News
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.
Syrian Christian refugees ponder their plight at Christmas
"Just see how Christians in Iraq were targeted on our sacred holiday, Christmas Day, in Baghdad," said Syrian Christian Abu Reda in Jordan, referring to bomb blasts that left at least 37 dead. "Christians are being targeted in Syria. I was one and that's why we fled here."