Ask A Priest Live

Fr. William Rock, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas. He was ordained in October of 2019 and serves as a regular contributor to the FSSP North America Missive Blog and the TAN Direction Blog. Fr. Daniel Alloy, FSSP has served as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas since July of 2022. He was ordained in June of 2020. In Today's Show What is your favorite and least favorite Christmas song? Why do we celebrate Christmas on the 25th of December? In a Christmas Carol. Does Jacob Marley receive forgiveness cause he's the one who got Scrooge to change his ways? What is the best version of A Christmas Carol? Should we listen to Christmas music before Christmas during Advent? When does the Christmas Season end? After 12 days or till Candlemas? What is the history and origin of the Rorate Mass? What are your favorite Advent and Christmas traditions? Why was the Feast of Saint Thomas moved in the modern calendar? Is it true that Epiphany is an "older feast than Christmas? Why aren't the feasts of the companions of Christ no longer treated as Holy Days of Obligation? Would you recommend any specific practices on these days? Can you please explain the 12 Days of Christmas? What are they and what do they represent? What is your favorite Christmas movie? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. William Rock, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas. He was ordained in October of 2019 and serves as a regular contributor to the FSSP North America Missive Blog and the TAN Direction Blog. In Today's Show Italian Christmas traditions. I was wondering, do the saints pray for the souls in purgatory? What is the Church's stance on two people who are mentally ill who want to get married? Is the soul created from nothing, or was it like when God breathed His Spirit into Adam? What does it mean when God breathed His Spirit into man? Question on the Psalm verse "ye are gods". What does it mean? Do we know of any particulars from Scripture or Church teaching regarding what exactly Purgatory is like? Can you explain what Matins are prior to Christmas Midnight mass? What are the differences between all of the Christmas masses? Where do the popes usually get buried? If two people have mental illness such as schizophrenia, can they not be permitted to be married in the Church since they would not be able to care for children? Why would God create a revealed morality when we have a draw to a natural form of morality? My Protestant friend says that Jesus is the one "Mediator", as He said that no one comes to the Father except through Me. My friend says that's way we should not pray to the saints. How should I respond to that argument? How would you describe what it means for something or someone to be "blessed"? Discussion on Fr. Rock's writing. Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Benjamin Norman, ICKSP currently serves as Representative of the Institute of Christ the King at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Oakland, California. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show: I am curious about what Jesus called the First Commandment, that is to love the Lord your God with your whole heart, and with your whole soul, and with your whole mind, and with your whole strength. It seems to me to be a selfish God who would actually command his followers to love him. I thought love was something that should be freely given, or it is not real love. Can you explain this from a Catholic perspective? If I go to Mass on Sunday at 4PM, does that fulfill my Sunday obligation? Can you please explain the ICKSP's Coat of Arms? Should people who are sick, and/or pregnant and nursing mothers, fast and abstain from meat as penance, even if not recommended by their doctors? What is appropriate and not when it comes to end of life care? Does the Bible say anything about the age of the Earth? My grandchildren are unbaptized. Can I baptize them in an emergency? Should I stop lust directly or progressively? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John Brancich, FSSP is the pastor of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Nashua, New Hampshire. He was ordained into the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter in 2004. In Today's Show: It is still debated when the ensoulment of a baby in the womb happens. I am confused because I thought the Church was clear in recent times that a baby receives an immortal soul at conception. Isn't this inferred by the dogma of the Immaculate conception, that Our Lady was preserved from the stain of original sin from the moment of her conception? For those in hospitals, what happens if the Chaplain is living in a state of mortal sin? What did Jesus call Mary? Do we know? What is a good night time prayer for a family to pray with little children? Did the story of Sodom and Gomorrah actually happen or is it symbolism? What are ember days and how are they observed? The Church taught historically that Catholics couldn't attend non-Catholic weddings, funerals, etc. I heard that now there are exceptions where, in certain cases, you can attend. Was there a drastic change in Church teaching? Where did the Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes come from (on Christmas Eve)? I went to get enrolled into the Brown Scapular on Sunday but was in the state of mortal sin. Does my enrollment count? Do I have to start over? Would Father please tell us about how a priest gets his chalice? How did he get his? Also, does each priest collect his own vestments? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Luke Zignego, ICKSP serves as Chaplain of Saint Joseph Oratory in the Diocese of Gary, Indiana. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show With the recent news from the Vatican stating that priests are allowed to bless same-sex couples, would performing a blessing of this kind be a mortal sin for a priest? Also, how do we understand this pronouncement in terms of Vatican II's Lumen Gentium 25, where it states that we must show "religious submission of mind and will'' to the ordinary magisterium, even when not spoken ex-cathedra? Can we still be happy in heaven knowing that a loved one is likely in hell? I noticed on our altar at Mass that the small Crucifix was not there. Is it required? Why is it so important for Catholics to read Papal statements and documents for themselves? In a recent Responsorial Psalm, we heard the line, "Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord, and let your faithful ones bless you." How is it that a mere human being can "bless" God Himself, and can lay-people bless others and even inanimate objects? Is it OK for someone to make a donation to the church with the condition that it be used for a specific purpose? Is it a mortal sin to gossip about someone, even if you did it without malicious intent? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Elias Mary Mills, F.I. served as Rector of the Shrine Church at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin from 2016 to 2021. He was ordained in May of 2000. In Today's Show Information about Father Elias' upcoming pilgrimages to Japan I read that Catholic tradition teaches that Clopas, whose wife, Mary, was at the cross, was Joseph's brother. Is it possible that after Joseph died, Jesus and Mary went to live with Clopas and his wife, Mary, and their children were brought up together as siblings and that's why they were known as his "brothers and sisters?" Is this theory plausible, and was it common practice in Jewish culture then, and is it okay to believe this might have happened? Is it mortal sin to work on a Holy Day of Obligation? At the final judgment, will all our sins come out, even those that we've already confessed, or just those which we have forgotten to confess? Where is Sister Agnes Sasagawa in Japan? I have a friend who often skips going to mass on Sunday. She says that the Ten Commandments just say to keep holy the Sabbath, and doesn't mention that we have to attend mass every Sunday. What is the best way to convey the Church's teaching on the matter? What is the church's teaching on organ donation? Can you please explain the teachings of St. Francis regarding living the Gospel? What do we as Catholics do when a teaching that has held for 2000+ years that the Church deems a sin gets 'overturned' during this synod? