RIGHT TO KILL: "As Christians, do we have the right to kill to defend ourselves or be killed and love our neighbors and forgive?"
 ANSWER: Yes, as a human being, you have a right to kill another person in order to defend yourself against that person’s killing you. Someone who defends his life is not guilty of murder even if he is forced to deal his aggressor a lethal blow. Legitimate defense can be not only a right but a grave duty for someone responsible for another’s life, the common good of the family or of the state. Killing another person should be our last resort of self-defense; if possible, lesser means of self-defense should be employed. (Catechism 2263-2267). Jesus, St. Stephen and other martyrs asked the forgiveness of God for their killers. It is the Christian thing to do.

MARY STATUES – "Why is there another Mary (statue) near the Grotto? I feel Mary is for all. It bothers many (?) people when they pray?" Answer: For star entertainers, athletes, presidents and saints there are many different pictures, paintings, and statues. In the gospel, in tradition, in her apparitions Mary struck different religious postures that artists have enjoyed capturing: Annunciation, Nativity, Calvary, Pentecost, Lourdes, Fatima to name a few. In Christian art I appreciate and enjoy the many faces of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, the Mother of God.

MEN WEARING EARRINGS: Question from Ringo:  “I’m a guy.  Am I making a sin by wearing an earring?” 
Answer:  No, you are not.  A young man who wears an earring is probably making some kind of fashion, cultural or social statement.  At present, wearing an earring by both men and women seems to be the “in thing to do”.

AMEN - STAND OR KNEEL? "I am confused. At the "Great Amen", some people kneel, others stand. Which is it?" Answer: "After" not during, the singing of the Great Amen, the people in the pews stand. (#21 Appendix, GIRM for U.S.A.).

KISSING A BISHOP’S RING "I notice that Catholics kiss the rings of their bishops. How come?" Answer: Bishops wear rings as a symbol of their covenant love and loyalty between them and the Church and of his marriage to his see (diocese). Kissing the ring of a bishop is a sign of one’s belief that the bishop is a successor of the Apostles and united with the Pope. It is a gesture of acceptance of the Apostolic Authority of the bishop and of willingness to obey the bishop who takes the place of Christ in his Diocese. ("New Catholic Encyclopedia," Volume XII, "Rings", McGraw-Hill).

SERMON – HOMILY:  "What is the difference between and a homily?" 
ANSWER: A sermon is a talk on any religious topic, anywhere. A homily, on the other hand, is a talk that concentrates on the scriptural readings of the Mass being celebrated with an emphasis on the application of those readings to daily living. ("The Mystery and Meaning of the Mass", J.M. Champlin, The Crossroads Pub. Co.).

U.F.O.’S – "Does the Church have anything to say about U.F.O.’s?" 
ANSWER: Not that I know of. The Church awaits the findings of science and other disciplines to declare the realities of reported UFO’s and of life on other planets. God is not limited to this Earth in His creation of intelligent life. We await the rest of the story. God can be full of surprises.

COMMUNION WITHOUT CONFESSION – "My son, for the past four years, has been "living with his girlfriend", not going to Mass on Sunday. He hasn’t been to Confession all that time yet went to Communion at Christmas and Easter. Was I correct in telling him that he should have gone to Confession before Communion?" 
ANSWER: Yes, you were correct. Before the worthy reception of Holy Communion, those in the state of mortal sin must go to Confession prior to Communion and, in that Confession, have a firm purpose of not committing those sins again and of avoiding the occasions of all serious sins. That calls for your son to stop "living with" his girlfriend and to attend Sunday Mass. ("catechism", 1384-1390, 1415).

NO SIGN OF THE CROSS –  "It used to be that a priest giving a homily – sermon would begin and end with the Sign of the Cross. What happened to that practice?" ANSWER: Since the liturgical reform of 1970, the Sign of the Cross is made three times within Mass: 1. . At the beginning of Mass; 2. over the gifts; and; 3. at the end of Mass. (Four minor crosses are made at the proclamation of the Gospel: on the Gospel Book, forehead of the proclaimer, his lips and over his heart). Emphatic in the Mass is the continuity between the readings, Gospel, homily, Creed, Prayer of the Faithful and the Eucharistic Prayer. Nothing is to interrupt that flow. The opening Sign of the Cross by the celebrant covers the whole ceremony. ("The Mystery of the Mass", J.M. Champlain, The Crossroad Pub. Co.).

WEDDING MASS – SUNDAY MASS?  "If you attend a wedding Mass on a Saturday, does that fulfill your Sunday obligation?" 
Answer: No, it does not. To fulfill the obligation we are to attend the weekend Mass designated by the Church for the whole congregation. A wedding Mass is an "extra" Mass, a private Mass for a certain group of people, not for the total congregation. Saturday night Mass and Sunday Masses scheduled by the Church are the ones to attend to fulfill our obligation.

WHY SUNDAY? "Why is Sunday a Holyday?"
ANSWER: Sunday is a Holyday because Jesus and God the Holy Spirit made it holy, Jesus, by His resurrection from the dead on Easter Sunday, the Holy spirit by descending from heaven on the Apostolic Church on Pentecost Sunday. Early in Christian history, the Church designated Sunday "The Lord’s Day" (Rev. 1: 10). Later the Church made every Sunday a day of obligation. ("Catechism" 2174-2188).

ST. CHRISTOPHER ?  "Is St. Christopher still a saint?" 
ANSWER: Yes. Even though the Church removed Christopher from the liturgical calendar in 1966, the Church has never denied his existence nor has the Church demoted him. (St. Philomena, too, was removed from the liturgical calendar). Very little is known about either of these saints, hence their calendar removal. Legends and stories abound about them. St. Christopher suffered martyrdom in Lycia, present day Turkey, in the mid 3^rd century. ("Voices of the Saints", Bert Ghezzi, Doubleday).

TALK BEFORE DAILY MASS  "Before daily Mass, some people hold out-loud, extended conversations while others try to get ready for Mass in silent prayer. Can we do something to stop these distracting talkers?" ANSWER: I, too, am annoyed by prolonged, loud conversations before Mass. Quiet, preparatory, silent prayer is the proper devotion before Mass. Two things you can do about it: 1. Ask the talkers to stop talking, (they’ll hate you) or 2 move to another location. Maybe this Q & A will help to silence them, but don’t bet on it. Even if God said "Shhh," some would continue their casual, church conversations. Sometimes "talk" can be a bad four-letter word – especially in church, right before daily Mass. "Shhh"

WHO’S IN CHARGE? "Who really runs the Catholic Church?" 
ANSWER: Jesus Christ is the founder, the head and ruler of the Church. It is His Church. In structuring His Church to continue His teaching and sanctifying until the end of time, Jesus clearly appointed Peter and the other apostles to "run the Church." The Apostolic Church for its part, passed on the mission to succeeding generations. Christ is the head of the Church in heaven; the Pope is the head of the Church on earth, the Vicar of Christ. God, the Holy spirit, is the soul of the Church, and , therefore, protects and guides and graces the Pope and the Bishops who "run" the Church in the name of Christ.

HOW TO BAPTIZE.. "In an emergency, how should I baptize?" 
Answer: In an emergency, you baptize by pouring water over the head of the one to be baptized and while pouring the water, say: "I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." The one who baptizes must intend to do what Christ and the Church intend to do by the Sacrament of Baptism.

PERMANENT DEACONS – MARRIAGE: "What are the rules about Permanent Deacons" and their rights to marry?" 
Answer: Single men and married men may become Permanent Deacons. Once a single man is ordained a Permanent Deacon, then he may not marry. If a married permanent Deacon’s wife dies, he may not marry again. ("Sacred Order of the Deaconate," Paul VI).

ABORTED BABY - HEAVEN?..: "If a baby is aborted and not baptized, does that mean it can’t go to heaven?" ANSWER: No it doesn’t, God is not limited by the Sacraments established by God the Son. Baptism of water is the usual requirement for the entrance into heaven. (John 3; Matt. 28); it is not the only way to get there. All babies, unborn and born, are precious to God and God wills all to be saved. Jesus said: "Let the children come to me, do not hinder them." (Mark 10: 14). The Catholic Catechism entrusts unbaptized babies to the mercy and love of God ("Catechism" 1260). God loves those unbaptized babies more than do their parents. My theology counts on God getting them to heaven.

CATECHUMEN – CANDIDATE.  "What is the difference between a Catechumen and a Candidate?" ANSWER: The CATECHUMEN is one who has never been baptized. The CANDIDATE is one who was baptized in another Christian religion and who wants to be received into full Communion with the Catholic Church through a profession of faith, the rite of Confirmation and the reception of Holy Communion. Before Candidates receive their sacraments, they experience individually the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). Since Baptism takes away all sins, Catechumens need not go to Confession before they are received into the Church at the Easter Vigil Service. They, too, are Confirmed and receive their First Holy Communion. (RCIA).

LATE FOR MASS – MISS MASS: "When are we late for Mass? When do we miss Mass? ANSWER: "We are late for Mass if we are not present for the opening sign of the cross. WE miss Mass if we are not present for the Offertory, Consecration and Communion of the Mass. WE are obliged on days of obligation to attend a complete Mass, i.e., from the opening sign of the cross to the last blessing." ("Moral Theology", H. Jone, Tan).

CHRIST – TO HELL..: "After His death, why did Christ go to Hell?" 
ANSWER: Christ did not go to Hell in the restricted pejorative sense of the word. In Apostolic times, hell was a word used to designate any state of existence lower than heaven. The Jews called it "Sheol." There was a hell for the damned and there was a hell for the just, the good people of the Old Testament who awaited their redemption and liberation by the death of Christ on the cross. Theologians called the "hell of the just" "limbo". Jesus went to this hell to announce to the just the good news of their freedom and of their going to heaven. (1 Peter 4).

GETTING BACK TO CHURCH.. "If I was lost in the Catholic Church (away from the Church) and would like to come back, How can I do it?" 
ANSWER: Get in touch with me, (407-831-1212) or another Catholic priest; we will ease your way back into the Church, guide you back to the Sacraments and help you to be at peace with God and yourself. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, carrying the sheep over His shoulders is a good picture of you and Jesus to keeping mind. Come on home; your church family welcomes you!

