When exactly does the Christmas season end?
By Fr Kenneth Doyle – Question: As Catholics, we know that the Christmas season begins on December 25 — but when does it end? Some say it...
Category: Question & Answer
Are Most Wars about Religion?
Question: On several occasions, I’ve heard people claiming that almost every war is about religion. I can’t believe that is true, but is religion really the most...
The Bible Has Never Been Neglected
Michael Shackleton – Contrary to some Protestants’ objections, the Bible has never been neglected by the Catholic Church. This is because both the Old Testament and the...
Was the World Really Created in Six Days?
Question: Are we, as Catholics, required to believe that God made the world in six days? Answer: The Catholic Church is not tied to biblical literalism (except...
Can I Have An Amen!
By Father Kenneth Doyle – Question: I know that there is some leeway as to whether to receive the Eucharist in the mouth or in the hand...
Who are the Different Marys in the Gospels?
Question: It seems that Mary was a popular name in the times of the Gospel. Could you guide me through the individual women by that name in...
Ok, What are Sacraments and Sacramentals?
Question: What is the difference between sacraments and sacramentals? Answer: The seven sacraments of the Church are liturgical celebrations. They are visible signs and instruments instituted by...
How Do We Interpret the Bible?
Question: Some Evangelicals claim that their churches interpret the Scriptures literally whereas we Catholics don’t (except for the Last Supper). But how does the Catholic Church actually...
Why did Lucifer and the Angels Rebel?
Question: My issue is twofold: Do we need Satan to tempt us when we can create evil all by ourselves? And if angels have superior and immediate...
What is the Difference between Church, Abbey, Chapel, Cathedral and Basilica?
Question: We all know what a church is, but what is the difference between a church and a cathedral, basilica, abbey or chapel? Answer by Günther Simmermacher:...
What is a Catholic Patriarch?
By Günther Simmermacher – Question: The caption to your colourised photo of Pope St John XXIII’s funeral in your “History in Colour” item (June 2021) refers to...
Cremation and the Church
What is the Church’s modern view of cremating the dead, since in the past cremation was considered a pagan practice? Is cremation for the laity only?
