News

Judge sets $250,000 bail for Msgr. Lynn after reversal of conviction

PHILADELPHIA (CNS) -- Bond was set at $250,000 for Msgr. William Lynn Dec. 30, four days after an appeals court reversed his conviction for endangering child welfare by his handling of a sex abuse case. His lawyers indicated they would try to secure his release by Jan. 2.

Milwaukee project makes, markets soaps to help former prostitutes

MILWAUKEE (CNS) -- Soothing aromas of peppermint, lavender, gingerbread and lemon verbena waft through the hallways of the Franciscan Peacemakers headquarters in Milwaukee.

Vatican hosts top world leaders, experts to seek end to Syrian war

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and former Egyptian Vice President Mohamed ElBaradei are among the key political experts invited by the Vatican for a one-day meeting aimed at promoting a cease-fire in Syria, the protection of Christians there and a transitional and unified government.

Response to ‘On Eagle’s Wings’ over the years humbling for composer

Father Jan Michael Joncas has composed more than 300 liturgical songs, but his name is widely known for the one that tops a list of favorites: "On Eagle's Wings."

Istanbul residents recall former neighbor Angelo Roncalli, future saint

In 1958, Archbishop Roncalli became Pope John XXIII; he will be canonized April 27 along with Blessed John Paul II.

Pope: Don’t forget plight of exiles, elderly marginalized by own family

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Just as people must never ignore the plight of today's immigrants and refugees, they must also remember today's "hidden exiles" -- the elderly and other relatives who are abandoned or forgotten by their own families, Pope Francis said.

Big issues, events loom in new year for Vatican

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- After a year that included the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and a series of celebrated innovations by Pope Francis, it is hard to imagine 2014 at the Vatican could be nearly as eventful. Besides any surprises, here are five issues to watch at the Holy See.

West Chester parish serves needy now and all year

The Holy Family Program, now in its 15th year at St. Agnes Parish, has aided 300 local families including 900 children not only during the Christmas season but throughout the year.

Appeals court reverses child endangerment conviction of Msgr. Lynn

The highest ranking official of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia convicted of a crime in connection with the sexual abuse scandal of recent years may soon walk free from prison. A Superior Court panel ruled Dec. 26 there was insufficient evidence to convict Msgr. William Lynn, and it reversed his 2012 conviction.

Pope, on feast of first martyr, prays for persecuted Christians

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Observing the feast of St. Stephen, Pope Francis prayed for Christians suffering persecution and discrimination around the world, even in countries that nominally honor religious liberty.