News
Faithful make time for quiet prayer in near-empty churches
Parishioners in the Philadelphia Archdiocese are making the best of public restrictions on gatherings due to the coronavirus and are praying to God in silence for many needs.
Watch livestreamed Mass for Ascension feast today
The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord is still a holy day, even if no obligation exists this year because of the pandemic. Father Dennis Gill will celebrate the Mass online Thursday evening at 5.
Vatican cautions Israel over West Bank annexation plan
The Holy See was "following closely "an Israeli plan to unilaterally annex a large portion of land on which sit some 130 Jewish settlements. The U.N. has called them a "flagrant violation" of international law.
Catholic leaders warn of human, environmental tragedy in Amazon
As the coronavirus pandemic spreads into the Amazon basin, indigenous people who are attacked for defending their land against miners, loggers and land-grabbers are also at great risk from COVID-19.
Learn from St. John Paul, pope tells young people
In a video message, Pope Francis called on young people to use today's technology to learn about St. John Paul. The pope hoped that like the Polish saint, they may "enter into Christ with your whole life."
Extreme caution tops checklists for Catholic colleges to reopen in fall
Immense preparations are underway as the nation's 600 colleges and universities discuss how to reopen in the fall. About two-thirds intend to offer in-person classes, while others wait to decide.
PCC urges Gov. Wolf to fix education funding disparity
The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference wants residents to ask the governor not to divert any of the $66 million from the federal CARES Act for Catholic and nonpublic schools as the law directs.
‘Manna Sunday’ food drive aims for much-needed miracle
With unemployment now close to 15%, the annual collection by archdiocesan Nutritional Development Services has become a lifeline for families struggling with hunger.
Juniata parish stays close to Mary, despite social distancing
At Holy Innocents in Philadelphia, a normally elaborate May procession was revamped to comply with COVID-19 restrictions, but devotion to the "Help of the Sick" is stronger than ever.
Local Catholics remember St. John Paul II on his 100th birthday
Eating pizza with novices, preaching from area parishes and inspiring vocations are among the memories area faithful have of a man who remains a vibrant "spiritual father."