Category Archives: “How To…” – Practical Notes

ASK FATHER: If Francis isn’t the real Pope, then do the priests of the SSPX still lack faculties to absolve sins?

From a reader… QUAERITUR: If the SSPX, until 2015, lacked faculties for confession, then, in the event that Benedict is still the pope and not Francis, does that mean the SSPX actually still lack faculties and sins are not being … Continue reading

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ASK FATHER: Must I avoid TV, news, movies if you know that the Lord’s Name will be taken in vain?

From readers… Lector 1 quaeritur: Must I refrain from listening to a useful source of news and information because the presenter takes the Lord’s Name in vain or curses? Lector 2 quaeritur: Is it a sin to watch a movie … Continue reading

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ASK FATHER: Subtle different between “Laetare” and “Gaudete”?

From a reader… QUAERITUR: Can you explain the difference between gaudete and laetare? Gaudete seems to be 2nd person plural, imperative, while laetare appears to be an infinitive, both seem to mean rejoice in those respective forms. But the roots … Continue reading

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ASK FATHER: Abstinence on a Friday of Lent that is also the Feast of the Annunciation. What to do?

From a reader… QUAERITUR: What is required / recommended regarding fasting and abstinence when a solemnity falls on a Friday in Lent? And another… I can’t make out if the Lenten Friday rule of abstinence applies to the Solemnity tomorrow? … Continue reading

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, Canon Law, Liturgy Science Theatre 3000, Our Catholic Identity | Tagged , | 14 Comments

Help needed from EASTERN Catholics, Byzantine, Slavic about a title of the Blessed Virgin

In another post here, concern was raised about a way that the Blessed Virgin is to be addressed in the upcoming (tomorrow) Consecration of “all humanity” and “especially” Russia and Ukraine.   Mary is referred in pretty much all language versions … Continue reading

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, Both Lungs, Our Solitary Boast, The Drill | 25 Comments

The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth and YOU

Context: After having been tempted by the Enemy, Our Lord goes into Galilee to preach in the synagogues. Here, He in the town He grew up in after the sojourn in Egypt, Nazareth. Continuation of the Holy Gospel according to … Continue reading

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“Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me…” The mighty Lorica of Saint Patrick

During these dark days, we can benefit from the use of this prayer, called the Breastplate, or Loríca of St. Patrick, “The Cry of the Deer” (Latin Lorica is pronounced lo-REE-ka).  It is said that St. Patrick (+461) sang this when an … Continue reading

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25 March: Francis in Rome, a Cardinal in Fatima, to consecration Russia AND Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Fr. Z’s initial reaction.

The news is that on 25 March, Feast of the Annunciation, Francis will “consecrate Russia and Ukraine” to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Also, in Fatima, the papal almoner Card. Krajewski will do “the same act, on the same day”.  … Continue reading

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ASK FATHER: No snails this year? No leaping over fires or burning witches?

From a reader… QUAERITUR: For eight years (this will be the ninth) my family has hosted a party on Midsummer’s Eve, complete with sung Vespers (last four years with a priest), bonfire, homemade water slide, and much food. Once or … Continue reading

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, Lighter fare, Liturgy Science Theatre 3000 | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

ASK FATHER: Pre-owned engagement or wedding ring. Exorcism?

From a reader… QUAERITUR: Thanks for everything you do, your blog has been tremendously helpful over the years. My girlfriend and I are getting engaged soon and when we went ring shopping, our favorite one was previously owned. I want … Continue reading

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