PSALM RESPONSE AT MASS: The Responsorial Psalm sung between the first and second readings isn’t always the same as the one in the missal. Is that OK? 
Answer: Yes, that’s OK. Since most congregations cannot learn a new song every week the "Order of Readings" list other usable texts that are in harmony with the liturgical season, feast or occasion. ("GIRM", #89), ("The Liturgical Music Answer Book", P. Lovrien, Resource Pub.).

GARDEN WEDDINGS: "Are Catholics allowed to be married outside (of Church) in a garden marriage"? ANSWER: Catholics are to be married in their parish Catholic Church. "The local Ordinary (Bishop) can allow a marriage to be celebrated in another suitable place." (Canon Law, #1118, 1,2,3,). Permission is to be requested of the Bishop through the Parish Priest. Ordinarily, sacraments are to be celebrated in church.

PROTESTANT MARRIAGE:  "If two married Protestants both become Catholic, do they have to be married again in the Catholic Church?" 
ANSWER: No. They were both Protestants at the time of their marriage and the Catholic Church recognizes their marriage as valid and sacramental. The law of the Church to be married in a Catholic ceremony before a priest or deacon applies to marriage in which at least one of the parties is a Catholic (Canon Law: 1055-1165).

TRE ORE: What is the "Tre Ore"? 
ANSWER: "Tre Ore" is the Italian for "three hours". It refers to the three hours that Christ was on the cross on Good Friday. A commemorative service called "The Three Hours Agony" is sometimes conducted from noon to three o’clock on Good Friday. It consists of a service of meditations on the Passion of Christ, particularly reflections on the Seven Last Words of Christ from the Cross. The "Tre Ore" is an optional Good Friday ritual. (Dictionary of the Liturgy," J.P. Lang, Catholic Book Co).

JERUSALEM CROSS: "What is the origin and meaning of the Jerusalem Cross." Answer: The Jerusalem Cross, a large liturgical cross with an additional small cross in each of the four corners was the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Jerusalem during the Crusades. The five crosses together refer to the five stigmata (wounds) of Christ. ("Dictionary of Symbolism", H. Biedemann, Meridian Br.).

CONFIRMATION NAME: " Why, when being confirmed, does one take on a "Confirmation name"?" 
ANSWER: Those confirmed take on a "Confirmation name" in order to have another saint or religious hero/heroine to imitate and to pray to for guidance and help. If they wish, they may repeat their baptismal name as their "Confirmation Name." Because of the link between Baptism and Confirmation, both the original Baptismal sponsor and the Saint’s name given at Baptism (if it was a Saint’s name) are preferred as the sponsor and the name for Confirmation. ("Handbook of Moral Theology", D. Prummer, R.C. Books).

GRANDPARENTS OF JESUS: "Who were Jesus’ paternal grandparents?" 
Answer: Jesus had no blood father. God, the Holy Spirit, conceived him in the womb of Mary of Nazareth. St. Joseph was the legal father of Jesus. Therefore, Jesus had no blood paternal grandparents, only legal ones. In Matthew 1:16, Jacob is named the father of Joseph, therefore, Jacob was the legal grandfather of Jesus. In Luke 3: 23,24, the father of Joseph is called Heli, which, perhaps, could be another name of Jacob. So, it looks as though a man who went by the names Jacob-Heli was the legal grandfather of Jesus on Joseph’s side. Ordinarily women’s names are not listed in Jewish genealogies, so there is no name for Jesus’ legal grandmother on His legal father’s side. On His mother’s side, the blood grandparents of Jesus are traditionally named "Joachim and Ann," the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. ("Daily Bible Studies, Matthew, Luke," William Barclay, Westminster Press).

COMMUNION CROSS  "Is it incorrect to make the Sign of the Cross after you receive Communion?" 
ANSWER: It is not incorrect to make the Sign of the Cross after you receive Communion. Neither is that practice a command performance. It is the communicant’s choice. Reverence to the Holy Eucharist can be shown by gesture or non-gesture.

FORTY DAYS OF LENT.."What is the significance and/or the symbolism for forty days of Lent?" ANSWER: Back in the 2^nd century, there were only two days of Lent in preparation for the celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus. In the 3^rd century, Holy Week was Lent. By the 7^th century, Lent became a 40 day penitential period in imitation of Jesus’ forty day fast in the desert (Matt. 4:2). From Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday there are 40 weekdays of Lent. The six Sundays within these 40 days are not counted as days of Lent. Sundays are "Little Easters". The Church has never fasted on Sundays. ("Catholic Customs and Traditions", G. Dues, 23^rd Pub.).

TOO MANY MASSES..TOO FEW CONFESSIONS..: "In Florida, many Masses are celebrated. You can find Masses at any time. However, Confessions are very scarce, about an hour a week and sometimes the priest doesn’t show. Let’s have fewer Masses and more Confessions." 
ANSWER: Why not keep the same number of Masses (the crowds need them) and, at the same time, if necessary, increase the times and lengths of Confessions. In recent years, I have seen no long lines of penitents at the usual assigned hours for Confession. If the line increases, the Churches will adjust. You can always call the rectory to make arrangements for your own private confession "out of joint of time." (Shakespeare).

MARY, OTHER CHILDREN: DID MARY, MOTHER OF JESUS HAVE ANY OTHER CHILDREN?" 
ANSWER: The Catholic answer is "no". Other Christian denominations assert that Mary did have other children after having had Jesus. The Catholic Church with its belief in Tradition before but in conjunction with the gospels was there from the beginning with its beliefs about Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Other denominations did not appear with their different theologies until a thousand years later. Under God, the Holy Spirit, the Catholic Church has a living memory of the Holy Family two thousand years ago. The Catholic Church has always taught that Jesus was the only child of Mary. ("Mary in the New Testament", R. E. Brown).

ALWAYS SAVED? "Do you believe that once you are saved, you are always saved?" (I am a Southern Baptist). 
ANSWER: Yes and no. "Yes" in the sense that Jesus on Good Friday saved all mankind in so far as He made salvation available to all – always. Looking at salvation through the action of Jesus we can say "once saved, always saved." Jesus need not save us again and salvation is available to all, always. However, after having accepted salvation, a person can reject it by serious sin, not repent and, therefore, be liable to damnation. Without the cooperation of the saving grace of Jesus an unrepentant sinner cannot say: "Once saved, always saved." Jesus saved once and for all. After accepting salvation, we must keep it; if we lose it, we are to repent to regain it. ("I Want to Believe, But...." B. Wright, Templegate).

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS.. "What is meant by twelve more days after Christmas?" ANSWER: To "lick the Christmas spoon," the celebration of Christmas was increased from an octave (8 days) to 12 days, December 25^th to January 6^th, the Feast of the Epiphany. Both sacred and secular events are celebrated within these twelve days. Music and poetry have popularized that Incarnation period. ("Catholic Customs and Traditions," G. Dues, 23^rd Pub.).

ST. BLAISE (BLASÉ) – THROATS – : "What’s the story behind the blessing of the throats?" 
ANSWER: On February 3^rd, the feast of St. Blaise, Catholics enjoy a popular Sacramental called "The Blessing of Throats," in which St. Blaise is invited to ask the Lord to "free us from evils of the throat and any other evil." Legend says that, prior to his becoming a bishop, Blaise was a physician. While in prison for his faith, Bishop Blaise cured a boy who was choking on a fishbone stuck in his throat. Candles used in the blessing are symbolic of the candles that the cured boy’s mother used to bring to Bishop Blaise in his dark prison. St. Blaise died a martyr c 316 A.D.. (Dictionary of Saints, J. Delaney, Image).

CANDLEMAS DAY: "Is there still a Mass at which Mass candles are blessed for the year?" ANSWER: Yes, there is; February 2^nd, a triple celebration: 1. The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple; 2. The Purification of Mary, a traditional Jewish blessing 40 days after the birth of a boy (80 days after a girl); 3. And the Blessing of Mass Candles – "Candlemas Day (Candle-Mass) the gospel for the Candle Mass or "Day of St. Simeon," proclaims the word of Simeon that the infant Jesus will be "a revealing light to the Gentiles..." (Luke 2) (Gospel of Luke, W. Barclay, Fortress).

LAST GOSPEL.- RUSSIA PRAYERS: "Why do we no longer have the reading of the "Last Gospel"; John 1, at the end of Mass and why do we no longer say prayers for Russia ordered by Leo XIII and Pius XI? 
ANSWER: With the revision of the Liturgy by Vatican Council II in the 1960’s, The "Last Gospel" and prayers for Russia were deleted by the Council and the Pope. They were accretions to the pure liturgy of the Mass. The Vatican Fathers "purified" the cluttered liturgies and other devotions of those unnecessary additions that, down through the ages, became part of our worship life because of new and present concerns at particular times. Now, "we stick to the Mass".

A SOUL – NO-BORN BABIES: "Do no-born babies have a soul? Where do they go when they die?" ANSWER: The very moment that a baby is conceived, comes into life, that baby is a living soul, a soul that will never die even though the baby is born dead, is "no-born". The soul never dies; it lives on for all eternity. If the baby was baptized in the womb before the baby dies, the baby goes to heaven; if not baptized, then the destiny of that baby is in the loving care of God who is not limited by the Sacraments. Adam and Eve did not need baptism; they were constituted in grace. The Blessed Virgin Mary was conceived full of grace; it was her Immaculate Conception. Our extra-ordinary God knows how to save extra-ordinary souls of "no-born" babies. I have confidence in a loving God. (Catechism #1261).

"O ANTIPHONS": What are the Advent "O Antiphons?" 
ANSWER: From December 17^th to the 23^rd, seven antiphons that begin with "O" are sung as Alleluia verses before the Gospel. They herald the Messiah with seven of His special names: O Wisdom, O Leader of Israel, O Flower of Jesse, O Key of David, O Radiant Dawn, O King of All Nations, O Emmanuel. In Gregorian chant, the big "O’s " are delicately beautiful.

