Answer Priest - Revision history

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2022-12-13T08:58:40Z

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	==== John 6 ====		==== John 6 ====
	* Jason from Orlando. In John 6, I notice that in the NAB, there are two different words used for "eat." In verses 53-57, the word "eat/s" is used, but then in verse 58, it uses the word "feeds." In the RSV 2nd Catholic Edition, it uses "eat/s" throughout. I once heard that in the original Greek, there are two different words used, and that they are significantly different in their usage and meaning. What would be the most accurate translation (one word or two different words)? What is the difference in significance of the words?		* Jason from Orlando. In John 6, I notice that in the NAB, there are two different words used for "eat." In verses 53-57, the word "eat/s" is used, but then in verse 58, it uses the word "feeds." In the RSV 2nd Catholic Edition, it uses "eat/s" throughout. I once heard that in the original Greek, there are two different words used, and that they are significantly different in their usage and meaning. What would be the most accurate translation (one word or two different words)? What is the difference in significance of the words?
	::: [http://usccb.org/bible/john/6#51006054-1 NAB footnote [6:~~54â€“58~~] "Eats":] the verb used in these verses is not the classical Greek verb used of human eating, but that of animal eating: “munch,” “gnaw.” This may be part of John's emphasis on the reality of the flesh and blood of Jesus (cf. Jn 6:55), but the same verb eventually became the ordinary verb in Greek meaning “eat.”		::: [http://usccb.org/bible/john/6#51006054-1 NAB footnote [6:54-58] "Eats":] the verb used in these verses is not the classical Greek verb used of human eating, but that of animal eating: “munch,” “gnaw.” This may be part of John's emphasis on the reality of the flesh and blood of Jesus (cf. Jn 6:55), but the same verb eventually became the ordinary verb in Greek meaning “eat.”
	* Steve from Buffalo: The gospel of John places the institution of the Eucharist very early on in Jesus's ministry, in chapter 6, long before the Last Supper. Which version of the story is more historically accurate? Is there a symbolic meaning to John placing Jesus sayings about the Eucharist earlier in His public ministry?		* Steve from Buffalo: The gospel of John places the institution of the Eucharist very early on in Jesus's ministry, in chapter 6, long before the Last Supper. Which version of the story is more historically accurate? Is there a symbolic meaning to John placing Jesus sayings about the Eucharist earlier in His public ministry?

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2022-12-10T10:03:52Z

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2022-12-10T09:47:34Z

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	* Mary from Rochester: Why is it that sometimes God answers our prayers and other times He doesn't? (01/17/13)		* Mary from Rochester: Why is it that sometimes God answers our prayers and other times He doesn't? (01/17/13)
	* Carlos from Melrose, MA: What should I expect during a guided retreat? What should I do to prepare to go on such a retreat? (03/07/13)		* Carlos from Melrose, MA: What should I expect during a guided retreat? What should I do to prepare to go on such a retreat? (03/07/13)
	* Anne from Buffalo: What is a ~~TaizÃ©~~ Mass? (02/21/13)		* Anne from Buffalo: What is a Taizé Mass? (02/21/13)
	* Kevin from Buffalo: May Catholics participate in the quasi-pagan initiation rites used in honor societies?		* Kevin from Buffalo: May Catholics participate in the quasi-pagan initiation rites used in honor societies?
	* Alex from Florida (iCatholicRadio): How do I bless my children? (11/25/13)		* Alex from Florida (iCatholicRadio): How do I bless my children? (11/25/13)

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2022-12-10T09:20:49Z

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	* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?		* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?
	* Scott from Rochester: In John 15:15, the Lord says, "I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing." What did Jesus mean by "slave"? Did He really call His disciples "slaves" before he called them friends?		* Scott from Rochester: In John 15:15, the Lord says, "I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing." What did Jesus mean by "slave"? Did He really call His disciples "slaves" before he called them friends?
	* Brian from Buffalo: Why does Jesus have such a ~~â€˜distaste~~' (pun intended) for the lukewarm believers found in Revelations 3:16? He says He will vomit them out of His mouth. Does this imply that those who are cold to the faith will be better off than the lukewarm?		* Brian from Buffalo: Why does Jesus have such a ‘distaste' (pun intended) for the lukewarm believers found in Revelations 3:16? He says He will vomit them out of His mouth. Does this imply that those who are cold to the faith will be better off than the lukewarm?
	* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?		* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?

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	==== Music ====		==== Music ====
	* George from Liverpool, NY: Good afternoon, Father. In [http://www.adoremus.org/MotuProprio.html "Tra Le Sollecitudini,"] Pius X states that “the employment of the piano is forbidden in church, as is that of noisy or frivolous instruments such as drums, cymbals, bells, and the like.' As well as ~~â€˜It~~ is strictly forbidden to have bands play in church.' What happened between then and now where we have all sorts "(youth) bands" and pianos instead of organs?		* George from Liverpool, NY: Good afternoon, Father. In [http://www.adoremus.org/MotuProprio.html "Tra Le Sollecitudini,"] Pius X states that “the employment of the piano is forbidden in church, as is that of noisy or frivolous instruments such as drums, cymbals, bells, and the like.' As well as ‘It is strictly forbidden to have bands play in church.' What happened between then and now where we have all sorts "(youth) bands" and pianos instead of organs?
	* Joe from Rochester: At our church, a local band plays during the Mass. The music is quite loud and boisterous. Is that permissible? Is there anything in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal that restricts certain kinds of songs or instruments?		* Joe from Rochester: At our church, a local band plays during the Mass. The music is quite loud and boisterous. Is that permissible? Is there anything in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal that restricts certain kinds of songs or instruments?

