Local News

Down on the farm, they’re raising crops and lifting spirits

Archdiocesan food pantry Martha's Choice Marketplace has opened a community garden at the former St. Gabriel's Hall -- and dozens of parishes, nonprofits and volunteers are becoming part of the "thriving ecosystem."

Faith and fun speak the same language at deaf summer camp

Sponsored by the archdiocesan Deaf Apostolate, "Camp Overbrook: In Sign" draws kids from throughout the area for two weeks of Bible stories, play, arts and fellowship, all in American Sign Language.

New commission maps racial healing through encounter, dialogue, says archbishop

The diverse members of the archdiocesan Commission on Racial Healing will help "change the culture of the church in Philadelphia" step by step, said Archbishop Nelson Pérez during a June 26 address.

Seniors return to ‘second home’ at archdiocesan centers

After more than a year of COVID restrictions, doors reopened this week at five Catholic Housing and Community Services hubs for older adults, dispelling isolation and bringing hope.

Pioneering Black priest a model for healing racism, says archbishop

Venerable Augustus Tolton, the first recognized African-American priest, was honored during a June 26 Mass at which celebrant Archbishop Nelson Pérez called him a guide for overcoming prejudice with love and perseverance.

Inspirational Cabrini professor retires after 50 years

English professor Jerry Zurek, who taught and mentored generations of Cabrini University students especially through the student newspaper the Loquitor, enjoyed a fitting send off June 26.

Two retirements noted in latest clerical changes

Archbishop Nelson Perez announced the retirement of a Northeast Philadelphia priest and a permanent deacon in Exton.

Court dismisses move to stop Hallahan transition by archdiocese

A Philadelphia Orphans Court judge ruled that the Friends of Hallahan lacked legal standing to prevent the Philadelphia Archdiocese from selling the closed Catholic high school and using its funds for tuition assistance.

Local nuns head to southern border as migrant influx surges

Dozens of Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters are joining women religious from across the U.S. at Catholic Charities USA shelters, bringing hope to thousands fleeing violence, poverty and natural disasters.

For Ignatian volunteers, experience makes the difference

Ignatian Volunteer Corps helps service agencies in the Philadelphia region benefit from the life skills and spiritual gifts of committed volunteers age 50 and up.