web01.fireside.fm Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:58:46 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast) - Episodes Tagged with “Catholic Questions” https://askfrjosh.fireside.fm/tags/catholic%20questions Tue, 28 Jan 2020 12:00:00 -0500 Ask Fr. Josh is the podcast where I hear you out and do my best to help you navigate the tricky times in life when our Catholic Faith doesn’t give you an easy “fill-in-the blank” answer. On this show, we’ll listen to one another, problem solve together, and ultimately entrust everything to our Lord. If this is your first time tuning in, here’s how the show goes: Each episode, I'll address three to four of your questions. I’ll cover everything from Catholic teaching to moral dilemmas to relationship advice. I'm not perfect, and I can’t guarantee that my advice is going to make things easy, but I'll do my best to share what I've learned during my time as a priest, pastor, and friend. Send me your questions at ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh en-us episodic Fr. Josh helps you navigate the tricky times in life when our Catholic Faith doesn’t give you an easy, “fill-in-the blank” answer. Ascension Ask Fr. Josh is the podcast where I hear you out and do my best to help you navigate the tricky times in life when our Catholic Faith doesn’t give you an easy “fill-in-the blank” answer. On this show, we’ll listen to one another, problem solve together, and ultimately entrust everything to our Lord. If this is your first time tuning in, here’s how the show goes: Each episode, I'll address three to four of your questions. I’ll cover everything from Catholic teaching to moral dilemmas to relationship advice. I'm not perfect, and I can’t guarantee that my advice is going to make things easy, but I'll do my best to share what I've learned during my time as a priest, pastor, and friend. Send me your questions at ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh no fr. josh johnson, father josh johnson, fr josh, father josh, fr josh johnson, ask fr josh, ask fr. josh, ask father josh, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, faith, catholic theology, theology, ascension press, ascension, ascension presents, Roman Catholic, catholic podcast, catholics, christian, christianity, religion, catholic faith, catholic religion, faith, god, Jesus, Jesus Christ, relationship with Jesus, catholic beliefs, catholic priest, priest, prayer, praying, holiness, saints, catholic faith formation, ascension catholic, ascension catholic faith formation, catholic teachings, spirituality, Ascension podcasts@ascensionpress.com All About the Priesthood: Women Priests, Married Priests, and Flawed Priests https://askfrjosh.fireside.fm/90 78d0a352-3e7c-4fa3-a6e4-1cfcbc15acc0 Tue, 28 Jan 2020 12:00:00 -0500 Ascension full Ascension Fr. Josh answers three questions about the priesthood: Why can’t women be priests? Why can’t priests get married? And how can we look past the human flaws of the priest when he is acting in persona Christi? 39:00 no Fr. Josh answers three questions about the priesthood: Why can’t women be priests? Why can’t priests get married? And how can you look past the human flaws of the priest when he is acting in persona Christi? Snippet from the Show Jesus Christ was radical, he broke many customs. If he had wanted women to be priests, he would have chosen them to be priests … Mary [Mother of God] was far holier than Peter. Mary Magdalene showed up to the foot of the Cross. Guess who wasn’t at the foot of the Cross—Peter, Thomas, Matthew. Many of these women were far holier than the first priests. However, in God’s will, he chose men to be the matter for the sacrament of priesthood. SHOWNOTES Glory Story (3:05) Women Priests (7:49) Hi Father, I know you mentioned before you wanted to do a themed show. So I recently heard you speak on church tradition, and the difference between big “T” and little “t” tradition which I’m sure you would elaborate on, maybe even sing about. I wanted to suggest that as a possible theme for the show. I had a specific question pertaining to this topic, and was hoping you’d speak on this: are male only priests a little “t” tradition or a big “T” tradition? I’ve recently been challenged on the church’s position on men as priests and found myself stuck when trying to engage in dialogue on the matter. I’m somewhat familiar with the theology on this but any clarification and insight would be fantastic. Thank you for all you do as a servant and radical disciple of our Lord, for your continued “yes” in answering the call, and example of servant leadership. You are constantly in our prayers. – Shanna Married Priests (21:02) Father Josh, Yesterday my family and I had an interesting debate over Sunday dinner on our faith and the Catholic religion. To give context, my father is a 7th Day Adventist and my mother is Catholic, which provided an interesting decision for my parents to decide which religion my sister and I would grow up with. Ultimately, my parents decided to raise us in the Catholic Church. My sister and I went to Catholic school all of our lives and have been committed to the principles of our faith through our adult lives. In recent years, our faith has been challenged with exposure to other religions through friends and even through our father’s side of the family. We will be asked questions about traditions within the Catholic faith and we would not have the proper response other than, “this is just the way we’ve done it for years.” Of course this is mainly our fault for not asking these questions about various traditions, but in many instances we feel that some of the traditions within the Catholic religion are lost in translation by being passed from generation to generation without explanation. This has a compounding effect in generations like the true knowledge or intent of many Catholic traditions. Our discussion became further involved when my father brought up an article entitled, “Catholic bishops approve proposal allowing some married men to be ordained priests in the Amazon.” In my opinion, it is well known for the intent and reason that a priest should not be married but this has always been a determining factor for young men that seek the priesthood. There are only a select few that have the gift and dedication such as you to connect with this church family in an effective way, and willing to dedicate the rest of his life to the Lord. I’ve only had the privilege to experience a priest through one possibly two of my church communities in my life. I think that one of the reasons is this tradition. Curious to hear your thoughts and if this is approved, what would be the potential impact for the greater Catholic community? Keep up the good work, love listening to your podcast. I’m a Houston native, Lafayette raised, and work overseas. Hearing your cultural references and coffee in the morning brings a smile to my face when hearing the show. – Bryan Flawed Priests (32:20) How do you see Christ in your priest when his actions and words don’t seem to match up with Jesus? I’m continuously praying the Litany of Humility, and maybe God is trying to make me live that through the actions of the priest, but how do I get past his humanity and see Christ in him? – Bridget Resources: * Email your questions and feedback to Fr. Josh at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com * Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book! fr. josh, catholic, catholic questions, faith, priests, priesthood, women priests, catholic priests, in persona christi, married priests, can priests get married, can women be priests Fr. Josh answers three questions about the priesthood: Why can’t women be priests? Why can’t priests get married? And how can you look past the human flaws of the priest when he is acting in persona Christi?