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. William Rock, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas. He was ordained in October of 2019 and serves as a regular contributor to the FSSP North America Missive Blog and the TAN Direction Blog. In Today's Show Approaches to fasting and days of abstinence What are some "must-have" books for any Catholic's library that aren't necessarily restricted to topics of religious nature? Is the soul or the physical body created first? How should I address a Christmas card to a family member who is living in a state of sin? I know that you can say the Novus Ordo in Latin, but can you say the extraordinary form in English? With Advent underway, do you have any recommendations for spiritual reflection and preparation before Christmas? Do Catholics have an obligation to send their children to Catholic school? When a priest is transferred in the FSSP, do they have any say in being moved or being a pastor vs. a vicar? I understand that Our Lady did not experience labor pains as she did not suffer the effects of original sin. Does that mean she was also never sick, as that is also a result of original sin? Would Our Lord not have suffered fatigue after working since work was man's curse for the fall? I have been attending the Latin Mass for a little over a year. In the beginning of Mass, I see that the parishioners genuflect and bless themselves at the Crucifix as well as bow to the priest as the altar boys and priest process towards the altar. Is this appropriate? Is there a point in both the Latin mass and the new mass when we are too late to mass and have not fulfilled our Sunday obligation? If we touched an unblessed Rosary and Scapular to a first class relic (so the Rosary and Scapular became 3rd class relics), would the Rosary and Scapular still need to be blessed by a priest? If Jesus turned water into wine, if he walks on water, would it also turn to wine? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Joseph Dalimata, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Immaculate Conception Church in El Paso, Texas. He was ordained in May of 2021. In Today's Show With Christmas Eve falling on a Sunday this year, is it still fitting to keep the partial abstinence in preparation for Christmas on Monday? The Immaculate Conception fell on Friday this year. Was it fitting to eat meat that day with no other penance offered if one ate meat, or should the faithful still offer another penance on a Solemnity if it falls on a Friday and they eat meat? In general, is it wrong to do penances on Sunday in or out of a penitential season? Is watching UFC a sin? Can, and should, Catholics receive SSPX sacraments? What does the FSSP teach in regards to instruction of altar servers? What are your recommendations for dealing with suffering? Why does God allow suffering? What is your opinion on the translational differences between different rites of the Mass? How important is the capitalization of the word "Catholic," and does its meaning or significance change between uses? Should I be asking for a sign from God as I discern marriage? If not, what should I be focusing on? Is it licit for Catholics to adopt frozen embryos? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Anthony Amato is the Pastor of St. Peter's Parish in Clifton Springs, New York. He was ordained as a priest in June of 2017 by Bishop Salvatore Matano of the Diocese of Rochester, New York. In Today's Show Why were the Apocrypha taken out of protestant Bibles? If you have the time, could you explain why each of the seven specific chapters were taken out? Where can I find specific instructions for the laity on when to stand, sit, kneel, genuflect, and make the sign of the cross? Can a Priest celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass in a state of mortal sin? I belong to the Old-style Church of the True Orthodox Christians of Greece (the Synod of Chrysostom), but as far as I understand, even among the new-style Orthodox Churches it is considered schismatic. Can I convert to Catholicism in the same way as Orthodox New Churches that are recognized by the Roman Catholic Church do, and will I have any different status from believers who have converted to Catholicism? Is serving as an administrator strictly reserved to the priest, or can those duties be split between the priest and a layperson? I've heard that there's "nothing new under the sun." I'm of the firm belief that all the issues society is facing are reincarnations of early heresies already condemned by the Church. What are your thoughts? I was at Mass and a host dropped on the floor. What to do in that situation? And, how can I respectfully speak with the priest about this? I'm in the middle of a cross-country move and I wanted to know if it's permissible for me to be working on something like that on a Sunday? When it comes to Jesus' resurrection, we have a lot of testimony from His disciples about what happened, but do we have anything more in the way of scientific evidence? The only thing I can think of is the Shroud of Turin, which we can't be certain is the actual shroud of Jesus. What are your thoughts on the shroud? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John-Mary Bowlin serves as Parish Priest at St. Jude Catholic Church in Gun Barrel City, Texas. He served in the U.S. Army and was ordained a priest in June of 2012. In Today's Show: If we confess something in the confessional that is a sin, but the priest says it is not a sin, is it still forgiven if he gives us absolution? Should we understand the Luminous mysteries as a part of the full list of mysteries for the rosary? Should we correct people when they take Our Lord's name in vain? My father has dementia and has been a devout atheist his entire life. Is it too late for him to accept Jesus into his life? I've heard that the Church at Martin Luther's time, was pretty rife with injustices and those not behaving holy. Is this overblown? This Advent, I am doing a fast. Why was it changed in the church so that the fast is not an obligation? Father, what book or books are you currently reading? I married a woman forty years ago who was divorced, her first husband passed away. Can I now return to the church as a full Catholic? Hi, Fr: what are some personal hobbies of yours that you have kept up after joining the priesthood? do you have a favorite Star Wars movie? I've seen St. Jude pictured often next to Santa Muerte. What role does St. Jude really play in our faith? What is the consequence of a divorced male taking Holy Communion in the Catholic Church? Can Protestants go to Heaven? What is the difference between an indulgence and a plenary indulgence? What is the average length of time a Soul spends in Purgatory? Do we know? What is the proper way to dispose of Holy Water? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Luke Zignego, ICKSP serves as Chaplain of Saint Joseph Oratory in the Diocese of Gary, Indiana. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show I went to a parish recently where everyone stood immediately after Communion instead of kneeling. Is this permissible? I remember hearing that at the moment of death, there's a struggle in which Satan tries to win that person's soul. I can't find it in the catechism. Is this something that is actually true? Why are there changes in vestments during Advent? As a Catholic, what reparations can I make for those who don't know how to vote "correctly" from a moral point of view? What general principles should Catholics follow while traveling in regards to Sunday obligation? To what extent should we correct people who are in error in our everyday lives?? As today is the feast of Good St. Nick, I was hoping you could give a brief breakdown of the homoousios/homoiousios (Arianism) debate which led to the first "MMA match" at Nicaea? