Category Archives: Clergy Issues

Why Would a Bishop Refuse to Ordain a Seminarian?

Q:  I was a seminarian for nearly five years, and in fifth year I was suddenly and unexpectedly dismissed as a seminarian by the bishop.  He gave me three reasons for the dismissal, each of which I protested.  For example, … Continue reading

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How Many Masses Can a Priest Say on Sundays?

Q1:  I recently received notice from a local parish that since the state has ordered that no more than ten people may attend any religious service, there will only be one Mass on Sunday.  It said a priest can only … Continue reading

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What Happens When a Religious Who’s Vowed Poverty Becomes a Bishop?

Q:  As for religious order priests or bishops, who normally take the three traditional vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, how does ordination to the episcopate change the requirement that they observe their vows?  E.g., a Franciscan who is vowed … Continue reading

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The Virus and the Bishops: Twisting a Vatican Document to Further an Agenda

Q:  The priests of our parish have been [illegally refusing us the sacraments], so we wrote respectfully to our Bishop.  We quoted some canons which you discussed in your articles. The Bishop replied to our letter and defended the priests.  … Continue reading

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Why Would a Catholic Cleric Desecrate an Altar?

Q: Probably you already know all about the priest in New Orleans who desecrated the altar of his parish together with a couple of prostitutes….  The bishop announced that he had the altar burned and would consecrate a new one.  … Continue reading

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