Ask a Franciscan

Three in the Bible

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

In reading the Bible, I’m noticing numerous references to the number three or sets of three. For example, the three calls of Samuel, three temptations of Jesus in the desert, the Trinity, three days in the tomb, Jesus’ three-year ministry, 33 when he died!

Catholics and Communion in Other Churches

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

I will be attending a family wedding in an Orthodox church. May I receive Communion during the wedding Mass?

The Pilgrim Statue of Fatima

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

Can you tell me anything about the pilgrim statue of Our Lady of Fatima? I’ve been to Fatima and am very interested in the statue which I see mentioned in our Catholic paper as being at various churches. What is ...

Why Mortify Myself?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

I have trouble placing mortification in perspective. I have heard that St. Josemaría Escrivá de Balaguer advised, "Choose mortifications that don't mortify others." What does that mean?

Why 40? How Is Ash Wednesday’s Date Set?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

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).