News
Merger of 4 city parishes into one akin to Emmaus journey
With the merging on July 1 of Nativity, St. Adalbert, Mother of Divine Grace and St. George into a single parish for Port Richmond, Father James Olson told his parishioners that "together we will see where the Holy Spirit is leading us.”
South Philly students write their own children’s books
At a May 3 celebration, kids at St. Gabriel's Out of School Time program debuted their new releases while unveiling a new library at the site, one of 12 operated by archdiocesan Catholic Social Services.
Summer camps deepen young men’s faith while they’re having fun
Starting in June, the archdiocesan Vocation Office for the Diocesan Priesthood will offer three sessions that combine spirituality, study and works of mercy, plus a splash in the pool and a trip to the art museum.
El Salvador lays to rest another priest presumably killed by gangs
Father Cecilio Perez Cruz, 35, was found dead in his home May 18 with a note that said he had not paid "rent," a gang euphemism for extortion money. He had denounced environmental problems in the area.
Funeral pays tribute to homeless man who lived by Indianapolis cathedral
William "Paco" Pryor never considered himself homeless during the more than 20 years that he lived behind SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Indianapolis. Instead, he found his own version of what most people long for in a "home" -- a place where he was welcomed and embraced by people who cared about him.
Former Jerusalem patriarch: Time to move away from war
Seemingly addressing U.S. President Donald Trump, Archbishop Sabbah said since the president says he believes in the Bible, he should read it and pay attention to what is written there about peace.
School choice advocates in Florida celebrate new scholarship program
In response to an increased waiting list of one scholarship program, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill that will create another scholarship program that could benefit as many as 18,000 students in the 2019-2020 school year to attend private schools.
Pope asks Italian bishops finally to implement tribunal reforms
Pope Francis told the bishops of Italy that he was disappointed that so many of their dioceses had yet to implement the reforms he ordered to make the marriage annulment process quicker, more pastoral and less expensive.
Missouri lawmakers ‘clearly on side of life’ with passage of abortion bill
The bill would criminalize any abortion beyond eight weeks of pregnancy, except in cases of medical emergencies. There are no exceptions for rape or incest. Doctors who perform abortions after eight weeks face five to 15 years in prison. There is no punishment for the mother.
Indian Jesuit accused of rape says he will appeal
Father Aind was convicted for conspiracy and not reporting the crime of which he allegedly had full knowledge. But Father Xalxo said the Jesuit, who is now in jail, had been "framed" for political reasons.