Archbishop Perez's messages
Statement of Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez Upon the Election of Our New Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV
Archbishop Nelson Pérez issued a statement May 8 calling Pope Leo XIV "a true gift to the world," emphasizing his deep faith and pastoral leadership, and expressing confidence that his papacy will bring "the compassionate love of Jesus Christ" to all people.
Local News
Pope Leo XIV Elected First American Pontiff; Has Links to Phila. Church
The former Cardinal Robert Prevost studied at Villanova University as an undergrad, and was ordained to the episcopacy by Archbishop James Green, a Philadelphia priest. The Holy Father stressed building bridges as an early theme of his pontificate.
All Invited to Pray for Pope Leo XIV with Special Mass at Cathedral
Celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV at a Mass of Thanksgiving on Friday, May 9 at 12:05 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica with Archbishop Pérez. Attend in person or via livestream. Prayers may also be offered using guidelines from the Office for Divine Worship.
Catholic Charities of Philadelphia’s Mother’s Day Brunch Celebrates Endurance of Love
The community-based and housing programs threw a party May 3 that featured music, food, dance, and faith as mothers and their kids celebrated their triumphs and each other.

Photo features
Photos: Archdiocesan Staff, Clergy React to Election of First American Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV
From solemn prayers to joyous smiles, staff and clergy of the archdiocesan pastoral center gathered as the announcement of Pope Leo XIV’s election was made May 8.
Vatican News
Pope Leo XIV: Peacemaker and Openness in an Historic Name
Following Pope Francis, who chose a completely new name in church history, Pope Leo opted for a name steeped in tradition that also conveys an openness to engaging with the modern world.
Faces of Hope
Meet the Faces of Hope
A new video and storytelling series that shines a light on the inspiring ways everyday Catholics across the Philadelphia region are putting their faith into action. Discover their stories, share their hope.
Dan Tarrant Brings God to the World Through Catholic Filmmaking
The resident of Warminster, Bucks County brings a Jesus-centered approach to his art through which he shares stories of God’s relationship with people on the margins of society.
Sheriff’s Deputies Have Two Devout Faiths and One Mission to Serve
Faith and hope come together in the form of a two-man unit in the Bucks County Sheriff’s Department. Sal LaMantia and Justin Sturkey’s work in the SCOPE Unit exemplifies that sometimes the greatest force for change is compassion.

People and Events
Celebrate Mother’s Day with CRS: Honor Moms, Support Global Relief
This Mother’s Day, make a donation to Catholic Relief Services in a loved one’s name and support life-saving work around the world. A commemorative postcard will be sent to each honored recipient.
Calendar of Events
Cardinal Foley Symposium to Gather Expert Communicators for Town Hall Discussion
All are invited to the May 22 symposium at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary that annually celebrates the World Day of Communications. This year’s event focuses on the message of Pope Francis for this occasion with the theme, "Share with gentleness the hope that is in your heart."
Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia Hosts Planned Giving Webinar May 21
Join the Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia for a free webinar, "Planting Seeds of Faith: An Introduction to Planned Giving," on May 21 at 1:00 PM. Presented by Colin J. Devlin, Esq., this session will cover planned gift options and include a Q&A.
Spirituality
‘If You Love Me’: Our Calling to Accept Jesus’ Love and Mercy
Msgr. Joseph Prior explains how in this Sunday's Gospel, Peter receives the mercy and love of Jesus. Peter is transformed, then boldly proclaims the Gospel to the world.

Hispanic Catholics
La Voz de Dios May 4, 2025
La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos presenta un episodio muy especial con María del Mar Muñoz-Visoso, directora ejecutiva del Secretariado de Diversidad Cultural en la Iglesia de la USCCB.
La Voz de Dios April 27, 2025
En un episodio especial por el Domingo de la Divina Misericordia, reflexionamos sobre el amor incondicional de Dios que se revela en la cruz y en la resurrección.