News

Kenyan Catholics add ‘classrooms’ under trees in response to pandemic

One Catholic leader said conducting classes under trees that offer protection from the sun is preferable to extending children's stay at home with no access to learning. Kenya's schools had been closed for nine months.

Masses, rallies recall the lives of those lost to abortion since 1973

Numerous prayer vigils, Masses, online events and in-person rallies nationwide marked the anniversary of the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion in the U.S.

Religious leaders want Brazilian president impeached over COVID-19

Since the beginning of the pandemic, President Jair Bolsonaro discredited scientific institutions, held back resources meant to fight the virus and mocked health recommendations, say 380 Christian leaders.

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.