Ask a Franciscan

Monks, Friars, Brothers

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 24, 2025

What difference is there between a monk, a friar, and a brother? Also, members of religious communities place initials after their family name to indicate the community to which they belong. Where can I find a list of those initials?

Peace Prayer | Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

Origin of Saint Francis’ Peace Prayer

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 23, 2025

I keep seeing Saint Francis of Assisi credited as saying, “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” I have looked in several places but cannot find where Saint Francis said this.

The Bible and Homosexuality

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 21, 2025

I am very confused about homosexuality. I know it’s a sin, but I don’t understand why society condemns this so much as compared to other sins.

Should I Forget My Husband’s Abuse?

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 20, 2025

I have a bully for a husband. He is always putting me down and yelling.

John, Matthew, and Jesus’ Mission

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 19, 2025

We were discussing the Gospel (Matthew 9:36—10:8) read on the 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time last year. Matthew writes about Jesus' missionary discourse.