Snippet from the Show
Jesus Christ was radical, he broke many customs. If he had wanted women to be priests, he would have chosen them to be priests … Mary [Mother of God] was far holier than Peter. Mary Magdalene showed up to the foot of the Cross. Guess who wasn’t at the foot of the Cross—Peter, Thomas, Matthew. Many of these women were far holier than the first priests. However, in God’s will, he chose men to be the matter for the sacrament of priesthood.

SHOWNOTES
Glory Story (3:05)

Women Priests (7:49)

Hi Father,

I know you mentioned before you wanted to do a themed show. So I recently heard you speak on church tradition, and the difference between big “T” and little “t” tradition which I’m sure you would elaborate on, maybe even sing about. I wanted to suggest that as a possible theme for the show. I had a specific question pertaining to this topic, and was hoping you’d speak on this: are male only priests a little “t” tradition or a big “T” tradition? I’ve recently been challenged on the church’s position on men as priests and found myself stuck when trying to engage in dialogue on the matter. I’m somewhat familiar with the theology on this but any clarification and insight would be fantastic. Thank you for all you do as a servant and radical disciple of our Lord, for your continued “yes” in answering the call, and example of servant leadership. You are constantly in our prayers.

– Shanna

Married Priests (21:02)

Father Josh,

Yesterday my family and I had an interesting debate over Sunday dinner on our faith and the Catholic religion. To give context, my father is a 7th Day Adventist and my mother is Catholic, which provided an interesting decision for my parents to decide which religion my sister and I would grow up with. Ultimately, my parents decided to raise us in the Catholic Church. My sister and I went to Catholic school all of our lives and have been committed to the principles of our faith through our adult lives. In recent years, our faith has been challenged with exposure to other religions through friends and even through our father’s side of the family. We will be asked questions about traditions within the Catholic faith and we would not have the proper response other than, “this is just the way we’ve done it for years.” Of course this is mainly our fault for not asking these questions about various traditions, but in many instances we feel that some of the traditions within the Catholic religion are lost in translation by being passed from generation to generation without explanation. This has a compounding effect in generations like the true knowledge or intent of many Catholic traditions. Our discussion became further involved when my father brought up an article entitled, “Catholic bishops approve proposal allowing some married men to be ordained priests in the Amazon.” In my opinion, it is well known for the intent and reason that a priest should not be married but this has always been a determining factor for young men that seek the priesthood. There are only a select few that have the gift and dedication such as you to connect with this church family in an effective way, and willing to dedicate the rest of his life to the Lord. I’ve only had the privilege to experience a priest through one possibly two of my church communities in my life. I think that one of the reasons is this tradition. Curious to hear your thoughts and if this is approved, what would be the potential impact for the greater Catholic community?

