News
Pope says study on women deacons was inconclusive
The commission Pope Francis appointed to study the history and identity of women deacons did not reach a unanimous conclusion about whether deaconesses in the early church were "ordained" or formally "blessed," the pope said.
Father Joseph McCloskey, retired Navy chaplain, pastor dies at 85
The South Philadelphia native marched with the Mummers as a young man then studied for the priesthood. As a priest chaplain he rose to commander and served on aircraft carriers in Vietnam and the Middle East.
AmeriCorps partnership expands sisters’ service and transforms members
In Notre Dame-AmeriCorps, members spend 11 months serving in a variety of individual and small-group teaching, tutoring and other programs. In exchange, they receive a stipend for living allowances, help with student loans through AmeriCorps, a wealth of new skills and, often, a lifetime appreciation for service.
Pope Francis called Jean Vanier to thank him before his death
The death of Vanier, whose ministry helped improve the lives of developmentally disabled people in dozens of countries, drew prayers and words of condolence from church leaders around the world.
Mexican bishops call for migrant assistance at their southern border
The Mexican bishops' conference has appealed for assistance for thousands of migrants stuck in Chiapas state as Mexican officials step up enforcement and stop issuing travel documents.
In Washington meeting, U.S. bishops dialogue with abuse victims
A small group of Catholics gathered with bishops, clergy, victim advocates and others for a daylong event on the sex abuse crisis in the Catholic Church, but also to acknowledge the pain caused, to offer comfort, express sorrow, to share a meal, to pray and extend the wish to heal a broken trust.
Bishop Shanahan pitcher tops 1,000 Ks in softball career
Four-year starter Devon Miller recorded her strikeout milestone, a first in school history, in a win over WC Henderson April 30. In two succeeding games she fanned 15 and 20 batters, respectively.
Georgia governor signs heartbeat bill restricting abortions
Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed legislation May 7 to ban abortions, with some exceptions, in the state once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which is around six weeks. Current state law allows abortions up to 20 weeks.
Couples recall how their marriages endured through the years
Couples married 50 years, 25 years and other anniversaries gathered at the Cathedral last Saturday with Archbishop Chaput, renewing their marriage vows and reviewing the secrets of their success.
He’s seen the world, but ready to minister in Philadelphia
As a member of the Neocatechumenal Way, Deacon Jonathan Rice has evangelized in many states and countries. But after he is ordained a priest on May 18, he'll put down firm roots in the Philadelphia Archdiocese.