Ask a Franciscan
Did Mary Vow Virginity Before the Annunciation?
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.
College of Cardinals
When and how did the College of Cardinals come into existence? How long has this group been responsible for electing the pope?
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Were Any Catholic Nazis Excommunicated?
How many high-ranking Catholic Nazis were excommunicated for their crimes against the innocent?
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Saint Joseph and Selling Property
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.
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Obtaining the Bread and Wine
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.
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Confession Assures Us of God's Love
I read about a person who went to confession, repenting of not wanting the sufferings that God had allowed. That person was healed. Because I have many sufferings, I did the same thing but was not healed.
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Flowers During Lent?
Years ago, it was not permitted to have flowers in the sanctuary during Lent. Is that still the case? Where is this issue addressed?
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