Posts from:

Pat McCloskey, OFM

Pat McCloskey, OFM, is the Franciscan advisor for St. Anthony Messenger and the writer of its "Ask a Franciscan" column.

Process for Canonization

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 30, 2026

What steps does the Church follow in recognizing saints? How do Servants of God and Venerables differ?

Dedication of Days and Months

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 29, 2026

When I grew up I learned what or to whom each month of the year was dedicated. A lot of years have passed. Can you tell me if the months still have a special dedication? How are they dedicated?

Many years ago, as a child of 11 or 12, I read a book on Fatima. At the end of the book was a pledge called a heroic act where persons pledged to give all the indulgences they earned during life and after death to the souls in purgatory.

Can Second Cousins Marry?

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 25, 2026

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?

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 24, 2026

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 deaths?

Two Feasts for Saint Joseph?

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 23, 2026

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 the worldwide calendar in 1324. The feast of St. Joseph the Worker was added in 1955.