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John Brancich, FSSP is the pastor of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Nashua, New Hampshire. He was ordained into the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter in 2004. In Today's Show: My Protestant friend says that they prefer the bare cross because it represents that Jesus has risen from the dead and is no longer bound by death. What is the difference between the bare cross and the crucifix and why do Catholics prefer the crucifix? Since Christmas Eve falls on Sunday this year, should we fast? During Advent, our traditional parish doesn't say the Gloria and the ite missa est - is this proper? When praying the First Five Saturdays devotion, do they have to be the first five Saturdays, or can it be any five Saturdays in a row? Is hobby work (casual woodworking, etc.) permissible on Sundays? Where was the Garden of Eden? Was it the whole world? Is the use of medical marijuana, as prescribed by a doctor, a sin that one must confess? What is excommunication? What are its effects and its limits? How should we approach a Solemnity that doesn't fall on a Holy Day of Obligation? Can Catholics attend restaurants on Sundays? Aren't we forcing others to work by doing so? What is the most important spiritual lesson that can and/or should be taken from the Book of Job? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Jonathan Romanoski, FSSP is Pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Providence, Rhode Island. He was ordained in 2008. In Today's Show When I was growing up, we always recited the Nicene Creed at Mass. But now it seems that the Apostle's Creed is getting more use. I was wondering if this shift had anything to do with the controversy surrounding the Western Churches' inclusion of the "filioque" in the Nicene Creed, which I understand was one of the factors leading to the "Great Schism" of 1054? Was St. John the Apostle too young to start his ministry? What should Catholics believe on the separation of Church and State? I'm doing Lectio Divina with the scene with the boat when Jesus says come out and follow me, but I'm struggling, as I can't imagine myself doing so. Any advice? I pray for the living and usually select someone specific to pray for. I have a set of petitions that I make, many of which are targeted towards their proper, active participation in the faith. Is this an appropriate practice? What would be a good response or explanation for why we don't read more from the Pentateuch, Minor Prophets, and so on during Mass? What is the proper disposal procedure for a Protestant "Bible?" How do we respond to Protestant arguments about graces obtained through the sacraments? Which is more important: to follow one's conscience or to follow one's faith? Who is God? What does that word apostle mean? Since Peter was the first Pope, does that make his successors to the papacy apostles as well? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John Brancich, FSSP is the pastor of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Nashua, New Hampshire. He was ordained into the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter in 2004. In Today's Show: What is the meaning of mixing water with the wine during the Offertory at Mass? Is it a supported doctrine to call Mary co-redemptrix? Two St. Stanislaus' Churches in New Hampshire? If I were unkind to someone when they were alive and then when they pass away. I start praying for them. Do they hear my prayers? When Mary gave birth to Jesus, was it a normal birth like any other woman, with pain? Or was it without pain? I keep struggling with gambling, how can God keep forgiving me for this repetitive sin? One of Father's greatest crosses. Why does the Church get to decide what is a sin and what isn't a sin? When does detraction become a mortal sin from a venial sin? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. William Rock, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas. He was ordained in October of 2019 and serves as a regular contributor to the FSSP North America Missive Blog and the TAN Direction Blog. In Today's Show Fr. Rock's resources for Advent preparation. If a seminarian has same sex attraction, is his upcoming ordination valid? How is honoring one's father and mother or ruler different from respecting every neighbor? Did Saul sin by not killing his son Jonathan (1st Samuel Chapter 14)? Did King Saul's servants sin by disobeying his order to kill the priests (1st Samuel Chapter 22)? If I refuse cancer treatment, is that suicide? In Genesis 6:3, God declared that "The years of man shall not exceed 120 years." And yet, people have lived to exceed this age. What was God's message in this? If I don't fulfill my penance is my confession valid? What is Father's most favorite piece of Sacred Music? My Uncle claimed that Pilate crucified many men named Jesus. Plus, he made other historical arguments. Any thoughts? What is the traditional Catholic understanding on vigils? Are they originally meant to be used as they are today? Why did Methuselah live so long? What lesson do we take from that? If Adam and Eve didn't eat the fruit, would we still be living in the garden of Eden? I attend the TLM. Any tips to learn Latin to follow along better? What missal should I use? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Benjamin Norman, ICKSP currently serves as Representative of the Institute of Christ the King at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Oakland, California. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show: When your congregation is speaking with you or in reference to you, is it improper to call you "father" in lieu of canon? Would it be permissible to Baptize a new grandchild whose parents have walked away from the faith and have no intention of doing this? What can a man do to prepare for his first child? How should we respond to extreme criticisms of the Pope, even from our fellow Catholics? If I find any lost Rosaries, either ones I have lost track of in the past or ones accidentally abandoned, should I have them blessed? My understanding is that all ICKSP Canons have to learn French, which unites the ICKSP under a common language. That makes sense, but why isn't that language Latin? Are we falling into sin when we acknowledge someone's gender that is not a gender they were given by God? I cannot eat the standard foods most others eat on Fridays in order to abstain from meat. What are some other things we can do in order to observe the rule to abstain from meat on Fridays? My girlfriend is Roman Catholic and she wants to get married in a church. I'm a non-believer. Can we get married, and is that marriage sacramental? Disproving false claims about Mary Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Daniel Alloy, FSSP has served as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas since July of 2022. He was ordained in June of 2020. In Today's Show What Bible passages/stories would you recommend a First Holy Communion catechist strive to incorporate as a must to present in class? Can you please speak about finding time to pray and attend daily mass for stay at home moms with small kids? When is it generally allowed for spouses to separate temporarily in hopes of healing and reconciliation? Who is the patron saint of hunters/hunting? What are the rules for blessed food items? If a priest blessed your Thanksgiving turkey, can you throw away the wishbone after dinner or does it need to be burned/buried? Do you have any particular devotions that you find most spiritually edifying? Is it proper to put things in the church bulletin about contacting local government officials supporting things like climate control and other political issues? Do you have tips for Bible studying? Any resources or recommendations? Are the souls of the Saints in heaven, the Church Triumphant, aware of the sins of the Church Militant still on earth? Would the Church suffering, the Poor Souls in Purgatory, be aware of our sins, and could this be part of their purification? Does the Church still teach the possibility of limbo, a state of natural happiness without suffering, but also without the Beatific Vision? What is your understanding of the role of a choir and how does the choir's music relate to active participation in the liturgy? Do you know if Gregorian chant or Eastern/Greek chant is older? Do you have a preference between them, and if so, why? