National News
New Jersey bishop urges people to do more to protect environment
He urged the hundreds of people in attendance "to decide what actions we must take here and now, not when it's too late" during the Mass Sept. 1 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Chapel in the ocean-side community that was severely damaged by Superstorm Sandy nearly three years ago.
Catholic policy advocates crossing fingers in advance of papal visit
"We're hoping and expecting that he is going to speak on issues of migration, and I'm hoping he'll talk about the dignity of those who are seeking a better life," said Jeanne Atkinson, executive director of the Catholic Legal Immigration Network.
150 immigrants and refugees in New York will meet pope
The day before he arrives in Philadelphia, Pope Francis will go to Harlem and see the work Catholic Charities offers for men, women and children coming to America.
Five judges write rare dissent over court’s decision not to take appeal
A three-judge panel of the 10th Circuit had said that the Little Sisters and their fellow plaintiffs against the federal government are not substantially burdened by the process set out by the Department of Health and Human Services by which they can avoid requirements to provide contraceptive coverage to employees as mandated by the Affordable Care Act.
Pope to celebrate ‘simple weekday Mass’ for 20,000 in NYC
“Simple” takes on a new dimension when the pope is the celebrant, and the congregation clears security checkpoints hours before the Sept. 25 Mass at Madison Square Garden.
Priest legally changing his name to get around Facebook policy
Facebook told a Byzantine monk he had to change his name to comply with the regulations on authentic identities. Religious and clergy may not use their titles on the social media site.
Mural of pope looks out over New York’s Madison Square Garden Mass site
New Yorkers and tourists in Midtown Manhattan have been gazing up at a smiling Pope Francis at one of New York's busiest intersections.
Trip through Central Park added to pope’s New York itinerary
Pope Francis will get a glimpse of leafy Central Park and thousands of waving New Yorkers Sept. 25 when he makes "a historic procession" through the urban landmark, according to the city's mayor.
Data breach affects thousands of Catholic workers in Michigan
The attack did not affect bishops, clergy or religious, the conference said, whose pay and benefits are administered through a separate system.
Suburban Detroit pastor pleads guilty to mail fraud
"Why am I pleading guilty?" Father Belczak told U.S. District Judge Arthur J. Tarnow. "Because I am."