ST. CHAD, REALLY? QUESTION FROM A FLORIDA VOTER: "Honest to God! Is there really a St. Chad?" 
ANSWER: Yes, there is! Chad was an English monk along with his brother Aidan. Chad became the Abbot of the Yorkshire monastery and then Bishop of York. Because York already had a bishop, Chad was accused by the visiting Archbishop of Canterbury of an improper consecration, so Chad became a "hanging Chad." Impressed by Chad’s humble acceptance of his verdict, the Archbishop regularized Chad’s consecration and appointed Chad bishop at Litchfield where he died in 672. (Dictionary of Saints," J. Delaney, Image Books).

BLUE VESTMENTS – ADVENT: "How come the priests wear blue vestments in Advent?"" 
ANSWER: Within the past fifty years, in Advent, the Liturgy has featured an off-purple, a dark purple, a plum purple, a midnight blue to distinguish the spirit of Advent from the spirit of Lent. Advent has its own liturgical and theological identity; it is not a "little Lent". Lenten purple promotes the spirit of penance. Advent expresses the spirit of expecting, the spirit of quiet meditation in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the season. It speaks also of the silence of Mary preparing for the birth of the Messiah. Advent blue then, is a mood maker, a silent longing in meditative prayer as we personally look forward to the Messiah’s coming into our lives with our needed saving graces at Christmas 2000. (Father Ed’s Question Box," "Blue in Advent" – Unpublished).

HOROSCOPES – FORTUNE TELLING: "What does God and the Catholic religion think of horoscopes and fortune telling? Approve? Disapprove?" 
ANSWER: I refer you to paragraphs 2115 to 2117 in the Catholic catechism which "rejects all forms of divination...". "Consulting horoscopes, astrology, palm reading, interpretation of omens and lots. All conceal a desire for power over time, history and.. other human beings." "..a sound Christian attitude consists in putting onself confidently in the hands of Providence for whatever concerns the future." Any serious intentions of discovering the hidden future by superstitious means is forbidden by the Catholic Church as a sin against religion and God Almighty (Deut. 18: 10-11). ("Radio Replies", Volume 2, 934-950, Tan).

BLESSED SACRAMENT, WHERE? "Where do you keep the Blessed Sacrament? The Church seemed "empty" as we came to Mass today. I looked for a sanctuary light, but did not see one!!. 
ANSWER: In the front of the Church, to the far left of the Sanctuary, on the stonewall; there is a large bronze door on the tabernacle that houses the Blessed Sacrament. A service ledge is at the bottom of the door and on that ledge is a cup of water for finger ablutions. High on the same wall, right above the Tabernacle there is a seven branch, seven light sanctuary lamp that glows all day and all night. St. Mary Magdalen Church is never "empty" of the Lord except after Good Friday services until the celebration of the Easter Vigil, Saturday night.

UNFORGIVEN SINS : "Are there some sins that God will not forgive? If so, what is the use of trying to live well after you’ve committed that sin?" 
ANSWER: God can and God will forgive all sins, large and small, if we give God permission to do so, if we allow God to forgive us; if we tell God we are sorry and will try not to commit sins again. If we are not sorry, if we are not resolved to avoid sins in the future, then we cannot be forgiven – our sins become unforgivable because we won’t let go and let God forgive us. In Matthew 12, Mark 3 and Luke 12, Jesus declares that the sin against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. Since it is the Holy Spirit who presents Jesus to us as our Savior, if we reject our Savior we reject our salvation, we reject the gift of the Holy Spirit. The sin is unforgivable, not because God is unwilling to forgive our sins but because we knowingly and willingly reject the one who forgives, Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

GOD EVERYWHERE: "Is God really everywhere?" 
ANSWER: Yes, God is everywhere. God is present by His power of creation; God sustains every creature in existence; God is present by His knowledge of everyone and by His love for each and all of us. By His infinite and loving providence, God guides all His creatures to their ultimate end. (Catechism: 295-324).

GOD AND CONSCIENCE: Question from Heidi S (5^th grade): "In Class today we talked about God. We wondered: "Is He our conscience?" 
Answer: Conscience is not God but is helped by the "Voice of God," the whisperings of God the Holy Spirit inspiring us to know what is right and what is wrong. Conscience is an act of the mind that judges the rightness and the wrongness of particular thoughts, words and actions. The law of God is written on our hearts, in our conscience. God the Holy Spirit inspires us to do good and avoid evil and gives us the gifts of wisdom, understanding and counsel. In prayer, God speaks to our conscience if we invite God to do so. And God works through the advice of others who help us to do the right thing. So, in a non-technical yet very useful sense, God is our conscience If we follow God’s directions. (Catechism, 1776-1802).

PLENARY INDULGENCE: "Please explain a "Plenary" indulgence, what we must do to gain it and what are the benefits?" 
ANSWER: A "plenary indulgence" is the full remission of the temporal punishment due to already forgiven sins. To gain a plenary indulgence you must be in the state of grace, free from mortal sin, have the intention to gain the indulgence and then say the prayers and/or do the actions required. This indulgence can be kept for yourself or given to the souls in purgatory. The benefit as defined is the full remission of the temporal punishment due to forgiven sins. (Catechism: 1471-1479).

EUCHARISTIC PRESENCE: "Do Christian faith/religions other than Catholic consider the Eucharist as the true presence of Jesus or as a symbolic memorial?" 
ANSWER: Greek and Latin (Roman) Catholics and Greek Orthodox Christians have and believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. Other Christian denominations consider the Eucharist a symbolic memorial. By a subjective projection of their faith, some Christians feel that they make Jesus spiritually present. Should a Catholic priest leave the Catholic religion and celebrate the Lord’s Supper of another religion and use the words of consecration of the Catholic Mass within the rite of the non-Catholic celebration, then the Lord would be present. Once ordained, the Catholic priest even though forbidden to offer Mass, never loses his power to consecrate. Once a priest, always a priest.

BOWS TO THE ALTAR:  “Why don’t the Eucharistic Ministers (and everyone else) bow before approaching the altar in the Church?” 
ANSWER:  Bows to the altar are not required or indicated for the Eucharistic Ministers and for all others approaching the altar.  Added gestures, even of piety, tend to interrupt the smooth flow of the liturgy and to clutter the ceremony.  Some gestures like bowing can create a traffic hazard – one person bumping into the other.  A liturgical mnemonic is:  KISS – Keep It Simple Saints.  The Second Vatican Council sanitized the liturgy of many emotional, provincial and personal accretions that has cluttered up the liturgy.  They are not to creep back.

ST CHRISTOPHER - IN OR OUT?: "Tell us about St. Christopher. 
Is he still the patron of travelers?" 
Answer: In spite of him being dropped from the universal liturgical calendar, St. Christopher is still the patron of travelers and, in modern times, the protector of motorists. Christopher was that legendary ugly giant who made his living carrying people across a river. A carried child, extremely heavy, revealed that he was Christ with the weight of the world on his shoulders. Read about St. Christopher in Bert Ghezzi’s charming new book: "Voices of the Saints", Doubleday.

ANOTHER JESUS? "Will God ever send down someone else like Jesus? 
ANSWER: God will send down Jesus Himself at the end of time, in the "second coming" – not someone else. When Jesus will come again no one knows. It has not been told to us. The important thing is to be ready at that time. Of special importance to each one of us is to be ready to meet Jesus at the moment of our death. (Matt. 23: 27-51), Mark 13: 32-37), Luke 17: 20-37). 

DRINKING FROM THE CUP : "I DO NOT THINK IT IS SANITARY TO DRINK OUT OF THE WINE GLASS. AM I COMMITTING A SIN BY NOT TAKING THE BLOOD OF CHRIST?"
 ANSWER: No, you are not committing a sin by not taking the blood of Christ from the wine glass. In receiving Holy Communion under the form of bread, we receive the Blood of Christ also, for it is the alive, risen total Christ who is present under both forms of Communion or under one form. A living body does not exist without the blood and living blood does not exist without the body. So, in receiving just the Host, you receive the total living Christ, body and blood. (Catechism, 1390).

The Priest and the Sign of Peace.."IS THE PRIEST TO LEAVE THE SANCTUARY TO GIVE THE SIGN OF PEACE TO PEOPLE IN THE PEWS?" 
ANSWER: No, he is not. The priest may exchange a sign of peace only with others in the Sanctuary (GIRM 2000, #154). This is done in order to avoid a disruption to the rite and any form of perceived discrimination in giving the sign of peace to certain members of the congregation.

 HELL-HOT..QUESTION FROM YALE PROFESSOR’S EXAM: "How hot is it in hell? Are hell exothermic (gives off heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat)?
 ANSWER: "Eternal fire," (Matthew 15: 40); "hell of fire" (Matthew 5: 22); "furnace of fire" (Matthew 13: 42; "unquenchable fire" (Matthew 9: 43)- these are some of the "hot" expressions about the milieu of those who, after death, are in a state of definitive self-exclusion from communion with God and the saints. They are in what the Bible calls "hell", ("Catechism", 1033-1037). In using these five images, Jesus was not giving a literal description of hell but used the Old Testament expressions associated with the fate of the damned to give pain to the feelings of those separated from God forever (2 Kings 23: 10), (Jer. 7: 31). Hell punishes lost sinners with a spiritual "fire". Hell is neither hot nor cold nor even lukewarm. Without God, it is a whole lot of nothing.

HE AND SHE ANGELS?   "Are there female angels in heaven?" 
ANSWER: No, there are neither female nor male angels in heaven, on earth or anywhere else. Angels are pure spirits , without bodies, therefore, angels have no sexual parts that make them male or female. The song of every angel is "I Ain’t Got No Body." (Catechism: 328-336).

