Ask a Franciscan
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 two different groups of people? If not, what does “poor in spirit” mean? How can being “poor in spirit” make you blessed?
The History of the 'Patroness of the Americas'
When and by whom was Our Lady of Guadalupe declared “Patroness of the Americas”?
Read More →
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.
Read More →
'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?
Read More →
Confession Helps in Many Ways
Confession has been a really sore spot for me but, having been raised a Catholic, I do love the Church and all the other sacraments. I am sure there are priests I could go to for confession, but I feel ...
Read More →
St. Francis and His Time with the Sultan
How did St. Francis of Assisi and Sultan Malik al-Kamil become friends?
Read More →
Who Informed the Biblical Writers?
How did the gentlemen who gathered together to write the Bible do so? Where did their information come from? The holy Bible is beautifully written. When was it written? How did they know all the details? Ultimately, God inspired them ...
Read More →