Ask a Franciscan

Can you recommend a book describing what Vatican II was all about? Something in plain English without interpretation by the author? 

I know that this term is strongly supported by some Christians and vigorously challenged by others. When did it originate and what does it mean? 

I’ve been hearing the term "systemic racism" used more and more lately, and I’m not sure if I agree with what I am hearing. Can you define what systemic racism is?

Did Jesus visit them also and die again on the cross to free them from sin? I don’t know what we should believe about UFOs and life on other planets.

Over the past years, I have noticed a steady decline of the younger folks in the Catholic Church. Do you have any explanation for this exodus?

Are there some resources for the struggle I find myself experiencing: believing that my mom, who died several months ago, is indeed in heaven with God?