News
South Carolina church of ‘history and beauty’ becomes minor basilica
It was announced June 24 that the historic St. Peter Church in downtown Columbia will now be known as the Basilica of St. Peter. It is the first minor basilica in South Carolina and the 85th in the United States.
US bishops’ head says Roe should not be litmus test for judicial nominees
UPDATED - Cardinal Daniel DiNardo said he has "grave concerns" that the confirmation process of a new Supreme Court justice would be "grossly distorted" by senators.
Missionaries of Charity nun in India charged with child trafficking
The nun, identified only as Concilia, was detained for questioning July 4 following complaints that babies had been sold to childless couples.
Work requirements to qualify for government aid: How well does it work?
In January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that encouraged federal agencies to find ways to expand work requirements as a condition of receiving benefits.
Pope Francis advances sainthood causes of young teens
Pope Francis issued decrees advancing the sainthood causes of four candidates, including two young teenagers who heroically lived the Christian virtues.
For all the talk of sex, ‘Humanae Vitae’ took it seriously
Fifty years ago Pope Paul released his encyclical affirming the Catholic teaching on procreation. Though it has remained controversial ever since, observers see it as rooted in church teaching on social justice and human dignity.
Through ups and downs of 125 years, St. Ignatius Parish’s faith endures
The West Philadelphia parish is predominantly African American, although it began as a parish for German Catholics. With help from St. Katharine Drexel's sisters, the Catholic faith has sustained the Black Catholic community.
State of Earth tomorrow depends on action today, pope tells activists
Pope Francis called on governments to show "honesty and courage" to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and financial institutions to create sustainable development. "We cannot afford to waste time," he said.
‘Sterile hypocrisy’ behind mistreatment of migrants, pope says
Hearts that are closed to welcoming migrants and refugees are similar to those of the Pharisees, who often would preach sacrifice and following God's law without exercising mercy to those in need, Pope Francis said.
French cardinal leading Vatican’s interreligious efforts dies in U.S.
French Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, an experienced diplomat and head of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, died at the age of 75 in Hartford, Connecticut, where he was receiving medical treatment.