ANGELS SEE THE FUTURE?  "Can Angels see the future?"
ANSWER: Even though Angels are endowed with great intelligence far superior to human understanding; they are not omniscient. There are certain limitations to angelic knowledge. An angel does not know future contingent events. An angel does not know the mysteries of God’s grace unless God reveals them and does not know the secrets of the heart and the motivations of the will; only God knows these. Remember what Jesus said about the Angels not knowing the time of His second coming. Jesus unequivocally affirmed that the day of the Parousia (2^nd Coming) was something unknown to everybody except the Father. (Matt. 24: 36). (Angels," "Thinking Life Through", Fulton J. Sheen, McGraw-Hill). ("Angels", C. Altemore, Liguori).

"IS IT POSSIBLE TO BELIEVE IN BOTH SCIENCE AND RELIGION COMBINED? FOR EXAMPLE: CREATION AND EVOLUTION?"
 ANSWER: Pope John Paul II recent encyclical: "Reason and Faith." Assures us that there is plenty of space for science and religion to lie side by side and complete each other. They do not contradict each other. God is the author of both scientific truth and religious truth. The Church has always taught that God is the creator of all things, even the evolutionary process, which is still a theory not yet an absolute scientific fact. How God actually created our human bodies, nobody knows for sure. In any event, all theories have to include in them the perpetual Catholic belief that each human soul is created directly by God. For further information, log onto the pronouncements of the Pope. ("Catechism", 355-368).

 SPECIAL PRAYER INTENTIONS BOOK: "There is a book of prayer requests in the back of Church next to the statue of Mary. I think it would be appropriate to have this book brought to the altar area (sanctuary) in the entrance procession of Sunday Mass so that these intentions may be offered up with our prayers." 
ANSWER: Maybe sooner would be better. That special book is brought to the Sanctuary and placed on the Altar in the Offertory Procession of the bread and wine at the preparation of the gifts. Perhaps our Liturgy Commission will consider doing this at the beginning of Mass as you suggested.

ROMAN COLLAR – BLACK CLOTHES: "Why do priests wear collars? Why do priests wear black and white? 
ANSWER: The Council of Baltimore (18444) legislated that, in public, priests should wear the Roman collar. Canon Law calls for priests to "cultivate a simple way of life and to avoid anything that smacks of vanity. Priests are to wear suitable ecclesiastical garb in accord with the norms issued by the conference of bishops and in accord with legitimate local custom." (CIC, 282,284). A white backward collar on a dark (black) suit, gradually became the identification uniform for the Catholic priest in public and on duty. Future customs and circumstances could change the color and the style of priests, garb.

LIVING TOGETHER BEFORE MARRIAGE "Is it a sin for two single Catholics to live together prior to marriage?" 
ANSWER: Understanding "living together" to mean not only cohabiting but also engaging in sexual relations prior to marriage, yes, it is a sin for Catholics and non-Catholics to do that. Living together without "sleeping together" before marriage places a couple in the near occasions of serious sin and, therefore, should be avoided. Even chaste living together before marriage could be a source of scandal to unknowing family and community. Full togetherness is only for married couples.

LAY CARDINALS?  "Do you have to be a priest before you become a Cardinal? What powers do Cardinals have?" 
ANSWER: No and yes. Priestly ordination was not always required for a person to be created a Cardinal by the Pope. IN 1559, St. Charles Borromeo was a layman. His uncle, Pope Pius IV, made him a Cardinal. Eventually, Charles was ordained a priest in 1563. In 1918, the Code of Canon Law decreed that all Cardinal must be priests and in 1962, Pope John XXIII legislated that Cardinals are to be Bishops. These rules can be changed; priestly ordination is not essential to the office of Cardinal. Could there be a woman Cardinal in the future? Cardinals elect the Pope and advise and assist the Pope in the government of the Church. (CIC, Cans. 349-359).

USELESS PRAYERS FOR THE DEAD: "You can’t pray for the dead! Luke 16." 
ANSWER: The Bible in statement and the Church in practice enjoin prayers for the dead." ..It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from their sins." (2 Macabees 12: 44). The Church celebrates Masses for the dead and dedicates the month of November to praying for the dead. In the Lazarus-Rich Man "story" of Luke 16, the Rich Man in Hell cannot profit from the prayers or any other kind of help (a point of the story), but those in Purgatory can. Do you know by name for sure anyone in Hell? Eternal rest grant to all our dead. ("Catechism", #958).

DIPPING INTO THE CHALICE  "Why don’t we offer the Bread dipped in Wine like some other churches?" 
ANSWER: "Intinction", i.e. dipping the Host into the Precious Blood, is one of several ways of serving Holy Communion to the faithful. To serve Communion in that way is a pastoral decision made by the Pastor in conjunction with his liturgy staff. "Intinction" is probably of the Byzantine Rite that does not with fingers dip the Host into the Precious Blood. The Host in cube form is inserted into the Precious Blood by spoon or a single-pronged fork and then placed on the tongue of the Communicant, a safer and more sanitary practice. "Too many fingers can spoil the Communion Rite." Also, it is to be noted that only the Eucharistic Minister does the dipping, not the one receiving Communion. In the Roman Rite, the mechanics and hazards of the "finger dipping" involved in Communion by Intinction are the usual reasons for Pastors avoiding this way of Communion. ("GIRM", 244-252).

THOMAS "THE TWIN": "In an Easter Season Sunday Gospel, Doubting Thomas was called "Didymus" – "The Twin" Whose twin was Thomas?" 
ANSWER: On his commentary on "The Twin", the name used to identify The Apostle Thomas in John 20: 24-29, Father Raymond Brown observes: "It is not clear why the evangelist takes the trouble to explain the meaning of the Semitic from underlying Thomas! Some have speculated that he was Jesus’ twin in appearance, in Gnostic speculation he becomes the recipient of special revelations." ("Risen Christ in Eastertime," R.E. Brown, The Lit. Press).

USHER M.O. : "Why does an Usher feel it is OK to seat people during the Mass instead of waiting for the breaks? Everyone watches him instead of listening." 
ANSWER: Ushers are instructed NOT to seat people once the Liturgy of the Word has begun. Seating during the readings and the homily are big distractions to all. During the praying of the Creed and the taking up of the collection there is "break time" for ushering people to their seats. How about you becoming an Usher? Your question gives you a head start.

PURGATORY  "Where is Purgatory?" 
ANSWER  In his audience on August 4^th, 1999, Pope John Paul II said: "purgatory is not a place but a ‘condition’ in which those who are in the state of purification participate already in the love of Christ who frees them from their imperfections." Said the Pope: "Before we enter into God’s kingdom, every trace of sin within us must be eliminated, every imperfection in our soul must be corrected." ("Catechism", 1030-1032).

SACRISTY SINK.. "Is it true there is a special sink in the church sacristy for purification rites?" 
ANSWER Yes, there is, at least there should be, a "sacrarium" or piscina in the church sacristy. It’s a small sink that leads directly to the earth rather than to the common drain. The water from washed out (purified) Mass vessels and linens (purificators) is poured down the sacrarium drain or directly into the earth of a garden. ("GIRM", #239).

SELF-COMMUNICATING "Sometimes, during a daily Mass, I have seen Eucharistic Ministers self-communicating from the cup of Precious Blood. I thought only priests were allowed to self-communicate. Have the rules changed?" 
ANSWER: Only the priest celebrant and the concelebrants may self-communicate at Mass. Priests in attendance but not concelebrating, Deacons and special ministers of the Eucharist are not to self-communicate. The chalice is not to be left on the altar for special ministers of the Eucharist to pick up and drink. The theology and symbolism of the Communion rite require that the Eucharist be "ministered" to communicants other than the celebrant and concelebrants. Only in a Communion Service – no priest no Mass – may an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion self-communicate ("Immersae Caritas," instruction of the Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship).

CONFESSION "Is it a sin if Catholics never go to Confession?"
ANSWER: Baptized children are required by Church law to go to Confession before receiving First Communion. (Canon Law, C 914). Also, Catholics are bound to confess serious sins at least once a year; not to do so, is a serious sin of neglect. (Canon Law, C 989). The Sacrament of Penance is also a part of the final preparation of a soul for death along with the Sacraments of Anointing and Eucharist. (CCC 1525). So, not to go to Confession on occasions other than these is not to sin. No serious sin, no Confession needed. The Church recommends regular Confession of everyday sins (venial sins). (Canon Law, C 988 #2).

EPISCOPAL DISCRETION   "HOW COME THE BISHOPS GIVES A DISPENSATION FROM ABSTAINING FROM EATING MEAT ON St. PATRICK’S DAY WHEN IT FALLS ON A FRIDAY? ISN’T THAT HYPOCRITICAL? WHAT MAKES ST. PATRICK’S DAY EXEMPT FROM ABSTINENCE OVER OTHER FRIDAYS?"
ANSWER: The laws of fast and abstinence are Church laws, the application of which is under the discretion of each local bishop. If the feast of a popular saint falls on a Friday, and , in the estimation of the local bishop, many faithful want to celebrate that saint, a dispensation from the law of abstinence is usually given by the bishop. Since, here in America, St. Patrick is traditionally venerated by the secular as well as the church community, St. Patrick’s Day has assumed a national celebrating desire not only in churches and among the Irish, but also in stores, restaurants, on stage, screen, radio and television. The business community loves St. Patrick. Other countries have other favorite saints that call for similar dispensations. "Everybody is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day."

SECULAR INSTITUTE "What’s the difference between a secular institute and a religious community?" ANSWER: A secular institute is composed of mostly lay people who privately live their evangelical counsels (poverty, chastity and obedience) in the world in their everyday lives. Their vows are not made publicly, they have no distinctive dress and they may or may not live in community. Each institute determines the form its organization takes. (Catholic Treasures", J. Tuopin, St. Anthony Press).

"HOW HIGH IS HEAVEN?"
ANSWER: Recently Pope John Paul II remarked that hell is not a material place but a condition of life, a state of being, a spiritual space. The same can be said about heaven. It is not a material place, not "here" or "there" but a union with God and one another forever. Since heaven is not a physical place, there is no "high heaven;" since hell is not a material place, there is no "low hell." In concrete terms we can not measure the spiritual space of spiritualized bodies in heaven or hell. ("Catechism", 1023-1029), "Christ Among Us," A. Wilhelm, Paulist Press), ("Heaven" P. Kreeft, Ignatius Press).

