021 Ask a Franciscan
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?
What Is the Meaning of the Tau Cross?

Was St. Joseph a Virgin?

Feb 26, 2021 Ask a Franciscan
Eucharistic Prayer I refers to Mary, the mother of Jesus, as “ever virgin” but does not use the same expression for St. Joseph. Why?
Was St. Joseph a Virgin?

Quick Questions and Answers

Jan 29, 2021 Ask a Franciscan
How many times a day may one receive Communion?
Quick Questions and Answers

Share Your Reasons to Remain Catholic

Jan 29, 2021 Ask a Franciscan
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 are in the same situation. What can we do?
Share Your Reasons to Remain Catholic

What Did Jesus Mean by 'Poor in Spirit'?

Jan 29, 2021 Ask a Franciscan
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 two different groups of people? If not, what does “poor in spirit” mean? How can being “poor in spirit” make you blessed?
What Did Jesus Mean by 'Poor in Spirit'?

The History of the 'Patroness of the Americas'

Nov 30, 2020 Ask a Franciscan
When and by whom was Our Lady of Guadalupe declared “Patroness of the Americas”?
The History of the 'Patroness of the Americas'

Why Pray the Rosary?

Nov 30, 2020 Ask a Franciscan
Both my children, graduates of Catholic schools, are studying the Bible and want to know where it says that we should to pray the rosary to honor Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Why Pray the Rosary?

Who Assigns Patron Saints?

Nov 30, 2020 Ask a Franciscan
How is the patron saint of an occupation, a country, or a group of people decided? Specifically, how did St. Nicholas come to be the patron saint of brides, grooms, children, bakers, and pawnbrokers?
Who Assigns Patron Saints?
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