Local News

Filipino tradition of ‘novena’ of Masses becoming popular in Phila.

The Advent custom of Simbang Gabi, popular in the Philippine Islands and wherever Filipinos have migrated, will be celebrated in the archdiocese with Masses on nine successive nights at various churches before Christmas.

Archdiocese names new head of Catholic elementary education

By welcoming Andrew McLaughlin to a restructured post, the Philadelphia Archdiocese seeks to renew focus on parish and regional Catholic grade schools. McLaughlin, currently head of special education, begins his new role in February.

Archbishop brings fellowship, ‘word of Jesus’ to Phila. prisoners

When Archbishop Charles Chaput visited the sprawling Curran-Fromhold prison Dec. 18, assured the inmates they are not forgotten. His message of hope was not lost on his grateful listeners.

At home for disabled youths, $10K helps them feel ‘like any other kid’

A fund drive by the Catholic Charities Appeal on #GivingTuesday will help St. Edmond’s Home to buy equipment aiding children with profound physical challenges. There was reason to rejoice when a $10,870 check was presented -- see our video.

States bring lawsuit challenging religious exemption to mandate

A federal court in Philadelphia heard oral arguments Dec. 14 in a suit that aims to take away the exemption granted to the Little Sisters of the Poor and other religious employers allowing them to refuse to cover contraceptives for their employees.

Archdiocese releases financial info on nearly a dozen church entities

Following last month's release of audited financial statements for its Office for Financial Services, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia released 14 additional statements Dec. 15 for operations concerning human services, education and cemeteries.

Bill to ban dismemberment abortions in Pa. sails through House

A bill that had previously passed in the Senate was approved Dec. 12 by a vote of 121-70 in the Republican-controlled state House of Representatives. Pro-lifers lauded the bill's bipartisan support -- watch a video after the vote.

On busy city street, this reminder of Jesus’ birth can’t be missed

For the 20th year, a display of the Nativity creche will catch the eye of commuters going by Logan Square in Philadelphia. It was blessed Dec. 13 and supported in song by children who well understood the real meaning of Christmas.

$350,000 gift to Holy Family U one of university’s largest ever

Holy Family alumna Marianne Clisham Harrington donated her New York property to the university's School of Education Dec. 8. She had previously endowed a scholarship for education students in need.

Among new clergy assignments, one priest heading to Rome

An archdiocesan pastor and senior official will begin service at the Holy See next year, Archbishop Chaput announced, along with several other changes of assignment in the archdiocese.