National News
Bishops call for an end to the federal death penalty
Two U.S. bishops who head different committees of the U.S. bishops called for an end to the federal use of the death penalty, resumed last year after a 17-year hiatus, as "long past time."
Two Catholic members of Congress reflect on Capitol attack, work ahead
Catholic Congressmen and daily communicants from Nebraska and Montana called the Jan. 6 assault in the name of justice "twisted" and a threat to "the idea of America."
What Democrats’ Georgia wins mean for Senate’s future, Biden agenda
The wins by Jon Ossoff and the Rev. Raphael Warnock will give Democrats control of both houses of Congress. That means "more power-sharing in general," said one expert, due to the 50-50 split between the parties for the first time since 2001.
Washington pastors reflect on Capitol attack that hit close to home
For Father William Gurnee and Father Gary Studniewski, the attack was personal. Before becoming priests, one served as a Capitol Hill staffer and the other was a captain in the U.S. Army. Now they both lead parishes near the Capitol.
Jesuit priest will deliver invocation at Biden’s presidential inauguration
Jesuit Father Leo O'Donovan will offer prayers at the presidential inauguration of Joe Biden Jan. 20. The priest, a former president of Georgetown University, is a friend of the Biden family who was the main celebrant at the funeral Mass for Biden's son Beau.
Federal appeals court blocks Trump order on refugee resettlement
The ruling means that resettlement agencies no longer must approach each individual government jurisdiction in which they help refugees put down roots. Overall, 42 governors and more than 100 local authorities had agreed to continue refugee resettlement.
In wake of Capitol attack, leaders urge rejection of divisions that lead to violence
Reaction to the violent invasion of the House and Senate chambers by supporters of President Donald Trump on Jan. 6 paralleled initial public response to the horror of 9/11.
Capitol invasion adds to challenges facing incoming Biden administration
After the Jan. 20 inauguration, Biden will not only face the challenges of getting his policies implemented, but also winning over the millions of Americans who doubt the legitimacy of his presidency.
Bishops, leaders reflect on U.S. Capitol assault, pray for peace
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi referenced the Epiphany and uttered a prayer as the House of Representatives reconvened to confirm President-elect Joe Biden's election victory following Wednesday afternoon's attack on the Capitol.
Archbishop Gomez condemns violence at Capitol, turns to Mary
The head of the U.S. bishops prayed Jan. 6 that Mary would "guide us in the ways of peace, and obtain for us wisdom and the grace of a true patriotism and love of country.”