Catholic Q&A

Q: Are vocations only part of the Catholic Church?

A: Most theistic religions believe that God calls His creatures to do certain things with their lives, so no, belief in vocations are not only a part of the Catholic Church. Additionally, Catholics believe that God created all people and has a plan (vocation) for each one, regardless of religion.

Q: Can you become Catholic being married multiple times?

A: Going to a local priest and asking him this question would be the best way to get an answer specific to the factors involved in one's individual case. There are many times that marriages can be annulled, meaning that they were not sacramental marriages to begin with (annulment is different from divorce, which says that there was a marriage, but it has ended). However, a person may not become Catholic if they are with a person aside from their lawful (in church law, not civil law) spouse.

These issues are usually worked out and resolved in the process of becoming Catholic.

Q: What color is a Catholic bishop's hat?

A: A bishop's skullcap, also called a zucchetto or pileolus, is violet. The double-pointed hat worn in procession, called the mitre, can be many different colors, but is usually a plain white linen with simple decorations.

Q: What is the title bestowed upon a Catholic Church because of its age or importance?

A: The term basilica (there are two degrees, minor and major), deriving from the Greek word for a castle, is granted as an honorary title on certain churches which have shown prominence within the Church, particularly as pilgrimage sites. A basilica bears certain markings, such as a pavillion (a fancy umbrella used for shade) and a bell, both of which would be used in procession, were the pope to enter the basilica.

His Servant and Yours,


Micah