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	=== Jehovah's Witnesses ===		=== Jehovah's Witnesses ===
	* Dawn. Rochester. I have a friend who is a Jehovah's Witness. She says that the Holy Spirit isn't a person. She quotes Acts 2:17 to make her case. It reads, "'It will come to pass in the last days,' God says, ~~â€˜that~~ I will pour out a portion of my spirit upon all flesh. Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams.'" How can I explain the Church's teaching to her? (06/27/13)		* Dawn. Rochester. I have a friend who is a Jehovah's Witness. She says that the Holy Spirit isn't a person. She quotes Acts 2:17 to make her case. It reads, "'It will come to pass in the last days,' God says, ‘that I will pour out a portion of my spirit upon all flesh. Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams.'" How can I explain the Church's teaching to her? (06/27/13)

	=== Islam ===		=== Islam ===

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Mxmsj: /* Rosary */

2014-07-30T12:37:55Z

Rosary

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	* Mark. Tallahassee, FL: What can we do about these kids that are wear the Rosary as jewelry?		* Mark. Tallahassee, FL: What can we do about these kids that are wear the Rosary as jewelry?
	* I have some beautiful antique rosaries. May I hang them up so that people can see and enjoy their beauty?		* I have some beautiful antique rosaries. May I hang them up so that people can see and enjoy their beauty?
	* Carolyn. Is it okay for a non ~~catholic~~ to ~~Have~~ and ~~Pray~~ the Rosary?		* Carolyn. Is it okay for a non-Catholic to have and pray the Rosary?
			* Fran from Rochester: The Rosary has been said for many years for world peace, and yet we still have no world peace. What are your thoughts on this?

	=== Apparitions ===		=== Apparitions ===

Mxmsj: /* Confession */

2014-07-30T12:37:20Z

Confession

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	* Michael from Rochester: How should we deal with leftover feelings of guilt from sins that have been confessed already? (03/05/13)		* Michael from Rochester: How should we deal with leftover feelings of guilt from sins that have been confessed already? (03/05/13)
	* Anonymous. Hi, I was born a Catholic, left the Church for many years, then returned when I was 27. When I went to confession, the priest told me to tell him just the one sin that I felt the greatest need to confess. I hear people on the radio saying that the first time they went to confession, they were there for more than 2 hours. I keep remembering sins from the past that I forgot to confess, and I feel really guilty and want to confess them now. What should I do?		* Anonymous. Hi, I was born a Catholic, left the Church for many years, then returned when I was 27. When I went to confession, the priest told me to tell him just the one sin that I felt the greatest need to confess. I hear people on the radio saying that the first time they went to confession, they were there for more than 2 hours. I keep remembering sins from the past that I forgot to confess, and I feel really guilty and want to confess them now. What should I do?

			==== Withholding absolution ====
			* Mark from Rochester: In the sacrament of Confession does the priest have liberty not to absolve someone if they keep confessing the same mortal sin?

	=== Holy Orders ===		=== Holy Orders ===

Mxmsj: /* Lent */

2014-07-30T12:36:26Z

Lent

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	* John from Webster: Please talk about the season of Lent. During Lent, how far can we go in treating each Sunday as a 'little' Easter? A friend of mine scoffed at a church which served donuts after the 11 AM Sunday Mass' during Lent.		* John from Webster: Please talk about the season of Lent. During Lent, how far can we go in treating each Sunday as a 'little' Easter? A friend of mine scoffed at a church which served donuts after the 11 AM Sunday Mass' during Lent.
	* Justin: During Lent my parish does a Mass and during this Mass they have children (high schoolers) mime the Passion of Christ. This seems wrong. Have you heard of any other parishes performing the Passion this way?		* Justin: During Lent my parish does a Mass and during this Mass they have children (high schoolers) mime the Passion of Christ. This seems wrong. Have you heard of any other parishes performing the Passion this way?
			* Mark from Buffalo, NY: Why do the Maronites have more than 40 days for Lent? They begin Lent on the Monday before Ash Wednesday.

	==== Easter ====		==== Easter ====

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:03, 10 December 2022
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	* How can we explain Benediction to teenagers? (12/04/12)		* How can we explain Benediction to teenagers? (12/04/12)
	* What is the best way to present the pro-life message to a parish? (12/13/12)		* What is the best way to present the pro-life message to a parish? (12/13/12)
	* The Old Testament and many Protestant churches require "tithing"--giving 10% of one's income to God. Are Catholics who give less than 10% of their income to the Church offending God? (03/27/13)		* The Old Testament and many Protestant churches require "tithing" — giving 10% of one's income to God. Are Catholics who give less than 10% of their income to the Church offending God? (03/27/13)
	* Must prayers be spoken out loud? Is it possible to pray silently or without any words? (Added 10/22/12)		* Must prayers be spoken out loud? Is it possible to pray silently or without any words? (Added 10/22/12)
	* How can we tell what is from good spirits and what is from evil spirits? How can we tell what ideas, feelings, beliefs, inspirations come from God?		* How can we tell what is from good spirits and what is from evil spirits? How can we tell what ideas, feelings, beliefs, inspirations come from God?
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	* Kevin from Buffalo: May Catholics participate in the quasi-pagan initiation rites used in honor societies?		* Kevin from Buffalo: May Catholics participate in the quasi-pagan initiation rites used in honor societies?
	* Alex from Florida (iCatholicRadio): How do I bless my children? (11/25/13)		* Alex from Florida (iCatholicRadio): How do I bless my children? (11/25/13)
	* What are the Church's rules for capitalization? I was raised to use capital letters for all of the pronouns referring to God or Jesus--You, Your, Yours, He, Him, His--but the lectionary and the missallettes don't do that nowadays. Doesn't that show a lack of reverence for God?		* What are the Church's rules for capitalization? I was raised to use capital letters for all of the pronouns referring to God or Jesus — You, Your, Yours, He, Him, His — but the lectionary and the missallettes don't do that nowadays. Doesn't that show a lack of reverence for God?

