Local News

Nigerian church massacre ‘an attack on all Catholics,’ say local leaders

The June 5 killing of at least 50 worshippers during a Pentecost Sunday Mass continues a years-long surge in violence. Faithful everywhere must raise their voices, said two directors of Philadelphia's Nigerian Catholic community.

Bishop Shanahan HS welcomes Phila. priest as new president

Father John Donia has been tapped to lead the archdiocesan high school, having most recently served as its principal and campus minister.

Novena for Ukraine unites faithful from Philly and afar

A virtual pilgrimage through war-torn Ukraine, capped by a June 5 prayer service, drew dozens from the archdiocesan area to Africa, all seeking peace amid a brutal Russian invasion that has killed thousands and displaced some 14 million.

Faith leaders gather in prayer and action to end gun violence

A June 9 interfaith service at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul will welcome all people of goodwill to honor those slain, while working to end violence.

Eucharistic revival seeks to reawaken belief in Real Presence

A three-year grassroots effort, set to launch June 19, will invite Catholics in Philadelphia and across the nation to rediscover Christ in the consecrated bread and wine.

Local phase wraps, but synod process points to lasting dialogue, says archbishop

While celebrating a June 4 Mass to mark the close of the universal synod's first phase, Archbishop Nelson Pérez reminded faithful that "there's more to come," since the Trinity itself is in "an eternal synodal process."

Local Ukrainian priest offers prayers for kids back home, and everywhere

As the Russian invasion of Ukraine enters its fourth month, Father Roman Pitula opened a June 1 rally for children by asking God to "hide them in the safety" of the divine presence, away from war and all harm.

Catholic school student winds up to throw first pitch at Phillies game

Luis Alicea of Our Lady of Confidence School is ready for the June 30 matchup against the Atlanta Braves, as part of an annual Catholic Charities Appeal outing that benefits thousands in the region.

Behind the bullets: Teens give inside view of gun violence in Phila.

Two youth receiving treatment from Catholic Social Services provide an exclusive look at the many reasons for shootings on the streets -- and why most solutions aren't working.

Report: $78 million paid to victims of clergy sex abuse in archdiocese

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has paid most of the $81 million awarded to 438 victims of sexual abuse by archdiocesan clergy under the Independent Reconciliation and Reparations Program that released its final report Thursday, June 2.