News

Czech bishop demands asylum for Chinese Christians

A Czech bishop has accused his government of prioritizing trade ties over human rights after it delayed granting asylum to dozens of Chinese Christians seeking protection in the country.

Risen Christ calls all to follow him on path to life, pope says

With tens of thousands of people gathered in St. Peter's Square April 16, the pope called on Christians to be instruments of Christ's outreach to refugees and migrants, victims of war and exploitation, famine and loneliness.

Interfaith group reports on Philippine drug-related killings to U.N.

An interfaith delegation from the Philippines raised concerns over drug-related killings during an April 5 meeting at the United Nations in Geneva with the special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings.

Canadian couple works to improve marriages, which need ‘regular tuneups’

Phil and Mary Wrubleski examining marriage mentoring, in which a younger couple is invited to meet monthly with a more-established couple in the parish who is trained to engage in helpful conversations about marriage, life and children.

Pope to priests: Never separate truth, joy, mercy from the Gospel

Presiding over the first of two Holy Thursday liturgies, Pope Francis blessed the oils that will be used in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, ordination and the anointing of the sick.

Trump signs bill to let states redirect funds away from abortion clinics

Reversing an order late in the Obama administration, the new law allows states to steer federal funds from Planned Parenthood and toward community health centers.

Standings, schedules set for Catholic League sports

See updated standings for baseball and softball teams in the Philadelphia Catholic League, and scheduled upcoming games in both sports through next week.

Iowa House passes measure to ban almost all abortions after 20 weeks

By a vote of 55-41, the ban passed the House April 5. The legislation also enacted a 72-hour waiting period before an abortion could be performed.

Nigerian bishop says Boko Haram needs fought in spiritual realm, too

"The battle against Boko Haram should not be limited to the physical realm, but it needs to be fought in the spiritual realm for it is a demonic attack," Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme of Maiduguri told reporters.

In Syria, Franciscan superior sees devastation, but also signs of hope

Fifteen Franciscan friars continue to live and work in Syria; two of the friars minister in towns controlled by Islamic State forces.