News
Australia’s plenary council requires listening by people, leadership
The head of the bishops of Australia, where a type of church synod is beginning, sees the action of the Holy Spirit in the "messy" process. He hopes it will come to the U.S. to transcend ideologies and "come to something new that only God can reveal to us."
Brazil sees rapid rise in land conflicts, Catholic agency reports
The 1,576 disputes involving more than 80,000 families and 900,000 people were largely over land, water and labor, said the Catholic-affiliated Pastoral Land Commission.
Migration summit aims to work toward ‘church without borders’
On the final day of a historic meeting of international bishops and Catholic organizations, they discussed the challenges the church faces even while trying to get Catholics to understand church teaching on migrants.
Sister Agnes Borkowski, O.S.F., dies at 93
A native of Baltimore and Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia for 72 years, the former Sister Walter Josephine ministered primarily in child care, elementary education and health care.
Father Martin Okwudiba, ordained in Rome, is new priest for Phila.
The Philadelphia man was ordained Thursday morning, June 3 at a Rome basilica. After completing his studies this month, he will minister in Europe before returning to the Philadelphia Archdiocese.
Students share deep-sea designs with renowned explorer
Fifth graders at St. Maximilian Kolbe School in West Chester shared their models of underwater cities with marine researcher and advocate Fabien Cousteau, offering hands-on hope amid ecological crisis.
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.