News
Philadelphia joins suburbs, lifts most COVID restrictions for churches
Now all churches in the Philadelphia Archdiocese may have full capacity and close proximity as soon as this weekend’s Masses, June 5-6, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. The wearing of masks, however, will remain a consideration.
Ascension offers digital events to help Catholics celebrate Corpus Christi
The West Chester-based Catholic multimedia network's events aim to deepen Catholics' devotion to the Eucharist. "Like a married couple renewing wedding vows, we are invited to say to the Lord, 'Yes, I still choose to be here with you on Sundays,'" said author Edward Sri.
Nine new permanent deacons to be ordained this month
Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez will ordain the men for service in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on Saturday, June 12. Learn about them here, and pray for the men and their wives ahead of the ordination Mass.
Ending limit on culturing human embryos called ‘affront’ to value of life
The International Society for Stem Cell Research recommended lifting a rule in place for 40 years, which may weaken protections for embryos. New Jersey Congressman Chris Smith vehemently opposed the move and seeks legislation banning human-animal hybrids.
Fears rise over China’s growing crackdown on Christian religious leaders
Observers believe that China's communist regime has been moving slowly to crush religious groups, including Catholic and Protestant churches that it deems illegal and a threat to party rule, and its religious persecution is intensifying under President Xi Jinping.
Hong Kong Masses remember Tiananmen Square protesters
The city's annual candlelight vigils in a park have been banned since the Chinese government in Beijing imposed a national security law on Hong Kong last June. This year's memorial will be limited to seven Catholic churches.
Ecumenical service remembers victims of Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921
The pastor of the only Black-owned structure in Tulsa remaining after that era's riot joined the city's Catholic bishop in a memorial. "It is hard to believe that 100 years ago people could think and act in such a way. Still, it happened," said Bishop David Konderla.
Water proves powerful in its presence — and by its absence
Severe drought in the Western U.S. means water will get more expensive, as will the crops that depend on it. Meanwhile, too much water will be the result of more destructive storms. Both are made worse by human-caused climate change, said a Catholic expert.
With world still in knots, pope turns to Mary with prayers
Beside an image of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots, Pope Francis asked Mary to untie specific knots that have individuals and the whole world tangled in suffering and difficulty, either because of the COVID-19 pandemic or people's selfish reactions to it.
Canadian Catholic leaders express sorrow over deaths of Indigenous children
The bodies of more than 200 children, some as young as 3, were discovered buried on the site of what was once Canada's large Indigenous residential school. It was founded in 1890 and run by Catholic religious orders and the Canadian government.