	=== Seeking perfection ===		=== Seeking perfection ===
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	* Can divorced Catholics receive Communion? (01/03/13)		* Can divorced Catholics receive Communion? (01/03/13)
	* Why does the Catholic Church not permit divorce when almost all other Christian groups do? (01/17/13)		* Why does the Catholic Church not permit divorce when almost all other Christian groups do? (01/17/13)
	* Doesn't Matthew's gospel allow divorce? Verse 19:9 says "Whoever divorces his wife--except for adultery--and marries another commits adultery." To me, that means that if your spouse cheats on you, you may divorce them and marry someone else. (05/06/14)		* Doesn't Matthew's gospel allow divorce? Verse 19:9 says "Whoever divorces his wife — except for adultery — and marries another commits adultery." To me, that means that if your spouse cheats on you, you may divorce them and marry someone else. (05/06/14)

	==== Declarations of nullity ====		==== Declarations of nullity ====
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	=== Liturgical Furnishings ===		=== Liturgical Furnishings ===
	* Scott from Rochester: All of the crucifixes in Catholic Churches have INRI on them. What do those letters mean? (03/27/13)		* Scott from Rochester: All of the crucifixes in Catholic Churches have INRI on them. What do those letters mean? (03/27/13)
	* I see the letters "IHS" in various forms of decoration in churches--on tabernacles, on vestments, or in paintings or murals. What do those letters mean? (06/06/13)		* I see the letters "IHS" in various forms of decoration in churches — on tabernacles, on vestments, or in paintings or murals. What do those letters mean? (06/06/13)
	* What does the symbol made up of a P on top of an X stand for in Church art? (05/16/13)		* What does the symbol made up of a P on top of an X stand for in Church art? (05/16/13)
	* What does the word "tabernacle" mean? Why do some churches cover the tabernacle with a veil and other churches do not? (05/30/13)		* What does the word "tabernacle" mean? Why do some churches cover the tabernacle with a veil and other churches do not? (05/30/13)
	* Tommy from Buffalo: Protestants have an empty cross in their churches. Why do Catholics keep Jesus on the Cross? (06/18/13)		* Tommy from Buffalo: Protestants have an empty cross in their churches. Why do Catholics keep Jesus on the Cross? (06/18/13)
	* Amy from east of Buffalo: "I attended mass at a church for my Goddaughter's Baptism and was very concerned. There were no kneelers in the Church, no statues, no crucifix, and no visible tabernacle--the Blessed Sacrament Chapel is hidden behind the altar. This does not seem to meet the standard set in the Catechism that the Blessed Sacrament should be kept in a 'most worthy place with the greatest honor'! Why is this allowed? It reminded me of when Jesus said to St. Faustina that people treat him as a dead object in the Eucharist. I can't see how a church can be allowed to show the Blessed Sacrament this much disrespect. The parishioners say they do not have statues because they gave the money to the poor instead of spending on such things."		* Amy from east of Buffalo: "I attended mass at a church for my Goddaughter's Baptism and was very concerned. There were no kneelers in the Church, no statues, no crucifix, and no visible tabernacle — the Blessed Sacrament Chapel is hidden behind the altar. This does not seem to meet the standard set in the Catechism that the Blessed Sacrament should be kept in a 'most worthy place with the greatest honor'! Why is this allowed? It reminded me of when Jesus said to St. Faustina that people treat him as a dead object in the Eucharist. I can't see how a church can be allowed to show the Blessed Sacrament this much disrespect. The parishioners say they do not have statues because they gave the money to the poor instead of spending on such things."

	=== Reverence in Church ===		=== Reverence in Church ===
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	* God is all-knowing. If Jesus is God, why does He not know the end of days, and only the Father knows? (06/11/13)		* God is all-knowing. If Jesus is God, why does He not know the end of days, and only the Father knows? (06/11/13)
	* Alex from Pennsylvania: I have heard it said that Christ experienced the entire range of human conditions since he was both human and divine. Thus, we have his empathy when we appeal to him. However because he was sinless, he did not experience guilt, pains of conscience or gratitude for forgiveness. These are major human experiences that we've all had. I believe he understands, but he couldn't experience them. How can we be assured that he knows what these things feel like, in the way he experienced sadness, friendship or joy, etc?		* Alex from Pennsylvania: I have heard it said that Christ experienced the entire range of human conditions since he was both human and divine. Thus, we have his empathy when we appeal to him. However because he was sinless, he did not experience guilt, pains of conscience or gratitude for forgiveness. These are major human experiences that we've all had. I believe he understands, but he couldn't experience them. How can we be assured that he knows what these things feel like, in the way he experienced sadness, friendship or joy, etc?
	* John Z. from Facebook: "At what point in Jesus life does he realize His divinity? Are there any hints in Scripture? What about Mary--when did she know? If she did know, how would one go about parenting one's own creator?"		* John Z. from Facebook: "At what point in Jesus life does he realize His divinity? Are there any hints in Scripture? What about Mary — when did she know? If she did know, how would one go about parenting one's own creator?"

	==== God the Holy Spirit ====		==== God the Holy Spirit ====
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	=== Generic idea of religion vs. Catholicism ===		=== Generic idea of religion vs. Catholicism ===
	* Aren't all religions equal? They all seem to say the same thing: be good and good things will come to you. Why do Catholics think that they have something better than all other religious of the world?		* Aren't all religions equal? They all seem to say the same thing: be good and good things will come to you. Why do Catholics think that they have something better than all other religious of the world?
	* I think all religions are evil--religion causes people to do horrible things. I can't take any religion seriously, especially Catholicism. "Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely."		* I think all religions are evil — religion causes people to do horrible things. I can't take any religion seriously, especially Catholicism. "Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely."
	* Nobody can know anything for sure. It is wrong for Catholics to think that they have the truth and other people don't. Everyone has a right to their own opinions. Catholics shouldn't judge what other people believe to be true or good or beautiful. Who is to say who is right?		* Nobody can know anything for sure. It is wrong for Catholics to think that they have the truth and other people don't. Everyone has a right to their own opinions. Catholics shouldn't judge what other people believe to be true or good or beautiful. Who is to say who is right?

