National News
Concern rises over impact of expected tax cuts on programs for the poor
Some Catholic observers are concerned that large cuts in health care and other public services will follow as tax revenues fall under the tax reform plan expected to be unveiled Nov. 1 by Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.
Amid hurricane’s devastation, Puerto Ricans’ spirit seen shining through
Above all material and financial considerations after Hurricane Maria's severe damage in Puerto Rico, one must highlight the brotherly spirit shown by the island's people during the ongoing recovery period, said the island's top Catholic pastor.
Pro-life group says teen immigrant having an abortion regrettable
The American Civil Liberties Union supported an abortion for the 17-year-old, who is in the country illegally and identified only as Jane Doe.
Pence rebukes U.N. efforts to help Christians, announces Middle East trip
Since the organization "failed" to help Christians and other minority religious communities aid from the United States would be routed through the U.S. Agency for International Development and "faith-based and private organizations" to help those who are persecuted.
Bishop Cantu asks U.S. to support inclusive governance in Afghanistan
Bishop Oscar Cantu of Las Cruces, New Mexico, offered three officials in President Donald Trump's administration a set of principles Oct. 26 to help guide U.S. actions in the troubled country.
Auschwitz program offers participants chance to examine ethics questions
The program invites graduate students and young professionals to a 12-day seminar trip through Germany and Poland within respective departments of study: business, journalism, law, medical and seminary.
Utah bishop calls patriarch’s visit inspiring, blessing for all Catholics
Cardinal Rai's Oct. 20 visit to Utah was part of a U.S. trip that included various stops at Maronite parishes and his participation in the 2017 In Defense of Christians Summit in Washington Oct. 24-26.
Bishop offers Congress moral principles for weighing tax reform
Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, said in an Oct. 25 letter to lawmakers that the needs of poor Americans must remain foremost in any tax code revisions and urged that programs benefiting poor people not be cut to pay for any potential tax cuts.
World War II chaplain receives military honors posthumously for heroism
Father Joseph Verbis Lafleur, a World War II chaplain who gave his life while saving others on a Japanese prison ship, was honored posthumously with the Distinguished Service Cross and Purple Heart in a ceremony in Opelousas.
Protecting Mideast Christians is in best interest of U.S., panelists say
Robert Nicholson, executive director of the Philos Project, noted that pluralistic societies that contain Christians tend to be more moderate. Christians in those societies make a "very tangible contribution," being some of the most educated and wealthy people, he added.