Ask a Franciscan

Bishops pray at the start of a session of the Synod of Bishops on Young People, Faith and Vocational Discernment at the Vatican Oct. 9, 2018. (OSV News file photo/Paul Haring, CNS)

Ask a Franciscan: What Follows the October 2023 Synod?

What happens after this four-week meeting during which many diverse viewpoints have been expressed? How will the process work? Will the results wind up in a binder gathering dust?
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Baby being bpatized

Ask a Franciscan: Can This Child be Baptized?

My daughter and her boyfriend are not married but would like their newborn to be baptized in the Catholic Church.
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Pope Francis gives a speech

Ask a Franciscan: What Will the October 2023 Synod Discuss?

Pope Francis has called for a synod to be held in Rome, starting in October 2023 with another session in October 2024.
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Man praying

Ask a Franciscan: Is God Listening to My Prayers?

Although I keep praying, little happens. What else can I do?
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Grandson kissing his grandmother

Ask a Franciscan: Does God Change?

God can appear harsh in the Old Testament, compared to the just and merciful God of today. How is this possible?
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man tying a kid's shoe

Ask a Franciscan: What Does the Common Good Mean?

We are living in confusing times, especially with abortion, political lies, gun violence, attacks against the Church, and so on. What is the Catholic Church’s teaching on the common good?
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Bible opened up

Ask a Franciscan: A Lector’s Challenge

I have been a lector for many years. Although I had some training as an actor, I have tried not to be too emotive when I proclaim the readings. Until recently, pastors and people in the parish have given very
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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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