Ask a Franciscan

Why Closed Communion?

Pat McCloskey, OFM April 22, 2024

I am in the process of becoming a Catholic but am having difficulty accepting closed Communion.

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.

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?

A historical photograph shows Adolf Hitler, center, greeting an officer in the French village of Compiegne June 22, 1940, after France surrendered to Nazi Germany. Germany's Catholic bishops marked the upcoming 75th anniversary of the end of World War II by issuing a statement criticizing the behavior of their predecessors under the Nazis. (CNS photo/Patrick Kovacs, Reuters)

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?

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.

What Is the Church’s Teaching on Yoga?

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

Speakers whom I greatly respect have said that Catholics should not do yoga or Pilates™. Does the Catholic Church allow this?

Coping With a Mother’s Death

Pat McCloskey, OFM May 9, 2020

Does God have a specific minute for us to die—known to God before each of us is born?

Do you have a question for Father Pat McCloskey, OFM? The author of St. Anthony Messenger’s popular “Ask a Franciscan” column is ready to answer your toughest questions!

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Ask a Franciscan

Why Closed Communion?

Did Mary Vow Virginity Before the Annunciation?

College of Cardinals

Were Any Catholic Nazis Excommunicated?

When Is It Too Late to Arrive for Mass?

What Is the Church’s Teaching on Yoga?

Coping With a Mother’s Death

Do you have a question for Father Pat McCloskey, OFM? The author of St. Anthony Messenger’s popular “Ask a Franciscan” column is ready to answer your toughest questions!

Our Mission

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