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	* Paul from Amherst: Why are some Carmelites called "discalced"? What does that word mean? (03/07/13)		* Paul from Amherst: Why are some Carmelites called "discalced"? What does that word mean? (03/07/13)
	* John from e-mail: Can you shed some light what an oblate is and where this term originates? (06/18/13)		* John from e-mail: Can you shed some light what an oblate is and where this term originates? (06/18/13)
	* Barbara from Greece (Rochester), NY: Why are there so many orders of monks & priests--Jesuits, Franciscans, Dominicans, Passionists, Redemptorists, Barnabites, Trappists, Cistercians, Carthusians? How did it all start?		* Barbara from Greece (Rochester), NY: Why are there so many orders of monks & priests — Jesuits, Franciscans, Dominicans, Passionists, Redemptorists, Barnabites, Trappists, Cistercians, Carthusians? How did it all start?
	* Dennis from Buffalo: When did the practice of priests and sisters wearing habits originate from? And why does it seem that more and more are getting away from wearing the traditional habits? Have the rules been relaxed?		* Dennis from Buffalo: When did the practice of priests and sisters wearing habits originate from? And why does it seem that more and more are getting away from wearing the traditional habits? Have the rules been relaxed?

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	* Matthew 13:55-56 proves that Jesus had brothers and sisters. That means that the Catholic Church is wrong in thinking that Mary was "ever-virgin."		* Matthew 13:55-56 proves that Jesus had brothers and sisters. That means that the Catholic Church is wrong in thinking that Mary was "ever-virgin."

	* The fact that Mary calls God her "Savior" means that she must have sinned--and that, in turn, means that Catholics are wrong to call her "Immaculate."		* The fact that Mary calls God her "Savior" means that she must have sinned — and that, in turn, means that Catholics are wrong to call her "Immaculate."

	* The Bible does not call Mary "Queen of Heaven." Why do Catholics use that non-Scriptural title? (03/27/13)		* The Bible does not call Mary "Queen of Heaven." Why do Catholics use that non-Scriptural title? (03/27/13)
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	:: 9. From "It's a Wonderful Life": Do humans turn into angels when they earn their wings? (05/06/14)		:: 9. From "It's a Wonderful Life": Do humans turn into angels when they earn their wings? (05/06/14)
	:: 10. If God created Eve from Adam's rib, then why do men have the same number of ribs as women? (06/27/13)		:: 10. If God created Eve from Adam's rib, then why do men have the same number of ribs as women? (06/27/13)
	:: --. Why would eating an apple be a sin? If God left the forbidden apples where Adam and Eve could get them, isn't sin God's fault?		:: — . Why would eating an apple be a sin? If God left the forbidden apples where Adam and Eve could get them, isn't sin God's fault?
	:: 25. Was Jesus really born on December 25? (01/03/13)		:: 25. Was Jesus really born on December 25? (01/03/13)
	:: 26. Was Jesus God or human? (04/23/13)		:: 26. Was Jesus God or human? (04/23/13)
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	:: 84. What if my sins are always the same? Should I stop going to Confession because I lack true contrition for sin? (04/11/13)		:: 84. What if my sins are always the same? Should I stop going to Confession because I lack true contrition for sin? (04/11/13)
	:: 90. Can someone receive the Anointing of the Sick if they are already dead? (05/03/13)		:: 90. Can someone receive the Anointing of the Sick if they are already dead? (05/03/13)
	:: --. Can someone be baptized if they are dead? (05/30/13)		:: — . Can someone be baptized if they are dead? (05/30/13)
	:: --. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:29: "Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?" Can someone be baptized for someone else who is dead?		:: — . Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:29: "Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?" Can someone be baptized for someone else who is dead?
	:: 91. What is the difference between deacons, priests, and bishops? Are they just three different names for the same thing? (05/03/13)		:: 91. What is the difference between deacons, priests, and bishops? Are they just three different names for the same thing? (05/03/13)
	:: 99. Can Catholics be married outdoors? (04/18/13)		:: 99. Can Catholics be married outdoors? (04/18/13)
	:: ---. What does the word "Mass" mean? (04/30/13)		:: — -. What does the word "Mass" mean? (04/30/13)
	:: 123. Can the faithful bless their own homes? (01/10/13)		:: 123. Can the faithful bless their own homes? (01/10/13)
	:: 150. The internet is used to promote sin and crime. Shouldn't all good Christians boycott the internet in order to avoid cooperating with evil?		:: 150. The internet is used to promote sin and crime. Shouldn't all good Christians boycott the internet in order to avoid cooperating with evil?
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	:: 158. Why does the Church object to the use of embryonic stem cells for research? (06/20/13)		:: 158. Why does the Church object to the use of embryonic stem cells for research? (06/20/13)
	:: 167. If someone's parents were abusive or alcoholic or drug-addicted, do you still have to honor them? (03/05/13)		:: 167. If someone's parents were abusive or alcoholic or drug-addicted, do you still have to honor them? (03/05/13)
	:: ---. The Catholic Church teaches that there is a difference between venial sins and mortal sins. How much can I sin without offending God too much? (04/23/13)		:: — -. The Catholic Church teaches that there is a difference between venial sins and mortal sins. How much can I sin without offending God too much? (04/23/13)
	:: 186. God is all-powerful. No one can oppose His will. He cannot be changed. So why should we pray? What difference does it make? Won't God do whatever He wants anyway? (02/19/13)		:: 186. God is all-powerful. No one can oppose His will. He cannot be changed. So why should we pray? What difference does it make? Won't God do whatever He wants anyway? (02/19/13)
	:: 197. Why do Catholic churches and monasteries have bell towers? Why do some Churches ring bells during the Mass? (01/16/13)		:: 197. Why do Catholic churches and monasteries have bell towers? Why do some Churches ring bells during the Mass? (01/16/13)

