News

Violent attack on two Phoenix priests stuns, saddens church, community

Updated - PHOENIX (CNS) -- The Diocese of Phoenix is "stunned and deeply saddened" about the "tragic assault" on a downtown Phoenix church that took the life of one priest and left a second priest critically injured.

Speakers urge bishops to continue mission to families, those in need

NEW ORLEANS (CNS) -- Speakers addressing the U.S. bishops on the second day of their spring general assembly in New Orleans urged them to continue their ministry of caring for those in need -- even as they face obstacles -- and to reach out in a special way to couples and families.

Sisters’ ministry to the poor of Kensington flourishes

Parishes may close, but the St. Joseph’s Sisters Welcome Center keep the church’s presence and outreach to people on the margins strong.

He’s bringing his swing to Boston

Neumann-Goretti first baseman Josh Ockimey, who hit .411 for his career with the Saints, signed a contract to begin playing ball in the Boston Red Sox organization. Meanwhile, other Catholic League teams are still vying for the state baseball title, while the softball season ended for two other teams.

Formerly homeless women get spiritual boost in Malvern

Malvern Retreat House hosted 53 women served by Catholic Social Services, along with some staff, for a free overnight retreat that helped them discover God's healing love in their lives.

Could Pope Francis go to China?

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- When Pope Francis visits South Korea, Aug. 14-18, he will take part in Asian Youth Day with delegates from some 30 countries, preside over the beatification of 124 Korean martyrs and meet with President Park Geun-hye.

Bishops focus on religious liberty, election document, upcoming synod

NEW ORLEANS (CNS) -- During their June 11-13 spring general assembly in New Orleans, the nation's Catholic bishops voted to extend their Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty and to approve work on a limited revision of their quadrennial document aimed at guiding Catholics in election decisions.

Clergy assignment changes announced

Archbishop Charles J. Chaput announces the following appointments effective June 30.

Pope Francis says world economic system inevitably leads to war

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- "We are in a world economic system that is not good," the pope said in a wide-ranging interview. "A system that in order to survive must make war, as great empires have always done." He also condemned religious fundamentalism and said he does not worry about his personal security because, "at my age I don't have much to lose."

Head of U.S. bishops invites Pope Francis to Philadelphia

The bishops, gathered for a meeting in New Orleans, applauded a letter read by Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, inviting the pope to the World Meeting of Families in 2015.