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)

What Follows the October 2023 Synod?

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 25, 2023

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?

IVs in a hospital | Photo by insung yoon on Unsplash

What If a Pope Becomes Comatose?

Pat McCloskey, OFM August 24, 2023

When I heard that Pope Francis was undergoing surgery requiring general anesthesia, I wondered who would be in charge of the Church while he was incapacitated.

Can This Child be Baptized?

Pat McCloskey, OFM July 6, 2023

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

What Will the October 2023 Synod Discuss?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 23, 2023

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

Is God Listening to My Prayers?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 2, 2023

Although I keep praying, little happens. What else can I do?

Does God Change?

Pat McCloskey, OFM March 24, 2023

God can appear harsh in the Old Testament, compared to the just and merciful God of today. How is this possible?

What Does the Common Good Mean?

Pat McCloskey, OFM March 3, 2023

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?