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:20, 10 December 2022
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	* Amanuel from Rochester: Both the Old Testament and the New Testament accept slavery. Neither Testament condemns the practice nor encourages rebellion against it. Why did God allow the authors of the Bible to endorse an evil practice? (02/28/13)		* Amanuel from Rochester: Both the Old Testament and the New Testament accept slavery. Neither Testament condemns the practice nor encourages rebellion against it. Why did God allow the authors of the Bible to endorse an evil practice? (02/28/13)
	* John from Depew: How should Catholics read the Bible? (03/07/13)		* John from Depew: How should Catholics read the Bible? (03/07/13)
	* Alex from e-mail: Is there a list of scripture passages which have been definitively interpreted by Holy Mother Church? Also, would you recommend a bible study program to help those of us wanting to study scripture ~~â€œcover~~ to cover”? (03/07/13)		* Alex from e-mail: Is there a list of scripture passages which have been definitively interpreted by Holy Mother Church? Also, would you recommend a bible study program to help those of us wanting to study scripture “cover to cover”? (03/07/13)
	* Patrick from Rochester: What was the meaning of the Transfiguration?		* Patrick from Rochester: What was the meaning of the Transfiguration?
	* Georgette from Ontario, Canada: What did Jesus do in the years prior to the beginning of His public ministry? (07/28/14)		* Georgette from Ontario, Canada: What did Jesus do in the years prior to the beginning of His public ministry? (07/28/14)
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	* Giselle from Canada: Why didn't the disciples on the road to Emmaus recognize the risen Jesus?		* Giselle from Canada: Why didn't the disciples on the road to Emmaus recognize the risen Jesus?
	* After the Resurrection Jesus told Mary Magdaline not to touch Him, as He had not ascended to the Father. Yet later when He met with Thomas, His told Thomas to touch Him, and put his hand in His wounds. Was Jesus being sexist? (06/04/13)		* After the Resurrection Jesus told Mary Magdaline not to touch Him, as He had not ascended to the Father. Yet later when He met with Thomas, His told Thomas to touch Him, and put his hand in His wounds. Was Jesus being sexist? (06/04/13)
	* Erica: In the Nicene Creed, why do we say that Jesus rose ~~â€œagain”~~ from the dead? I've never understood that.		* Erica: In the Nicene Creed, why do we say that Jesus rose “again” from the dead? I've never understood that.

	==== What did Jesus mean ... ? ====		==== What did Jesus mean ... ? ====
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	==== John 6 ====		==== John 6 ====
	* Jason from Orlando. In John 6, I notice that in the NAB, there are two different words used for "eat." In verses 53-57, the word "eat/s" is used, but then in verse 58, it uses the word "feeds." In the RSV 2nd Catholic Edition, it uses "eat/s" throughout. I once heard that in the original Greek, there are two different words used, and that they are significantly different in their usage and meaning. What would be the most accurate translation (one word or two different words)? What is the difference in significance of the words?		* Jason from Orlando. In John 6, I notice that in the NAB, there are two different words used for "eat." In verses 53-57, the word "eat/s" is used, but then in verse 58, it uses the word "feeds." In the RSV 2nd Catholic Edition, it uses "eat/s" throughout. I once heard that in the original Greek, there are two different words used, and that they are significantly different in their usage and meaning. What would be the most accurate translation (one word or two different words)? What is the difference in significance of the words?
	::: [http://usccb.org/bible/john/6#51006054-1 NAB footnote [6:54â€“58] "Eats":] the verb used in these verses is not the classical Greek verb used of human eating, but that of animal eating: ~~â€œmunch~~,” ~~â€œgnaw~~.” This may be part of John's emphasis on the reality of the flesh and blood of Jesus (cf. Jn 6:55), but the same verb eventually became the ordinary verb in Greek meaning ~~â€œeat~~.”		::: [http://usccb.org/bible/john/6#51006054-1 NAB footnote [6:54â€“58] "Eats":] the verb used in these verses is not the classical Greek verb used of human eating, but that of animal eating: “munch,” “gnaw.” This may be part of John's emphasis on the reality of the flesh and blood of Jesus (cf. Jn 6:55), but the same verb eventually became the ordinary verb in Greek meaning “eat.”
	* Steve from Buffalo: The gospel of John places the institution of the Eucharist very early on in Jesus's ministry, in chapter 6, long before the Last Supper. Which version of the story is more historically accurate? Is there a symbolic meaning to John placing Jesus sayings about the Eucharist earlier in His public ministry?		* Steve from Buffalo: The gospel of John places the institution of the Eucharist very early on in Jesus's ministry, in chapter 6, long before the Last Supper. Which version of the story is more historically accurate? Is there a symbolic meaning to John placing Jesus sayings about the Eucharist earlier in His public ministry?

