Ask a Franciscan
Meaning of the Word ‘Paschal’
I know that words often have a root meaning. For example, our word sacrament comes from the Latin word sacramentum, which I know St. Augustine described as “an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace.” In preparing for a seventh-grade religious education class about the paschal mystery, I would like to know where we get the word paschal.
Pope Francis, Big Bang, Evolution
According to a news article, Pope Francis recently acknowledged the Big Bang theory and evolution. I was quite startled by comments I’ve heard about this story. I hope you can enlighten me on this matter.
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Holy Communion without Confession
I am a 79-year-old Catholic who doesn’t believe in the Sacrament of Penance.
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The Rift between Jews and Samaritans
I have been perplexed by the rift between Jews and Samaritans and their hatred mentioned in the New Testament.
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Is Gambling a Sin?
Is it a sin to place a bet on a horse race? What about lotteries or betting on sports contests? What does the Catholic Church think about playing slot machines? At times it seems that the Church opposes gambling, but ...
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Is Scrupulosity a Sin?
Q. I'm having a difference of opinion with a friend who says that scrupulosity is a sin. I say it is not. What does the Catholic Church teach on this?
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Minimum Age for Readers at Mass?
Q. Is there a minimum age before someone can be designated as a reader at Mass? Must that person be confirmed? A. There is no minimum age, and having received the Sacrament of Confirmation is not a requirement. Carrying out this ...
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