News
Family man now leads area’s largest pro-life organization
Tom Stevens, head of the Pro-Life Union of Greater Philadelphia, has pro-life credentials tracing back to his days as an economics student at Villanova University, where he met his wife. A "bridge-builder," his specialty is helping organizations grow.
Irish bishop recalls Cranberries’ musician for her faith, inspiration
Dolores O'Riordan, 46, died suddenly Jan. 15 in London, where she had been due to record material for a new release. Police were investigating her death, calling it "unexplained."
Bishop: Basilica title honors church’s role in diocese, nation’s founding
The Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments declared St. Mary Church in Alexandria a minor basilica, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington announced to parishioners during Mass Jan. 14.
84 basilicas now designated in United States
The naming of St. Mary Church in Alexandria, Virginia, is the 84th such creation of a basilica in the United States.
Visiting bishops praise Gazans, but say Christian presence is shrinking
Israel has blockaded Gaza since the election of the Hamas-controlled government in 2007. Egypt also has imposed restrictions at its border crossing, so travel movement is slow.
Deacon Joseph Upcavage, serving Levittown parish, dies at 87
The permanent deacon, originally from Schuylkill County, was ordained in 1996 and assigned to Queen of the Universe Parish where he and his wife of 61 years raised their family.
Catholics urged to ignore rhetoric, help immigrants facing deportation
A National Migration Week discussion examined the plight of individuals affected by President Trump's 2017 order on deportation. More than 12 million people face removal from the U.S. because of irregular or precarious immigration status.
Beatitudes are fruits of hope, not cheap talk, pope says in Chile
"The beatitudes are born of the compassionate heart of Jesus, which encounters the hearts of men and women seeking and yearning for a life of happiness," he said.
Catholics condemn ‘racist’ comments attributed to president
President Trump reportedly used profanity to describe Haiti, El Salvador and some African nations. Because immigrants from those countries "are primarily people of color, these alleged remarks are especially disturbing," said a U.S. bishops' spokesman.
Pope asks forgiveness from victims of clergy sex abuse in Chile
Addressing government authorities and members of the country's diplomatic corps Jan. 16, the pope expressed his "pain and shame at the irreparable damage caused to children by some ministers of the church."