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	==== Music ====		==== Music ====
	* George from Liverpool, NY: Good afternoon, Father. In [http://www.adoremus.org/MotuProprio.html "Tra Le Sollecitudini,"] Pius X states that ~~â€œthe~~ employment of the piano is forbidden in church, as is that of noisy or frivolous instruments such as drums, cymbals, bells, and the like.' As well as â€˜It is strictly forbidden to have bands play in church.' What happened between then and now where we have all sorts "(youth) bands" and pianos instead of organs?		* George from Liverpool, NY: Good afternoon, Father. In [http://www.adoremus.org/MotuProprio.html "Tra Le Sollecitudini,"] Pius X states that “the employment of the piano is forbidden in church, as is that of noisy or frivolous instruments such as drums, cymbals, bells, and the like.' As well as â€˜It is strictly forbidden to have bands play in church.' What happened between then and now where we have all sorts "(youth) bands" and pianos instead of organs?
	* Joe from Rochester: At our church, a local band plays during the Mass. The music is quite loud and boisterous. Is that permissible? Is there anything in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal that restricts certain kinds of songs or instruments?		* Joe from Rochester: At our church, a local band plays during the Mass. The music is quite loud and boisterous. Is that permissible? Is there anything in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal that restricts certain kinds of songs or instruments?

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	* Barbara: How can we help children to want to go to Mass? I know that parents answering "You must go to Mass because I say so" or "because the Church says so" might be the end of a discussion, but that seems to produce resentment among the young, especially teenagers. How can we present the Sunday obligation in an attractive and persuasive fashion?		* Barbara: How can we help children to want to go to Mass? I know that parents answering "You must go to Mass because I say so" or "because the Church says so" might be the end of a discussion, but that seems to produce resentment among the young, especially teenagers. How can we present the Sunday obligation in an attractive and persuasive fashion?
	* Jennifer. Williamsville, New York. I was having a discussion with some co-workers about missing Mass and whether it is sin and, if it is a sin, whether it is mortal or venial.		* Jennifer. Williamsville, New York. I was having a discussion with some co-workers about missing Mass and whether it is sin and, if it is a sin, whether it is mortal or venial.
	# What are the ~~â€œrules”~~ around that situation? Is it always a sin to miss Mass even if there is a ~~â€œgood”~~ reason? Some of the example brought up were traveling, working on Sundays, being sick and unintentionally sleeping in.		# What are the “rules” around that situation? Is it always a sin to miss Mass even if there is a “good” reason? Some of the example brought up were traveling, working on Sundays, being sick and unintentionally sleeping in.
	# One of my co-workers mentioned that a priest told her she doesn't need to make it to confession before she receives again ~~â€œif~~ she didn't really mean it” and ~~â€œwas~~ sorry.” I was under the impression that to receive the Eucharist again, you had to go to confession regardless of the reason for missing Mass.		# One of my co-workers mentioned that a priest told her she doesn't need to make it to confession before she receives again “if she didn't really mean it” and “was sorry.” I was under the impression that to receive the Eucharist again, you had to go to confession regardless of the reason for missing Mass.
	* John from e-mail: "Isn't the Feast of Saint Joseph on March 19 a Holy Day of Obligation in canon law? Has there ever been a time when the Bishop's in this country treated it as such? Also, are there a better reasons, other than poor Mass attendance and the additional burden on priests who would have to say extra Masses as to why so many of the ten Holy Days listed in Canon Law are abrogated? In my very limited wisdom these would seem to be very poor reasons to limit personal sacrifice and the Sacrifice of the Mass."		* John from e-mail: "Isn't the Feast of Saint Joseph on March 19 a Holy Day of Obligation in canon law? Has there ever been a time when the Bishop's in this country treated it as such? Also, are there a better reasons, other than poor Mass attendance and the additional burden on priests who would have to say extra Masses as to why so many of the ten Holy Days listed in Canon Law are abrogated? In my very limited wisdom these would seem to be very poor reasons to limit personal sacrifice and the Sacrifice of the Mass."

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	* Some Protestant friends say, "At every Catholic Mass, Jesus is sacrificed again and again." Does Jesus die at each Mass? How can Jesus die more than once?		* Some Protestant friends say, "At every Catholic Mass, Jesus is sacrificed again and again." Does Jesus die at each Mass? How can Jesus die more than once?

	::* Catholics call the Mass a "Holy Sacrifice." Does this mean that they believe Jesus dies again in every Mass? The letter to the Hebrews says that Jesus suffered and died ~~â€œonce~~ for all.”		::* Catholics call the Mass a "Holy Sacrifice." Does this mean that they believe Jesus dies again in every Mass? The letter to the Hebrews says that Jesus suffered and died “once for all.”

	* If Catholics literally eat Jesus' flesh, doesn't that make them cannibals?		* If Catholics literally eat Jesus' flesh, doesn't that make them cannibals?

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:28, 10 December 2022
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	* Philip from Medina: What's the significance of the Blood and Water that poured from Christ's side when the soldier pierced him? (03/27/13)		* Philip from Medina: What's the significance of the Blood and Water that poured from Christ's side when the soldier pierced him? (03/27/13)
	* Ben from Rochester: In Luke 10 when the 72 disciples are sent to preach the Kingdom, who are these people and how does it relate to us? At a Protestant service recently the pastor claimed that scholars all agree that this chapter is meant for all believers. I found that odd since it clearly says Jesus appointed these men.		* Ben from Rochester: In Luke 10 when the 72 disciples are sent to preach the Kingdom, who are these people and how does it relate to us? At a Protestant service recently the pastor claimed that scholars all agree that this chapter is meant for all believers. I found that odd since it clearly says Jesus appointed these men.
	* Rick from Buffalo: How did the Gospel writers become aware of things like ~~Jesusâ€™~~ words in His personal prayer to God the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane and the conversation between Jesus and Satan as Jesus was being tempted in the desert? (06/04/13)		* Rick from Buffalo: How did the Gospel writers become aware of things like Jesus' words in His personal prayer to God the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane and the conversation between Jesus and Satan as Jesus was being tempted in the desert? (06/04/13)
	* Why do Matthew and Mark list Thaddeus in the names of apostles, but Luke instead lists another Judas? (06/14/13)		* Why do Matthew and Mark list Thaddeus in the names of apostles, but Luke instead lists another Judas? (06/14/13)
	* Norb from Troy, OH: How is it that the disciples sometimes did not recognize the risen Jesus physically when they were walking on the road to Emmaus or when Jesus met them by the shore of Galilee?		* Norb from Troy, OH: How is it that the disciples sometimes did not recognize the risen Jesus physically when they were walking on the road to Emmaus or when Jesus met them by the shore of Galilee?
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	* Giselle from Canada: Why didn't the disciples on the road to Emmaus recognize the risen Jesus?		* Giselle from Canada: Why didn't the disciples on the road to Emmaus recognize the risen Jesus?
	* After the Resurrection Jesus told Mary Magdaline not to touch Him, as He had not ascended to the Father. Yet later when He met with Thomas, His told Thomas to touch Him, and put his hand in His wounds. Was Jesus being sexist? (06/04/13)		* After the Resurrection Jesus told Mary Magdaline not to touch Him, as He had not ascended to the Father. Yet later when He met with Thomas, His told Thomas to touch Him, and put his hand in His wounds. Was Jesus being sexist? (06/04/13)
	* Erica: In the Nicene Creed, why do we say that Jesus rose â€œagainâ€ from the dead? ~~Iâ€™ve~~ never understood that.		* Erica: In the Nicene Creed, why do we say that Jesus rose â€œagainâ€ from the dead? I've never understood that.

