Ask a Franciscan

We are living in confusing times, especially with abortion, political lies, gun violence, attacks against the Church, and so on. What is the Catholic Church’s teaching on the common good?

God can appear harsh in the Old Testament, compared to the just and merciful God of today. How is this possible?

Although I keep praying, little happens. What else can I do?

Is Americanism a heresy? If so, what does it mean? The person who introduced me to this term was not very clear about its meaning.

I have heard that St. Francis of Assisi was very devoted to Mary, the mother of Jesus. Why? Did Francis write about her? 

Is it proper for me as a Catholic to have a living will? What does the Church teach about this?