News
Report says Montreal Archdiocese covered for abusive priest for decades
For nearly 40 years, warnings about a convicted former priest pedophile were ignored or deemed irrelevant because the numerous complaints mostly concerned adults and not minors, wrote a Canadian judge on the archdiocese's "culture of secrecy."
Priest with Philly roots marks 100th birthday in Virginia
Father John Van de Paer, who served Black Catholics for 43 years as pastor at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in South Philadelphia, welcomed a line of cars with young and old wishing him happy birthday, including some from Philadelphia.
Pope appoints Washington auxiliary bishop to head Buffalo Diocese
Bishop Michael Fisher, 62, is the Washington Archdiocese's vicar for clergy. He will be installed Jan. 15 as head of the Buffalo Diocese, which has been rocked by the clergy sexual abuse scandal and forced into bankruptcy this year.
Priest communicator for Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia dies
Father John Fields, communication director for the archeparchy, died at his home Nov. 28. He was 70. A lawyer by trade then a priest and pastor, he was participating in a COVID vaccine trial at the time of his death.
New cardinal source of pride, hope, say local Black Catholics
The elevation of Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the first African American member of the College of the Cardinals, is "a moment to celebrate" that promises a bright future for the church.
Philadelphia Catholics join #iGiveCatholic effort Dec. 1
The nationwide Catholic stewardship initiative encourages Catholics to support local parishes, schools and organizations on #GivingTuesday -- learn how you can get involved.
Court dubious of Trump’s plan to exclude immigrants in census
Justice Amy Coney Barrett told the lawyer representing the Trump administration position that "the historical evidence and long-standing practice really cuts against your position."
Black Catholics express joy at elevation of first African American cardinal
The elevation of Cardinal Wilton Gregory "says that the faith, the contributions, the experience of Black Catholics truly do matter," said one leader, echoing the voices of many in the Washington area.
Pope appeals for peace as violence increases in Ethiopia
Pope Francis renewed his call for the Ethiopian government and opposition leaders to "reject the temptation of armed conflict." He appealed for prayer and "the peaceful resolution of discord."
Religious leaders must offer example of respect, cooperation, pope says
Christian churches and other religious traditions have the duty of dialogue to help people understand their responsibility to each other as members of one human family, Pope Francis wrote to the Orthodox patriarch.