Ask a Franciscan
Tribulation Statements in the Bible
Pat McCloskey, OFM
January 22, 2026
The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke have several tribulation statements. So, too, do the Second Letter of Peter and other parts of Scripture. What do skilled exegetes say about these statements?
When Prayers Are Answered ‘No’
Pat McCloskey, OFM
January 21, 2026
Jesus told the apostles: “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it” (Jn 14:13–14). How can ...
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Finding Satan’s Story in the Bible
Pat McCloskey, OFM
January 20, 2026
Where in the Bible can I find the story of Lucifer and the fallen angels? I’ve looked, but without success. Is there some other book that contains this story?
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The Symbolism of Incense
Pat McCloskey, OFM
January 19, 2026
Would you explain why the priest uses incense at Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and other ceremonies?
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Can Ashes Be Scattered?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
January 16, 2026
I understand the Church’s regulations on cremation. In view of the events of last summer, what are the Church’s regulations on the final disposition of the deceased person’s ashes? May they be cast to the winds at sea?
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What about Reincarnation?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
January 15, 2026
One of my close friends believes in reincarnation. My Catholic education and faith leave me with no reason to believe in multiple lives. Among other things, my friend claims that all mention of reincarnation was removed from the Bible in ...
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When Couples Divorce
Pat McCloskey, OFM
January 14, 2026
What happens when a couple divorces? One person may not want a divorce but is unable to stop it in a state where there is a nofault divorce law.
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