BOOK OF REVELATION :"WHO REALLY WROTE THE BOOK OF REVELATION?" WHICH JOHN?
ANSWER: Four times (1:1, 4, 9, 22:8) the author of Revelation names himself John. Some claim he is John the Apostle, Modern scholarship finds this opinion tenuous at best. Others give the Revelation a Pauline association because of the letter format and the Asian provenance of Revelation. Today’s scholars feel that Revelation was written by a Jewish Christian prophet named John who was neither John the son of Zebedee nor the writer of the Johnanine Gospel or of the Epistles ("Sacra Pagina – Revelation," W.J. Harrington, Lit. Press). ("An Introduction to the New Testament," R.E. Brown, Doubleday).

QUESTION:"IN MARK 1:30, IT TALKS ABOUT SIMON’S (PETER’S) MOTHER-IN-LAW. WHAT HAPPENED TO SIMON PETER’S WIFE"?
ANSWER: No one knows for sure what happened to Simon Peter’s wife. It is the unanimous tradition of the early Church that Peter went to Rome and was martyred there. According to the "Ecclesiastical History" of Eusebius, 3, 30, Peter’s wife was crucified before him while Peter was compelled to look on. Peter encouraged her and said: "Remember the Lord" ("The Master’s Men", W. Barclay, Pillas Books).

QUESTION: "WE HAVE A PERMANENT DEACON IN OUR PARISH. CAN HE DO THE ANOINTING OF THE SICK?"
ANSWER: No, he may not. Canon Law states: "Every priest, but only a priest, can validly administer the anointing of the sick. (C. 1003). Perhaps this rite is reserved to priests because it involves the forgiveness of sins (James 5: 15-16). The possibility of deacons administering the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick continues to be under discussion in theological and liturgical circles. We await the conclusion.

QUESTION: "EXPLAIN THE SECOND PERSON OF THE BLESSED TRINITY; THE SAME AND THE DIFFERENCE IN THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE FATHER."
ANSWER: I refer you to the Catechism's 238 to 260 for a detailed response to your question. In summary - the Church confesses not three God's but one God in three divine persons, the "Consubstantial Trinity." Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Each person is completely but distinctly God. The three divine Persons are relative to one another and there is no opposition of relationship. The whole divine economy is the common work of the three divine Persons even though the Father is called Creator, the Son, Redeemer and the Holy Spirit, Sanctifier. The Holy Trinity is a mystery, the foundation truth of our Catholic faith. Even in heaven we will not completely comprehend this mystery. God will always be bigger than his creatures on earth. We have the privilege of enjoying the Trinity and being grateful that three divine Persons care for us, love us - God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

QUESTION: "HOW DOES ONE CHANGE THE WORDING IN AN ACCEPTED PRAYER? IN THE PRAYER, "GLORY BE TO THE FATHER, AND TO THE SON, AND TO THE HOLY SPIRIT, AS IT WAS IN THE BEGINNING, IS NOW AND EVER SHALL BE, WORLD WITHOUT END, AMEN!! SHOULD THE AS IT WAS IN THE BEGINNING BE CHANGED TO READ: AS IT ALWAYS WAS?"
ANSWER: "Should be changed" is a strong expression and would seem to be reserved for use by those officially in charge of liturgical prayers for Church and other liturgical celebrations. However, so long as the Theology of the unofficial changed prayer is consistent with the official version, its use in private devotions would not be out of order. Good taste in word changes and non disturbance of the prayer group by these changes would be accepted.

NOISY KIDS, UNDER GLASS...QUESTION: "Are they really taking out the cry room when they renovate the church? If so, where do we take noisy children?"
ANSWER: In the renovated church, there will be a re-located, new cry room in the rear of the church. After noisy children calm down in the cry room, please bring them back to the congregation. We are all member of the Body of Christ. "The kids be with you. And also with us."

QUESTION: "WHY IN THE HAIL MARY DO THEY SAY THAT MARY IS THE MOTHER OF GOD WHEN THE BIBLE STATES THAT MARY WAS THE MOTHER OF JESUS?"
ANSWER: Here's a syllogism right out of the college logic lab: "Mary is the Mother of Jesus. But Jesus is God. Therefore, Mary is the Mother of God." Elizabeth, who is in the middle of the biblical Hail Mary called Mary "The Mother of My Lord." (Luke 1: 43). The Council of Ephesus 431 called Mary "Theotokos", God bearer, to emphasize the divinity of Christ. The primary reason for calling Mary "Mother of God" is to assert, in no uncertain words, the divinity of Jesus.

FIRST FRIDAY...QUESTION: "Would you please explain the meaning of First Friday? Why is the service different? Why does the service eliminate the church members reading from the prayer book"?
ANSWER: About 300 years ago, St. Margaret Mary is reputed to have had certain revelations form Jesus about devotion to His Sacred Heart. The last of "12 promises" made to the Saint was: "I promise you...to grant to all who go to Communion of nine first Fridays of the month, the final grace of repentance; they shall not die in its disfavor or without receiving the Sacraments, My Divine Heart becoming their assumed refuge at the last moment." The Church honors this revelation in different ways: By offering the Mass of the Sacred Heart on First Friday; by having all-day exposition of the Blessed Sacrament followed by a prayer service and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. The service does not, by ritual, eliminate church members (lay lectors?) reading from the prayer book (Lectionary?). Frequently, the reading at the service is a gospel to be read by the priest or deacon. Sometimes a lay lector is not available.

WASHING OF THE HANDS... "Why, during the Mass, does the priest wash his hands?"
ANSWER: In early Christian days, the people brought not only bread and wine to the altar but also food, clothing, medicine, furniture, and other gifts for the poor and needy. It was the Presider, the priest, who lead the distribution of these gifts at the liturgy. Before resuming the liturgy the priest washed his soiled hands much as we wash up before meals. This gesture has been spiritualized to symbolize the washing clean our minds and our hearts before eating he Lord’s Supper. ("The Mystery and the Meaning of Mass", J.M. Champlin, Crossroads Pub.. Co.)

BENEDICTION…"WE USED TO HAVE "BENEDICTION" A LOT. NOW IT IS RARE, HOW COME? ANSWER: Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament became popular in the Middle Ages when the faithful did not receive Holy Communion very often. They looked at the Lord in the golden vase (monstrance), adored Jesus in the Sacrament and received His blessing (benediction). With the Vatican II emphasis on frequent reception of Communion, Benediction became less a need and was put into focus as an additional rather than an essential devotion. Here at St. Mary Magdalen Church, we celebrate Benediction every First Friday at 5:00 pm.

"IS THERE A PATRON SAINT FOR THE CATHOLIC PRESS"?
ANSWER:: Yes, there is, St. Francis de Sales, (1567-1622). As a missionary in France and Bishop of Geneva, Francis, was a prolific writer and teacher, especially in defense of the Faith and in spiritual direction. Francis wrote many pamphlets to attract fallen away Catholics back to the Church. Francis was designated patron saint of the Catholic Press in 1923. ("Dictionary of the Saints", J.J. Delaney, Image).

PRECEPTS OF THE CHURCH… "DO WE STILL HAVE CHURCH PRECEPTS?"
ANSWER: Yes, we do. 1. Attend mass on Sundays and holydays. 2. Confess sins at least once a year. 3. Receive Holy Communion at least during the Easter Season (Easter Duty). 4. Keep holy the holydays of Obligation (all Sundays included). 5. Observe days of fast and abstinence. 6. Provide for the material needs of the Church.(Catechism, 2041-2043).

HOLY WATER FONT… "IS THE WATER IN THE BIG FONT AT THE ENTRANCE TO CHURCH BLESSED WATER, HOLY WATER?"
ANSWER: Yes, it is. Blessing ourselves with this blessed-holy water at the entrance to the church reminds us of our entrance into God’s grace, God’s church through the holy water of Baptism. Also, that holy water can help us wash our minds of secular concerns as we enter church, making our hearts clean to receive the grace of the Holy Mass in which we shall participate. (The Mystery and Meaning of the Mass," J.M. Champlain, Crossroads Pub.).

"WHY DOES THE PRIEST KISS THE ALTAR AT THE BEGINNING AND END OF MASS?" ANSWER: The Church considers the altar a symbol of Christ and some altars have inserted into them the relics of saints. The kiss, therefore, is a special gesture of reverence for Christ and for his saintly followers enshrined in the altar and for the sacred space, the altar table, on which Christ will be made present during the celebration of Mass. (The Mystery and Meaning of the Mass, J.M. Champlain, Crossroad Pub. Co.).

"DIRTY" HOLY WATER…"WHAT DO I DO TO GET RID OF HOLY WATER THAT DIRT GOT INTO?" ANSWER: Holy Water that has become "dirty", may be poured into natural ground or into that special sacristy sink call the "sacrarium." ("Liturgical Question Box", P.J. Elliot, Ignatius Press).

CHURCH NAME… "HOW DID THE CHURCH GET ITS NAME?"
ANSWER: If you mean the Church of "St. Mary Magdalen", that name was given to that church by the Bishop who established it. It was the Bishop’s choice for his own good reasons. If you mean the "Roman Catholic Church", the church is "Roman" because the Pope and the main headquarters of the Church is in Rome. It is called "Catholic" (i.e. universal) because it welcomes all people and teaches all that Christ and the Apostles taught.

MARY’S HOMETOWN…" WHERE WAS MARY BORN?"
ANSWER: All the factual information we have about Mary is to be found in the New Testament. Nothing is known of Mary’s childhood from that source, however, stories are told that she was the daughter of Joachim and Anne, was born in Jerusalem and was, as a child, presented in the Temple.

