Ask a Franciscan
Why 40? How Is Ash Wednesday’s Date Set?
Why is Ash Wednesday 40 days before Easter? What is the significance of the number 40? I know that it is used many times in the Bible (for example, Jesus was in the desert 40 days and 40 nights).
Did Mary Have Real Freedom?
A friend of mine believes that Mary did not have free will as other humans have. Therefore, she had no choice but to say yes to the angel at the Annunciation.
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Isn’t There Something More?
How can I learn more about the Church and where I could be useful, other than taking up pew space?
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Is Boxing a Sin?
Is competing in a boxing or karate competition wrong? Am I sinning by training my body and mind to defeat my opponents? By risking injury to myself?
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Spiritual Role of Fathers
What does the Catholic Church teach about the role of fathers in the family? This seems to be a neglected area.
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The Sorrowful Mother
I recently came across the title "Our Lady of Sorrows" for Mary. I've never heard of this before and wonder about its origin and meaning.
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Origins of the Celibacy Rule
When did the Roman Catholic Church begin to require celibacy before a man could be ordained a priest? Why? Doesn’t this suggest that marriage is inferior to celibacy?
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