Category Archives: ASK FATHER Question Box

QUAERITUR: The “sign of peace” is optional?!? Can I opt out?

From a reader: Wait, the sign of peace is an option, not a requirement?!?! How did I not know this? Am I bound by obedience to participate if the priest uses this option? Can I decline the invitation? The so-called … Read More

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64 Comments

QUAERITUR: Everyone must stand until distribution of Communion is over

From a reader: Our last pastor decided we should all stand up before the Great Amen (going so far as to pause the Mass until all were standing -and some peoples refusal to stand became a horrible distraction and battle … Read More

Posted in ASK FATHER Question Box, Liturgy Science Theatre 3000 |
41 Comments

QUAERITUR: Using the orginal “main” altar rather than the “table”

From a seminarian reader: My present church is thinking on having a EF Mass as well as a Versus Deus [Deum] OF Mass. The Original High Altar is still in place with the Tabernacle. There is however a smaller “fixed” … Read More

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21 Comments

QUAERITUR: Gathering around the altar at school Mass

From a reader: It was announced during our school Mass today, by the associate here at the parish where I teach, that henceforth, whatever class has “planned” the school Mass each week will be invited to gather around the altar … Read More

Posted in ASK FATHER Question Box, Liturgy Science Theatre 3000 |
10 Comments

QUAERITUR: Can bishops forbid pastors to add a TLM to the schedule

I have of late received more than one email from readers with similar questions. In effect, they have asked if diocesan bishops can forbid pastors to add a Traditional Latin Mass to the Sunday Mass schedule, or if the local … Read More

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30 Comments

QUAERITUR: Use of the beretta at Mass in the Ordinary Form

From a reader: Can a beretta be used in the OF? When would it be used? Yes, without question!   But make sure that it is clean and in good working order so that it doesn’t misfire. I would use … Read More

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, Lighter fare |
67 Comments

QUAERITUR: “Nice to see you!”, during Communion

From a reader: While about to receive Communion today I was told by a Eucharistic minister “nice to see you” immediately after she had said “Body of Christ,” to me. I had not even responded, “Amen” yet. Is this permissible? … Read More

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41 Comments

QUAERITUR: Eating, plays in churches

From a reader: I was in a discussion with someone about eating in the Church not necessarily at Mass AND use of the Church for plays, community events, shelter, etc.   What are the rules for behavior inside a Catholic Church?  … Read More

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47 Comments

QUAERITUR: Can choir director teach a song at homily time?

From a reader: I am a choir director and my pastor would like me to teach the congregation a song during the homily. He will introduce me and I come to the front and take over from there. I am … Read More

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17 Comments

QUAERITUR: Can I buy a relic?

From a reader: I wanted to know if it is permissible to buy relics. I know that Canon Law says that it is absolutely wrong to sell them. But what about buying them? Also, how do I go about confirming … Read More

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7 Comments