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Anthony Amato is the Pastor of St. Peter's Parish in Clifton Springs, New York. He was ordained as a priest in June of 2017 by Bishop Salvatore Matano of the Diocese of Rochester, New York. In Today's Show I've received some flack because I kneel immediately after the rite of peace. Is that okay that I do that? I disrespected my father over the phone. My penance in confession was to have lunch with him and reconcile. My Father refused. Is my confession valid? Does it matter how we hold our hands when we pray? palms together or fingers intertwined? How can I learn more about praying for the poor souls in purgatory? When exactly did Jesus make the sacrifice of the Mass a sacrifice in the Bible or tradition? Recently there was miscommunication in the confessional, and the penitent wasn't done listing their sins. Was the confession valid? Is there a specific secret formula for issuing penances in the confessional? I'm in RCIA. I guess my question what happens to the marriage bond in heaven? will I know my wife? Father, which traditional Monasteries and Abbeys do you recommend visiting? There is this wonderful person who wears too much perfume in church. I have allergies and sometimes it is so hard to breathe. What can be done about this? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Michael Stein, ICKSP serves as Rector at Old St. Patrick Oratory in Kansas City, Missouri. He was ordained in 2010. In Today's Show Thanksgiving and the virtue of gratitude Can you talk about the teaching behind your order's patronal feast and if there's any relevance in our predominantly democratic society? What books do you recommend for someone who is really just beginning to learn and understand the Catholic faith? I don't feel comfortable receiving from Eucharistic Ministers. Is it wrong to avoid that line? How can Catholics best avoid "conforming to the world?" Can you please explain why the church permitted cremation, and why it's important for Catholics to not cremate and to preserve the physical body at the time of death? Is veiling a devotion or a requirement for women attending the traditional Mass? I have read that if one doesn't veil, she is NOT sinning - is this correct? Did the Blessed Virgin Mary have any brothers or sisters? Would St. Joseph have shown physical signs of affection for Our Lady such as hugs or kisses? Can you explain why I might feel more spiritually fed at the Latin Mass as opposed to the Novus Ordo? Is it proper or not to ring the bells at the very start of mass, or is it up to the priest's discretion? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Joseph Dalimata, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Immaculate Conception Church in El Paso, Texas. He was ordained in May of 2021. In Today's Show How can mothers with young children better participate in Mass? Any suggestions? Can Catholics practice yoga? What is your best argument for clerical celibacy? Is it a sin to not pray the Rosary every day? Why does the church feel so strongly about its approach to infant Baptisms? Must we believe in the effects of plenary indulgences? How do we explain the concept of plenary indulgences to our Protestant friends and family? I just found out that my husband is addicted to pornography. He's lied to me about it all this time. Would this be an impediment to our marriage, and if so, what do we do to fix it? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Luke Zignego, ICKSP serves as Chaplain of Saint Joseph Oratory in the Diocese of Gary, Indiana. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show Is it enough to make mass my prayer for days which are very busy? Is it incorrect to mimic the priest and raise your hands during the Our Father? Should we not attend a non-Catholic's wedding that is outside of the church? When you were in the ICKSP seminary what was your job? What does the Church teach on the sin of usury when it comes to charging interest? Should I have a transplant done for a possible life-threatening disease? When I would like to just go to church and offer my suffering up to Christ instead. Some people ask: Why would Jesus, who is all merciful and loving, withhold communion from couples who are cohabitating? How to respond? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Ross Bourgeois, ICKSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Most Precious Blood of Jesus Parish in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Canon Bourgeois was ordained in 2019. In Today's Show: Could you please explain how the misconception that is The Rapture became commonly accepted, even among Catholics? Protestants claim that since Jesus and His disciples lived in poverty, the Catholic church should not have any funds and that we shouldn't build large cathedrals with acquired money. How should we respond to those types of claims? How to dispose of sinful things like tarot cards - do we burn them? Also, how to dispose of sacramentals? How do I know when to abstain from receiving the Eucharist? Is being late to Mass something I must confess? When does it not cover my Sunday obligation? How should the Church view greeters before mass? Is it proper to have them? My father is not Catholic. When God calls him home, would it be appropriate to have a Catholic funeral for him, or should I request a private Requiem Mass for the repose of his soul? How do you obtain first fervor if it was once lost due to sin? How does one build a life of prayer when starting from scratch? When and where did the practice of putting the host in the monstrance, and then having adoration, begin? Indulgences and cemetery visits Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John Brancich, FSSP is the pastor of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Nashua, New Hampshire. He was ordained into the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter in 2004. In Today's Show: Why do we read the gospel of Saint John at the end of mass? Is it new to the Latin mass or did the church always read it? Why is the confiteor said three times in the TLM? Why were the words changed in the Novus Ordo mass? How should we react to our son's Protestant girlfriend? Does the Apostolic pardon ensure heaven immediately? I was born into the church, then became a Mormon in my late teens, then ended up becoming a Jehovah's Witness in my late twenties. I now have a desire to come back to the church. What can I do to come back? How do I explain to my young nephews that transgenderism is wrong? When picking godparents for a newly baptized baby, would one be allowed to pick someone who is living in public mortal sin, for example cohabitating outside of marriage? Must we pick someone who is Catholic? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Benjamin Norman, ICKSP currently serves as Representative of the Institute of Christ the King at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Oakland, California. