Category Archives: ASK FATHER Question Box

QUAERITUR: New translation of Confiteor omitted from Mass today.

From a reader: Dear Fr Z, I’ve just been to Mass, using the new translation for the first time.  [hmmm] I was looking forward to the Confiteor, but our priest left it out. Was that because it was a weekday? … Continue reading

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QUAERITUR: How can the Church take away indulgences?

From a reader: I have a (.pdf) copy of the 1910 Raccolta, which contains some 34 indulgenced novenas. These are beautiful prayers I am delighted to pray, but I’m told that as of “Indulgentiarum Doctrina” they are no longer indulgenced. … Continue reading

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, New Evangelization, Our Catholic Identity, The Drill | Tagged , , | 7 Comments

QUAERITUR: Deacons receiving Communion more than twice a day – Fr. Z rants

From a transitional deacon: Is it lawful for a deacon to communicate more than twice on a Sunday, or any other day, for that matter? I am currently a transitional deacon, and I am unsure if deacons can receive more … Continue reading

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QUAERITUR: Confirmed or ordained but not in the state of grace – Fr. Z rants

From a reader: My question is regarding confirmation. Do those who receive the sacrament have to be in a state of grace in order for it to take? (the answer, I assume, is yes). I ask this because I am … Continue reading

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QUAERITUR: Can I make the Act of Contrition in Latin?

From a reader, edited: Would it be acceptable, when in the confessional, to recite the Act of Contrition in Latin? Over the past several years I have become proficient in a fair number of Latin prayers, including those of the … Continue reading

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QUAERITUR: Validity of baptism when water touches only the hair – Fr Z rants

From a deacon: I was wondering how safe it is to assume that water flowing over the hair along with the correct words constitutes a valid baptism. I ask because there were just 12 babies baptized in my parish and … Continue reading

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, Puir Slow-Witted Gowk, Slubberdegullions, Wherein Fr. Z Rants | Tagged , , , , | 20 Comments

QUAERITUR: Coming back to the Church after falling far away

From a reader, edited: I was raised catholic and as so many have fallen away from the church, unfortunately very far.  I am trying to find my way back and am wondering what suggestions you would give as a place … Continue reading

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QUAERITUR: The number of altar steps and validity of Mass.

From a reader: A few years ago some modifications were made at our church including raising the floor level of the sanctuary. As a consequence the three steps that used to lead up to the high altar are now just … Continue reading

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QUAERITUR: “our sacrifice” and “my sacrifice and yours”

From a reader, edited: I sometimes wonder about the part of the prayer of the priest at Mass which goes “Pray, Brethren, that our sacrifice will be acceptable to the Lord our God.” And to which the people respond (I … Continue reading

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QUAERITUR: Can EMHCs purify sacred vessels after Holy Communion?

From a reader: I moved to a new parish about month ago, and while I didn’t register (I usually move every few months for work), I do contribute monetarily. I’m unsure if I’m even in a position to raise a … Continue reading

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