Keep up the good work, love listening to your podcast. I’m a Houston native, Lafayette raised, and work overseas. Hearing your cultural references and coffee in the morning brings a smile to my face when hearing the show.

– Bryan

Flawed Priests (32:20)

How do you see Christ in your priest when his actions and words don’t seem to match up with Jesus? I’m continuously praying the Litany of Humility, and maybe God is trying to make me live that through the actions of the priest, but how do I get past his humanity and see Christ in him?

– Bridget

Resources:

  • Email your questions and feedback to Fr. Josh at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com
  • Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

]]> Fr. Josh answers three questions about the priesthood: Why can’t women be priests? Why can’t priests get married? And how can you look past the human flaws of the priest when he is acting in persona Christi?

Snippet from the Show
Jesus Christ was radical, he broke many customs. If he had wanted women to be priests, he would have chosen them to be priests … Mary [Mother of God] was far holier than Peter. Mary Magdalene showed up to the foot of the Cross. Guess who wasn’t at the foot of the Cross—Peter, Thomas, Matthew. Many of these women were far holier than the first priests. However, in God’s will, he chose men to be the matter for the sacrament of priesthood.

SHOWNOTES
Glory Story (3:05)

Women Priests (7:49)

Hi Father,

I know you mentioned before you wanted to do a themed show. So I recently heard you speak on church tradition, and the difference between big “T” and little “t” tradition which I’m sure you would elaborate on, maybe even sing about. I wanted to suggest that as a possible theme for the show. I had a specific question pertaining to this topic, and was hoping you’d speak on this: are male only priests a little “t” tradition or a big “T” tradition? I’ve recently been challenged on the church’s position on men as priests and found myself stuck when trying to engage in dialogue on the matter. I’m somewhat familiar with the theology on this but any clarification and insight would be fantastic. Thank you for all you do as a servant and radical disciple of our Lord, for your continued “yes” in answering the call, and example of servant leadership. You are constantly in our prayers.

– Shanna

Married Priests (21:02)

Father Josh,

Yesterday my family and I had an interesting debate over Sunday dinner on our faith and the Catholic religion. To give context, my father is a 7th Day Adventist and my mother is Catholic, which provided an interesting decision for my parents to decide which religion my sister and I would grow up with. Ultimately, my parents decided to raise us in the Catholic Church. My sister and I went to Catholic school all of our lives and have been committed to the principles of our faith through our adult lives. In recent years, our faith has been challenged with exposure to other religions through friends and even through our father’s side of the family. We will be asked questions about traditions within the Catholic faith and we would not have the proper response other than, “this is just the way we’ve done it for years.” Of course this is mainly our fault for not asking these questions about various traditions, but in many instances we feel that some of the traditions within the Catholic religion are lost in translation by being passed from generation to generation without explanation. This has a compounding effect in generations like the true knowledge or intent of many Catholic traditions. Our discussion became further involved when my father brought up an article entitled, “Catholic bishops approve proposal allowing some married men to be ordained priests in the Amazon.” In my opinion, it is well known for the intent and reason that a priest should not be married but this has always been a determining factor for young men that seek the priesthood. There are only a select few that have the gift and dedication such as you to connect with this church family in an effective way, and willing to dedicate the rest of his life to the Lord. I’ve only had the privilege to experience a priest through one possibly two of my church communities in my life. I think that one of the reasons is this tradition. Curious to hear your thoughts and if this is approved, what would be the potential impact for the greater Catholic community?

Keep up the good work, love listening to your podcast. I’m a Houston native, Lafayette raised, and work overseas. Hearing your cultural references and coffee in the morning brings a smile to my face when hearing the show.

– Bryan

Flawed Priests (32:20)

How do you see Christ in your priest when his actions and words don’t seem to match up with Jesus? I’m continuously praying the Litany of Humility, and maybe God is trying to make me live that through the actions of the priest, but how do I get past his humanity and see Christ in him?