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show: On your last show, you mentioned that Catholics are not permitted to attend Protestant worship and prayer services. Does this apply to weddings and funerals of family members who were not raised Catholic? How should we deal with anger? Why did you convert to Catholicism? Are there any books you would recommend? I want to learn more about Latin to better understand the TLM liturgy. Where do I start? I wanted to return to the church and go to confession. I was told by the parish priest that I must attend mass for a month without receiving Communion; after that, he would meet with me. Why did he refuse to hear my confession? Do you have any recommendations for helping Protestant family members convert? Advice for confirmation teachers and dealing with students who may not behave or cooperate in class Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Daniel Alloy, FSSP has served as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas since July of 2022. He was ordained in June of 2020. In Today's Show Is it selfish to ask your spouse to meet your love language, like asking them for quality time? How do I bring an act that the church is telling me is wrong, but that I have trouble seeing as sinful, to confession? Should we have masses said for the repose of the soul of miscarried babies? Also, if we know of someone who aborted their baby, should we have a mass said for that child's soul? I have a friend who is a Protestant. When she travels, she doesn't seek a church service. She says it's because "Keep Holy the Sabbath'' isn't a Commandment anymore. That's not true, right? What are your thoughts on abstaining from meat on all Fridays, even outside of Lent? Is this something you practice? Do many other Catholics practice this? I went to confession the other day, and I noticed that the diocesan priest was not wearing a purple stole. Was the confession valid? What is your opinion on dancing, particularly couple dancing? In an appropriate environment, would you say it is fine to do? Can you provide any guidance on how much is appropriate to give the Church in terms of donations? If a priest is still using the formula for the consecration that says "for all" instead of "for many," is that valid? What's the moral difference, if any, between NFP, IVF, and other forms of artificial contraception? When inviting non-Catholics to their first Mass, I find that I have some success in going to their worship service if they come to Mass with me. Is attending their religious worship sinful? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Gerald Murray is the Pastor of Holy Family Church in the Archdiocese of New York. He received his Doctorate in Canon Law from the Gregorian University in Rome in 1998, and he is one of the most well-respected Canon Lawyers in the church today. He also served in the U.S. Naval Reserve Chaplain Corps from 1994 to 2005. In Today's Show For someone relatively new to Catholicism, exactly what is a Canon Lawyer? What responsibilities does that title carry, and are there any special privileges or abilities that you possess that the typical priest would not? Now that Bishop Strickland has officially been removed as the Bishop of Tyler, I was hoping you could provide your thoughts or initial reaction. Were there grounds for a removal, and why or why not? And, what happens from here? What canonical law did Bishop Strickland break, if any? What does Canon Law say on the subject of transgenderism? I was married in the diocese of my now-wife, which was a non-US diocese. We did the marriage prep through the parish we were married in and I provided my baptismal, first communion and confirmation certificates as requested. Was there supposed to be some other dispensation granted by the Bishop of my diocese? If so, is my marriage valid? If transexual behavior is disordered, can a canon lawyer sue the Vatican using canon law? When a couple gets married and has a normal wedding mass up until the end, but the priest does not say the words "I pronounce you man and wife," is that valid? I have a family member who is getting married. Both are Catholic but are not practicing anymore. When they get married outside the church, is that valid? If a church is closed by the Bishop, what happens to the money gathered by the sale? Who gets it? This situation with Bishop Strickland reminds me of the situation with St. Padre Pio. How do you think this will eventually be rectified? Would it be something similar? With the church's view on homosexuality, how did several homosexuals get ordained into the priesthood? What is Canon Law? Papal infallibility is something that I (and likely many other Catholics) have struggled to fully understand. What are the limits of that infallibility? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Elias Mary Mills, F.I. served as Rector of the Shrine Church at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin from 2016 to 2021. He was ordained in May of 2000. In Today's Show - All About Our Lady! (Part Two) About Father's St. Maxmilian Kolbe Special with Gabriel Castillo Regarding Our Lady of Akita, could the Holy Face be the "sign" that Our Lady meant? Is the Flame of Love Devotion approved by the Church? Why are there so many Marian feasts? How can Mary be the spouse of both St. Joseph and the Holy Spirit? Did the Mary, the Mediatrix of All Graces, mediated the act of God's creation of me? Are Catholics obligated to believe Marian apparitions? What is a Marian dogma, how many are there, what are some examples? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. William Rock, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas. He was ordained in October of 2019 and serves as a regular contributor to the FSSP North America Missive Blog and the TAN Direction Blog. In Today's Show: Why would a loving God unite a couple in a marriage if He knows one of the couple will experience prolonged domestic violence soon after marriage? Why didn't He intercept it so the marriage didn't happen? How can I accept or have a better attitude towards self-abandonment to God's will in what seems to be an ever-changing will for my busy life with children and other good works? What does it exactly mean to fully consecrate yourself to Jesus or Mary? If you want to consecrate your children, what is the best way to go about that? Is it a sin if a priest does not pray for the Pope during Mass? Father, what is your favorite Daily Missal and why? I was vacationing and my family visited a church and there was no tabernacle to be seen. When I spoke to the deacon, he said that Vatican II said that the tabernacle should be outside the church in a connected building. What does Vatican II really teach? Why does the Church deny a child's Baptism based on the parents? Does it have to do with the fact that anyone can Baptize their children, but doing it publicly in the church could cause scandal? Is it possible, through parenting, to teach proper authority structure and obedience without corporal punishment? I heard Father mention all the rules for Baptism and was wondering if, even though the parents or Godparents may not meet the requirements, is it still not better that the child receive the graces from the Baptism rather than be denied? What is the point of the parable of the ten virgins? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Francis Altiere, ICKSP serves as Rector of Sts. Cyril and Methodius Oratory in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He was ordained in 2014. In Today's Show There is a local museum that says it's haunted. I have heard these things can sometimes be demonic. Is it safe to go there? We can visit the cemetery and receive indulgences from November 1st to the 8th. Why is the 8th of November the cutoff, and what is the significance of that? When someone remembers a sin from the past that they never confessed, what words should the person say to the priest to convey that they want to confess the sin? When genuflecting during Adoration, are we to get on both knees and bow, as opposed to kneeling on the right knee? Also, when leaving the nave/pews during Adoration, are we to fixate our eyes on the Eucharist and walk backwards, or is it just a cultural practice of some Catholics? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Joseph Dalimata, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Immaculate Conception Church in El Paso, Texas. He was ordained in May of 2021. In Today's Show What advice would you give to someone suffering serious illness for many years who feels in some way like God is punishing them for their past sins and they can at times feel abandoned by God, even though they know this is not the case? Is it the custom at a TLM to bow to the priest and to the Processional Cross as they process past our pew? If asked, both the Orthodox church and the Roman Catholic church will say "Come worship here; we have apostolic succession; we are the true church founded by Jesus down to the current day." Can they both actually trace back to that time? If yes, is one "more right" than the other? Is it correct that, as Catholics, using pronouns should be discouraged as it somehow entails subscribing to the dominant gender-theory culture for which anybody can pick their gender, and thus moving away from what God has chosen? If this is discouraged, is doing so a venial sin or a mortal sin? What is the origin of the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus? How do I go about practicing this devotion? Where did the word "sacrament" come from? I can't find it in the Bible! Before God there is no mediator except Jesus. So, where do the saints and Mary come in? