Ask a Franciscan

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Forgive an Adulterous Husband?

Is it wrong to divorce a husband who commits adultery? My husband and I were married in the Catholic Church almost 30 years ago. Several years ago he committed adultery, and the pain still remains with me. I have tried to forgive him but long for something much more important: healing.

No, a civil divorce is an option. Depending on evidence provided, a canonical “declaration of nullity ” may also be possible.

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When Is It Too Late to Arrive for Mass?

At what point during Mass is it too late for someone to arrive and have it “count”? Some people come a few minutes late and others very late. I think this is wrong.
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Must I Take All Medications Prescribed?

My wife and I are in our early 70s and each of us has quite a few medical problems. If we stopped taking all our medications and stopped going to our many doctors, we would shorten our lives. Would the ...
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Origins of the Celibacy Rule

When did the Roman Catholic Church begin to require celibacy before a man could be ordained a priest? Why? Doesn’t this suggest that marriage is inferior to celibacy?
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Did Mary Have Real Freedom?

A friend of mine believes that Mary did not have free will as other humans have. Therefore, she had no choice but to say yes to the angel at the Annunciation.
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What Really Happened to Judas?

What happened to Judas? Is Judas in hell? He despaired. What happens when other people fall into despair and kill themselves?
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May I Donate My Body to Science?

Does the Catholic Church have a position about donating one’s body to science? I have registered as an organ donor but would also like to leave my body to help the training of future doctors.
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