National News
Ending limit on culturing human embryos called ‘affront’ to value of life
The International Society for Stem Cell Research recommended lifting a rule in place for 40 years, which may weaken protections for embryos. New Jersey Congressman Chris Smith vehemently opposed the move and seeks legislation banning human-animal hybrids.
Ecumenical service remembers victims of Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921
The pastor of the only Black-owned structure in Tulsa remaining after that era's riot joined the city's Catholic bishop in a memorial. "It is hard to believe that 100 years ago people could think and act in such a way. Still, it happened," said Bishop David Konderla.
Water proves powerful in its presence — and by its absence
Severe drought in the Western U.S. means water will get more expensive, as will the crops that depend on it. Meanwhile, too much water will be the result of more destructive storms. Both are made worse by human-caused climate change, said a Catholic expert.
Catholic leaders decry antisemitic attacks in U.S.
Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and the prelate who chairs the bishops' Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs decried a recent rise in antisemitic attacks as "contrary to who we are called to be as the people of God."
Memorial Day: A time to honor veterans at their place of rest
The tradition of visiting and decorating the graves of soldiers killed in battle dates back to the Civil War. Today's military funerals continue to honor the fallen men and women, and the freedom for which they died.
Monasteries adjust gracefully to life during pandemic
As pandemic-related restrictions ease and businesses gradually return to normal, the Trappist monks and Poor Clare sisters in South Carolina look to serving people once again, after a difficult year.
Religiosity a ‘buffer’ against pandemic stresses, survey says
Survey respondents who reported a decline in religiosity since the pandemic had more than twice the odds of feeling isolated and lonely than those who did not report such a decline.
At urging of U.S. bishops, Catholic leaders to meet on immigration
Prelates from Central America will join those from the U.S. and the Vatican June 1-2 in Chicago to forge a path for the U.S. church's response to immigration.
Bishops decry rise in anti-Semitic attacks in U.S.
"We cannot remain silent when we witness our brothers and sisters suffering on account of being Jewish," said two key Catholic prelates, who pledged to condemn "every form of hatred, especially those formed in contempt of faith."
California bishop prays for victims of another ‘senseless’ shooting
San Jose Bishop Oscar Cantú urged prayers for the victims and their families after a gunman opened fire at a rail yard and killed at least nine people and injuring others.