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Anthony Amato is the Pastor of St. Peter's Parish in Clifton Springs, New York. He was ordained as a priest in June of 2017 by Bishop Salvatore Matano of the Diocese of Rochester, New York. In Today's Show Are there any orders that will accept someone older as a priest or brother? Any advice on how to better read and understand the Bible and the wisdom of the church? I suffer from clinical depression and I have a hard time with Confession. What can I do? Can those who have passed on pray for us here on Earth? What about young children who have passed? Can, or should, a Catholic celebrate the Mexican cultural tradition of the Day of the Dead? Why is the Traditional Latin Mass so controversial? Are there special blessings for tools, like axes, hatchets, hammers or drills? What do we know about the Particular Judgment? Have you noticed more people seeking to sanctify their lives in these times of chaos and confusion? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Ross Bourgeois, ICKSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Most Precious Blood of Jesus Parish in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Canon Bourgeois was ordained in 2019. In Today's Show: Will you please speak on the topic of indulgences? In particular, what are they and what are they not? Also, the conditions necessary to obtain them, particularly during the first eight days of November. Could you please talk about the Holy Souls Novena? Is there a preferred, or traditional, time to pray this, such as before All Souls Day, or beginning on that day, or after? What are your interactions with Diocesan Priests that celebrate the Novus Ordo like? Do they come to you for advice? Do they steer clear of you due to your traditional formation? What is the symbolic/spiritual significance of the action of the Priest during the Latin Mass when he opens, elevates, and then closes his hands at the Gloria, the Te Igitur, and other parts of the Mass? When we receive the Eucharist, I know that we are united to those around the world who are members of the Body of Christ and also with those who have gone before us in death who are in heaven and purgatory, but can we say that we are also united with those not yet born who will become members of the Body of Christ in the future? Do you think that I am missing anything by not receiving the Precious Blood when it is offered? Is receiving under both species like having Communion twice? Does a guardian angel of a serious mortal sinner still stay around and protect and guide him/her, or is he so offended that he leaves him? Partial and plenary indulgences I read a story where a child with a disability who couldn't swallow the host was given the host with yogurt. Is that allowed? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John-Mary Bowlin serves as Parish Priest at St. Jude Catholic Church in Gun Barrel City, Texas. He served in the U.S. Army and was ordained a priest in June of 2012. In Today's Show: The majority of my daughter's friends at college have read and watched Harry Potter. Should I be overly concerned? Which gospel is most appropriate for the feast of all Souls out of the many used? To what extent am I morally obligated to remind my family members about things such as not receiving Communion if they missed Mass the previous week and haven't confessed that? Understanding that pets do not have intellect and will as humans and would not be redeemed as man is, and therefore not being potentially destined for heaven, is there another place that God may have prepared for loyal and loving pets since they are creatures of God? How much am I responsible for the education of my grandchildren? Talking to a friend whose opinion is that we don't need Baptism because Jesus died for all our sins already - how to respond? I have gone to a Church where they have a bottle of hand sanitizer on the altar. What is Father's opinion of that? For indulgences, what does "have the interior disposition of complete detachment from sin, even venial sin" mean? As a reluctant sinner, is this possible to do? Why does Acts 19:5 say Paul Baptized them "in the name of the Lord Jesus" when Jesus commanded them to baptize in The Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit? How do the graces we receive by listening to Mass differ from those we receive by taking Holy Communion? Are they of a different kind, or is it simply a mystery? Do we have to forgive someone who has not asked for forgiveness? A Palestinian Muslim friend asked me "Why does a good and loving God have the Israelites as his favorite when my people are of the same blood; are we not also the Father's favorite? Does he not also love us?" Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John Brancich, FSSP is the pastor of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Nashua, New Hampshire. He was ordained into the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter in 2004. In Today's Show: Can you please tell me if playing Fortnite and Pokémon is ok? When praying for the faithful departed when we say evening prayer, which faithful departed does that apply to? What does the Catholic church teach about acceptance? How does God communicate with his angels and are there different angelic languages used in the different choirs of angels? Is it a violation of the 3rd Commandment to attend a fundraiser where food will be cooked and prepared by people on a Sunday? If there is no Catholic priest aboard the ship, should we avoid an optional cruise? If a priest is assigned during passage, do we have a duty to confirm he is in good standing with his diocese or religious community before attending Mass? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Alan Maria Wharton, F.I. has assisted in Pastoral Ministry and Media Production for The Station of the Cross 88.5 FM in New Bedford, Massachusetts, formerly Radio Cor Mariae. In Today's Show Preparing for a Catholic Halloween Do you have any thoughts on essential oils, specifically companies like Young Living and DoTerra? Is there a church teaching on the matter of women wearing pants? What does Father recommend Catholics do with the constant fear mongering in today's news cycle? How should we handle that? What is the status of charismatic masses? Are those still available? What can you tell me about them? Is there a tactful way to respond when a decent (even TLM attending) Catholic posts photos on social media of his/her daughter dressed very immodestly for a dance or other event? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Elias Mary Mills, F.I. served as Rector of the Shrine Church at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin from 2016 to 2021. He was ordained in May of 2000. In Today's Show Trying to make Halloween Catholic again. Saint relics for sale online - What to do? Correcting people when they take Our Lord's name in vain. Does my generosity ultimately lead to me being taken advantage of? Does one have to confess bad thoughts when they pop in my head? When God calls us and it's our time, is it ok to be resuscitated? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Michael Stein, ICKSP serves as Rector at Old St. Patrick Oratory, as well as Local Superior for the Apostolate of the Institute of Christ the King in Kansas City, Missouri. He was ordained in 2010. In Today's Show Why is it a custom for women to cover their heads at Mass? And why does St. Paul condemn long hair on men? Veils By Lily: "Why Veil?" Cards How to get along with siblings who are hostile to religion? What is the symbolism of the priest's hand movements at the Gloria, Credo, etc. in the TLM? Do graces come from Mary like from Jesus? How do we deal with Scripture verses about slaves? Is it okay to use public transportation on Sundays? Is it okay for churches to hold events or sell items on Sundays? If a dying person is unconscious and receives Extreme Unction, does this also serve as Confession, even though the person is unable to speak? What's the deal with beeswax candles? Are Catholics allowed to learn from Protestants, in subjects like philosophy? