News
Sister Maureen Joseph Caranci, I.H.M., dies at 89
Sister Maureen Joseph, I.H.M., formerly Marie Caranci, died July 16 in Camilla Hall, Immaculata, in the 65th year of her religious life. She was 89 years old. Born in Philadelphia, Sister Maureen entered the Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in 1948 from St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, Philadelphia, and […]
Archdiocese announces five clergy assignment changes
Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces the following appointments effective as noted: SPECIAL MINISTRY Reverend Monsignor Francis W. Beach, from Delegate for Stewardship and Development, to Special Consultant to the Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia, effective July 1, 2013 PAROCHIAL ADMINISTRATOR Reverend Kevin J. Kelly, to Parochial Administrator, pro tem, […]
Black Catholics from across U.S. pack cathedral for convention Mass
It was possibly the most elegant gathering of Black Catholics in the history of the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul. Almost 1,000 Knights and Ladies (especially the Ladies) of the Knights of Peter Claver filled the grand old cathedral on July 21 for the opening Mass of Thanksgiving as part of their annual convention, and first ever in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
Fetuses from Gosnell clinic won’t be released for burial, coroner says
Despite requests by Archbishop Charles Chaput and Priests for Life founder Father Frank Pavone to bury 47 fetuses killed at the Women’s Medical Society led by abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell, the Philadelphia Medical Examiner’s Office says the remains “will not be released to any unrelated third party,” said spokesman Jeff Moran in a statement.
Pope returns to Marian shrine, entrusts WYD to Mary’s care
APARECIDA, Brazil (CNS) -- Comfortable in the presence of Mary and at a shrine that symbolizes one of his most important experiences as a member of the Latin American bishops' council, Pope Francis kicked off five days of intense activity with an act of devotion.
400,000 brave wind, rain for World Youth Day opening Mass
RIO DE JANEIRO (CNS) -- The mosaic of hundreds of national flags waving in the cold wind on Copacabana beach was symbolic, as pilgrims from all backgrounds, driven by a single faith, participated in the opening Mass for World Youth Day. "We come from different cultures, speak different languages, but we sing the same songs and have the same faith," said Nancy Issa of Ramallah, West Bank.
Federal judge stops enforcement of North Dakota fetal heartbeat law
BISMARCK, N.D. (CNS) -- A federal judge's temporary injunction stopping enforcement of a new North Dakota law barring abortion when a fetal heartbeat is detected "is not surprising and is typical in most legal challenges to pro-life laws," said the North Dakota Catholic Conference.
Teacher for 46 years in area schools, Franciscan Sister Clare Marita Pearce dies at 88
Sister Clare Marita Pearce, O.S.F., 88, died July 22 in Assisi House, Aston. She had been a professed member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia for 66 years. Sister Clare Marita (Clare Elaine Pearce) was born in Philadelphia where she was a member of St. Columba Parish in North Philadelphia and a graduate […]
Escaped priest now helps Syrian refugees resettle in British Columbia
VANCOUVER, British Columbia (CNS) -- A priest who escaped from Syria is now helping other Christian refugees flee oppression and resettle in cities in British Columbia. "I know what it's like to be a refugee there," said Father Sarmad Biloues of SS. Peter and Paul Chaldean mission. "They lost everything, even their dignity."
St. Jerome parishioners sit under stars for family movie night
Members of St. Jerome Parish in Northeast Philadelphia gathered on the parish lawn June 17 for the first family movie night of the summer. Parishioners young and old enjoyed a beautiful summer evening of community spirit watching “Wreck-It Ralph.” The movie night was hosted by the parents of St. Jerome School.