News
Faith sustains northern Alberta residents who fled wildfires
About 10,000 people in northern Alberta have been forced to evacuate since May 20 because of a series of spring wildfires.
U.N. declares special day to remember victims of violence against religion
The resolution invites all member states, relevant organizations, civil society, individuals and the private sector to observe the international day and show appropriate support for victims of religiously motivated violence.
Vatican names Filipino boy who died at 17 Servant of God
The Congregation for Saints' Causes gave the Diocese of Cubao, Philippines, the green light to look into the life of Darwin Ramos who died in 2012 at the age 17.
Lay people, bishops must work closely on abuse, review board chair says
Francesco Cesareo said lay people want transparency and openness from the bishops, and the sooner prelates put aside their guardedness about welcoming laity as partners, the sooner the U.S. church will heal.
Rhode Island bishop issues statement after tweet
Bishop Thomas J. Tobin said he regretted comments on Twitter when he said Catholics should not support or "attend LGBTQ 'Pride Month' events" because "they promote a culture and encourage activities that are contrary to the Catholic faith and morals. They are especially harmful for children."
‘No healing will come’ from Alabama execution, Catholic group says
In response to the Supreme Court's May 30 decision to allow the execution of an Alabama death-row inmate, a Catholic group seeking to end the death penalty said in a tweet: "Our work to build a more restorative criminal justice system continues."
Archdiocese pays $19 million+ so far in sex abuse reparations
More than $19.6 million has been paid to 93 people making a claim for compensation due to clergy sexual abuse under the Independent Reconciliation and Reparations Program, it was announced June 3.
‘Conquer bitterness with sacrificial love,’ bishop tells Virginians
Bishop Barry C. Knestout of Richmond celebrated Masses at St. Gregory the Great and St. John the Apostle churches in Virginia Beach June 2, two days after 12 people were killed in the city’s Municipal Center.
Illinois Senate passage of abortion bill called ‘sad day in history of state’
In a 34-20 vote, the Senate passed the "misnamed 'Reproductive Health Act,'" as the state's Catholic bishops referred to it. The state House OK'd it May 28 in a 64-50 vote. The measure has now headed to the desk of Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker.
Irish archbishop wants ‘show funerals’ for gang members to end
In the midst of a bitter gangland feud in the Irish capital, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin has moved to ensure that funerals of those killed are not used as overt shows of wealth or perceived influence.