Placement of the Tabernacle
Pat McCloskey, OFM
November 26, 2018
Why is the tabernacle not always on the main altar? Placing it elsewhere seems to show a lack of reverence.
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.
God the Warrior?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
October 24, 2018
Our faith teaches that peace overrides force. In the Old Testament, however, there are passages that describe how God cleared a path for the Hebrew people through war and displacement of other people and cultures. Isn’t that a contradiction?
Can Laypeople Give Blessings?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
October 24, 2018
Can someone give a blessing to a sick friend, or a birthday blessing, a blessing at a meal, or on other occasions? Does the person need the permission of the local bishop?
Jesus and Slavery
Pat McCloskey, OFM
September 23, 2018
I have been a Catholic from birth but often have questions about some of the issues we are facing today, such as the evils associated with slavery. The Romans had slaves, but is there any evidence that Jesus condemned that institution?
Change on the Death Penalty
Pat McCloskey, OFM
September 23, 2018
How did Pope Francis recently change the Catholic Church’s teaching on the death penalty?
Why Gluten-Free Hosts?
Pat McCloskey, OFM
September 23, 2018
I understand the Church’s teaching on Eucharist. Transubstantiation means it changes completely from bread and wine to the flesh and blood of Jesus. I believe in the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith. I also understand that our senses cannot tell the difference. Therefore, why are gluten-free hosts needed?
‘I Am Consumed with Guilt and Sorrow’
Pat McCloskey, OFM
September 4, 2018
Q. I am feeling very guilty. I was driving my car and accidentally hit a man with my side mirror. I never saw him, and I don’t know if he stepped in front of me or not. The only reason I know he was hit was my side mirror flipped in, and I heard the snap. I immediately pulled over and asked the man if he was OK.