Ask a Franciscan
Was St. Joseph a Virgin?
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
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 ...
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What Did Jesus Mean by ‘Poor in Spirit’?
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 ...
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The History of the 'Patroness of the Americas'
When and by whom was Our Lady of Guadalupe declared “Patroness of the Americas”?
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Why We Should Pray the Rosary
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.
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Who Assigns Patron Saints?
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?
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'Say' Mass? 'Pray' the Mass?
I remember hearing priests talk about “saying” Mass at a particular time and place. Now I hear people talk about “praying” the Mass. I’ve been to many Masses in various settings over the years. Why the difference?
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