Why do we need confession if Jesus' death cleansed us from our sins?
Q: How could Jesus' death "cleanse us from our sins" and "assure our entrance into heaven?" If that is the case, why do we need confession? A: First of all, since it pertains to some of the deepest ...
Can I attend a non-Catholic wedding?
Q: Recently my cousin got engaged and is in the planning process of her wedding. She is a baptized Catholic and has received both first Communion and confirmation. Over time my cousin slowly fell away ...
Are there any saints who had a difficult relationship with the church?
Q: Are there any saints who had a difficult relationship with the Church? (New York) A: The answer to this question would depend on exactly what you mean by "a difficult relationship" or even the term ...
How does a vegan senior citizen handle Lenten fasting?
Q: I am a longstanding vegan, so when Lent comes each year there's nothing for me to skip; no meat is already my regular routine. But at age 70, and even if I wasn't vegan, is it true that seniors are ...
Does the church grant annulments in cases of marital infidelity?
Q: I know the church investigates divorces and grants a "Decree of Nullity" if there is sufficient evidence of some foundational issue with the marriage, such as deception, unwillingness to have children, ...
What are the different kinds of sin?
Q: At a recent Mass, the priest talked about "mortal sin," about which I'd previously heard, but then he mentioned "venial sins" and "temporal sins," and even "sins of omission." I'm not familiar with ...
Why can't non-Catholics receive Communion?
Q: We know that Our Lord loves everyone and thus would want to be as close to each person as possible. Can non-Catholics receive Holy Communion since this would help achieve the Lord's ultimate desire ...
Why can't the church offer a completely gluten-free host?
Q: I recently read your answer to the question, "Is non-alcoholic church wine valid for consecration?" In your response, you cited the canon law that discusses the "valid matter" for the celebration of ...
