News

Amid church’s abuse crisis, music can unite the faithful, says composer

"How can we pray when we feel betrayed?" is a lyric from "How Can We Pray?," a new hymn by Catholic music minister Zachary Stachowski, who was moved to anger by the Pa. grand jury report. Watch a video.

Prince Charles says Iraqi Dominican’s story shows ‘power of faith’

The heir to the British throne spoke of how he was deeply moved by the testimony of an Iraqi sister who fled Islamic State militants but has returned to the Ninevah Plain to help re-establish the Christian presence.

Prayer is a constant learning experience, pope says

Jesus' way of praying to his father throughout his life is a reminder for Christians that prayer is more than asking God for something but is a way of establishing an intimate relationship with him, Pope Francis said.

Pope expresses condolences for death of former President Bush

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, sent a telegram to the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, telling him the pope was "saddened to learn of the death" of the former president.

Pa. high court says names in redacted grand jury report can’t be released

In a 6-1 decision Dec. 3, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court said the identities of some clergy accused of abuse that were redacted from a grand jury report issued in mid-August must remain permanently blocked from release.

Christmas preparation overwhelms Advent’s, church musicians say

If there seems to be a culture clash between the Christmas season and the Advent season that precedes it, Christmas is going to win out practically every time, according to a pair of liturgical musicians.

In 2018, Catholics spearheaded efforts in response to climate change

Catholic organizations called for greater personal responsibility in tackling climate change and stepped up their advocacy in opposing the rollback of U.S. environmental regulations during the last year.

Women religious open Christmas season with German Catholic tradition

The sights and sounds of Christmas brightened the massive dome of the Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand as six Sisters of St. Benedict rang out "Silent Night" on hand bells.

In Philadelphia, spirit of Christmas past keeps up with present

How Americans have celebrated the holiday has changed dramatically over the centuries, writes a local historian. Catholics have helped to make Christmas more vibrant, bringing their cultures to bear on the celebration.

Syracuse bishop hopes releasing list on abuse will bring ‘peace, healing’

The Diocese of Syracuse has released a list of clergy credibly accused of abusing minors, which goes back to the 1950s.