News
Pope meets head of traditionalist Society of St. Pius X
Although the society is no longer considered to be in schism and the excommunication of its bishops was lifted in 2009, questions remained over whether the sacraments they celebrate are valid and licit.
Pope calls for new Catholic institutions of mercy and charity
Pope Francis asked Catholic dioceses around the world to set up a permanent memorial of the Year of Mercy by establishing a hospital, home for the aged or recovering addicts in an under-served area.
From playground to pro hoops, Beck remains a Philly guy
Ernie Beck has been a basketball star and fan his whole life, from Southwest Philly to Penn to the Philadelphia Warriors. The devout Sacred Heart parishioner still loves the game and roots for the local teams.
Philadelphia’s rivalries give way to love for Villanova in Final Four
Folks who never attended Villanova are rooting for the Wildcats as they prepare for their big game Saturday night. Loyalty to local basketball teams is a trait coach Jay Wright loves about the city.
Court’s unusual request on HHS mandate might avoid tie decision
The high court's request for details on contraceptive insurance coverage might mean the mandate for such coverage by objecting employers will be interpreted differently around the country, observers surmised.
No easy answers to pastoral questions on assisted suicides
What should a hospital chaplain do if confronted with a patient who expresses a determination to use assisted suicide? Can anointing of the sick be given to such a patient? How do pastors decide whether a person who carried out an assisted suicide should receive a Catholic funeral?
Polish bishops press for full abortion ban
Poland's Catholic bishops have called for a permanent ban on abortions to mark the anniversary of their country's Christian conversion in A.D. 966.
Less than 1 percent of Central American kids granted asylum in Mexico
A report from Human Rights Watch said Mexico failed to follow its own rules for handling migrants, even as it has increased its immigration enforcement in the aftermath of an outflow of unaccompanied minors from Central America.
God’s ‘excess of mercy’ prompts conversion, cardinal says
"The opposite of mercy is hardness of heart," something which is seen today as it was in Jesus' time and which impacts people, within the church and in society, Cardinal Schonborn said.
New life of faith springing from troubled city neighborhood
The Grays Ferry section of Philadelphia has many problems, but due to the efforts of a Norbertine priest, St. Gabriel Parish is strengthening from a renewed focus on the Mass and prayer outreach on the streets.