DISPOSITION OF CREMATED REMAINS: "WHAT IS THE CHURCH’S STAND ON THE DISPOSITION OF ASHES AFTER CREMATION?"
ANSWER: The practice of scattering cremated remains on the sea or on the ground, or of keeping the remains in the home of a relative or friend of the deceased are not the reverent ways of disposition that the Church requires. (Order of Christian Funerals, Appendix I #417). Burial at sea of cremated remains differs from scattering. An appropriate or worthy container, heavy enough to be sent to its final resting place, may be dropped into the sea. (Order of Christian Funerals, #407.4". (From the Office of Liturgy, Diocese of Orlando).

CREATION... EVOLUTION..."DOES THE CATHOLIC CHURCH HAVE A VIEW ON CREATION VS. EVOLUTION ?"
ANSWER: Evolution is a scientific theory which says that more complex forms of life developed from less complex forms over long periods of time. It is still a theory, not yet a proven fact. The Church asserts that God created the world including all human beings and that the existence of each human being's soul is a special creation of God. Perhaps God created the physical part of man's being in an evolutionary way. Unlike matter, the spiritual soul is incapable of evolving since it has no parts to evolve from one thing to another. The Bible is not a science book; it is a religion book, so it does not treat the "how" of creation or the "process" of evolution. God is the author of all truth, so religious truth and scientific truth cannot contradict each other. ("The Teaching of Chris," Lawler & Wuerkl, O.S.V.) ("Evolution: A Theory in Crisis, " M. Denton, Adler & Adler).

CATHOLIC THEOLOGY AND SALVATION... "ACCORDING TO CATHOLIC THEOLOGY, AT WHAT POINT DOES A PERSON BECOME A CHRISTIAN WITH AN ASSURANCE OF SALVATION AND AN ETERNAL HOME IN HEAVEN ?"
ANSWER: A person who believes in Jesus Christ and is baptized in that belief thereby becomes an official Christian. Jesus commissioned His disciples in these words: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned." (Mark 16:15, 16). Baptism is the beginning of salvation (justification); the consistent living according to that gift, that grace of salvation gives the assurance of salvation and eternal home in heaven. St. Paul speaks in this way in his hail and farewell to Timothy: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance." (2 Tim. 4; 6-8). Belief in Jesus is an ongoing living up to the graces of our Baptism.

HOLY OF HOLIES..."WHAT IS THE HOLY OF HOLIES MENTIONED IN THE OLD TESTAMENT ?"
ANSWER: In contrasting the worship of the Old Covenant with that of the New, the Letter to the Hebrews (9:1-5) speaks of the Holy of Holies in this way: "...A tabernacle was constructed, the outer one, in which were the lampstand, the table and the bread of offering; this is called the Holy Place. Behind the second veil was the tabernacle called the Holy of Holies, in which were the gold altar of incense and the Ark of the Covenant entirely covered with gold. In it were the gold jar containing the manna, the staff of Aaron that had sprouted, and the tablets of the covenant, Above it were the Cherubim of glory overshadowing the place of expiation." The Holy of Holies was accessible only to the High Priest in the Old Covenant and only on the Day of Atonement. (Exodus 26:33; Lev. 16; Heb. 9:1-10 plus the footnote of Heb. ("Nelson 's Bible Dictionary ") ("Dictionary of the New Testament, " Lton-Dufour, Harper & Row).

HANUKKAH. JUST FOR JEWS? "IS HANUKKAH ONLY FOR JEWISH PEOPLE ?"
ANSWER: Hanukkah, the feast of Dedication, the feast of Light celebrates the repossession, the cleansing and the re-dedication of the Temple after it had been profaned and desecrated by Antiochus Epiphanes. While primarily a Jewish celebration, ail peoples of all faiths rejoice with the Jewish people and celebrate the freedom to worship God in their own religious ways. Hanukkah can inspire all people to re-dedicate themselves to their own religious connections and practices. (2 Maccabees 10).

MEMORIAL DAYS... FEAST DAYS..."SOME SAINTS' DAYS ARE DESIGNATED AS 'FEAST' DAYS, OTHERS, MEMORIAL DAYS. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE ?"
ANSWER: In the liturgical terminology of feasts, the Roman Calendar divides them into: Solemnities, Feasts, and Memorials (obligatory or optional). Feasts honor big events like the Presentation of Jesus, The Sacred Heart, and big saints of important universal devotion, such as, The Blessed Virgin, St. Joseph. Memorials celebrate feasts of lesser importance and some not universal in observance. Some memorials are obligatory and are to be celebrated. Optional Memorials are celebrated at the discretion of the celebrant. Feasts of St. Agnes and St. Philip Neri are classified as obligatory Memorials; Feasts of St. John Endes and St. Robert Bellarmine are optional. ("Dictionary of the Liturgy, " J. D. Long, Cath. Bk. Pub.) ("The Order of Prayer...1999, " P. D. Rocca, Paulist Press).

EMMANUEL... JESUS..."CAN YOU TELL ME THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE NAMES EMMANUEL AND JESUS? GOSPELS AROUND CHRISTMAS SPEAK OF EMMAMUEL, YET, LATER, IT ALWAYS SEEMS TO BE JESUS"
ANSWER: The Son of God made man has at least forty names and titles in the New Testament, all saying something special about God's Incarnate Son." Emmanuel" was the prophetic name uttered by (Isaiah 7: 14). It means "God with us." Matthew's Gospel repeated the prophecy (Matt. 1; 23). In the same gospel Joseph was instructed by the Angel Gabriel that he was "to name him Jesus, because he 'will save his people from their sins (Matt. 1; 21). Different names and titles tell different things about Jesus-Emmanuel. One word just can't tell it all about Him. ("Jesus as They Saw Him, " Wm. Barclay, Erdmans Pub. Co.).

JESUS' LAST NAME..."DOES JESUS HAVE A LAST OR MIDDLE NAME ?"
ANSWER: There seems to be no record of a last name or a middle name for Jesus or other prominent Bible people. Often Biblical characters were identified as "son of..." Isaiah, son of Amoz; Simon, bar (son of) Jonah. We would probably call them "Isaiah Amozon" "Simon Jonahson" as we call people "Johnson," Anderson, " " Thompson" (Son of John, Son of Andrew, Son of Them). Maybe we could biblically call Jesus, Jesus Josephson (Son of Joseph). It comes close in (Luke 4:22) " Isn't this the Son of Joseph?" Biblical people were given last names by their trade or that of their father. As we inherit names such as: "Baker," "Taylor, "Smith," "CarDenter," so Jesus might have been known as "Jesus Carpenter," for He was known as "The Carpenter's Son." (Uatt. 13=55) or "The Carpenter" (Mark 6:3). Even though the expression "Jesus Christ" occurs four times in Matthew 1:1, Mark 1:1, John 1:17, 17:3, Christ is not the last or middle name of Jesus but a title. "The Christ, The Messiah, The Anointed One." In the New Testament, Jesus has some forty-two names` and titles that tell us who He was and what He did. Each one is worth a meditation. ("Jesus as they Saw Him, " Wm. Barclay, Erdman's).

LONELY... HELP..."SOMETIMES I FEEL LONELY AND I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO. PLEASE HELP!"
ANSWER: If you are lonely and don't know what to do about it, conventional counseling wisdom would suggest that you consult a professional person who deals with that kind of psychological condition. I am not a professional psychologist but I am. a priest who has experienced people troubled by loneliness. Besides urging professional help, I usually suggest that a lonely person attend our parish "Twelve Step Meeting for Everyone. Isolation is the mother of loneliness. Seeking companionship with others in similar struggles is a contemporary successful therapy for many. If you feel that a priest could be of some help, please know that our parish priests are willing to be of good counsel. By all means, seek, in prayer, God's compassionate help. Jesus invites all who are burdened to come to him. (Matt. 11=28-30).

WHEN THE HOST FALLS... "WHAT IS THE PROPER THING TO DO WHEN THE HOST FALLS ON THE GROUND WHEN RECEIVING COMMUNION?"
ANSWER: "If the Eucharistic Bread or any particle of it should fall, it is to be picked up reverently. ("GIRM" no. 240) ("DOL," 1629). "What you might permit to fall, think of as being the loss of a part of your own body." (Cyril of JerusQlem - "DOL," 2056). Without panic and with appropriate reverence, the Communicant or the Communion Minister picks up the fallen Host and either consumes it or places it in the ablution cup (the cup of water beside the tabernacle) and after its dissolution in the ablution cup water, that water is poured down the drain of the sacrarium (special sink in the sacristy).

TABERNACLE UNUSED....."IS THERE A PARTICULAR REASON WE NO LONGER USE THE TABERNACLE DURING MASS?"
ANSWER: If the tabernacle is not located in the sanctuary, then it is not a part of Mass. Consecrated Hosts not used within the Mass are usually carried to the tabernacle after Communion or to some temporary appropriate place like the sacristy. After Mass, the Blessed Sacrament is taken from the sacristy to the tabernacle. If the tabernacle is in the sanctuary, the unused Consecrated Hosts can be placed in it after Communion. Only to that extent is it a part of the Mass. The tabernacle is not an official or integral part of the Mass. Its purpose is to be a place of reservation of the Sacrament for the sick and for private Eucharistic devotion.("Dictionary of the Liturgy, " J. D. Long, Cath. Pub.).

MARY AND THE DEVIL…"DID THE DEVIL EVER TEMPT MARY?"
ANSWER: There is no record in either Tradition or Scripture that Mary was tempted by the devil. Jesus, Son of God and Son of Mary was tempted. (Matthew 4: 1-11); it would seem likely then, that Mary, too, was in some way tempted. The Church teaches that: "…Mary was preserved from all state of original sin and by a specified grace of God committed no sin of any kind during her whole earthly life." (Catechism #411).

SIGN OF THE CROSS...
"What does it mean when we make the sign of the cross when we pray or enter the Church?" ('And what does it mean when we cross our forehead, our lips and our heart before the gospel is read?"
ANSWER: The sign of the cross is a mini, symbolic creed through which the signer expresses belief in one God, in three divine persons - Father, Son and Holy Spirit, in the Incarnation of God the Son and in the redemption through the Passion and Death of the Incarnate Son of God, Jesus. The "Amen" is the signer's acceptance of, and belief in, the theology of the action and the words of the sign of the cross: "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen." At the beginning of the Gospel, the forehead is signed that we might know the truth of the gospel; the lips, that we might profess the truth of the gospel; the heart, that we might love and follow the truth of the gospel. ("Dictionary of the Liturgy, " J. P. Lang, Cath. Bk. Pub.)

