Ask a Franciscan

Are We Unconsciously Always Sinning?

The US bishops say racism can be either conscious or unconscious. My older teenage son argues that we can never be forgiven because of our unconscious mind’s nature. How can I answer him?

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Are Catholics Allowed to Own Guns? 

In light of the chaos in the United States and around the world, are Catholics allowed to own guns or support the National Rifle Association? 
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Pilate’s Role in Jesus’ Death 

How are Christians to accept two completely different versions of Christ’s trial before Pilate?
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Quick Questions and Answers

Why is there no Gospel account of Jesus’ meeting with his mother right after his resurrection or in the 40 days before his ascension?
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Quick Questions and Answers

I would like a priest or layperson to recite the Chaplet of Divine Mercy beside me as I am dying. Is this a vital preparation for one’s soul to enter heaven?
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What Is the Meaning of the Tau Cross?

Why do Franciscans so often wear a Tau cross or use it in their artwork? Also, compared to the crosses we usually see, why doesn’t it have a top part?
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Was St. Joseph a Virgin?

Eucharistic Prayer I refers to Mary, the mother of Jesus, as “ever virgin” but does not use the same expression for St. Joseph. Why?
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Ask a Franciscan

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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