Local News
Pope Francis, Supreme Pontiff of Catholic Church, Passes Away at Age 88
The Holy Father, who left rich memories from his apostolic visit to Philadelphia in 2015, died April 21, 2025 in Rome.
Canonization of ‘Saint in Sneakers’ to be Celebrated at Malvern Shrine Dedicated to His Life and Message
Malvern Retreat House’s shrine to soon-to-be canonized Saint Carlo Acutis will hold an event celebrating his April 27 canonization. In only three years the shrine has become a popular place for eucharistic devotion by young people.
Meatballs Keep Funds Rolling Into Thriving Catholic School
Mother of Divine Grace Interparochial School relies on the joy of making 5,000 meatballs for its annual Italian Festival in support of Catholic education in Philadelphia’s Port Richmond neighborhood.
Archdiocesan Catholic Charities Appeal Becomes Sponsor of Live Streamed Sunday Mass at Cathedral
The partnership, a collaboration between the Catholic Charities Appeal of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the archdiocese itself, marks a meaningful step toward "improving the spiritual lives" of those unable to attend Mass due to health or caregiving responsibilities.
Candlemaker, Artist Create Unique Paschal Candle to Illuminate St. Gabriel Church
Members of the parish in the Grays Ferry section of South Philadelphia join forces each year to create and decorate the church’s candle that symbolizes Christ our Light, triumphant over darkness.
Archdiocesan Office of Catholic Education Launches Leadership Program to Develop Future Catholic School Leaders
The Office of Catholic Education has launched the Rising Stars Leadership Academy to prepare the next generation of Catholic school leaders through mentorship and professional development.
Musical Mia: Glorifying God Through Song
Mia Rodriguez doesn’t let Down syndrome limit her aspirations. With her love for singing, the Archbishop Carroll High School freshman proves that “everyone has a voice, and everyone is special in their own way.”
Holy Week Services at the Cathedral Basilica
From solemn processions to joyful celebrations, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul welcomes all for the holiest week of the Christian calendar.
Sensory-Friendly Masses Offer Relaxed Way to Worship, Connect With Others
Masses with low light, brief homilies, soft music or none, along with social supports, offer alternatives for neuro-divergent people. For one Northeast Philadelphia father, “It’s nice to know you’re not the only one going through it.”
Adaptive Gaming Helps St. Edmond’s Residents Develop Skills, Grow in Community
Using adaptive controllers, residents of the residential care facility for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities run by archdiocesan Catholic Social Services refine their motor skills while having fun.