– Bridget

Resources:

  • Email your questions and feedback to Fr. Josh at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com
  • Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

]]> Dropping Hosts, Not Kneeling at Mass, and the Devil in Our Thoughts https://askfrjosh.fireside.fm/72 81158b9a-5ce4-426a-bc30-79304c40a476 Tue, 24 Sep 2019 12:00:00 -0400 Ascension full Ascension Fr. Josh answers questions about what to do when a consecrated Host is dropped during Communion, if the devil and demons can read our thoughts when we’re tempted, and what to do about a congregation that doesn’t kneel during Mass. 31:29 no Fr. Josh answers questions about what to do when a consecrated Host is dropped during Communion, if the devil and demons can read our thoughts when we’re tempted, and what to do about a congregation that doesn’t kneel during Mass. Snippet from the Show “Fight the devil the same way Jesus fought the devil. Whenever you recognize some temptation, quote Scripture out loud, and say ‘Get behind me Satan’. The word of God will fight for us.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (2:20) Listener Feedback (4:58) Dropping Hosts (6:51) Last Sunday, during Communion, as I was peeking at the consecrated host from my hand I dropped it, and it fell to the floor by my feet. I gasped, and immediately grabbed it up and put it in my mouth. I was beyond mortified. I know part of it was embarrassment of those who may have seen me but I couldn't believe I’d been so careless with our Lord. Why wouldn’t I be more attentive during those few minutes I’m receiving Holy Communion. I prayed deeply about this and I heard him chuckle and say “Really, it’s okay.” I just can’t get that sight out of my mind: seeing him, Jesus, on the floor. I pray this never ever happens to me again, but if it does, what is the appropriate thing to do? Is there something more I should do now after making this awful blunder, is this a sin I need to confess? –A Clumsy Lover of Christ Devil in Our Thoughts (11:09) Dear Father Josh, My friend and I enjoy your podcast so very much. It is my favorite to listen to during commutes or travel, and some of the things you say are so profound to me I either have to stop the podcast and keep repeating it in my head, rewind and replay it over and over, and I usually write it down so I can meditate on the words even more. Your book is also amazing and I can’t wait for the new book to be released. You’re a blessing, keep up the awesome work. Here’s our question: does the devil have access to our minds? Does he know our thoughts as God knows our thoughts and our innermost being. We were thinking that the devil does not know our thoughts and the way that we can protect ourselves from his temptation and masterful lies was to never verbalize our thoughts and feelings, to never think out loud if you will. To keep thoughts inside so as to not allow the enemy to know our secrets. If he can’t access our thoughts then he can’t tempt us and control our minds, or use our thoughts and feelings against us. How exactly does the devil tempt us and can he get into our head? –Two Friends from Texas Not Kneeling at Mass (24:03) Hi Father Josh, Recently I moved away for college and started attending Mass at one of the local Catholic churches. I was a bit surprised when none of the congregation kneeled down during the Eucharistic prayers. In fact, the pews did not even have kneelers. I’ve since started attending a different Catholic church nearby. This was the first Catholic church I’d ever seen that doesn’t kneel, and it made me curious about the reason. Should I avoid going to this particular church because of this? –Claire Resources General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) (http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/the-mass/general-instruction-of-the-roman-missal/) The Litany of Humil (https://ascensionpress.com/pages/litany-of-humility)ity Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation (https://ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation?utm_source=website&utm_medium=media&utm_campaign=brokenandblessed&utm_content=afj) by Fr. Josh catholic, mass, communion, host, devil, demons, temptation, sin Fr. Josh answers questions about what to do when a consecrated Host is dropped during Communion, if the devil and demons can read our thoughts when we’re tempted, and what to do about a congregation that doesn’t kneel during Mass.

Snippet from the Show
“Fight the devil the same way Jesus fought the devil. Whenever you recognize some temptation, quote Scripture out loud, and say ‘Get behind me Satan’. The word of God will fight for us.”

SHOWNOTES

Glory Story (2:20)

Listener Feedback (4:58)

Dropping Hosts (6:51)
Last Sunday, during Communion, as I was peeking at the consecrated host from my hand I dropped it, and it fell to the floor by my feet. I gasped, and immediately grabbed it up and put it in my mouth. I was beyond mortified. I know part of it was embarrassment of those who may have seen me but I couldn't believe I’d been so careless with our Lord. Why wouldn’t I be more attentive during those few minutes I’m receiving Holy Communion. I prayed deeply about this and I heard him chuckle and say “Really, it’s okay.” I just can’t get that sight out of my mind: seeing him, Jesus, on the floor. I pray this never ever happens to me again, but if it does, what is the appropriate thing to do? Is there something more I should do now after making this awful blunder, is this a sin I need to confess?
–A Clumsy Lover of Christ

