Tag Archives: Catholic

Are They Excommunicated? Sanctions, Part IV

Q1: I remember that Archbishop Burke excommunicated a couple of women who claimed that they had been ordained Catholic priests a couple of years ago. Now I read that the Vatican has issued rules about punishing women who do that. … Continue reading

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Sacraments and Personal Identity

Q1: Our son got his girlfriend pregnant. Both are Catholics. He freely admitted that the child is his, and wanted to give financial support and also to marry her if she agreed.  But for some reason the minute his girlfriend … Continue reading

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How Are Priests Selected to be Bishops?

Q1: Is there a way for me to suggest that my pastor someday be made a bishop? –Kevin Q2: Sometimes I hear that this or that new bishop was selected because he’s a good administrator. Doesn’t anybody take into account … Continue reading

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What Does it Mean to “Defrock” a Priest?

Q: What does it mean when a priest is “defrocked”?  Sorry but it sounds like tearing his clothes off!  –Jane A: References to priests being “defrocked” have recently turned up in numerous articles in the newspapers.  Perhaps the most infamous … Continue reading

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Canon Law and Altar Girls

Q: What does canon law say about altar girls?  How did we end up with altar girls after so many centuries without them? –Ginnie A: The whole issue of permitting girls to serve at the altar has become so ideologically … Continue reading

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