We do not hear much about the “last things” anymore. Death, judgment, heaven, and hell are often passed over. We hear even less about that state that many will experience before heaven, which is called purgatory. This purification after death has been a consistent part of Catholic teaching for hundreds …

Little is known about the Blessed Virgin Mary’s parents. Neither Joachim nor his wife, Anne, is mentioned in the Scriptures. They are, however, referenced in extra- Biblical sources like the Protoevangelium of James, a non- canonical text of unknown authorship that originated in the second century. This text is not …

I have heard there are four marks of the Church: one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic. Because there are many forms of Christianity, what does “one” mean in this context? Before his Crucifixion, Jesus prayed for his followers’ unity: “That they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me …

Why do Catholics abstain from meat on Fridays during Lent? What is the history behind the practice? The Church’s penitential traditions date back to the first Christians. Jesus provided a model for fasting and abstinence during His 40 days in the desert and taught that fasting would be part of …

What is the role of parish councils? I understand that some councils are being reorganized due to Beacons of Light. How will the new councils function? The Church recognizes the lay faithful’s vital role in assisting with their parishes’ governance, including participation in pastoral councils. This is one of many …

Why can’t non-Catholics receive Holy Communion in Catholic churches? The Catholic Church ordinarily does not admit non-Catholics to Holy Communion. This practice can be especially difficult for those with close family members who are non-Catholic, especially spouses, children or siblings. This limitation on who is invited to receive Communion does …

I have heard of many titles for Mary, but one I do not understand is “Ark of the Covenant.” What does that mean? The designation of Mary as “Ark of the Covenant” may seem puzzling at first, yet this lesser-known title for the Blessed Virgin is rooted in scripture and …

How is it decided what is the proper age for receiving Holy Communion and Confirmation? Why do some parishes offer the sacraments at different ages? The age considered proper for sacramental reception has changed over time. In the early Church, the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion) were …

What is the origin and meaning of the Sign of the Cross? The holiest of signs is the Sign of the Cross. As Catholics, we make it so often that perhaps we take it for granted. It is a profound and powerful act that invokes the Trinity, Jesus’ crucifixion, and …

Do Catholics believe in the existence of Satan? Is Satan the same as the devil? A significant number of Christians do not believe in Satan. They consider him representative of evil, but not an active being. Yet the Catholic tradition has long acknowledged the existence of Satan and associated with …