Q I belong to one of those parishes where the whole Mass stops for what feels like an hour during the Sign of Peace. What I want to know is, what does the General Instruction of the Roman Missal say is the proper way to do the Sign of Peace? Do you have to shake hands, or is polite nod acceptable? And was there talk a few years ago about changing when we do it during the Mass? It seems really disruptive where it is.

I was asked by a non-Catholic whether Pope Francis is a hypocrite because he won’t sell everything and give it all to the poor. I was not sure how to respond. Thoughts?

Q I have a question about the readings throughout the year. Who decides on the selection of readings? What is the logic of the order? What are the cycles supposed to do? Help me to understand, because I seem to be missing the rationale for all of it.