Ask a Franciscan
One-Hour Fast Before Communion
Q: Are we still expected to fast one hour before receiving Holy Communion? I have seen a woman chewing gum as she comes into Mass and is still chewing it as she stands in line to receive Holy Communion. I was taught that this is not permitted.
A: You are correct that this is wrong. The current rule is that, except for medicine and accompanying liquids, we are to fast from solid food and any liquid other than water for one hour before receiving Holy Communion.
Minimum Age for Readers at Mass?
Q. Is there a minimum age before someone can be designated as a reader at Mass? Must that person be confirmed? A. There is no minimum age, and having received the Sacrament of Confirmation is not a requirement. Carrying out this ...
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When Prayers Are Answered ‘No’
Jesus told the apostles: “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it” (Jn 14:13–14). How can ...
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May I Donate My Body to Science?
Does the Catholic Church have a position about donating one’s body to science? I have registered as an organ donor but would also like to leave my body to help the training of future doctors.
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What Really Happened to Judas?
What happened to Judas? Is Judas in hell? He despaired. What happens when other people fall into despair and kill themselves?
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Did Mary Have Real Freedom?
A friend of mine believes that Mary did not have free will as other humans have. Therefore, she had no choice but to say yes to the angel at the Annunciation.
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Origins of the Celibacy Rule
When did the Roman Catholic Church begin to require celibacy before a man could be ordained a priest? Why? Doesn’t this suggest that marriage is inferior to celibacy?
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