Local News
300 women share true meaning of Advent at St. Elizabeth Parish
The parish in Chester Springs hosted the "Advent by Candlelight" event Wednesday evening, Dec. 4 for women to socialize, reflect on two talks and pray together before the Christmas rush begins.
St. Charles Seminary hosts Ukrainian-rite liturgy
Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak celebrated an elaborate Divine Liturgy Nov. 20 in St. Martin's Chapel. The head of Byzantine Ukrainian Catholics in the region urged seminarians to "serve where the need is greatest."
New South Philly center keeps senior visitors spry
Dedicated on Dec. 5, the archdiocesan facility at St. Edmond Church will offer meals, benefits counseling, exercise equipment and "a flat-out good time" to some 100 older adults a day.
Pa. governor vetoes Down syndrome abortion bill
Gov. Tom Wolf’s veto of a bill that would prohibit abortion based solely on a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome drew condemnation from the head of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference.
Marian feast not a holy day this year, but go to Mass anyway
The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception has been moved to Monday, Dec. 9. While attending Mass that day isn't an obligation, honoring Mary offers “the antidote for a dissatisfied life.”
St. Rita Shrine grateful for $50,000 donation
The St. Alfio Society of Pennsylvania gifted the national shrine in South Philadelphia Nov. 25 to aid its mission to help "make the world a better, safer, and more peaceful place.”
Christmas cards provide hope for the hungry
With handcrafted artwork and heartfelt greetings, archdiocesan Nutritional Development Services affirms the reason for the season, while raising funds for the agency's food cupboards.
Vulnerable women, kids benefit from #GivingTuesday
Mercy Hospice, which supports women in recovery and their children, will benefit from this year's annual donation campaign, with funds providing basic necessities and transformative life skills.
10 Catholics named to receive papal honors
Pope Francis has recognized 10 individuals, most with local ties to the Philadelphia Archdiocese, for their exceptional service to the church. They will be honored at a vespers service Dec. 9.
Bishops of Pa., N.J. spend Thanksgiving with pope
At a long meeting with Pope Francis Nov. 28 the bishops discussed issues including the sexual abuse crisis, the forthcoming McCarrick report and the diminishing number of Catholics on the East Coast.