Devil in Our Thoughts (11:09)
Dear Father Josh,
My friend and I enjoy your podcast so very much. It is my favorite to listen to during commutes or travel, and some of the things you say are so profound to me I either have to stop the podcast and keep repeating it in my head, rewind and replay it over and over, and I usually write it down so I can meditate on the words even more. Your book is also amazing and I can’t wait for the new book to be released. You’re a blessing, keep up the awesome work. Here’s our question: does the devil have access to our minds? Does he know our thoughts as God knows our thoughts and our innermost being. We were thinking that the devil does not know our thoughts and the way that we can protect ourselves from his temptation and masterful lies was to never verbalize our thoughts and feelings, to never think out loud if you will. To keep thoughts inside so as to not allow the enemy to know our secrets. If he can’t access our thoughts then he can’t tempt us and control our minds, or use our thoughts and feelings against us. How exactly does the devil tempt us and can he get into our head?
–Two Friends from Texas

Not Kneeling at Mass (24:03)
Hi Father Josh,
Recently I moved away for college and started attending Mass at one of the local Catholic churches. I was a bit surprised when none of the congregation kneeled down during the Eucharistic prayers. In fact, the pews did not even have kneelers. I’ve since started attending a different Catholic church nearby. This was the first Catholic church I’d ever seen that doesn’t kneel, and it made me curious about the reason. Should I avoid going to this particular church because of this?
–Claire

Resources

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

]]> Fr. Josh answers questions about what to do when a consecrated Host is dropped during Communion, if the devil and demons can read our thoughts when we’re tempted, and what to do about a congregation that doesn’t kneel during Mass.

Snippet from the Show
“Fight the devil the same way Jesus fought the devil. Whenever you recognize some temptation, quote Scripture out loud, and say ‘Get behind me Satan’. The word of God will fight for us.”

SHOWNOTES

Glory Story (2:20)

Listener Feedback (4:58)

Dropping Hosts (6:51)
Last Sunday, during Communion, as I was peeking at the consecrated host from my hand I dropped it, and it fell to the floor by my feet. I gasped, and immediately grabbed it up and put it in my mouth. I was beyond mortified. I know part of it was embarrassment of those who may have seen me but I couldn't believe I’d been so careless with our Lord. Why wouldn’t I be more attentive during those few minutes I’m receiving Holy Communion. I prayed deeply about this and I heard him chuckle and say “Really, it’s okay.” I just can’t get that sight out of my mind: seeing him, Jesus, on the floor. I pray this never ever happens to me again, but if it does, what is the appropriate thing to do? Is there something more I should do now after making this awful blunder, is this a sin I need to confess?
–A Clumsy Lover of Christ

Devil in Our Thoughts (11:09)
Dear Father Josh,
My friend and I enjoy your podcast so very much. It is my favorite to listen to during commutes or travel, and some of the things you say are so profound to me I either have to stop the podcast and keep repeating it in my head, rewind and replay it over and over, and I usually write it down so I can meditate on the words even more. Your book is also amazing and I can’t wait for the new book to be released. You’re a blessing, keep up the awesome work. Here’s our question: does the devil have access to our minds? Does he know our thoughts as God knows our thoughts and our innermost being. We were thinking that the devil does not know our thoughts and the way that we can protect ourselves from his temptation and masterful lies was to never verbalize our thoughts and feelings, to never think out loud if you will. To keep thoughts inside so as to not allow the enemy to know our secrets. If he can’t access our thoughts then he can’t tempt us and control our minds, or use our thoughts and feelings against us. How exactly does the devil tempt us and can he get into our head?
–Two Friends from Texas

Not Kneeling at Mass (24:03)
Hi Father Josh,
Recently I moved away for college and started attending Mass at one of the local Catholic churches. I was a bit surprised when none of the congregation kneeled down during the Eucharistic prayers. In fact, the pews did not even have kneelers. I’ve since started attending a different Catholic church nearby. This was the first Catholic church I’d ever seen that doesn’t kneel, and it made me curious about the reason. Should I avoid going to this particular church because of this?
–Claire

