Ask a Franciscan
Finding Satan’s Story in the Bible
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 16, 2020
Where in the Bible can I find the story of Lucifer and the fallen angels? I’ve looked, but without success. Is there some other book that contains this story?
Meaning of the Word ‘Paschal’
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 16, 2020
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 ...
Read More →
Pope Francis, Big Bang, Evolution
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 16, 2020
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.
Read More →
Holy Communion without Confession
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 16, 2020
I am a 79-year-old Catholic who doesn’t believe in the Sacrament of Penance.
Read More →
The Rift between Jews and Samaritans
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 16, 2020
I have been perplexed by the rift between Jews and Samaritans and their hatred mentioned in the New Testament.
Read More →
Is Gambling a Sin?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 14, 2020
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 ...
Read More →
Is Scrupulosity a Sin?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 14, 2020
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?
Read More →