Local News
Archbishop Chaput: Black lives matter because all lives matter
The archbishop condemned the shootings in Dallas, Baton Rouge and Minnesota, and credited the "mature common sense" protests of crowds expressing their frustration in Philadelphia.
Church ministers see new archdiocesan norms on marriage, family life
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia's new guidelines issued July 1 implement Pope Francis' recent document on church teaching on the family. The norms call for no changes in practice, but stress an approach of sensitivity and mercy.
Pastors balance Jesus’ teaching on marriage and sexuality with sensitivity
The teaching on family issues in new guidelines by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is presented mercifully by priests and church workers accompanying people on their journey in holiness, say two archdiocesan priests.
Sale of archdiocese’s 213-acre Delco tract falls through
The deadline for closing the sale of the former Don Guanella Village property in Marple Township has expired, and the tract is back on the market. Expected proceeds of $47 million would have replenished an archdiocesan fund.
St. Katharine Drexel Shrine hosting public celebration this weekend
Before the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament sell their Bensalem property including the order’s motherhouse and Shrine of St. Katharine Drexel, they are throwing open the doors July 9-10 to mark 125 years.
Aiding the church’s mission through better management
How to handle church finances transparently was the key topic last week for the Leadership Roundtable, a group of lay Catholic business leaders advocating best practices for Catholic organizations, meeting in Philadelphia.
State Senate passes sex-abuse lawsuit bill removing retroactive provision
By a 49-0 vote June 30, the full Senate approved an amended HB 1947. The House version of the bill would allow civil suits on child abuse going back decades, but the Senate version allows suits only going forward.
National campaign awards 11 local social outreach agencies
The Catholic Campaign for Human Development gave grants to four secular groups in Philadelphia and seven Catholic-run agencies totaling $270,000. The annual U.S. bishops' collection will be taken up July 9-10.
Archbishop asks for prayers in wake of Istanbul terrorist attack
Archbishop Charles Chaput issued a statement June 30 in response to the deadly attack in Turkey as the global community confronted "extreme violence committed by those who spread terror through evil."
Our Lady of Port Richmond School receives $60K grant
The award by the Philadelphia School Partnership will allow the Catholic regional school in Philadelphia's Port Richmond neighborhood to renovate classrooms and expand its special education program.