National News
Detroit-area Ukrainians see history repeating itself
Older Ukrainians at a rally in Michigan said it is unfathomable to witness the same tragedy in their homeland that their parents suffered and escaped from decades ago, both by the Nazis and the Soviets. They are proud of the current resistance to the invasion.
Senate rejection of abortion bill comes as relief for US bishops
The bill, which failed by two votes in the Senate, would have codified the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion nationwide and eliminated pro-life laws at every level of government, including -- including health or safety protections.
Researchers say 5.2 million children orphaned in pandemic
Children in 21 countries, including the United States, lost at least one parent or primary caregiver to COVID-19 especially in summer of 2021 due to the delta variant.
Via Twitter, at Mass and in prayer, U.S. bishops unite behind Ukraine
Bishop Joseph Bambera of Scranton was among prelates nationwide praying for the people of Ukraine. Brooklyn's bishop prayed that the situation "does not escalate."
U.S. church offers prayers, solidarity after Russia attacks Ukraine
As war broke out in Europe Feb. 24 with Russia's early morning attacks on Ukraine, Catholics in the U.S. joined Pope Francis in prayers for the people of the East European nation and for peace.
Florida House OKs bill to ban abortions after 15 weeks
A companion measure faces a Senate vote next week and could be passed by both chambers by the end of the month. Gov. Ron DeSantis has said he would sign it into law.
Monasticism sees a bump as people seek meaning
Monastic traditions -- including stability, silence, community, hospitality, love of learning and continual growth -- are becoming attractive especially to non-religious Millennials.
Grant will fund Catholic institutes, including at U Penn
A national network of six institutes of Catholic thought, located at top university campuses across the country, will launch as part of a $3.65 million grant by the John Templeton Foundation.
Third Lent in pandemic marked by ‘long-term, low-grade trauma’
Starting with Ash Wednesday March 2, this year's Lent coincides with an optimism around declining COVID-19 cases. Christians see a time for reconnecting and refocusing spiritually, using the "muscle memory" of Lenten practices.
Early Sisters of Charity owned slaves in U.S., research shows
Six congregations of the order owned and sold enslaved people in Maryland and benefited from slave labor in New Orleans and St. Louis before it was outlawed in 1865. Involvement with slavery was previously unknown but "shouldn't have been a surprise," said one sister.