News
Bishops say Mass at historic black Catholic church; elect new officers
UPDATED - The U.S. bishops chose to break from tradition during this year's fall assembly by celebrating Mass at the church known as the "Mother Church" of black Catholics in Western Baltimore instead of the usual venue: Baltimore's historic basilica.
Protecting planet is ethical, moral obligation, pope says
The vulnerability of the poor and of future generations to the impact of climate change creates a "serious ethical and moral responsibility to act without delay" to slow climate change and protect the environment, Pope Francis said.
Program helps Guatemalans fight child malnutrition with gardens, hygiene
Over half of Guatemala's children under that age of 5 are chronically malnourished. In ethnically Mayan areas like this impoverished mountainous region of Totonicapan, more than 70 percent of children suffer from chronic malnutrition.
Papal persistence, followed by red hat, highlight importance of laity
Cardinal-designate Kevin J. Farrell is the papal pick to lead a new super-dicastery bringing laity, family and life together under one roof.
Texas cardinal, L.A. archbishop elected USCCB president, vice president
Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo of Galveston-Houston was elected president of the U.S. bishops' conference Nov. 15 for a three-year term to begin at the conclusion of the bishops' annual fall general assembly in Baltimore.
Concerns about common good, immigrants among topics at USCCB assembly
The victory of Republican President-elect Donald Trump, the need for the nation to heal from the acrimony of the presidential race, and concern for the well-being of immigrants and refugees under the new administration took the spotlight as the U.S. bishops opened their fall general assembly in Baltimore.
Time of mercy: Holy doors close, but mission of mercy continues
For Pope Francis, the idea always was that the celebration of God's mercy would be local: have people experience God's love in their parishes and send them out into the world to commit random acts of mercy.
New cardinals, old traditions at play for Nov. 19 consistory
The most serious responsibility that cardinals have is the solemn obligation to gather in a conclave to elect a new pope. That right is reserved to cardinals under the age of 80.
Archbishop calls for bishops’ racism statement given election tension
UPDATED - Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory of Atlanta said communities that were disrupted by violence and riots after the police shootings, prompting a calling for healing from the church, are now seeing recent and highly public reactions to tensions brought about by the election results.
Religious liberty key part of church ministry, chairman tells fellow bishops
All U.S. bishops are required to speak out for religious freedom for all people of faith whose beliefs are compromised, said Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore.