Ask Fr. Mike

Q: With the start of every new “thing” (new year, new season, new stage in life), I find it very difficult to stop and consider the previous “thing” (the previous year, the previous season, or [...]

Q: The Catechism defines blasphemy as “directly opposed to the second commandment. It consists in uttering against God — inwardly or outwardly — words of hatred, reproach, or defiance; in [...]

Q: I have heard that curiosity can be considered a vice. That doesn’t make any sense to me. The advances of science, technology, and social reforms wouldn’t have happened if people had suppressed [...]

Q: I have been really hurt by people in my life. But most of the bad stuff in my life is my fault. Still, I can’t stop blaming myself and blaming them for hurting me.   A: Thank you for [...]

Q: I have a friend with whom I am trying to share the Gospel. He has great questions, and I like trying to offer intelligent and rational answers, but I’m not sure if he has faith yet. What [...]

Q: I am writing because I keep coming back to the same question, “Am I a good person?” I am taking care of my husband who suffers from Alzheimer’s, as well as my parents who need a lot of [...]

Q: I find myself being less-than-generous quite often. I want to have a better attitude, but people keep wanting things from me: they want my time, my help, and my financial support. How do I get [...]

Q: Some of my co-workers seem think that I believe that my religion saves me. They say that Christianity is about a relationship, not a religion.   A: This is a very good question. Of course [...]

Q: I’ve been told that I can pray to God, and that he hears my prayers and answers them. I’ve been frustrated though, because it seems like it doesn’t do anything. Am I missing something?   [...]

the decision to “be open” to God’s will is a decision!  And the decision to choose to accept all things as they come as a gift from God is in no way harmful or negative or a bad idea.  But I [...]