Who was Saint Valentine and how did he come to inspire Valentine's Day?

What is the Church's teaching regarding suicide? I always thought that suicide was a mortal sin, so how is it that a person can be buried in the Church?

As a child, I remember having my throat blessed on the Feast of St. Blaise. I was never too sure who he was or why we did this. Also, it seems like the practice has been forgotten. Would you please help me.

Sometimes I have met Catholics who say, "I am personally against abortion, but I am pro-choice." To me, that makes no sense, but how can I argue with them?

I have noticed that some churches ring bells during the Mass while others do not. Is there a rule about the practice?

A question for you regarding Catholics who practice artificial birth control: What is their status in the Church? Are they committing mortal sin? I feel that this is a much misunderstood question by most Catholics, including myself. To further muddle the issue, what is the Church 's position when one's spouse does not want to practice NFP?

My friend is Greek Orthodox. In his Church, they make the sign of the cross crossing themselves from the right shoulder to the left, but we do the opposite. Why is there a difference? When did this come into practice?

Silent Night is such a beautiful Christmas carol, known by every Christian. What can you tell me about it?

I had heard that the Christmas song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" was written to help teach children catechism. Do you know anything about it?

A Protestant friend came with me to Mass last Sunday and asked about the Holy Water fonts and why we make the sign of the cross with it when we enter and leave the Church. What answer would you give to her?