Ask a Franciscan

My parish church has recently begun the practice of accepting money to have the sanctuary candle lit in memory of deceased parishioners. The donation is $10 for the week. Is this an acceptable practice? Several people believe this should not ...

It seems that the weather is becoming more extreme and that air pollution is a factor in this. Has pollution become a moral issue? I think people should stop driving so much.

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 ...

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?

Answers to some often asked questions about the Christmas season.

When and why did the Catholic Church begin the practice of receiving the host in the hand during Holy Communion?