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Pat McCloskey, OFM

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

Growing in One’s Faith

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 21, 2026

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 subject of religion, they can be terribly gullible about what they read online much to the delight of scammers.

A person’s prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain needed for weighing options and consequences, is not fully formed for most people much before the age of 30.

Can Ashes Be Scattered?

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 18, 2026

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?

Finding Satan’s Story in the Bible

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 17, 2026

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?

open hand ready to receive with a sunset in the background

The Ornament of All Virtues

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 16, 2026

Humility is the guardian and the ornament of all virtues. If the spiritual building does not rest upon it, it will fall to ruin, though it seems to be growing.

people on a bench Photo by Mojor Zhu on Unsplash

Forgive an Adulterous Husband?

Pat McCloskey, OFM September 16, 2026

Is it wrong to divorce a husband who commits adultery? My husband and I were married in the Catholic Church almost 30 years ago. Several years ago he committed adultery, and the pain still remains with me. I have tried to forgive him but long for something much more important: healing.

No, a civil divorce is an option. Depending on evidence provided, a canonical “declaration of nullity ” may also be possible.