A reader asks how we should understand the violence found in the Old and New Testaments. Monsignor Charles Pope provides context. He writes: “It is true that the early books of the Bible and much ...
What does the story of the Magi teach us, and who were they really? Monsignor Charles Pope answers this question in his latest Pastoral Answers column. He writes: “The key point in the story of ...
Which feast days are holy days of obligation? Monsignor Charles Pope lists the six days are considered holy days in the Church calendar, while also explaining some of the exceptions to the rule. He writes: ...
This week Monsignor Charles Pope answers a question about how Mary traveled 70 miles to Bethlehem while pregnant leading up to the Nativity. While tradition depicts Mary on a donkey, he explains that it is ...
Monsignor Charles Pope addresses the topic of general absolution. When is it appropriate, and how should penitents proceed? Monsignor Pope explains that it is rare for general absolution to be necessary. He writes: “General absolution ...
Was Jesus really born on December 25? And why is so little known about Jesus’ childhood? Monsignor Charles Pope answers this and other questions in the latest column. He writes: “Fascination with one’s birthday and ...
This week, a reader asks how Jesus was crucified without breaking any bones, as the Scripture foretold. Monsignor Charles Pope explains the gruesome process of crucifixion and the general consensus of how it relates to ...
A reader asks Monsignor Charles Pope, “How does the gift of faith work?” He answers: “Faith works essentially by putting us in a trusting, life-changing, transformative relationship with the Lord. In and through this relationship ...
A reader asks if Elijah and Moses died and were later assumed into heaven like Mary. Monsignor Charles Pope unpacks the Biblical passages referring to the mysterious circumstances in which Elijah was said to have ...
A reader asks why we say in the Nicene Creed that Jesus rose on the third day when he wasn’t in the tomb for three full days. Monsignor Charles Pope answers this question in his ...