Resources

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

]]> Praying to the Saints, the Communion Fast, and Confession “Hopping” https://askfrjosh.fireside.fm/61 9fb96103-6673-47ef-afdc-926343dd15fc Tue, 09 Jul 2019 12:00:00 -0400 Ascension full Ascension Fr. Josh answers questions about why praying to the saints is different from worshiping them, how to remind people about the fast before receiving Communion, and whether it’s OK to go to a different parish for confession (so you don’t have to go to your pastor). 33:11 no Fr. Josh answers questions about why praying to the saints is different from worshiping them, how to remind people about the fast before receiving Communion, and whether it’s OK to go to a different parish for confession (so you don’t have to go to your pastor). If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode! Snippet from the Show “The word ‘pray’ actually means ‘to ask’. It’s become synonymous with ‘worship’ but that’s not what it means.” SHOWNOTES Glory Story (1:46) One of Fr. Josh’s parishioners recently gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! As he was leaving the hospital the women’s youngest son ran up to Fr. Josh thinking he was Jesus. Listener Feedback (6:51) Praying to the Saints (11:57) Fr. Josh, I absolutely love your podcast and haven't missed an episode! I am a cradle Catholic and your podcast, in addition to a few other awesome Catholic podcasts, have helped me to grow in my Faith and my love for Jesus more than I ever thought possible. My husband of 11 years joined the Church at the Easter Vigil in 2018. During RCIA classes, he learned a lot more than what I could have ever begun to tell him about; that being said, he still has a hangup with how we pray to Mary and to the Saints for their intercession for us. During our nightly prayer time, I've attempted to be more intentional with praying to saints for their intercession and have been trying to learn more about various saints. One night, I specifically prayed for our Blessed Mother to help us to parent more like her and to be patient like she was in raising Jesus. After we finished, he said that he wasn't sure it was right that I asked Mary for help. I tried to explain that Mary can only help us through the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and not of her own power. I think it was just the language I used during prayer that caused him to hesitate, so my questions are below: Is there a 'correct' way to pray to Mary or the Saints in such a way that it doesn't seem like we are worshiping them or asking them directly for their help through their own power? How can we properly explain that when we pray to Mary and the Saints that we are NOT worshiping them? We believe that they are the living Body of Christ in Heaven and they can pray for us and help us just as a member of the living Body of Christ here on earth can, right? Why is this so hard for non-Catholics to understand? Thanks so much, and may God continue to bless you as you walk with so many of us while we deepen our Faith. -Tammy The Communion Fast (22:33) Hi Fr. Josh! I have a tricky question for you regarding the hour fast before Holy Communion. It surprises me how many people of all ages do not know about this fast. I do understand that this is a fast before Communion and not the start of Mass, but there have been numerous times when friends, acquaintances, and various adults have been eating something or drinking coffee in that "grey area time" (where depending on the Mass length you may not meet the fast) or even a few minutes before Mass. I don't think God is "counting down the minutes" till you have met the hour fast, but I also believe that as Catholics we shouldn't want to cut it close just to eat food. We should be honoring this fast in devotion to Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. There have been a few instances where a friend has been about to eat something and out of charity I reminded them about the fast. But I am confused as to when it is right for me to do so and when I should just hold my tongue? Because if these people truly did not know about the fast, it would be good if I told them, but I also don't want to commit a sin by not speaking up when I have the opportunity to kindly remind them about the fast. -Jane Confession “Hopping” (26:59) Thank you so much for your podcast! It has been so helpful for me. I'm not really sure how to phrase this question, but it's something I've been thinking about lately so here goes.. I am quite involved in my parish now so my parish priests have gotten to know me a lot better than they used to. I have kinda been avoiding going to confession recently because the priests know me personally now, I'm no longer 'anonymous' as such. I would rather go to confession at a different parish (there are others close by) to do a good confession with a priest I don't know. Is this ok or should I just try and 'get over' this fear/embarrassment. I know it's a pride thing on my part, and they would just be happy that I go to receive the sacrament! Anyway I'm wondering what advice you may have on this? How do you do a good confession with a priest you work closely with?? Is it ok to avoid confession at your local parish and go to a different parish? Do you have any advice on how you've managed this in your own life? -Anonymous Universal Call Share this podcast with a friend and potentially be the reason they deepen their relationship with God! Resources See more resources at ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh * Broken and Blessed (https://shop.ascensionpress.com/products/broken-and-blessed-an-invitation-to-my-generation)book by Fr. Josh Johnson saint, catholic, priest, communion, eucharist, confession, reconciliation, catholic church Fr. Josh answers questions about why praying to the saints is different from worshiping them, how to remind people about the fast before receiving Communion, and whether it’s OK to go to a different parish for confession (so you don’t have to go to your pastor).

If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode!

Snippet from the Show
“The word ‘pray’ actually means ‘to ask’. It’s become synonymous with ‘worship’ but that’s not what it means.”

