News
14-nation survey shows U.S. faith has stayed strongest amid COVID-19
According to a new poll by the Pew Research Center, more Americans say the coronavirus pandemic has strengthened their religious faith than those in 13 other nations. But a majority in every country, the U.S. included, said the pandemic has made no difference in the level of their faith.
U.S. bishops support initiative to stop bullying of LGBT youth
At least 10 U.S. Catholic bishops have signed a statement supporting the Tyler Clementi Foundation and speaking out against bullying directed at LGBT youth. The foundation's namesake committed suicide in 2010 because of anti-gay cyberbullying.
Vatican exonerates retired Wyoming bishop of sexual abuse, but issues rebuke
Although civil prosecutors and the Vatican cleared retired Bishop Joseph Bishop Hart of accusations of sexual abuse because of a lack of evidence, the current bishop told survivors of sexual abuse, "I support and believe you."
Nine Catholics nominated to Cabinet-level jobs in Biden administration
In addition to retired Gen. Lloyd Austin, who has already been confirmed as secretary of defense, the other Catholic top advisers to the president have long careers of service in state, federal and local governments.
Local March for Life draws hundreds in prayer, public witness
Young and old united for a Jan. 23 Mass followed by a procession through downtown Philadelphia, calling for an end to legalized abortion and respect for the unborn, Blacks and persons with disabilities.
Parish collections drop but costs don’t; 25 parishes find a lifeline
The Parish Stewardship Renewal Program of the Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia helped parishes raise $1.5 million at a financially precarious time. Feb. 1 is the cutoff for the spring phase.
Local Mass for life set for Friday, Jan. 29 at cathedral
Archbishop Nelson Pérez will celebrate a 10 a.m. “Mass of solidarity” in Philadelphia, the day of the now-virtual national March for Life in Washington, at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul.
Catholic Charities Appeal gives ‘joy, hope and strength,’ says archbishop
At the Jan. 25 kickoff of the Philadelphia Archdiocese's largest fundraiser, Archbishop Nelson Pérez encouraged faithful to "look deep into (their) hearts" to raise $12.5 million for outreaches more needed than ever due to COVID.
Fight against climate change can’t be done alone, cardinal says
Climate change is a global problem that requires the commitment and collective response of all humanity, said the Vatican secretary of state. "We have no alternative ... but to work together."
Green New Deals need to respect diverse cultures, Vatican official says
Nations' plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions must avoid imposing a "uniform" model that might unify the world but end up causing divisions among people, said the Vatican's foreign minister.