Lent 2016
Lent lessons from St. Francis
This Lent, let's try to imitate the goodness and virtue of St. Francis of Assisi, with a focus on creation. Nature provided an entree for Francis into a life based on the Gospel and other teachings of Scripture.
The presence of God in all creation
In a world beset with serious environmental issues, St. Francis serves as a model for living simply, with respect for God's gifts and creatures. Lenten sacrifice is not about giving up but giving over our life to God's will.
People’s lives worth more than profits, pope tells Mexican biz leaders
Families in an industrial city of Mexico told Pope Francis of their financial struggles caused by low wages, but also of the stress of working long hours to earn a pittance. The pope said profits must be used for the common good.
Pope snaps at pilgrim who caused him to fall into boy in wheelchair
Excitement turned potentially dangerous as someone pulled Pope Francis over a child in a wheelchair trying to greet the pope, who scolded at the adult, "What is the matter? Don't be selfish!"
Pope tells Mexican prisoners society needs system of ‘social health’
Speaking in a prison previously plagued by riots in Mexico's most dangerous city, Pope Francis urged society not to lock up inmates and throw away the key, but instead proposed a focus on prevention and reintegration.
Hard data and people’s stories point to fewer Mexicans migrating to U.S.
Mexican immigration rates are in reverse, a reality that seems absent from political debates and the perception of many Americans. But Diana Martinez is proof of it. She just wants to go home to Mexico.
Malvern Retreat House names new leader
Mark Poletunow has been named president of the century-old retreat facility in Chester County, which is seeing growth in programs recently. He succeeds James Fitzsimmons, who is retiring.
Lenten reflection and prayer workshops
St. Stanislaus Parish, Lansdale, will host a morning reflection on Saturday, Feb. 20, and a series of workshops on four successive Thursday evenings at the parish center.
A view on new senior housing in Philadelphia
See our photo gallery of the first day for applicants of the soon-to-be completed St. Francis Villa, and the residents who have moved in to their apartment at Nativity B.V.M. Place, both in Philadelphia.
Building safe, sunny homes for seniors in need
Seniors on a limited income are lining up to apply for one of the new apartments being built by the Philadelphia Archdiocese in Kensington, while nearby in Port Richmond, seniors are settling in nicely at a similar new facility.