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Joseph Dalimata, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Immaculate Conception Church in El Paso, Texas. He was ordained in May of 2021. In Today's Show Could you comment on the 3 Days of Darkness? Prayers I can say for my elderly protestant friends. "Gluten Free" Eucharist permissible? Do you have to honor your father and mother if they are abusive? Can we disagree with the Holy Father about climate change? Thoughts on receiving the Eucharist from the hand of a layperson. My job requires me to provide info sheets that recommend that women take contraception People bringing the Eucharist home and counting that as attending mass. How do I see the Sign of the Times if I'm blind? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Daniel Alloy, FSSP has served as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas since July of 2022. He was ordained in June of 2020. In Today's Show Is bowing for the priest when he walks by on his way to the altar customary and something we should do? In my recent reading, I have been coming across statements contrasting God's "Permissive Will" and His "Perfect Will" or "Active Will". Can you explain this notion to me and perhaps give some examples as to how this dynamic could play out in a believer's life? How does trauma impact the Catholic liturgy and one's ability to receive it? Do medieval theologians have exceptional faith qualities that aren't found in modern scholars? Who was your favorite theologian? Who is the patron saint of nurses? In reading about the different levels and purposes/duties of the angels, I'm reading that the seraphim is the highest level, created to be an attendant to the throne of God praising Him. Was Lucifer a seraphim or a higher level, and what was his purpose and duty? Why are priests and nuns celibate? At one point in time, was there a liturgy for the coronation of a monarch, and if so, what was it like? Is there a time limit for saying a mass for the dead? When out in public, how can one distinguish a 'Father' vs. a 'Brother' (religious) and what is a brother? How do I go about getting a spiritual director? And is there a fee? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Luke Zignego, ICKSP serves as Chaplain of Saint Joseph Oratory in the Diocese of Gary, Indiana. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show Where did Jordan get the FSSP flag that hangs on the wall behind him during the show? Is it more difficult for the priest to keep a Novus Ordo mass reverent when compared to the Traditional Latin Mass? Why isn't a "first kiss" allowed at a TLM wedding? Questions about fasting one hour prior to receiving the Eucharist What is your view on the statement that most people will be damned? When did we start saying that we can hold reasonable hope that even those who don't know about Jesus could be saved? What qualifies as drinking to excess? When a pregnant mother receives Our Lord in Communion, does her unborn baby also receive Him? Are we supposed to bow our head every time we say the name of Jesus? Could you explain the difference between Extreme Unction and Anointing of the Sick? Do priests these days offer spiritual direction? Is there any "spiritual homework" to do before asking a priest for spiritual direction? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Ross Bourgeois, ICKSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Most Precious Blood of Jesus Parish in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Canon Bourgeois was ordained in 2019. In Today's Show: Do you have any counsel for someone who struggles with scrupulosity? Discerning the priesthood with the Institute...when does one need to know the language of French fluently? Catholics shouldn't attend Protestant services. Does that include weddings and funerals? How does the Institute differ from other priestly communities in daily duties and daily life? Catholics and Orthodox attending each other's liturgies: what's allowed? And what would it take for the Orthodox to reunite with the Church? Regarding ICKSP seminary tuition and application: What is the tuition like? Does the seminary accept scholarships? What is the application process like? What does it say about how many people will be saved in the book of Revelation? ​Is it okay to pray the Rosary during Mass? Is going to get lunch with friends or family on a Sunday considered a sin? ​Could you recommend a Catholic book for Advent? The Sermons of St. Francis de Sales: For Advent and Christmas (TAN Books) Online Version Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. John-Mary Bowlin serves as Parish Priest at St. Jude Catholic Church in Gun Barrel City, Texas. He served in the U.S. Army and was ordained a priest in June of 2012. In Today's Show: As Catholics, are we supposed to back Israel, since the Bible always talks about Israel and Zion? How frequently should a child, after First Holy Communion, go to confession? Is once a month too much in making a young child (age 7) too scrupulous? What suggestions do you have to help form a young boy as an altar server in the traditional Mass? Is one spiritually safe when playing video games that include satanic themes like pentagrams, spells, tarot cards, demons, etc? How can I honor my Father and Mother if I don't have a good relationship with them? Is it better to get married outside the church or not to marry at all? Is that a trick question without a correct answer? How can our prayers atone for the sins of others? Is there a historical reason for the stereotype that Catholics don't know their Bible? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Benjamin Norman, ICKSP currently serves as Representative of the Institute of Christ the King at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Oakland, California. He was ordained in 2018. In Today's Show: I have a nephew in the military who is being deployed to the Middle East. The chaplain of his unit is a non-denominational minister. Should he attend the chaplain's Sunday service? Should he try to watch a mass on the internet – assuming it is available? What else could he do? How can we know when our works are just an attempt to merit salvation vs. being part of living out our faith? What is the best way to learn the history behind the Stations of the Cross and how to pray them? If God knows all, how do we have free will? How does one respond to gratuitous evil; that is, evil that doesn't have a clear good end, like natural disasters and such? We have a family wedding coming up. I know that a lot of family members on both sides are Catholic "in name only" and rarely if ever go to church on Sunday. Is there a charitable way for us to handle this so that we don't have a parade of non-believers taking communion at the wedding, or should we just leave it alone and let God be their judge? What is paraliturgy? I've heard Catholics say the Jewish people are still God's chosen people because that covenant can not be taken away. Is this correct? I am very interested in studying the Catholic faith and possibly becoming Catholic someday, but I am worried about the reaction of my family who would be horrified if I went through with this. Do you have any advice on how I should handle them? