News
Local Donors Raise Record $2.2 Million Through #iGiveCatholic
Nearly 9,000 donors raised a record-breaking $2,213,146 for Catholic parishes, schools, and charitable ministries throughout the five-county Archdiocese of Philadelphia through #iGiveCatholic on GivingTuesday.
Surprise Engagement Proposal at School Shows Couple’s Deep Catholic Roots
Ed Peterson shocked Ashley Dougherty – both teachers in Catholic grade schools – when he asked “Will you marry me?” in the presence of her young students. The couple (she accepted!) will join a long family line of Catholic educators.
Deacon Thomas Croke Looks to Renewal in ‘Fulfilling’ Role as Leader of Holy Martyrs Parish
The permanent deacon, assuming the new role of Parish Life Director in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, hopes to use his unique skill set to inspire new energy at the parish in Oreland that has faced challenges in recent years.
St. Charles Borromeo Seminary Launching Program to Mentor Young Priests
Thanks to a $10 million grant, St. Charles and three other U.S. Catholic seminaries will provide training and ongoing evaluation to ensure transitional deacons and newly ordained priests receive guidance in their early parish assignments.
Audited Reports Show Surplus in Archdiocese’s Finances for 2025
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia reported a $2 million core operating surplus. It was the eighth consecutive year for a surplus, marking a significant improvement from the $17.6 million deficit in 2012.
Blessing of the Nativity Scene at Cathedral Set for Dec. 17
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will celebrate its 29th annual Blessing of the Nativity Scene on Dec. 17 with prayer, music, and community at the Cathedral Basilica.
Series Explores Advent Journey for Black Catholics, and Everyone
Dr. Toni Reaves of the archdiocesan Office for Black Catholics leads “From the Manger to the Movement,” a four-week online exploration of the Christmas story and its links to universal themes of hope and liberation.
Permanent Deacon James Mahar
Retired Deacon James Mahar, passed away on December 1, 2025, at the age of 80.
Family Film Offers Philly-Flavored Take on Nativity Story
“Finding Christmas,” available on streaming platforms, is set in Northeast Philadelphia as it follows the story of a young man who travels in a dreamy adventure with an angel to the time of Christ’s birth, and back to his city neighborhood.
Parish Life Director Mark Griswold Works to Grow a Vital Catholic Presence in Delaware County
Adopting a new model of parish leadership in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, the longtime lay minister at St. Norbert Parish now leads St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lenni. It’s a role he views as “a sign from God.”