June 2018 archive of Fr. Joel Hastings
Rogation and Ember Days
Posted by Carol Cyr on 6/25/18
What exactly are rogation days and ember days? What can we do as individuals and as a parish on these days to pay them proper respect?
The presence “Rogation Days” and “Ember Days” have long existed in the Church’s liturgical calendar – though in present ... Read More »
Use of bells in the Church
Posted by Carol Cyr on 6/18/18
What is the meaning behind the ringing of the bells during Mass, and why are they at the specific moments they are (especially the 3rd ring)?
The ringing of bells within the Mass has been around for many years. To expand this question to bells in general, ... Read More »
Boys and Girls as altar servers
Posted by Carol Cyr on 6/11/18
Why do some parishes only allow boys to be altar servers?
Let me begin by giving some clarity on the sources for whether or not girls are permitted to serve at the altar. There is no little confusion on “who” can decide whether or not altar serving ... Read More »
Why a final judgement? Why is Peter shown with a chicken?
Posted by Carol Cyr on 6/04/18
If through the Sacrament of Penance we are absolved from sin, why the Final Judgement?
Earlier this year (in February, to be precise), I answered a similar question about judgement, acknowledging that each of us in the moment of death is judged as either worthy of heaven ... Read More »