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Alan Maria Wharton, F.I. has assisted in Pastoral Ministry and Media Production for The Station of the Cross 88.5 FM in New Bedford, Massachusetts, formerly Radio Cor Mariae. In Today's Show Is there any difference between a ministry, a vocation, and a calling? Do you think that there is, in fact, a priest shortage in this country and world-wide? What do you think is the best way to address this shortage? Would a policy of allowing married men to become priests actually work? Discernment regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and how it might affect employment opportunities In 1 Samuel 15:3, God commands what appears to be genocide: "Go, now, attack Amalek, and put under the ban everything he has. Do not spare him; kill men and women, children and infants, oxen and sheep, camels and donkeys." How do we reconcile a command by God to intentionally target defenseless children and infants with the belief that God is all-loving and merciful? How do we effectively explain this passage to non-believers or people struggling with their faith? If someone dies in the state of mortal sin, is there still a chance that after he dies, he can repent of the sins he committed on earth and experience the Divine Mercy of God? Advice for dealing with family squabbles How far should one go in helping someone who doesn't necessarily want help? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Anthony Amato is the Pastor of St. Peter's Parish in Clifton Springs, New York. He was ordained as a priest in June of 2017 by Bishop Salvatore Matano of the Diocese of Rochester, New York. In Today's Show What is the best way to introduce both practicing Catholics and non-practicing Catholics to the TLM? What is the church's view of the religion known as "The Way?" Should Fulton Sheen's process beatification resume, and how can the laity help? A question about the omniscience of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit With the current state of the Church, what is the single most effective thing the clergy and laity can focus on? Would you please explain Fraternal Correction? How do we determine who to correct, when, and for what? Being saved by faith vs. by works If a Catholic is living in a near occasion of sin and goes to confession, but may not seek absolution (subconsciously), what happens? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Elias Mary Mills, F.I. served as Rector of the Shrine Church at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lacrosse, Wisconsin from 2016 to 2021. He was ordained in May of 2000. In Today's Show - All About Our Lady! If a brand new Catholic were interested in learning about Marian apparitions but could only study one, which Marian apparition would you recommend they start with and why? I am not Catholic, and therefore I don't understand the meaning of the term "Mary, Seat of Wisdom." Wouldn't assigning someone the name "Seat of Wisdom" imply that that being is more wise than God himself? How would you refute the very common Protestant accusation that Catholics worship Mary? Where does the term "Blessed" come from when referring to Mary, and what exactly does that term mean when used in that context? Is the title "Divine Shepherdess" approved? What does it mean? What can you tell me about Garabandal? Were the warnings authentic? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. William Rock, FSSP serves as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas. He was ordained in October of 2019 and serves as a regular contributor to the FSSP North America Missive Blog and the TAN Direction Blog. In Today's Show How do we approach movies that may have characters taking God's name in vain? Can I watch them in good conscience? Eating an hour before receiving Communion vs an hour before Mass starts: which is right? What should we be guided by with regard to films featuring immodestly dressed women? Did Jesus laugh? Since He had a perfect intellect, would it even be possible for him to laugh or find things "funny" since that wasn't ever mentioned in the Bible? What is the Church's position on egalitarianism? How can I explain to my mother charitably that using "they/them" pronouns is gravely harmful to souls? At Mass, when did those Eucharists in the tabernacle get consecrated? When we ask the Saints for prayers, do they know what we are asking them to pray for? Regarding the positioning of one's hands while praying the Our Father at mass, is there a right and wrong way of doing it? Praying for souls in purgatory and asking them for prayers - how does this work? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Canon Michael Stein, ICKSP serves as Rector at Old St. Patrick Oratory in Kansas City, Missouri. He was ordained in 2010. In Today's Show Can you please talk a little bit about today's feast day, the Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary? More on Catholic annulment and divorce A religious education teacher has a young student whose parents are teaching him about other angels not listed in Catholic teaching or tradition. What can she do to help guide this child? Can you point to any specific examples of when the early Church turned to Rome for resolving problems and why? Could you explain why Jesus saying "You are the rock" refers specifically to Peter and not just to Peter's confession as the Orthodox believe? Should, or can, my parents prohibit me from discerning a marriage calling until I spend time discerning religious life? My human brain wrestles with how we went from Adam and Eve to the entire world population, how we know of these two people, etc. Can you help clarify what we believe? My priest only holds one hand over the bread and wine during Consecration. Would this in any way affect the validity of that Consecration? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Daniel Alloy, FSSP has served as Parochial Vicar at Regina Caeli Parish in Houston, Texas since July of 2022. He was ordained in June of 2020. In Today's Show My spouse and I were helping to deliver the Eucharist to the sick in the past. We don't anymore, but we have a few pyxes that are in the house. What is the proper way to return them? We were given blessed oil in a plastic bottle. We used the oil up, but how do we dispose of the plastic, which probably still has traces of oil? Why does the Church seem to value virginity in women more than in men? Why are male saints classified by whether or not they were martyrs, while much more note is made of whether or not female saints were virgins? Are pre-nuptial agreements allowed by the Catholic Church? Can a US citizen marry another Catholic in the Philippines to get around the US divorce system? What do you think of the "What Would Jesus Do?" argument? We get a lot of rosaries in the mail from different sources. They are often cheaply made and break apart easily. How do we dispose of them, since most of them aren't worth repairing? How can I repair a second or third class relic? Does it need to be sent to Rome? What book or video, or what else, can I send my friend to get him to convert from Hinduism to Catholicism, or at least consider it? How does the Church look at marriages in the civil world? Are they valid?Also, if that marriage ends in a divorce, how does the Church look at that? How can the husband lead with the humility of Christ in a marriage, since the wife is supposed to submit to his "loving" authority? Can I pray to another person's guardian angel for conversion? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Fr. Jonathan Romanoski, FSSP is Pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Providence, Rhode Island. He was ordained in 2008. In Today's Show Does the FSSP have a standardized way to train Altar Servers at a parish? Is it something that is taught at the seminary? My daughter gave me a Rosary from an antique store, however, there are no beads before the decade ones. Also, there is a crucifix without Jesus on the cross. Should I keep it? What can we do as Catholics to spread the Gospel? I have a friend who is trying to convince me that if I just accept Jesus into my heart, no future sin will affect my salvation. What arguments are there to refute that? Salvation in the Book of Ephesians Chapter 2 A brief history of Fr. Romanoski's parish, St. Mary's Being baptized by Protestants - why is that valid in the eyes of the Church when others, such as the Orthodox, require a second Baptism? Why did Jesus refer to Himself as the "Son of Man," and what exactly does this mean? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!