A CELEBRET...
"What's a celebret?"
ANSWER: A celebret is an official document stating that the owner is a priest in good standing and worthy to be given permission to celebrate Mass in a diocese other than his own. ("Modern Catholic Dictionary, " J. Harden, Doubleday).

PREDESTINATION
"What commandment prohibits the belief in predestination?" Where in the Catholic Catechism is this treated?"
ANSWER: God predestines no one to go to hell says the Catholic Catechism # 1037. God "wants none to perish" (2 Peter 3:9). Predestination is often confused with God's foreknowledge. God does know who will be saved and who will be lost, but He does not cause anyone to go to hell. Belief that God predestines certain people to go to hell is a sin against the first commandment, which commands us to believe in a loving God who, without taking away our human, free will, goes all out to help us go to heaven. To lose all hope in God's mercy is the sin of despair, a sin against the first commandment. No sin is bigger than God. Going to hell is our free choice not God's pre-determination. Divine regrets only. ("Catholic Replies, " J. J. Drummey, C. R. Publications).

CRUCIFIX. CROSS FOR MASS...
"Contrary to the rubric of the Roman Missal (GIRM # 270), some parishes substitute a risen Christ for the Crucifix on or near the altar. Is there anything that can be done to get our crucifixes back?"
ANSWER: You are correct. With prudence and politeness, you could enter into conversation with the parish liturgical leaders, the liturgical environmental group, and, at last, with the Pastor who probably has the final word on this matter. Good luck! God be with you! Remember: A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.

IS THERE A PURGATORY?..
"Is there a Purgatory? Where does God talk about it in the Bible?"
ANSWER: The existence of Purgatory is a defined doctrine of our Catholic religion. All who die in God's grace and friendship but who still need purification after death are assured of their eternal salvation but undergo a loving process of purification so as to have the holiness required to enter the joy of heaven. The Church gave the name "Purgatory" to this final purification of the elect. While the word "Purgatory" does not appear in the Bible, (neither does Trinity or Incarnation), nevertheless, the Church traditionally has found the purgative process implied in Scripture. In the second book of Maccabees, about the year 165 B.C., there was a liberation battle won by the Jews. When the Jews went to bury their battle dead, they found on the slain soldiers charms and amulets which the law forbade Jews to wear. Judas Maccabeus, the commander of the troops, ordered his soldiers to Pray for the dead that they might be released from their sins. The sacred writer who recorded this incident, comments: ' But if he was looking to the splendid reward that is laid up for those who fall asleep in godliness, it was a holy and pious thought. Therefore, he made atonement for the dead, that they might be delivered from their sin." (2 Macc. 12-45) In Matt. 12: 31-32. Mk. 3: 29-30 and Lk. 9-10, Jesus speaks of the sin that will not be forgiven either in this age or in the age to come, thereby, implicitly indicating that some sins are forgiven in the next life. Also, Peter 4: 6 speaks of a purgative process in the after life: "For this is why the Gospel was preached even to the dead, that, though condemned in the flesh in human estimation, they might live in the spirit in the estimation of God." "Lex orandi est lex credendi" say Theologians: "The law of praying is the law of believing." In every Mass, the church prays for the dead that they may have eternal rest; All Souls Day, November 2nd, and the month of November are dedicated to praying for the souls in Purgatory. At death, most people are not good enough to go to heaven, yet not bad enough to go to hell. The church believes that there is a Third World between heaven and hell, a Purgatory where the burning love of God purifies saved souls and makes them ready for the holiness of heaven, "for nothing unclean will enter it." (Rev. 21- 27). (Catechism # 1030-1032).

CHURCH COMMANDMENTS…
"What are the Church Commandments? Why aren’t they enforced or even talked about by the clergy"?
ANSWER: There are six Church Precepts: 1. Attend Mass on Sunday and Holydays of Obligation. 2. Confess your sins at least once a year. 3. Receive Holy Communion during the Easter Season. 4. Keep holy the Holydays of Obligation. 5. Observe the prescribed days of fast and abstinence. 6. Provide for the material needs of the Church. When appropriate, by preaching and pulpit announcement all six precepts are verbally and morally enforced by the clergy. (Catechism", #’s 2041-2043). 

BLACK VESTMENTS – OUT?
"Can the priest ever wear black vestments, for example, at a funeral Mass?
ANSWER: Yes, the priest may wear black vestments at funeral Masses, other Masses for the dead and for All Soul’s Day, November 2^nd. Purple and white vestments may also be used. Cultural and local circumstances together with pastoral preference enter into the color selection for the occasion. (GIRM #308C). ("Liturgical Question Box", O.J. Elliott, Ignatius Press).

DINOSAURS…
"If the earth was created in 7 days, how is the existence of dinosaurs explained in our beliefs?"
ANSWER: Presuming the existence of dinosaurs, Genesis 1: 24-25 would seem to trace their creation to the "6^th day". "Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth all kinds of living creatures: cattle, creeping things, and wild animals of all kinds." And so it happened: God made all kinds of wild animals…"

SPRING RESURRECTION …
"Did Jesus rise form the dead in the Spring"?
ANSWER: In 1996, the American Medical Association (AMA) made a detailed study of Christ’s passion and death. According to the study, it is estimated that Jesus died on Friday, April 7, 30 AD. On the third day, April 9^th, Jesus rose from the dead. Yes, Jesus did rise from the dead in the Spring. ("AMA Journal").

BAPTISM CONFIRMATION - NOT CATHOLIC...
"If you are already baptized and confirmed in another faith, do you have to be baptized and confirmed again in the Catholic faith in order to become a Catholic?"
ANSWER: Canon Law (C 869 # 2) states: "Those baptized in a non-Catholic ecclesial community are not to be baptized conditionally unless there is serious reason for doubting the validity of their baptism, on the ground of the "matter" (flow of water) or the "form" of words (the Trinity formula) used in baptism, or of the intention of the adult being baptized or of the intention of the baptizing minister. " (Rite of Reception of Baptized Christians into Full Communion with the Catholic Church, No. 8). The rite of "Confirmation" in Christian denominations other than Catholic must be evaluated with similar scrutiny to determine its real or non-real Sacramental nature. If the rite is judged to be a real Sacrament of Confirmation, it need not be repeated; if of doubtful validity, it can be, administered conditionally.

SEPARATE MASSES FOR GAYS AND LESBIANS...
"Why does the Church celebrate separate Masses for gays and lesbians?"
ANSWER: The number of Catholic men and women who identify themselves as gays and lesbians is not negligible. As our brothers and sisters in our faith, they are to be accepted with respect and sensitivity and every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard is to be avoided. In their particular condition and circumstances, Catholic homosexuals seek the graces of the Mass, the spiritual instruction and guidance of the Gospel and the Church and the support from each other in their endeavor to live lives of chastity. Other struggling groups such as alcoholics, drug users, the separated and divorced, single parents, overeaters and gamblers have specials needs and sometimes seek separate liturgies to help them meet their challenges. As generously as possible, the Church will always try appropriately to meet the needs and concerns of these kinds of Catholic brothers and sisters. In celebrating gay and lesbian Masses, no bishop or priest celebrant is approving sinful sexual activity. All are offering those special Masses for the grace to be good practicing Catholics in thought, word and deed, gay, lesbian or straight. (" Catechism, " #'s 2357 - 2359).

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS...
"What are the Knights of Columbus?"
ANSWER: The Knights of Columbus (K of C) is an international, fraternal organization of Catholic men founded in 1882 by the Rev. Michael J. McGivney of New Haven, Connecticut. The organization was established on the principles of charity, unity, and patriotism, and its purpose is to provide a system of fraternal insurance benefits to the members, promote cultural relations and engage in a variety of religious, educational and social activities. Annually, the K of C contributes over one hundred million dollars to charitable works of the Church and gives fifty million hours of community service. They number over one million and a half Knights in membership. ("Catholic Almanac, " OSV).

OLD PALMS...
"What should one do with palms? I have a drawer full from past years."
ANSWER: The Church burns old palms and uses the`ashes for the next Ash Wednesday. Some churches collect old palms from their people for that purpose. Your drawer full of palms from past years would be a significant contribution to this effort - if your parish church has that practice. As with the dispensing of so many other old sacramentals (prayer books, holy cards, etc.), you could burn your old palms and place the ashes in or on the dirt of your garden. The rains and moistureof Mother Nature will eventually dissolve your old palm ashes. ("Catholic Life in a New Century, " Pg. 462, J. J. Dietzen, Guildhall Publ.).

CATHOLICS AND THE MASONS...
"Can Catholics belong to the Masons?"
ANSWER: In June 1985, the national Conference of Catholic Bishops called
Freemasonry "irreconcilable" not only with Catholicism but with all Christianity. "The principles and basic rituals of Masonry embody a naturalistic religion, active participation in which is incompatible with Christian faith and practice, Those who knowingly embrace such principles are committing a serious sin" in professing beliefs which are contrary to Christianity. The prohibition against Catholics belonging to the Masons is serious. This position is similar to that of many other Christian Churches around the world which forbid or discourage affiliationwith Freemasonry. ("Catholic Life in a New Century, " J. J. Dietzen, Guildhall Publ.).

DINOSAURS IN THE BIBLE?
"Does the Bible ever mention dinosaurs"?
ANSWER: Biblical research does not speak of the dinosaur. In the Book of Job the Behemoth is mentioned (Job:40: 15ff). At first, biblical scholars considered this big animal an elephant; now it is agreed that is was a hippopotamus. Also, the Lercatus maintained in Job 40: 25 is identified as a crocodile. (Dictionary of the Bible", McKenzie, Brace).

