Local News

Earth Day to be observed in ‘Catholic style’

A local focus on the importance of caring for creation and human life created in God's image will precede next week's Earth Day by studying environmental concerns in Pope Francis' encyclical, "Laudato Si."

Event draws attention to ‘voiceless’ religious minorities

Catholic and Christian leaders heard a talk in Philadelphia about global violations of religious freedoms, especially among Christian communities, in a lecture hosted by the American Jewish Committee.

Legion of Mary members renew commitment to Blessed Mother

In churches around the world on Sunday, April 10 -- including St. Eleanor Church in Collegeville -- Legion members repeated in front of the altar, "I am all yours, my Queen and my Mother, and all I have is yours.”

Archbishop Chaput welcomes new church diplomat to the U.S.

The archbishop issued a statement on the naming of Archbishop Pierre as the Vatican's representative to the United States, and thanked the retiring nuncio, Archbishop Vigano, for his help during the papal visit.

Students of 40 Catholic schools display, perform artistic talents

The creative arts are flowering this April as Catholic grade schools in the Philadelphia Archdiocese participate in four “Showcases of Excellence” events at four archdiocesan high schools this week and next.

Monthly music fest moves the young, and others, to deeper prayer

A thunderous noise emanates from St. Norbert Parish, Paoli, the first Friday of each month as the Festival of Praise draws Catholic teens and a range of older folks for rousing contemporary music and worship.

Three parishes in So. Phila., two in Delaware County, will partner in June

As announced last weekend, two groups of parishes each will begin a “partnership” that calls for parishes and their churches not to close but to be managed jointly by one pastor.

Transition plan eases sting of Hilltown Catholic school’s closure

Although declining enrollment is forcing St. Agnes-Sacred Heart School to close, financial aid will amount to half of the $3,935 current tuition rate to encourage enrollment at one of six nearby Catholic schools.

Music director hits the high notes at Glenside Catholic school

St. Joseph the Protector School has a music program that is producing top musicians in the archdiocese, thanks to band director Alex Schmauk, who sees the value of teaching children over a four-year period.

Archbishop Chaput: Thankful for pope’s thoughts on marriage, family

The archbishop called "Amoris Laetitia" ("The Joy of Love") "a serious and extensive reflection on Christian marriage," and he echoes Pope Francis' advice to read the unusually long document with patience. In English and en Espanol.