Category Archives: Ask The Padre

In the history of the Church there have been periods when cremation was not permitted. In the early Church there was a heresy called Manichaeism. This heretical sect of Christianity taught that the body was evil. The soul purpose of … Continue reading →

In order to commit a mortal sin one must fulfill three criteria: 1. It must be “Grave Matter.” 2. There must be “Sufficient Reflection.” 3. There must be “Full Consent of the Will.” Objectively speaking, the act of missing Mass … Continue reading →

Very soon we will hear Jesus re-enter into the lives of His apostles by saying, “Peace be with you.” Our Lord continues by breathing on the apostles the Holy Spirit and telling them, “If you forgive people their sins, then … Continue reading →

The candles that are in front of our statues represent our prayers before God. We light them in church and pray through the intercession of saints to God for our special intentions. When we leave church the lighted candles remain … Continue reading →

Christians have always been allowed to have statues and icons of God and the saints because the Son of God, Jesus, became a man. Since the Son of God, Jesus, became flesh the Christian Church has maintained that it is … Continue reading →

Impure or sinful thoughts are very common temptations. When these arise we may pray an “Our Father” or a “Hail Mary” for the strength to put them out of our mind immediately. Our good will and God’s powerful grace can … Continue reading →

The Church permits three phrases at the end of Mass. A. “Go in the peace of Christ.” B. “The Mass is ended go in peace.” C. “Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.” The priest or deacon may … Continue reading →

Many of us were taught at an early age that when we hear or say the name of Jesus in prayer that we should bow our heads. While this was not part of Church law, it has become a pious … Continue reading →

This is an ancient way of making the sign of the cross. It has its origins in Jerusalem. At this time, as Catholics we make the sign of the Cross i n this way onlybefore the proclamation of the Gospel. … Continue reading →

We Catholics honor the Virgin Mary because Jesus said from the cross to his beloved disciple John, “Disciple, behold your mother.” From that time Christians honored the Mother of Jesus and asked for her intercession. Even at ancient Christian tombs … Continue reading →