HURRICANES, TORNADOES, TROPICAL STORMS
"If God loves us so much, then why do hurricanes, tornadoes and storms happen – and people get killed?"
ANSWER: When God created the world "… He looked at everything that He had made and He found it very good." (Gen. 1:31). Something must have happened to disturb the harmony of the created, physical world. Traditional Catholic theology traces all evil, physical and moral, not to God but to us, to our original and continued rebellion against the good order of God. This is the Genesis lesson about good and evil (Gen. 1, 2, 3). Gifted with free will, mankind went against the way and the warning of a loving God. Having gone outside the provident, harmonious, no suffering – no death way of God, mankind entered into its own realm of disorder, suffering and death as predicted by God (Gen. 2: 15-17, 3: 1-9). "This world was deformed by sin." (Gaudium Spes. #39). St. Paul asserts that suffering and death came into the world through human sin, that "creation was made subject to futility not of its own accord" but because of the disobedience of mankind. (Romans 5: 12, 19). Since Jesus redeemed all creation, it would seem that God gives us a way out of disasters through the obedience of the People of God. St. Peter wrote: "We wait for new heavens and a new earth." (2 Peter 3: 13) and St. Paul wrote, "Creation is now groaning in the hope of being set free from corruption to share in the glorious freedom of the Children of God". (Romans 8: 19-22). Our faith tells us that we disturbed this world with natural disasters; our faith tells us that God, through the redemption of Jesus, gave us the power to right our wrong by doing things God’s way. Until then – we inflict our own pain. ("Catechism" – 396-421).

THE LILY…"Why is St. Joseph often depicted in art with a lily in his hand?"
ANSWER: Even before Christianity, the Ancients held the lily in great esteem for its chaste appearance. For the Christian world, the lily became a symbol of pure virginal love. Gabriel, the angel of the Annunciation, is often portrayed holding a lily. So is St. Joseph because of his chaste, non-sexual marriage to the Virgin Mary. St. Joseph was not the physical father of Jesus. Jesus was conceived of God the Holy Spirit; Mary had no other flesh and blood children. Mary is ever Virgin. ("Dictionary of Symbolism," H. Bredemann, Menolian Books).

STRIKING THE BREAST... "Why do Catholics and others strike the breast at times?"
ANSWER: In the tradition of the Ancients, Catholics (and others) strike their breasts at prayer times as a sign of sorrow for their sins. The source of sin is considered to be in the heart. When the Pharisee and the Publican (tax-collector) prayed in the temple (Luke 18: 13), the Publican struck his breast saying: "God, be merciful to me a sinner." At the foot of the cross, on Good Friday, witnesses expressed their guilt by striking their breasts. (Luke 23: 48). Mea Culpa! Mea culpa!! Mea maxima culpa!!!

FRIENDS OF OTHER RELIGIONS..."WHAT SHOULD I SAY TO MY DAUGHTER WHEN SHE STARTS FINDING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN NON-CATHOLIC DOCTRINES OF HER FRIENDS AND HER OWN CATHOLIC BELIEFS?
ANSWER: I trust that your daughter has a good grasp of the doctrines of her Catholic faith and that she is a practicing Catholic. With credentials like that, your daughter can speak with conviction and reverence about our Catholic beliefs to anyone and to every one of any faith or no faith. She will speak the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

THREE MASSES – ONE DAY - "On what day or days, other than Sunday, may a priest offer three Masses?"
ANSWER: On All Souls Day, November 2^nd and on Christmas Day, December 25^th, priests may celebrate three Masses. Those different rituals or Mass formulas are assigned for each feast. Christmas celebrates Midnight Mass, a Mass at dawn and a Mass for daytime. Different biblical readings are used for the three different Masses of both feasts.

ST ANDREW’S CROSS – "What is St. Andrew’s Cross?"
ANSWER: A cross shaped in the form of an X is called St. Andrew’s cross because it is the traditional thought of Church historians that St. Andrew was martyred on the X shaped cross. ("Dictionary of Symbolism", H. Bredermann, Meridian Books).

"APOSTOLIC" CHURCH: "IN WHAT SENSE IS THE CATHOLIC CHURCH THE "APOSTOLIC CHURCH?"
ANSWER: The Catholic Church is the "Apostolic" Church in so far as it was founded by Christ on the Apostles, can trace its Popes and Bishops back to the Apostles and has consistently taught the teachings of Christ as handed on to the Apostles and to their successors. (Matthew 16: 13-20, Rev. 21: 14, CCC #869).

PARISH NAME: "HOW DOES A PARISH GET ITS NAME, E.G., ST. MARY MAGDALEN?"
ANSWER: Parishes get their names from the Bishop of the Diocese who is considered the founder of those parishes. So, you’ll have to ask the Bishop his reasons for giving parishes their names. It was Archbishop Hurley who named St. Mary Magdalen.

WHY BLUE IN ADVENT?  "How come blue vestments are used in Advent?"
ANSWER: In England and in European countries, there is the tradition of using a shade of violet different from and deeper then the Lenten purple – sort of a dark blue. Dark blue seems to set the Advent mood of silent, quiet meditation and alludes to the role of Mary in the mystery of the Incarnation. Purple is penitential; midnight blue, somewhat mystical. Advent is not a "Little Lent"; it has its own reason and theme for its existence. (Father Ed’s Question Box – Unpublished). (G. Dues, 23^rd Pub.).

WHO IS KRIS KRINGLE? 
ANSWER: In German "Christ Kinder" is "Christ Child". Among the German settlers in Pennsylvania, "Christ Kinder" verbally deteriorated into "Kirs Kringle". When Christmas was completely a religious celebration, children were told that the "Christ Child" brought them their gifts. Santa Claus is a charming gentleman manufactured by the Dutch New Yorkers, Washington Irving, Clement Moore, and Thomas Nast in the 19^th century. ("Father Ed’s Question Box" - unpublished) (Catholic Customs and Traditions," G. Dues, 23^rd Publication).

XMAS FOR CHRISTMAS "Is it OK to use Xmas for Christmas?"
ANSWER: Yes, as long as people understand the use of the "X". No, if that "X" is used to X-out Christ from Christmas. Xmas is an abbreviation of Christmas. The X in Xmas is the Greek letter CHI, the first letter of Christ’s name written in Greek. Is has always stood in that language as a symbol for Christ without any bad connotation. So, "it’s Greek to me." If you and your listener know Greek, you know Xmas is Christmas. ("The Christmas Almanac,", G&P Del Re, Doubleday).

BAPTISM FOR JESUS? "If Jesus, the divine one, was the all holy-sinless person, why did He get John to baptize Him?"
ANSWER: John the Baptist had the very same question: "I should be baptized by you," said John to Jesus. Jesus responded: "Give in for now. We must do this if we would fulfill all of God’s demands. So Jesus was following orders from his Father who, at the baptism, voiced His approval of His Son and had the Holy Spirit, like a dove, hover over Jesus. In having Jesus be baptized, the Father assured John’s disciples that Jesus would be "one of them," a card carrying member of the God movement, a citizen of the People of God. John’s baptism of repentance was not needed for Jesus; it was good for us, an assurance from heaven that Jesus was the approved Messiah, an assurance on earth that He was one of us. (Matt. 3: 13-17) ("Daily Bible Studies, Mathew," W. Barclay, Fortress Press).

SACRAMENTS FOR THE DYING..."WHAT SACRAMENTS – BLESSINGS ARE GIVEN TO A DYING PERSON?"
ANSWER: A dying Catholic person receives 1. The Sacrament of Forgiveness; 2. The Sacrament of Viaticum – Holy Communion; 3. The Sacrament of Anointing; 4. The Apostolic Pardon, the full remission of the temporal punishment due to already forgiven sins – a plenary indulgence. If you see me dying, get me a priest. (Roman Ritual", Liturgical Press)

INFANT JESUS OF PRAGUE... "WHO IS THE INFANT OF PRAGUE"?
ANSWER: A statue of the Christ Child King has been preserved since 1628 in the church of Our Lady of Victory in Prague. Carved of wood and covered with wax, it stands 18 inches in height and rests on a broad pedestal. Its left hand encircles a miniature globe surmounted by a cross and its right hand extended in the manner of a pontifical blessing. The figure appears to represent in symbolical synthesis the idea of the Kingship of Christ and that of the Holy Childhood. The origin of the figure is shrouded in legend. It was brought from Spain to Prague in the 16^th Century, and in 1628 was presented to the Discalced Carmelites. It became an object of popular devotion that received Church approval through its coronation by the Bishop of Prague on April 4, 1655 and through generous amounts of indulgences ("New Catholic Encyclopedia," McGraw-Hill Co,). Besides being the Adult Christ the King, Jesus is the Infant King of Bethlehem and His young years in Nazareth. The Infant of Prague is the King of our school children. Bob and Jolene Cole’s statue gift is an abiding reminder to our school children that Christ, their King, infant and adult, watches over them.

THE HELL THAT IS... "WHAT DOES THE CHURCH HAVE TO SAY ABOUT HELL?"
ANSWER: Some one liners about hell: 1. There is a hell. 2. Hell’s eternal. 3. Those who die in mortal sin descend into hell. 4. The chief punishment of hell is separation from God. 5. God predestined no one to go to hell. 6. A person goes to hell because of a willful turning away from God (mortal sin) and persistence in it until the end of life. These are just the hot points of the Church’s traditional teaching about hell. Consult the "Catechism" 1033-1037.

ADDITIONS TO MASS PRAYERS.. "IS IT OK FOR THE PRIEST TO ADD HIS OWN PIOUS PRAYERS TO THE MASS PRAYERS LIKE THE "HAIL MARY" IMMEDIATELY AFTER COMMUNION?"
ANSWER: No, he may not "..no sacramental rite may be modified or manipulated at the will of the minister or the community. Even the superior authority in the Church may not change the liturgy arbitrarily." ("Catechism" #1125). Additions to the Mass are not authorized. Even the priest is not to impose his personal piety on the congregation. " Absolutely no other person (than Pope or Bishop) not even a priest, may add, remove, or change anything in the liturgy on his own authority." (Constitution on the Liturgy, Vol. II, #22, 3).