Ask a Franciscan

How Old Is the Earth?

Does the Catholic Church agree with geologists about the age of the earth? Why would God create dinosaurs, have them roam the earth for millions of years and then create human beings?

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Why No Mention of Peter in Rome?

Why doesn’t Acts of the Apostles say anything about St. Peter’s time in Rome? It covers a period of time up to the time he is said to have died.
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Suffering for Animals

If someone actually suffers from caring about animals and their plight in the world, does this do any good?
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They Don’t Go to Confession

What can I do about those who do not go to Confession? They’re active in Church. They’re adults and married more than 25 years. I’m puzzled. My son-in-law’s parents may not go either.
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Did I Do the Right Thing?

I am developing a scruple over how an inheritance from my mother was divided. I hope that I did not do anything wrong. Please help me put my mind at rest.
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Why Is God’s Name So Important?

I don’t understand why the name of God was so important to the Israelites. I thought God’s name was simply “God.”
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Where Can I Find Patron Saint Lists?

Is there a publication that lists the saints and their patronages?
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Ask a Franciscan

Do you have a question for Father Pat McCloskey, OFM? The author of St. Anthony Messenger's popular "Ask a Franciscan" column in ready to answer your toughest questions!

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