Ask a Franciscan
Can Second Cousins Marry?
A niece of my husband has become very close to one of her second cousins. They and some family members are questioning if they are too closely related to marry one another. Are they?
Individual Successors for Apostles?
According to Acts 1:26, Matthias was selected to replace Judas, bringing the number of apostles back to 12. I know that the pope, the bishop of Rome, is considered the successor of Peter. Were the other apostles replaced upon their ...
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Two Feasts for Saint Joseph?
On March 19, we celebrate Saint Joseph, husband of Mary. On May 1, we celebrate Saint Joseph the Worker. Why are there two feasts for the same saint? The worldwide Church has long honored St. Joseph, and his feast entered ...
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Too Many Clergy Among Canonized Saints?
Who was the last saint canonized who was not a member of the clergy? Are only Catholics recognized as saints? Can a non-Christian become a saint?
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Growing in One’s Faith
How can I encourage my young children to go back to church? Have you been willing to share your reasons for going to church beyond "It's the law "? Although many people are afraid of being suckered in on the ...
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Can Ashes Be Scattered?
I understand the Church’s regulations on cremation. In view of the events of last summer, what are the Church’s regulations on the final disposition of the deceased person’s ashes? May they be cast to the winds at sea?
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Finding Satan’s Story in the Bible
Where in the Bible can I find the story of Lucifer and the fallen angels? I’ve looked, but without success. Is there some other book that contains this story?
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