SHOWNOTES

Glory Story (1:46)
One of Fr. Josh’s parishioners recently gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! As he was leaving the hospital the women’s youngest son ran up to Fr. Josh thinking he was Jesus.

Listener Feedback (6:51)

Praying to the Saints (11:57)
Fr. Josh, I absolutely love your podcast and haven't missed an episode! I am a cradle Catholic and your podcast, in addition to a few other awesome Catholic podcasts, have helped me to grow in my Faith and my love for Jesus more than I ever thought possible. My husband of 11 years joined the Church at the Easter Vigil in 2018. During RCIA classes, he learned a lot more than what I could have ever begun to tell him about; that being said, he still has a hangup with how we pray to Mary and to the Saints for their intercession for us. During our nightly prayer time, I've attempted to be more intentional with praying to saints for their intercession and have been trying to learn more about various saints. One night, I specifically prayed for our Blessed Mother to help us to parent more like her and to be patient like she was in raising Jesus. After we finished, he said that he wasn't sure it was right that I asked Mary for help. I tried to explain that Mary can only help us through the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and not of her own power. I think it was just the language I used during prayer that caused him to hesitate, so my questions are below:

  1. Is there a 'correct' way to pray to Mary or the Saints in such a way that it doesn't seem like we are worshiping them or asking them directly for their help through their own power?

  2. How can we properly explain that when we pray to Mary and the Saints that we are NOT worshiping them? We believe that they are the living Body of Christ in Heaven and they can pray for us and help us just as a member of the living Body of Christ here on earth can, right? Why is this so hard for non-Catholics to understand?

Thanks so much, and may God continue to bless you as you walk with so many of us while we deepen our Faith.
-Tammy

The Communion Fast (22:33)
Hi Fr. Josh! I have a tricky question for you regarding the hour fast before Holy Communion. It surprises me how many people of all ages do not know about this fast. I do understand that this is a fast before Communion and not the start of Mass, but there have been numerous times when friends, acquaintances, and various adults have been eating something or drinking coffee in that "grey area time" (where depending on the Mass length you may not meet the fast) or even a few minutes before Mass. I don't think God is "counting down the minutes" till you have met the hour fast, but I also believe that as Catholics we shouldn't want to cut it close just to eat food. We should be honoring this fast in devotion to Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. There have been a few instances where a friend has been about to eat something and out of charity I reminded them about the fast. But I am confused as to when it is right for me to do so and when I should just hold my tongue? Because if these people truly did not know about the fast, it would be good if I told them, but I also don't want to commit a sin by not speaking up when I have the opportunity to kindly remind them about the fast.
-Jane

Confession “Hopping” (26:59)
Thank you so much for your podcast! It has been so helpful for me. I'm not really sure how to phrase this question, but it's something I've been thinking about lately so here goes.. I am quite involved in my parish now so my parish priests have gotten to know me a lot better than they used to. I have kinda been avoiding going to confession recently because the priests know me personally now, I'm no longer 'anonymous' as such. I would rather go to confession at a different parish (there are others close by) to do a good confession with a priest I don't know. Is this ok or should I just try and 'get over' this fear/embarrassment. I know it's a pride thing on my part, and they would just be happy that I go to receive the sacrament! Anyway I'm wondering what advice you may have on this? How do you do a good confession with a priest you work closely with?? Is it ok to avoid confession at your local parish and go to a different parish? Do you have any advice on how you've managed this in your own life?
-Anonymous

Universal Call
Share this podcast with a friend and potentially be the reason they deepen their relationship with God!

Resources
See more resources at ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

]]> Fr. Josh answers questions about why praying to the saints is different from worshiping them, how to remind people about the fast before receiving Communion, and whether it’s OK to go to a different parish for confession (so you don’t have to go to your pastor).

If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode!

Snippet from the Show
“The word ‘pray’ actually means ‘to ask’. It’s become synonymous with ‘worship’ but that’s not what it means.”

SHOWNOTES

Glory Story (1:46)
One of Fr. Josh’s parishioners recently gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! As he was leaving the hospital the women’s youngest son ran up to Fr. Josh thinking he was Jesus.

