Ask a Franciscan

Is this required? Some Christians have first names that are not those of a saint or a variant on a saint’s name. 

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

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?

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? 

Why do Franciscans so often wear a Tau cross or use it in their artwork? Also, compared to the crosses we usually see, why doesn’t it have a top part?

When and by whom was Our Lady of Guadalupe declared “Patroness of the Americas”?