News
New Vatican news site ready to launch before Christmas
The Council of Cardinals learned that a new multimedia communications website for the Holy See will launch soon, at the request of the pope and the cardinals. The council not only is seeking to reform the curia, but change "mentalities."
Philippine Congress extends martial law in southern Philippines
Lawmakers approved a request by President Rodrigo Duterte to extend martial law in the region for another year to root out terrorists communist-led guerrillas. Critics fear the imposition of martial law nationwide.
Pope urges Catholic groups to work together to defend human dignity
Pope Francis encouraged attendees including Helen Alvare of a forum to explore how Catholic NGOs, including Catholic schools, can better protect and promote the human person in a rapidly changing world.
Peace in the Womb Caroling Event
Please join us as we gather around an empty Christmas creche manger -- symbolizing both the hopeful anticipation of a child's birth and the emptiness left behind by abortion -- as we sing carols about the Christ child. Please dress warm and invite your family and friends! ALL are welcome!
Blessing of the Christmas creche in center city Phila.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Knights of Columbus sponsor this annual public event, the main reason for the Christmas season, on Wednesday, Dec. 13 at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul.
Old St. Joseph church hosts ‘Lessons and Carols’ event
The free event on Sunday afternoon, Dec. 17, will alternate nine Scripture readings with various Advent and Christmas carols, tracing God's promise of salvation from Old Testament prophecies to the Incarnation of Christ.
Caregivers’ retreat day offered Jan. 18
The retreat will be a time of respite for caregivers to refresh body and spirit, learn ways of balance and self-care, and draw on the support of others who share this privileged call to care for the sick or elderly.
Handel’s ‘Messiah’ coming to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
Two performances of the sacred oratorio, supported by a full orchestra and middle school chorus, will be held Saturday, Dec. 16 at the church in Doylestown. Everyone is encouraged to download the score and sing along.
Among new clergy assignments, one priest heading to Rome
An archdiocesan pastor and senior official will begin service at the Holy See next year, Archbishop Chaput announced, along with several other changes of assignment in the archdiocese.
Fewer Americans see Christmas as religious holiday, study says
The percentage of Americans who keep Christmas continues to erode -- in a Pew Research Center survey, 55 percent of respondents said they mark Christmas as a religious holiday, down from 59 percent in 2013.