Ask a Franciscan

What is the Church's official stance on cremation?

Does the speed of praying make a difference? 

Is this required? Some Christians have first names that are not those of a saint or a variant on a saint’s name. 

Can you recommend a book describing what Vatican II was all about? Something in plain English without interpretation by the author? 

I know that this term is strongly supported by some Christians and vigorously challenged by others. When did it originate and what does it mean? 

I’ve been hearing the term "systemic racism" used more and more lately, and I’m not sure if I agree with what I am hearing. Can you define what systemic racism is?