National News
‘Prayer, consultation’ led to bankruptcy decision, says bishop
The Stockton Diocese in California becomes the 10th U.S. archdiocese or diocese that has filed bankruptcy protection as a result of the costs of clergy sexual abuse lawsuits since 2004. Payments to victims of sexual abuse amount to $32 million for the diocese.
Official’s calls to remove pro-life march banners seen as censorship
SAN FRANCISCO (CNS) -- Banners displayed on light posts to promote the Jan. 25 pro-life march in San Francisco received the proper permitting from the city and calls for the signs' removal are ridiculous, said a leader of the event.
‘Extension Day’ video contest exhorts filmmakers to ‘make some noise’
CHICAGO (CNS) -- Catholic Extension is encouraging young filmmakers to celebrate an "Extension Day" of their own choosing and to film the encounters as part of a video contest sponsored by Catholic Extension.
Study shows increase in hostility toward religion around globe
WASHINGTON (CNS) -- A Pew Research Center study issued Jan. 14 shows another increase in hostility toward religion by most of the world's 198 nations. The number of nations showing hostilities toward Christians rose from 106 to 110.
Court takes up whether buffer zone excessively limits free speech
WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Supreme Court justices Jan. 15 pressed attorneys about when it is constitutional to prohibit certain kinds of speech in a case over buffer zones around abortion clinics.
Allowing assisted suicide ‘immoral, unethical,’ say New Mexico bishops
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (CNS) -- New Mexico's Catholic bishops said they strongly oppose the "authorization of assisted suicide by the state" and affirm Catholic Church teaching "condemning the immoral and unethical use of physician-assisted suicide."
Late ambassador hailed for deep faith, dedication to diplomatic service
WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Thomas P. Melady, the former U.S. ambassador to the Vatican who died Jan. 6, was remembered at his Jan. 13 funeral Mass as a man who loved his Catholic faith and who was inspired by that faith to reach out and help others.
Mideast Catholic leaders give mixed reactions after death of Sharon
JERUSALEM (CNS) -- Former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, a controversial figure in Israel and abroad, died Jan. 11 after being in a coma following a stroke eight years ago. He was laid to rest at his Negev farm Jan. 13.
Bill would require feds to respect state laws on traditional marriage
WASHINGTON (CNS) -- The U.S. House should pass a bipartisan bill that would require the federal government to respect state marriage laws defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman, a U.S. archbishop said Jan. 10.
Heavenly sounds ever present at only U.S. Catholic boys’ choir school
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (CNS) -- While some students may fantasize about breaking into song in the middle of a school day, it's a common occurrence at St. Paul's Choir School.