Ask a Franciscan

Hearts on a wall

Is There a ‘Hierarchy of Love’? 

April 24, 2025
In January, Vice President JD Vance was in the news regarding his interpretation of St. Augustine of Hippo’s expression ordo amoris (order of love or hierarchy of love).
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Why Does God Make the Devil So Powerful?

April 24, 2017
If God created the angel Lucifer, who failed God through pride, why didn't God simply dump him in hell instead of allowing him to torment and wreck so many human lives? Isn't God more powerful than Satan? I have heard ...
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People gathering at a funeral

Homily? Eulogy?

March 29, 2017
Some dioceses allow eulogies at funerals, and others do not. Why is this? This question arises frequently. According to the 1989 Order of Christian Funerals (the ritual book used by Catholics in the United States), "A brief homily is given ...
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Nurturing a Franciscan Spirituality

March 29, 2017
I need some practical advice for how to live and grow in Franciscan spirituality as a layperson. Because I am not close to a Secular Franciscan group, I need to do this on my own.
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Use a Cross or a Crucifix?

March 29, 2017
During the Good Friday liturgy at our parish, we venerate a plain cross and not a crucifix with a representation of Jesus' body on it. The crucifix is kept out of sight in the sacristy. Because this doesn't seem right ...
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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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Do you have a question for Father Pat McCloskey, OFM? The author of St. Anthony Messenger's popular "Ask a Franciscan" column in ready to answer your toughest questions!

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