News
Washington cathedral, site of Kennedy funeral in ’63, is ‘holy ground’
WASHINGTON (CNS) -- On Nov. 25, 1963, a television audience of millions of people around the world prayerfully bid farewell to President John F. Kennedy, as his flag-draped coffin was placed before the sanctuary of the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, during the funeral Mass for the slain president.
Marriage, family and some help for Pope Francis
In less than two years the Church in Philadelphia will host the Eighth World Meeting of Families. Aside from a press conference last year, so far the event has seemed well over the horizon; something to pleasantly daydream about without too much anxious detail. That's about to change.
Dioceses solicit Catholics’ views in preparing for synod on family
The Philadelphia Archdiocese and Harrisburg Diocese are among a handful around the country that have online ways for everyday Catholics to put in their two cents' worth about the discussions bishops from around the world will have with Pope Francis at a synod Oct. 5-19, 2014.
Yardley parish hosting Phila. Boys Choir in concert
St. Ignatius of Antioch Parish, Yardley, presents the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale in a program titled “Celebrate the Sounds of the Season” Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.
International singer to perform Christmas concert in Morrisville church
St. John the Evangelist Parish, Morrisville, welcomes international Christian singer Tajci for a “Christmas Concert Experience” Sunday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. at the church located at Big Oak and Makefield roads in Morrisville, Bucks County.
Farrell named head of planning for 2015 World Meeting of Families
Donna Farrell, former communications director for the Philadelphia Archdiocese, becomes the executive director of the 2015 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia. The independent group she leads is planning for a week of events on the family and the possible visit of Pope Francis to the city.
Archbishop urges steps to address ‘ethical challenge’ of climate change
A church-run conference in Poland brought together Catholic leaders, politicians, climate scientists and civil society groups, who called on governments to reduce their reliance on coal, oil and other fossil resources.
Priest’s presence seen as comfort for Kennedys upon return from Dallas
One Youngstown diocesan priest, the late Father Robert Brengartner, was present to meet the Kennedy family when they returned from Dallas to what was then called the Bethesda Naval Hospital near Washington.
Pope prays for peace, full religious freedom for all in Middle East
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- After a two-hour private meeting with the patriarchs and major archbishops of the Eastern Catholic churches, Pope Francis prayed for peace and full religious freedom throughout the Middle East.
In Central African Republic, thousands turn to bishop for protection
WASHINGTON (CNS) -- More than 35,000 people are living on the 40-acre diocesan compound in Bossangoa, Central African Republic, seeking protection from rebels who are targeting Christians, said the local bishop.