National News
Missouri parish extends charity through high ground
The record-breaking storms, stretching from Texas to Michigan, are said to have left at least 20 dead in a mix of incidents involving flooding and tornadoes.
Long-awaited executive order on religion has unclear path ahead
The order didn't seem to part any seas to make an immediate path to religious freedom, especially since it places decisions for how this will play out in the hands of federal agencies and the attorney general.
Vermont priest’s 160-square-foot house has all the comforts of home
The pastor of a Vermont parish lives in a 5,000-square foot rectory. But he prefers spending time in the tiny house he built himself. "There is a lot of peace from working with your hands. You realize the value of labor."
Asian and Pacific Islanders lauded for transmitting faith at pilgrimage
More than 1,000 pilgrims from Asian and Pacific Island Catholic communities filled the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception May 6 for the annual Marian pilgrimage, a custom for the past 15 years.
Puerto Rico bankruptcy: Archbishop’s suggestion becomes forced reality
Recent developments in Puerto Rico's financial turmoil have carried the island's government to a position that it tried to avoid and the local highest Catholic leader had long suggested: bankruptcy.
Catholic leaders point out flaws, strengths in American Health Care Act
The health care bill that passed narrowly in the U.S. House this week blocks funding for abortion but endangers low-income Americans, according to a wide spectrum of Catholic observers.
Father Solanus Casey recalled as beloved friar who showed mercy to others
The sainthood cause of Wisconsin-born Father Solanus Casey (1870-1957) has advanced to the beatification stage after Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to his intercession.
Panel: When community tensions erupt, faith can help diffuse violence
Rev. S. Todd Yeary, along with Archbishop William E. Lori and Police Commissioner Kevin Davis, recounted the tough times their city faced but also the healing role that faith has played at a May 3 panel on "Violence, Faith and Policing in Baltimore."
House narrowly OKs Affordable Care Act repeal-replace bill
The House passed a bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act by a four-vote margin May 4. The final vote was 217-213.
Trump’s order on religious freedom seen as good first step
Religious leaders gathered at the White House generally supported, although with caution, the intent of the ambiguous executive order signed by the president May 4.