National News
Resume civil discourse, Cardinal Dolan says in run up to inauguration
New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan said he hoped the "renewal ... that usually accompanies the inauguration of a new president" also will be a time for violence to subside and respect for life to be revived.
At national memorial, Cardinal Gregory prays for all who died of COVID-19
Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory said during a Jan. 19 service that the U.S. "reverently pauses in supplication to remember and to pray" for the more than 400,000 Americans who have succumbed to COVID-19.
Pandemic, Capitol violence change March for Life plans but not its commitment
The nation's largest pro-life event, which will be entirely virtual for the first time, will see its smallest gathering since it began in 1974. But for pro-lifers, the march still matters as a symbol of continuity and commitment.
‘9 Days for Life’ novena for the protection of human life set for Jan. 21-29
Each day's intercession is accompanied by prayers, a reflection and actions that participants can take to help build a culture of life. The novena encompasses the annual Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, Jan. 22.
Trump signs anti-Semitism bill into law, creating ambassadorial post
"With the rise of online anti-Semitism, hate abroad knows no borders and poisons our communities here at home," said the bill's sponsor, New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith. The post will report directly to the secretary of state.
Ohio cathedral vandalism suspect, police officer killed in volley of gunfire
Toledo Police Officer Brandon Stalker, 24, and suspect Christopher Harris, 27, exchanged gunfire near Toledo's Catholic cathedral. Stalker was shot and later died at a hospital, while Harris was shot by police after a standoff and died later. Bishop Daniel Thomas offered prayers and support for police.
Supreme Court justices criticize rush on 13 federal executions since summer
Although the Supreme Court, known for its deliberative processes, cleared the way for the execution of Dustin Higgs Jan. 15, two justices made clear dissents that called into question the speed of these decisions and the constitutionality of capital punishment.
Pope: King’s ‘vision of harmony, equality for all’ remains timely
With "social injustice, division and conflict" threatening the common good, people need to recommit to the vision of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Pope Francis wrote in a letter to the Rev. Bernice King, daughter of the slain civil rights leader.
Gomez: As Rev. King urged, meet forces of hate ‘with power of love’
"This year as we commemorate the legacy of this great American," said Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez, "we remember especially Rev. King's belief in nonviolence and the power of love."
Rev. King relied on faith, prayer to fight racism, Bishop Burbidge says
"Sadly, despite significant achievements, the sin of racism continues to affect men, women and children in communities across the nation," said the bishop of Arlington, Va. ahead of what would have Dr. King's 92nd birthday, Jan. 18