Ask a Franciscan
Three in the Bible
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
I will be attending a family wedding in an Orthodox church. May I receive Communion during the wedding Mass?
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The Pilgrim Statue of Fatima
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 ...
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What Really Happened to Judas?
What happened to Judas? Is Judas in hell? He despaired. What happens when other people fall into despair and kill themselves?
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Why Mortify Myself?
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?
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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).
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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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