Ask a Franciscan

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke have several tribulation statements. So, too, do the Second Letter of Peter and other parts of Scripture. What do skilled exegetes say about these statements?

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?

Would you explain why the priest uses incense at Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and other ceremonies?

I understand the Church’s regulations on cremation. In view of the events of last summer, what are the Church’s regulations on the final disposition of the deceased person’s ashes? May they be cast to the winds at sea?

One of my close friends believes in reincarnation. My Catholic education and faith leave me with no reason to believe in multiple lives. Among other things, my friend claims that all mention of reincarnation was removed from the Bible in ...

Matthew 3:13-17 describes the baptism of Jesus, including John the Baptist’s objection that Jesus should be baptizing him. Why did Jesus want to be baptized, anyway? A. This question was raised by Christians already in the first century, which is ...