Question: In Mass recently, I noticed that some people bow during the Creed. Why do they do that? Answer: Well, the first reason is because that is what we are supposed to do. There is a Church document called the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (or “GIRM”) that outlines the basic structure of the Mass. In para. 137 we read: “The Creed is sung … Continue reading
Question: What is Advent? Answer: The Modern Catholic Dictionary, by Fr. John A. Hardon, tells us that Advent is, “A period of prayer in preparation for Christmas, including four Sundays, the first nearest the feast of St. Andrew, November 30. It is the beginning of the Church’s liturgical year (Etym. Latin adventus, a coming, approach, arrival.).” Advent is a time of preparation for and anticipation … Continue reading
Question: In the Gospel reading Mk 9:2-10, we read that Peter wanted to make “booths” for Elijah, Moses, and Jesus when these three gloriously appeared at the top of the mountain. What are “booths” and why did Peter want to build them? Answer: First, the booths: these are small huts made of tree branches, the same shelters the Israelites used during the 40-year journey through … Continue reading
QuestionL What does it mean to be made “in the image and likeness of God”? Answer: We hear this all the time, right? “You are made in the image and likeness of God.” Intuitively we realize that we are supposed to derive some sense of dignity or selfworth from this fact, but do any of us really know why? What does it actually mean to … Continue reading
Question: Where do you get the questions and answers for your column every week? Answer: Well, the questions come from various sources. Sometimes a parishioner will email me a question. Other times, friends, family, and coworkers will ask me things. However, the majority of the questions come from people I’ve never even seen before. These people are readers of my blog. The word “blog” is … Continue reading
Question: What is “Christology”? What is “high Christology” and “low Christology”? Answer: You must have been speaking with a theology student! Most people don’t speak of these things in every day conversation. But, it is good for all of us to know at least a little something about them. After all, they have to do with our Savior … and He is very important to … Continue reading
Question: Did Jesus break the Law of Moses by not stoning the woman caught in adultery? Answer: Great question! The incident you are referring to is found in Jn 8:3-11. The Pharisees catch an adulterous woman and bring her to Jesus to see what He will do. You may want to open your bible to this passage so that you can have it on hand … Continue reading