‘Scripture Alone’
Pat McCloskey, OFM
June 19, 2026
I know that this term is strongly supported by some Christians and vigorously challenged by others. When did it originate and what does it mean?
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.
Marriage, Miracles, and Tattoos
Pat McCloskey, OFM
June 18, 2026
Father Pat McCloskey, OFM, answers questions about marriage, the rosary, and whether it’s a sin to get a tattoo.
How Did Evil Begin?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
June 17, 2026
What is the absolute root cause of evil? How can an absolute evil (the devil) come from an absolute good (God)?
Origin of Saint Francis’ Peace Prayer
Pat McCloskey, OFM
June 16, 2026
I keep seeing Saint Francis of Assisi credited as saying, “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” I have looked in several places but cannot find where Saint Francis said this.
Visiting Prisoners: A Work of Mercy
Pat McCloskey, OFM
June 15, 2026
Do Catholics take seriously the corporal work of mercy to visit those in prison? Do Catholic parishes and colleges or universities have this on their radar?
First, students at law schools in some Catholic universities have participated in “innocence projects ” that have led courts to release certain prisoners who did not commit the crime for which they have been found guilty and imprisoned. Some parishes have prison ministry groups.
Praying for a ‘Happy Death’
Pat McCloskey, OFM
June 12, 2026
Is it all right to ask God to give someone a happy death?
Confirmation and the State of Grace
Pat McCloskey, OFM
June 11, 2026
I am concerned that a relative of mine may not have been in the state of grace when he recently received the Sacrament of Confirmation. If so, does he need to receive that sacrament again? Is that true of every sacrament?