National News
Activists see temporary stop of federal executions as a starting point
The order by Attorney General Merrick Garland, announced July 1, is being called a "mini-moratorium" that signals "more is required" in redressing "the fundamental brokenness of our death penalty system," said advocates.
House members urge Biden to restore Hyde Amendment to budget proposals
In a July 1 letter, more than 170 members called the lack of the amendment "an affront to the majority of Americans who do not want their tax dollars funding abortion on demand," a stance the president himself once took.
Faith leaders call for reforms ensuring workers’ right to unionize
A group of 400 advocates seeks passage of a bill currently in Congress that would be the most significant overhaul of labor law in decades. A priest organizer said the bill is "consistent with the teaching of the church."
Bishops support investigation of former U.S. residential schools
The United States will investigate former boarding schools, many federally funded and church run, to search for graves of Native American children, and the U.S. bishops will "look for ways to be of assistance."
Social media’s effect on church life examined in Notre Dame panel
Church leaders from nine U.S. dioceses began a program to study how digital technology is affecting relationships and communities during the "dramatic cultural shifts" of recent decades.
Florida Catholics find comfort in rosary as search continues amid rubble
Following the partial collapse of a Miami condo building June 24, faithful throughout the state are turning to Mary as prayers continue for the dead and missing.
Report on immigration highlights care needed for unaccompanied minors
As thousands of children flee violence and poverty without family members, a Catholic agency recommends smaller care settings and better access to legal assistance.
Youth at Florida Catholic parish lead prayers following tragedy
For three hours until midnight June 26, parishioners led a prayer vigil in response to the Champlain Towers South partial collapse, praying especially for the 12 parish families affected.
Speakers urge pro-lifers to show compassion, change hearts one at a time
Attendees at a national conference were urged to avoid harsh words and respond to abortion advocates with compassion, rather than argue, because the person challenging them may themselves be struggling to deal with abortion.
U.S. House urged to include pro-life policies in bills
Two key U.S. bishops called for restoring in proposed federal spending bills three decades-old, bipartisan policies that would prevent taxpayer funds from being used to pay for abortions, and to instead use tax dollars "for the common good and welfare of all."