	==== What did Jesus mean ... ? ====		==== What did Jesus mean ... ? ====
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	* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?		* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?
	* Scott from Rochester: In John 15:15, the Lord says, "I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing." What did Jesus mean by "slave"? Did He really call His disciples "slaves" before he called them friends?		* Scott from Rochester: In John 15:15, the Lord says, "I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing." What did Jesus mean by "slave"? Did He really call His disciples "slaves" before he called them friends?
	* Brian from Buffalo: Why does Jesus have such a ~~â€˜distasteâ€™~~ (pun intended) for the lukewarm believers found in Revelations 3:16? He says He will vomit them out of His mouth. Does this imply that those who are cold to the faith will be better off than the lukewarm?		* Brian from Buffalo: Why does Jesus have such a â€˜distaste' (pun intended) for the lukewarm believers found in Revelations 3:16? He says He will vomit them out of His mouth. Does this imply that those who are cold to the faith will be better off than the lukewarm?
	* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?		* Why did Jesus command the demons and His disciples not to reveal that He was the Christ? Wouldn't Jesus have gained more disciples if He had allowed and encouraged people to proclaim Him?

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	==== John 6 ====		==== John 6 ====
	* Jason from Orlando. In John 6, I notice that in the NAB, there are two different words used for "eat." In verses 53-57, the word "eat/s" is used, but then in verse 58, it uses the word "feeds." In the RSV 2nd Catholic Edition, it uses "eat/s" throughout. I once heard that in the original Greek, there are two different words used, and that they are significantly different in their usage and meaning. What would be the most accurate translation (one word or two different words)? What is the difference in significance of the words?		* Jason from Orlando. In John 6, I notice that in the NAB, there are two different words used for "eat." In verses 53-57, the word "eat/s" is used, but then in verse 58, it uses the word "feeds." In the RSV 2nd Catholic Edition, it uses "eat/s" throughout. I once heard that in the original Greek, there are two different words used, and that they are significantly different in their usage and meaning. What would be the most accurate translation (one word or two different words)? What is the difference in significance of the words?
	::: [http://usccb.org/bible/john/6#51006054-1 NAB footnote [6:54â€“58] "Eats":] the verb used in these verses is not the classical Greek verb used of human eating, but that of animal eating: â€œmunch,â€ â€œgnaw.â€ This may be part of ~~Johnâ€™s~~ emphasis on the reality of the flesh and blood of Jesus (cf. Jn 6:55), but the same verb eventually became the ordinary verb in Greek meaning â€œeat.â€		::: [http://usccb.org/bible/john/6#51006054-1 NAB footnote [6:54â€“58] "Eats":] the verb used in these verses is not the classical Greek verb used of human eating, but that of animal eating: â€œmunch,â€ â€œgnaw.â€ This may be part of John's emphasis on the reality of the flesh and blood of Jesus (cf. Jn 6:55), but the same verb eventually became the ordinary verb in Greek meaning â€œeat.â€
	* Steve from Buffalo: The gospel of John places the institution of the Eucharist very early on in Jesus's ministry, in chapter 6, long before the Last Supper. Which version of the story is more historically accurate? Is there a symbolic meaning to John placing Jesus sayings about the Eucharist earlier in His public ministry?		* Steve from Buffalo: The gospel of John places the institution of the Eucharist very early on in Jesus's ministry, in chapter 6, long before the Last Supper. Which version of the story is more historically accurate? Is there a symbolic meaning to John placing Jesus sayings about the Eucharist earlier in His public ministry?

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	==== The sin of presumption ====		==== The sin of presumption ====
	* Scott from Rochester: What is the sin of presumption? Doesn't the Catholic sacrament of Confession encourage presumption? (02/21/13)		* Scott from Rochester: What is the sin of presumption? Doesn't the Catholic sacrament of Confession encourage presumption? (02/21/13)
	* Erica. Father, can you advise me on some practical tips that will help me better trust in God without being presumptuous? I ~~donâ€™t~~ want to offend God by being too lenient with myself. (07/29/14)		* Erica. Father, can you advise me on some practical tips that will help me better trust in God without being presumptuous? I don't want to offend God by being too lenient with myself. (07/29/14)

