Local News
Party for thousands fills night with music, words of Pope Francis
Pope Francis spoke energetically about the love of God and gift of families during the Festival of Families Saturday night, Sept. 26, in Philadelphia.
Pope encourages immigrants, and their gifts, in Philadelphia speech
In his address before 40,000 people Sept. 26 at Independence Hall, Pope Francis urged religious freedom and told new arrivals to the U.S., "you bring many gifts to your new nation.”
Text of Pope Francis’ speech at Independence Hall
See the text of the pope's address Sept. 26 on religious freedom and immigration, which he delivered from the lectern used by President Lincoln for the Gettysburg Address.
Even outside cathedral’s doors, pope’s words sank into hearts
Tens of thousands of visitors stood outside the basilica Sept. 26 in Philadelphia to watch the Mass celebrated by Pope Francis on Jumbotron screens, pondering the words of his homily.
Text of pope’s homily at Cathedral Mass
See the full text of the homily of Pope Francis during the Saturday, Sept. 26 Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul, and the remarks of Archbishop Charles Chaput at the end of the liturgy.
Pope Francis leads reverent, emotional liturgy in Philadelphia
The pope began his visit to Philadelphia Saturday, Sept. 26 with affirmation for the local church and a challenge especially to lay Catholics, during a morning Mass.
All have wounds, only Jesus and church can heal, says cardinal
"The wounds that affect our families today are many, immense and deep," but Jesus can heal, said Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle at the World Meeting of Families Sept. 24.
Philadelphia Orchestra prepares for ‘glimpse-of-heaven’ moment
Two members of the orchestra, which will perform at the papal events this weekend in Philadelphia, talk about their faith and its link to the music they love.
Canadian archbishop: Biggest challenge to families is commitment
In an interview during the World Meeting of Families, he invited church leaders to look at families with a "realistic" perspective.
Speakers say couples facing infertility need prayer, understanding
Family, friends and community members, including pastors, must do all they can to help childless couples through their suffering, the cardinal said at a session of the World Meeting of Families.