Profile
Our man from Assisi: Road to priesthood brings him to Phila.
Deacon Francesco D'Amico wanted to be a pro soccer player in his native Italy until an injury, and the Neocatchumenal Way, changed his course. Now he prepares for ordination for the Philadelphia Archdiocese.
Young man left NYC scene behind; now he’ll become a priest
David Buffum left a good job in Manhattan and a partying lifestyle in Brooklyn after a conversion experience drew him to a church, then home to Delaware County and now to the cusp of priestly ordination this May.
Sean McMenamin keeps Irish roots firmly in Philly soil
The grand marshal of Philadelphia's St. Patrick's Day parade and Cheltenham resident came to the U.S. in 1966 seeking better prospects for work. The Irish people, he said, "are survivors. That is in our DNA.”
Teaching teens the value of life is her life’s work
Martha Short received the top award from Pennsylvanians for Human Life Feb. 24 for her work leading the educational organization for 20 years, a role she practically inherited from her pro-life parents.
Couple’s key to 50 married years is personal bond with Christ
From hosting rosary groups and faith-sharing groups in their home to leading courses on marriage and parenting, Michele and John Doman of Visitation Parish in Norristown focus on a personal relationship with God and growing in fellowship with his followers.
Not seeking religious life, Sister Alice heard the call in the classroom
Growing up in Fishtown and hanging out with friends, she assumed she'd be a wife and mother. But as a lay teacher she felt a vocation, and now Sister Alice Gray has served for 50 years, 35 as a DRE.
National awardee sees rewards of teaching every day
Fifty years ago Margaret Egan began her career teaching in Catholic schools, and led SS. Peter and Paul School from its start. “The joys outweigh the sorrows" because she can make a difference in students' lives.
Young pro-life leader makes time for prayer, witness at UPenn
Standing up for the sanctity of life at a large secular university takes courage. Junior nursing major Theresa Dierkes of Drexel Hill is undaunted in her commitment of joining prayer and action for life.
Bristol man traces path from Jewish youth to Catholic diaconate
Richard Malamut was raised in the Jewish tradition, and people thought he'd be a good rabbi. After marriage, parenthood and getting to know Jesus, Deacon Rich now serves and talks "about the One I love to those I love."
Part of growing order, Sister leads outreach to other religious
Sister Gabrielle Mary Braccio is settling nicely into her new role as delegate for consecrated life, representing the archdiocese to local congregations. Formerly a beautician and nurse from Atlantic City, she's among "joyful and happy" sisters.