Catholic Philly – News from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

Local News

Immaculate Conception points to Christ and Christmas, says local priest

God "reached back in time" from the cross to preserve Mary from original sin, making her "a worthy dwelling" for Jesus and preparing us to be the same, said Father Dennis Gill.

Beloved Marian feast honors ‘mother, companion, advocate’

Some 1,200 area faithful, many traveling several miles on foot, are expected at a Dec. 11 celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe, marking a 16th-century appearance of Mary that continues to inspire profound devotion.

At Advent gathering, ancient prayer speaks to ‘what’s happening today’

The Religious Sisters of the Assumption are inviting faithful to "raise their experiences to God" by chanting the Liturgy of the Hours Dec. 11.

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Photo features

Archbishop accepts prestigious Barry Award at gala

Archbishop Nelson J. Perez received the American Catholic Historical Society’s (ACHS) 2021 Barry Award Friday evening, Dec. 3 at the Union League of Philadelphia.

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World News

In morning darkness, pope observes Immaculate Conception

An hour before sunrise, Pope Francis set white roses at a statue of the Immaculate Conception in the center of Rome, praying Mary would help all who suffer.

In Greece, Pope expresses concern for democracy’s decline in Europe

"Here democracy was born," Pope Francis told Greek officials. "Yet we cannot avoid noting with concern how today -- and not only in Europe -- we are witnessing a retreat from democracy" to authoritarianism and populism's "easy answers."

Hong Kong’s new Catholic bishop promises bridge building

At his installation Bishop Stephen Chow Sau-yan, 62, wanted to heal the rift among Catholics and between Christian denominations, the Chinese government and society after two years of pro-democracy protests.

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National News

Justices seem willing to allow Mississippi’s 15-week abortion ban

The point of viability was key to the discussion at the Supreme Court Dec. 1 because the court has consistently ruled that states cannot restrict abortion before 24 weeks or when a fetus is said to be able to survive on its own.

Pro-lifers hopeful about outcome of Dobbs case, urge prayers for court

U.S. Supreme Court is hearing its first major abortion case in decades, one that may overturn Roe v. Wade in its eventual ruling on Mississippi's ban on most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.

Gathered outside Supreme Court, pro-lifers hopeful about Dobbs’ outcome

The pro-life rally on the sidewalk outside the U.S. Supreme Court Dec. 1, joined by politicians and advocates, found much to cheer about as the nine justices inside heard arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization.

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Video Features

Three videos of 2021 Barry Award gala

Archbishop Perez received the American Catholic Historical Society’s award Dec. 3 at the Union League of Philadelphia. Watch three videos from the event.

We’re a church that listens, archbishop says as synod opens

Archbishop Nelson Pérez shares in his monthly vlog how parishes and the faithful can learn to listen to one another and the Holy Spirit during the synodal process called for by Pope Francis.

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Sports

Catholic athletes give thanks for the memories this year

Seven young men and women, standout players at their Philadelphia Catholic League schools and contributors to this season's winning teams, expressed their gratitude to God, family, coaches and teammates for abundant blessings.

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Calendar of Events

Come for a night of caroling in Philadelphia

The Sisters of Life invite all to enjoy the hope and light of Christmas with a night of caroling in the city on Thursday, Dec. 16. Hot chocolate and cookies, as well as the sacrament of confession, will be provided.

Classical music concert coming to Carmelite Monastery

The concert to benefit the Philadelphia Carmel will take place Sunday, Dec. 12 at 2:30 p.m. featuring Michael Sheerin, organist and music director at the National Shrine of St. Rita, and cellist David Traub.

American Catholic Historical Society to host Christmas social

The society invites members and non-members to its annual party on Friday, Dec. 10 in Philadelphia. Beverages, dinner, dessert and music are provided, including a soloist, pianist and communally sung Christmas carols.

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Culture

‘West Side Story’ a ‘splendid’ update of a timeless tale

Steven Spielberg's retelling of the classic Broadway musical (based on "Romeo and Juliet") movingly portrays the effects of prejudice, and the overarching unity of all.

‘Jurassic World Evolution 2’ takes theme park game to new territory

The franchise's latest video game offering sees the dinosaurs expanding their already-large footprint throughout California, Oregon and even the nation's capital.

Despite long odds, ‘King Richard’ built a mighty court

Actor Will Smith aces his vivid performance as the titular father of two future tennis greats, Venus and Serena Williams. This intriguing fact-based sports drama promotes an array of positive values.

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Commentaries

Action on climate change, motivated by faith, emerges from COP26’s mixed bag

The recent U.N. Climate Conference showed a positive shift toward awareness of the gravity of the climate crisis and the imperative to act now, writes Michelle Dugan of EcoPhilly. She tells how local parishes can get organized to care for creation.

The real dilemma behind politicians and Communion

Behind the raucous debate is the loss of belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist and the wider crisis of ongoing adult faith formation, writes Greg Erlandson, who points out Catholic media is one of the only ways that people learn church teaching.

I’m old, thank God

Augustinian Father Paul Morrissey knows he is old, but he is grateful for the wisdom that his age brings, and for the life and faith of the dear old souls that he sees at church.

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