News
Pope says he’s worried about growing anti-migrant sentiment
Pope Francis said he is worried that even Catholics are arguing against accepting more migrants and refugees into their communities, and they often cite an ill-defined "'moral obligation' to preserve the original cultural and religious identity" of their nations.
‘Pontifical secret’ in abuse cases needs review, advisers tell pope
Vatican norms maintain the imposition of "pontifical secret" on the church's judicial handling of clerical sex abuse and other grave crimes, which means they are dealt with in strict confidentiality.
Bishops: Amend repeal bill to protect poor, keep ban on abortion coverage
"As you consider the Graham-Cassidy legislation as a possible replacement for the Affordable Care Act, we urge you to think of the harm that will be caused to poor and vulnerable people and amend the legislation while retaining its positive features," the bishops said in a letter to all senators.
With prayer, Catholics in Puerto Rico deal with Hurricane Maria’s wrath
UPDATED - Authorities say it may take months for electricity to fully return to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria pummeled the island and its infrastructure as it made landfall Sept. 20.
Archbishop Chaput offers prayers for Jewish High Holy Days
"These are days of prayer, reflection, and new beginnings," wrote Archbishop Charles Chaput. "May everyone in the local Jewish community experience good health, wisdom and true peace in the year ahead."
After five years, schools stabilized, thanks to Faith in the Future
The foundation formed in the wake of recommendations to close Catholic schools has recruited donors and strengthened board governance to make schools affordable and excellent, and keep them open.
Committee OKs bill on aid for persecuted religious groups in Iraq, Syria
Called the Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act, or H.R. 390, it also would provide "accountability for perpetrators" of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in the region.
Sistine Chapel Choir makes rare visit to United States
The Sistine Chapel Choir came to Washington Sept. 20 on a rare U.S. visit. Its stops included Detroit and New York as well as The Catholic University of America, where it gave a concert and presented a workshop.
Chinese Catholics fear new regulations will further suppress activities
Tighter restrictions on religions in China would affect both underground Christian churches and open (registered) communities, which could face cash extortion demands over "unauthorized" religious venues.
Pope urges politicians to be models of service in fight against Mafia
When politics becomes all about partisan interests and secret deals, it leaves behind its true vocation and becomes susceptible to the same influences of corruption that allow the Mafia to flourish, Pope Francis said.