Category Archives: ASK FATHER Question Box

ASK FATHER… QUAERITUR… what to do?

I am getting lots of questions and I just don’t have time or the energy, or often the expertise to answer them. I am considering reviving the old ASK FATHER Question Box site.  When it wound down, due to a … Read More

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QUAERITUR: Mephitidae

From a reader: Father, I have read with interest your posts on Mice in the Rectory. Now, perhaps you have something for Skunks under the Farmhouse. Our air-conditioner repairman just informed us that we have a family of skunks residing … Read More

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QUAERITUR: TLM “straw” subdeacon

From a reader: I serve Low Mass five or six days out of the week as well as participating in Sunday Vespers, so my priest recently asked if I would be able to serve as the straw subdeacon for the … Read More

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QUAERITUR: New translation and inclusive language

From a reader: What is and is not currently allowed to be used at Mass? What will and won’t be allowed after November? What falls into the “bad but nothing to be done about it” category and what can be … Read More

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QUAERITUR: Tarting-it-up for a church wedding

[Raising my eyes to heaven even as I grope for that third rail with my outstretched toe.] From a readerette: I’m having a bit of a conflict with my bride-to-be best friend, who has gone Bridezilla on me. She asked … Read More

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103 Comments

QUAERITUR: Do you/why don’t you take ads?

I have had questions from several readers in the last week, and two today, asking if I am willing to take advertisements or, on the other hand, why I don’t do advertisements. The answer is: I think about it and … Read More

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QUAERITUR: Sign of Peace questions

From a reader: I’ve heard that the sign of peace at Mass is optional (for priest and people), and that its position within the Mass can be moved to another part of the liturgy such as the Introductory Rites. Are … Read More

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QUAERITUR: gloves on bishops

From a reader regarding this entry: You can see the cardinal wearing purple gloves. I’ve never seen this before. Could you please explain the gloves and what role they play? I imagine he takes them off for the consecration of … Read More

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QUAERITUR: Holy Thursday foot washing follies

From a reader: Well this year is a return of mass foot washings. As our bulletin states, “This year everyone will participate in this action. Please wear socks and shoes that are easy to remove. Towels will be provided.” Should … Read More

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QUAERITUR: Female and male duet for the Exultet

From a reader: Several years ago, our new husband & wife (talented but very Haugen/Haas loyal) music directors introduced/replaced the familiar English version of the Exultet at the Vigil with a modern(Haugen?) version sung as a duet by male (Deacon) … Read More

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