Does abstaining from meat on Fridays during Lent include things like chicken broth or beef stock?
But the deeper question isn’t just “Is it allowed?”, it’s “Is it helping you grow closer to Jesus?” Lent is about more than following rules; it’s about forming the heart through sacrifice, simplicity, and intention.
In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim answers a practical and surprisingly common question about Lenten fasting. Looking at the Church’s teaching, he explains that abstinence refers specifically to the flesh meat of animals, not necessarily byproducts like broth.
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Just Because It’s in the Bible Doesn’t Mean God Approves
Does Genesis contradict science? Fr. Tim explains how Catholics read Genesis, why genre matters, and how Scripture and sound science fit together.
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What Is Purgatory and Why It’s Good News?
The word purgatory isn’t in the Bible, but neither are Trinity or Christmas. Still, the reality of purgatory is both real and hopeful: it’s not punishment, it’s preparation. In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim explains what purgatory truly is. It’s a time of purification that readies our hearts to be with Jesus forever. Through Scripture, the Catechism, and one unforgettable wedding dress analogy, he shows why purgatory is actually good news.
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Is It a Sin to Watch Mass Online?
Is watching Mass online the same as actually going to Mass?
In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim explains the difference between praying with a livestream Mass and being physically present at the Eucharist. A livestream can be helpful, prayerful, and meaningful, especially when someone is sick, has mobility issues, or truly cannot get to Mass. But it can never replace the warmth and reality of receiving Jesus in the Eucharist.
Using the image of a fireplace on YouTube, Father Tim reminds us that a livestream may give the “vibe,” but it cannot give the warmth. In the same way, watching Mass online can help us pray, but it is not the same as being in the presence of Jesus and receiving His Body and Blood.
If you truly cannot attend Mass, the Church does not call that sinful. But if you can go and choose comfort over Communion, it becomes a heart check.
Jesus doesn’t want to be loved from a distance. He wants to be close, so close that we receive Him.
