Local News

Archdiocese invites lay, clergy input on marriage and family life for Vatican meeting

In what is billed as a “unique opportunity for the clergy and faithful,” Catholics of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are now able to participate in a “consultation” with the Vatican in preparation for next year’s Synod of Bishops in Rome. The archdiocese announced Nov. 15 that it has posted a form on the archdiocesan website for Catholics to provide input on current challenges to marriage and the family.

Archbishop announces 8 clergy assignment changes

Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces the following appointments effective as noted: PASTOR Reverend John F. Babowitch, from Pastor, Saint Barnabas Parish, Philadelphia, to Pastor, Our Lady of Calvary Parish, Philadelphia, effective December 2, 2013 Reverend Robert G. Suskey, from Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, Southampton, to […]

Legatus marks 25 years of helping executives spread Catholic faith

The Philadelphia Chapter of Legatus, an organization for Catholic CEOs and other very high ranking executives, has often held its monthly meeting at the Union League, so it was a logical choice for its 25th anniversary celebration Nov. 12. When you think of a gathering of CEOs, it’s easy to imagine a bunch of rich guys sitting around and plotting for ways they can all become richer. Nothing could be further from the truth in this case.

Prayer, song, reflection, procession: Thousands enjoy Magnificat Day

In one of the best-run liturgical celebrations for Philadelphia in years, Magnificat Day drew some 3,500 people to the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The day included an encouraging talk for Philadelphia Catholics by speakers such as Father Robert Barron, and began and ended with eucharistic liturgies led by Archbishop Charles Chaput.

Archdiocese, CRS to take up collection for Philippines’ relief

Archbishop Charles Chaput is calling for a special collection to support recovery efforts in the Philippines following the destruction wreaked by Super Typhoon Haiyan. He asked all priests of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to take up the collection in parishes the weekend of Nov. 23 and 24, and extend the invitation to Catholics attending Mass this weekend, Nov. 16-17.

Women signing up fast for first conference in Phila. next month

The Catholic Women’s Conference titled “Feminine Genius: Every Woman’s Gift” will meet in Philadelphia Dec. 7. More than 350 women -- married, single and consecrated religious -- have registered so far, and there is capacity for 700 attendees to the all-day event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

NE Philadelphia pastor resigns due to stress from allegations

Father John Paul announced his resignation as pastor of Our Lady of Calvary Parish in Philadelphia Sunday, Nov. 10, citing in the church bulletin a decline in his “physical and spiritual health” as a result of allegations of past misconduct. Law enforcement did not press charges, but the archdiocesan investigation continues.

Archdiocesan parishes pray for immigrants this weekend

Parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will pray for and remember immigrants who have died crossing the border or remain separated from their families at Masses Sunday, Nov. 10. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office for Cultural Ministries invites everyone to join participating parishes in praying for the passage of immigration reform. The parish churches and […]

Chester County vets battle homelessness from ‘Operating Base Cecilia’

As one ministry diminishes another arises. At the former St. Cecilia School in Coatesville, Chester County, which served generations of Catholic children, the grand old building has been repurposed to support military veterans. Catholic Social Services won a Veterans Affairs grant to help homeless and near-homeless veterans to obtain permanent housing.

Neumann University names new head of sport, spirituality institute

“As today’s world of sports continues to include ethical and moral challenges, the critical work of the institute is needed now more than ever,” said Rosalie “Lee” DelleMonache, new director of the Institute for Sport, Spirituality and Character Development.