News
Melkite Catholic Church elects new patriarch, a native of Syria
Melkite leaders elected Bishop Joseph Absi June 21, one day after his 71st birthday. A native of Damascus, Syria, he has served as patriarchal vicar in the Archdiocese of Damascus since 2007.
USCCB leaders decry attack outside London mosque, pray for victims
The U.S. Catholic bishops "unequivocally reject" acts of violence such as the attack outside a London mosque and pleaded with all people "to cease from committing or plotting to commit further acts."
Archbishop Gomez celebrates special Mass in solidarity with immigrants
Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez said in his homily at June 18 Mass that "the promise of America is that this land will be a home for all peoples."
Pope pays tribute to Italian priests who served poor, marginalized
Pope Francis paid homage to two Italian priests who were known for persevering in their priestly ministry despite facing opposition, even from within the church.
Judge OKs court challenge to California’s assisted suicide law
Five California physicians and the American Academy of Medical Ethics brought the legal challenge last year.
Jesuit program goes to ‘the margins’ to bring education to refugees
The centers offer a mixture of online and in-person educational opportunities in service of people who have been displaced because of political turmoil, violence and other crises throughout the world.
World Refugee Day aims to raise awareness of global refugee situation
"World Refugee Day is a day where we highlight the achievements of refugees. Refugees are like all people -- unique children of God," said Bill Canny, executive director of the USCCB's Migration and Refugee Services.
The hardest talk: Racism in parishes
The recent discussion on the prejudices people carry into parish life, which often are swept under the rug, were discussed openly at the final session in a four-part series on racism this year in archdiocesan parishes.
Pope accepts early resignation of Vatican’s first independent auditor
Just two years after being hired to help with the Vatican's efforts in finance reform, Libero Milone -- the Vatican's first independent auditor who answered only to the pope -- handed a request for his resignation to Pope Francis.
High court: State erred in denying poor defendant independent evaluation
The Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, said the state of Alabama erred in denying an indigent defendant now on death row a separate psychiatric evaluation that would assist in his own defense.