	==== Sorrow for sin ====		==== Sorrow for sin ====
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	==== Music ====		==== Music ====
	* George from Liverpool, NY: Good afternoon, Father. In [http://www.adoremus.org/MotuProprio.html "Tra Le Sollecitudini,"] Pius X states that â€œthe employment of the piano is forbidden in church, as is that of noisy or frivolous instruments such as drums, cymbals, bells, and the like.~~â€™~~ As well as â€˜It is strictly forbidden to have bands play in church.~~â€™~~ What happened between then and now where we have all sorts "(youth) bands" and pianos instead of organs?		* George from Liverpool, NY: Good afternoon, Father. In [http://www.adoremus.org/MotuProprio.html "Tra Le Sollecitudini,"] Pius X states that â€œthe employment of the piano is forbidden in church, as is that of noisy or frivolous instruments such as drums, cymbals, bells, and the like.' As well as â€˜It is strictly forbidden to have bands play in church.' What happened between then and now where we have all sorts "(youth) bands" and pianos instead of organs?
	* Joe from Rochester: At our church, a local band plays during the Mass. The music is quite loud and boisterous. Is that permissible? Is there anything in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal that restricts certain kinds of songs or instruments?		* Joe from Rochester: At our church, a local band plays during the Mass. The music is quite loud and boisterous. Is that permissible? Is there anything in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal that restricts certain kinds of songs or instruments?

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	* Alice from Batavia: Can demons and spirits hear our thoughts? (03/07/13)		* Alice from Batavia: Can demons and spirits hear our thoughts? (03/07/13)
	* Alison from Willis, Texas: Is it true that Lucifer lost his angelic powers when he refused to serve God? If he is defeated, how is it that he has so much power to cause trouble in our world? (03/27/13)		* Alison from Willis, Texas: Is it true that Lucifer lost his angelic powers when he refused to serve God? If he is defeated, how is it that he has so much power to cause trouble in our world? (03/27/13)
	* Erica. Amherst. Father, Would you please explain the last part of the Gospel reading from todayâ€¦about the spirit going away and then coming back to "its home," finds it all clean, and then brings in seven other demons. What does that mean? ~~Iâ€™m~~ confused by that every time I hear it.		* Erica. Amherst. Father, Would you please explain the last part of the Gospel reading from todayâ€¦about the spirit going away and then coming back to "its home," finds it all clean, and then brings in seven other demons. What does that mean? I'm confused by that every time I hear it.
	* Courtney from Amherst: Has heard before that the closer you are to being on the path that God wants you to be on, the more the devil tries to attack you. Is this true?		* Courtney from Amherst: Has heard before that the closer you are to being on the path that God wants you to be on, the more the devil tries to attack you. Is this true?
	* What does the Church teach regarding evil and the devil and or Satan? Are the stories about devils and demons just parables or are these real spiritual enemies? (07/11/13)		* What does the Church teach regarding evil and the devil and or Satan? Are the stories about devils and demons just parables or are these real spiritual enemies? (07/11/13)
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	=== Jehovah's Witnesses ===		=== Jehovah's Witnesses ===
	* Dawn. Rochester. I have a friend who is a Jehovah's Witness. She says that the Holy Spirit isn't a person. She quotes Acts 2:17 to make her case. It reads, "'It will come to pass in the last days,~~â€™~~ God says, â€˜that I will pour out a portion of my spirit upon all flesh. Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams.'" How can I explain the Church's teaching to her? (06/27/13)		* Dawn. Rochester. I have a friend who is a Jehovah's Witness. She says that the Holy Spirit isn't a person. She quotes Acts 2:17 to make her case. It reads, "'It will come to pass in the last days,' God says, â€˜that I will pour out a portion of my spirit upon all flesh. Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams.'" How can I explain the Church's teaching to her? (06/27/13)

	=== Islam ===		=== Islam ===
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	* Jennifer. Williamsville, New York. I was having a discussion with some co-workers about missing Mass and whether it is sin and, if it is a sin, whether it is mortal or venial.		* Jennifer. Williamsville, New York. I was having a discussion with some co-workers about missing Mass and whether it is sin and, if it is a sin, whether it is mortal or venial.
	# What are the â€œrulesâ€ around that situation? Is it always a sin to miss Mass even if there is a â€œgoodâ€ reason? Some of the example brought up were traveling, working on Sundays, being sick and unintentionally sleeping in.		# What are the â€œrulesâ€ around that situation? Is it always a sin to miss Mass even if there is a â€œgoodâ€ reason? Some of the example brought up were traveling, working on Sundays, being sick and unintentionally sleeping in.
	# One of my co-workers mentioned that a priest told her she ~~doesnâ€™t~~ need to make it to confession before she receives again â€œif she ~~didnâ€™t~~ really mean itâ€ and â€œwas sorry.â€ I was under the impression that to receive the Eucharist again, you had to go to confession regardless of the reason for missing Mass.		# One of my co-workers mentioned that a priest told her she doesn't need to make it to confession before she receives again â€œif she didn't really mean itâ€ and â€œwas sorry.â€ I was under the impression that to receive the Eucharist again, you had to go to confession regardless of the reason for missing Mass.
	* John from e-mail: "Isn't the Feast of Saint Joseph on March 19 a Holy Day of Obligation in canon law? Has there ever been a time when the Bishop's in this country treated it as such? Also, are there a better reasons, other than poor Mass attendance and the additional burden on priests who would have to say extra Masses as to why so many of the ten Holy Days listed in Canon Law are abrogated? In my very limited wisdom these would seem to be very poor reasons to limit personal sacrifice and the Sacrifice of the Mass."		* John from e-mail: "Isn't the Feast of Saint Joseph on March 19 a Holy Day of Obligation in canon law? Has there ever been a time when the Bishop's in this country treated it as such? Also, are there a better reasons, other than poor Mass attendance and the additional burden on priests who would have to say extra Masses as to why so many of the ten Holy Days listed in Canon Law are abrogated? In my very limited wisdom these would seem to be very poor reasons to limit personal sacrifice and the Sacrifice of the Mass."