Ask a Franciscan
Books Not in Protestant Bible
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 9, 2020
I have heard that there are seven Old Testament books that are not found in Protestant Bibles. The Second Book of Maccabees is the only one that I can name. What are the other six?
Did Mary Vow Virginity Before the Annunciation?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 9, 2020
I have been under the impression that Mary, the mother of Jesus, made a vow of virginity even before the Annunciation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says nothing about this.
Read More →
College of Cardinals
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 9, 2020
When and how did the College of Cardinals come into existence? How long has this group been responsible for electing the pope?
Read More →
Were Any Catholic Nazis Excommunicated?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 9, 2020
How many high-ranking Catholic Nazis were excommunicated for their crimes against the innocent?
Read More →
When Is It Too Late to Arrive for Mass?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 9, 2020
At what point during Mass is it too late for someone to arrive and have it “count”? Some people come a few minutes late and others very late. I think this is wrong.
Read More →
Saint Joseph and Selling Property
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 9, 2020
What is the origin of the tradition of burying a statue of Saint Joseph on property that someone wants to sell? I had never heard of this until a few years ago.
Read More →
Obtaining the Bread and Wine
Pat McCloskey, OFM
May 9, 2020
Over the centuries, how have priests managed to obtain the bread and wine needed to celebrate Mass in remote areas? I have always wondered about that.
Read More →