Listener Feedback (6:51)

Praying to the Saints (11:57)
Fr. Josh, I absolutely love your podcast and haven't missed an episode! I am a cradle Catholic and your podcast, in addition to a few other awesome Catholic podcasts, have helped me to grow in my Faith and my love for Jesus more than I ever thought possible. My husband of 11 years joined the Church at the Easter Vigil in 2018. During RCIA classes, he learned a lot more than what I could have ever begun to tell him about; that being said, he still has a hangup with how we pray to Mary and to the Saints for their intercession for us. During our nightly prayer time, I've attempted to be more intentional with praying to saints for their intercession and have been trying to learn more about various saints. One night, I specifically prayed for our Blessed Mother to help us to parent more like her and to be patient like she was in raising Jesus. After we finished, he said that he wasn't sure it was right that I asked Mary for help. I tried to explain that Mary can only help us through the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and not of her own power. I think it was just the language I used during prayer that caused him to hesitate, so my questions are below:

  1. Is there a 'correct' way to pray to Mary or the Saints in such a way that it doesn't seem like we are worshiping them or asking them directly for their help through their own power?

  2. How can we properly explain that when we pray to Mary and the Saints that we are NOT worshiping them? We believe that they are the living Body of Christ in Heaven and they can pray for us and help us just as a member of the living Body of Christ here on earth can, right? Why is this so hard for non-Catholics to understand?

Thanks so much, and may God continue to bless you as you walk with so many of us while we deepen our Faith.
-Tammy

The Communion Fast (22:33)
Hi Fr. Josh! I have a tricky question for you regarding the hour fast before Holy Communion. It surprises me how many people of all ages do not know about this fast. I do understand that this is a fast before Communion and not the start of Mass, but there have been numerous times when friends, acquaintances, and various adults have been eating something or drinking coffee in that "grey area time" (where depending on the Mass length you may not meet the fast) or even a few minutes before Mass. I don't think God is "counting down the minutes" till you have met the hour fast, but I also believe that as Catholics we shouldn't want to cut it close just to eat food. We should be honoring this fast in devotion to Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. There have been a few instances where a friend has been about to eat something and out of charity I reminded them about the fast. But I am confused as to when it is right for me to do so and when I should just hold my tongue? Because if these people truly did not know about the fast, it would be good if I told them, but I also don't want to commit a sin by not speaking up when I have the opportunity to kindly remind them about the fast.
-Jane

Confession “Hopping” (26:59)
Thank you so much for your podcast! It has been so helpful for me. I'm not really sure how to phrase this question, but it's something I've been thinking about lately so here goes.. I am quite involved in my parish now so my parish priests have gotten to know me a lot better than they used to. I have kinda been avoiding going to confession recently because the priests know me personally now, I'm no longer 'anonymous' as such. I would rather go to confession at a different parish (there are others close by) to do a good confession with a priest I don't know. Is this ok or should I just try and 'get over' this fear/embarrassment. I know it's a pride thing on my part, and they would just be happy that I go to receive the sacrament! Anyway I'm wondering what advice you may have on this? How do you do a good confession with a priest you work closely with?? Is it ok to avoid confession at your local parish and go to a different parish? Do you have any advice on how you've managed this in your own life?
-Anonymous

Universal Call
Share this podcast with a friend and potentially be the reason they deepen their relationship with God!

Resources
See more resources at ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

]]> Depression, Sexism in the Church, Candy During Lent, and Posting on Facebook https://askfrjosh.fireside.fm/45 76b88810-1cdf-4aaf-9831-46f9f4169469 Tue, 19 Mar 2019 12:00:00 -0400 Ascension full Ascension Fr. Josh answers questions about why God allows depression, sexism in the Church, choosing a good Lenten sacrifice, and posting religious images and quotes on social media. If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode! 33:58 no Fr. Josh answers questions about why God allows depression, sexism in the Church, choosing a good Lenten sacrifice, and posting religious images and quotes on social media. If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode! For full shownotes, text ASKFRJOSH to 33-777 or visit AscensionPress.com (ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh) depression, sexism, church, catholic, lent, priest, questions Fr. Josh answers questions about why God allows depression, sexism in the Church, choosing a good Lenten sacrifice, and posting religious images and quotes on social media.

If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode!

For full shownotes, text ASKFRJOSH to 33-777 or visit [AscensionPress.com](ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh)

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

]]> Fr. Josh answers questions about why God allows depression, sexism in the Church, choosing a good Lenten sacrifice, and posting religious images and quotes on social media.

If you have a question, comment, or response for Fr. Josh, email us at askfrjosh@ascensionpress.com. You may hear your question or comment in an upcoming podcast episode!

For full shownotes, text ASKFRJOSH to 33-777 or visit [AscensionPress.com](ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh)

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

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