Ask a Franciscan
In Vitro Fertilization: Where Does the Catholic Church Stand?
Is the Catholic Church against in vitro fertilization? If so, why? Isn’t this a compassionate response for couples who want to have children, but either or both spouses have medical conditions that make this unlikely?
Attending Mass on Holy Days of Obligation
Can the obligation to attend Mass on holy days be fulfilled before or after the actual day?
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Did God Hate Esau?
Malachi 1:1-3 says: “An oracle. The word of the LORD to Israel through Malachi. ‘I have loved you,’ says the LORD; but you say, ‘How have you loved us?’ ‘Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?’ says the LORD: ‘yet I loved ...
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Purgatory and Praying for the Dead
A Christian friend says that the Bible contains no references to purgatory. What is the basis for the Church’s teaching about this? Why do Catholics pray for the dead?
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Frequently Asked Questions about Christmas
Answers to some often asked questions about the Christmas season.
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Receiving the Host in the Hand
When and why did the Catholic Church begin the practice of receiving the host in the hand during Holy Communion?
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Forgiveness from One’s Spouse
If a person commits adultery and then goes to confession, does that person have to ask forgiveness from his or her spouse?
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