Local News
EITC, non-public school programs get big boost in new Pa. budget
The state program that allows businesses to direct tax credits to scholarship organizations like BLOCS, which gave $42 million in aid to students of Catholic and other schools last year, received a $25 million funding increase.
Retreats show how God shines through ‘perfectly imperfect’ people
The annual gatherings, organized by archdiocesan Catholic Social Services in May, brought hope, healing and an awareness of God's life-changing love to more than 120 homeless and at-risk men and women.
Bright futures, history of service shine at school graduation
Founded by the Drexel family, the St. Francis-St. Joseph and St. Vincent Homes recently graduated 13 students in a Catholic outreach that continues to evolve to better meet the changing needs of area youths.
Meet the guys grateful for a second chance in Catholic homes
Thirteen young men who overcame big challenges but stuck with the Catholic Social Services program have graduated high school and are ready for their next transformative steps in life.
Allentown Diocese cuts 24% of staff to fund victims’ compensation
The Pa. diocese said in April that its program for victims of clergy sexual abuse would strain finances. On July 1 it said “cash reserves are no longer available to cover budget deficits," so staff cutbacks were necessary.
Recharge your soul this summer with a retreat
You don't need to drive far to find true rest and relaxation when a number of area spirituality centers offer opportunities for prayer, reflection and a deeper relationship with the Lord. See our review of 11 local facilities.
At St. Agnes, speaker teaches on faith through friendship, meaning of Mass
Lay Catholic theologian Scott Hahn visited St. Agnes Parish in Sellersville for a 100th anniversary event. He showed the links between Scripture, the sacrifice of the Mass and evangelization today.
West Philly parish helps teens choose victory over violence
Amid a spike in shootings and homicides, parishioners at St. Ignatius Parish hosted a June 22 summit, co-sponsored by area churches and the Mayor's Office, to enhance kids' conflict resolution skills and self-esteem.
Senior fair kicks off summer while gearing up for November elections
At a June 21 event sponsored by archdiocesan Catholic Social Services, older adults learned about an array of benefits, while test-driving Philadelphia's new touch-screen voting machines.
Prayer walk at Cathedral marks World Refugee Day
Some 25 archdiocesan employees gathered to reflect on Christ's sufferings and those of the more than 70 million people currently displaced worldwide through conflict and persecution. Migrants and refugees reflect "the faces of the Holy Family itself," said organizers.