Category Archives: ASK FATHER Question Box

QUAERITUR: After what point of lateness can I no longer receive Communion, fulfill obligation?

From a reader: I remember my father telling me when I was young that if one arrived after the Gospel at Sunday Mass, one could not receive Communion and the Sunday obligation was not fulfilled. My question has to do … Read More

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40 Comments

Birettiquette revisited

A priest friend lately asked me about how to handle a biretta while in choir.  This only the first time I have been asked about birettas in the last days.  Therefore, I will repost some information I have shared before. … Read More

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11 Comments

QUAERITUR: Am I forbidden to kneel after the Agnus Dei?

From a reader: Our parish has always knelt for the Second Elevation (after the Agnus Dei). This is a regular Novus Ordo Mass. Our priest retired and now our new temporary priest has instructed us to remain standing. I want … Read More

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42 Comments

QUAERITUR: Does a parish priest have to ask permission of a bishop to allow marriages in the Extraordinary Form?

From a priest: I am a priest almost 3 yrs ordained last year I was asked to officiate at a wedding which was to be conducted according to the 1962 missal. The PP would not allow the wedding to go … Read More

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, Mail from priests, SUMMORUM PONTIFICUM | Tagged ,
14 Comments

QUAERITUR: Is a Communion rail obligatory for TLMs?

From a reader: I am interested in seeing the EF come to my local parish. The main church is a monstrosity, but there is a separate chapel that might do nicely. Unfortunately, there is no altar rail in the chapel. … Read More

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16 Comments

QUAERITUR: Can a priest wear a Cross around his neck?

From a seminarian: I am currently a Seminarian and still have 5 years ahead of me until, God willing, ordination. I personally feel a priest should always wear his clericals if not also a cassock, I plan to be in … Read More

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24 Comments

QUAERITUR: I am unsure about whether my marriage is valid.

From a reader: Can ones marriage be valid if it is clear that impediments listed in Canon Law were present at the time of the marriage (and continued to be as well) ? If not valid, then can the couple … Read More

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13 Comments

QUAERITUR: How should we approach a priest to ask for the Extraordinary Form?

From a reader: A group at my parish is planning on approaching our pastor to request Mass in the Extraordinary Form. I would like to be prepared to answer his questions about the “mechanics” of putting on this Mass: training … Read More

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57 Comments

QUAERITUR: Can a pastor/liturgist force servers to receive Communion under both kinds?

From a reader with my emphases: Our parish liturgist has sent out the following to all Altar Servers and Acolytes who assist at the Novus Ordo mass. “Servers at Saint Mary receive both Species if they receive at all.  If … Read More

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36 Comments

QUAERITUR: How to confess well? I worry I am not doing a good enough job of it.

From a reader: Hi. I am convert. [… S]ince being brought up in a protestant tradition and only becoming catholic as an adult, I was never exposed to the traditions, the formality. In our confirmation classes we was taught the … Read More

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27 Comments