Local News

Philly-area Augustinian priest moves closer to sainthood

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s closing session in the diocesan phase of the cause for the canonization of Father Bill Atkinson, the first quadriplegic man ordained a Catholic priest, will take place next month at Villanova University.

Pro-life advocates ‘light in the midst’ of darkness, says archbishop

At the Sept. 26 opening Mass for Respect Life Month, Archbishop Nelson Pérez said those who defend human dignity from conception to natural death shine at a time when "life has become cheap."

St. Mary’s Shelter rehabs old school to energize mission to homeless

Homeless women and their children found a new path to independence and dignity as the shelter in Phoenixville cut the ribbon on transitional housing apartments in a 160-year-old former Catholic school, continuing the shelter's ministry since 1987.

Assignment changes noted for local priests

Archbishop Nelson Perez announced new ministry assignments and residences for five priests serving in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Papal Foundation gives scholarships to 96 priests, brothers, sisters, laity

Recipients on five continents now have the chance to study at one of 16 universities in Rome, thanks to almost $800,000 in awards from the Philadelphia-area organization.

Indifference towards migrants, refugees shows ‘Jesus continues to be crucified,’ says bishop

With millions displaced by violence, natural disasters and other hardships, faithful must "see the Lazarus under their own table," said Philadelphia Auxiliary Bishop Edward Deliman during a Sept. 20 Mass for migrants and refugees.

Pro-life movement ‘very energized’ as abortion battle accelerates, say advocates

Despite calls to make abortion a constitutional right, local experts are optimistic about efforts to protect the unborn, with younger generations increasingly active in defending life.

Festival brings Padre Pio to the people, and the people to God

The sixth annual Padre Pio Festival at St. Bede the Venerable Parish in Holland drew hundreds of all ages for two days of Mass, confessions, eucharistic adoration, family fun and "many, many blessings."

AbbeyFest draws hundreds for music, fun and ‘hearts open to Jesus’

Headline acts, a Hollywood actor, a "rock star" archbishop and family-friendly activities made for a "cool Catholic" gathering at Daylesford Abbey Sept. 19 -- but the spirit of celebrating God remains the same, said organizers.

Four archdiocesan schools take home the Blue Ribbon

A total of 41 parish and regional Catholic elementary schools in the five-county archdiocesan area have now attained the national award since the U.S. Department of Education launched the program in 1982.