Local News

Hundreds pray at Cathedral for healing of sex abuse crisis

Drawn by "sorrow and anger" over the latest clergy sexual abuse scandals, lay Catholics, priests and religious gathered last Friday night at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul to pray for victims and church leaders.

Sisters acclimate newly arrived women, children to life in America

The IHM Family Literacy Center, at its new home in Coatesville, Chester County, helps immigrants from Latin America learn English and life skills. Overwhelmed at first, during the program they blossom.

Composer with deep faith and local roots writes ‘Tolton’ soundtrack

Tony Manfredonia, a graduate of two area Catholic schools, wrote the music for a new drama about the first African American priest and saint in the making. Whether composing for video games or Sunday Mass, he starts with faith.

Marking 150 years, Nativity B.V.M. Parish, Media, is serious about outreach

"The Hands of Christ" is a motto and a mission taken up by members of the Delaware County parish, who welcomed Archbishop Chaput Sept. 8 for an anniversary Mass to one of the archdiocese's prettiest churches.

Aging gracefully: Partnership helps seniors remain in homes

Catholic Housing and Community Services of the archdiocese is offering seniors in-home support with St. Mary Medical Center in Bucks County. One tangible result is fewer repeat visits to the hospital.

Pilgrims flock to Ukrainian Catholic Church in abandoned Pa. town

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church is the last of seven Catholic churches in Centralia, now a virtual ghost town due to its poisonous mine fire. The church stands as a testament to faith in tough times and places.

Jesus set to headline at fifth annual AbbeyFest

The Sept. 22 faith and music festival at Daylesford Abbey will feature performances by several Christian artists, along with prayer, confession, Mass and eucharistic adoration.

Clergy sex abuse not about gay priests, top psychologist says

Married men are far more likely to sexually abuse and harass young people than priests, and four big recent changes are helping to prevent child sexual abuse in the church, said an expert in treating Catholic clergy and laity.

Catholic high school teachers ink new 2-year deal

Negotiators for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Association of Catholic Teachers agreed on a new contract that includes an average 2.3 percent salary raise, just a day before the start of school on Sept. 5.

Our Lady of Angels rises from ashes while rebuilding from fire

After a devastating July 18 fire, students and staff of the regional Delaware County Catholic school have relocated classes to a wing of Cardinal O'Hara High School while their new structure takes shape.