Ask a Franciscan

Writing out a note

What About Sins of Omission? 

June 24, 2025
I cannot find an examination of conscience for sins of omission. Does such a list exist?
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Why Pray for Grandma Jones?

April 29, 2019
In your August 2018 column, you wrote that God does not have a vast, eternal plan that Grandma Jones had successful heart surgery last month. OK, why do I pray for her or anyone else? You prayed before her surgery ...
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Can Laypeople Give Blessings?

October 24, 2018
Can someone give a blessing to a sick friend, or a birthday blessing, a blessing at a meal, or on other occasions? Does the person need the permission of the local bishop?
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Artwork of Jesus Christ surrounded by people

Jesus and Slavery

September 23, 2018
I have been a Catholic from birth but often have questions about some of the issues we are facing today, such as the evils associated with slavery. The Romans had slaves, but is there any evidence that Jesus condemned that ...
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Change on the Death Penalty

September 23, 2018
How did Pope Francis recently change the Catholic Church's teaching on the death penalty?
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Why Gluten-Free Hosts?

September 23, 2018
I understand the Church's teaching on Eucharist. Transubstantiation means it changes completely from bread and wine to the flesh and blood of Jesus. I believe in the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith. I also understand that our ...
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Man walking on a road

‘I Am Consumed with Guilt and Sorrow’

September 4, 2018
Q. I am feeling very guilty. I was driving my car and accidentally hit a man with my side mirror. I never saw him, and I don’t know if he stepped in front of me or not. The only reason ...
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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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