CatholicPhilly

Archbishop Perez's messages

Archbishop Pérez Sends Letter to Jewish Community at Hanukkah

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez sent a letter Dec. 12 to the Jewish Community on the approach of Hanukkah, which begins Sunday evening, Dec. 14 and concludes Monday evening, Dec. 22.

Local News

Audited Reports Show Surplus in Archdiocese’s Finances for 2025

For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia reported a $2 million core operating surplus. It was the eighth consecutive year for a surplus, marking a significant improvement from the $17.6 million deficit in 2012.

St. Charles Borromeo Seminary Launching Program to Mentor Young Priests

Thanks to a $10 million grant, St. Charles and three other U.S. Catholic seminaries will provide training and ongoing evaluation to ensure transitional deacons and newly ordained priests receive guidance in their early parish assignments.

Series Explores Advent Journey for Black Catholics, and Everyone

Dr. Toni Reaves of the archdiocesan Office for Black Catholics leads “From the Manger to the Movement,” a four-week online exploration of the Christmas story and its links to universal themes of hope and liberation.

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Photo features

Photos: 70th Catholic Charities Christmas Party Brings Smiles to 500 Children

Catholic Charities of Philadelphia hosted its 70th annual Archbishop’s Benefit for Children Christmas Party Dec. 9 at the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown, continuing a tradition begun in 1955.

Immaculate Heart of Mary, Philadelphia, Welcomes Archbishop for Confirmation

Archbishop Nelson Pérez confirmed 36 young Catholics Dec. 7 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in city’s Andorra neighborhood.

Archbishop Pérez Joins Catholic Charities Center for Holiday Celebration

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez, joined by Auxiliary Bishops John J. McIntyre and Christopher R. Cooke, celebrated the season at the Community Center at Visitation in Kensington on Dec. 6, where families, supporters, and Catholic Charities leadership gathered for a festive performance by the symphonic ensemble Gaudemas.

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Spirituality

Advent Week 3: ‘Gaudete’ Reminds Us to Slow Down, See Christ’s Presence

Joy does not simply happen to us, writes Deacon Franz Fruehwald. It grows where there is space cleared by humility, softened by thankfulness, widened by compassion.

Our Inner Transformation Takes Time, Which Advent Affords

The Third Sunday of Advent allows an opportunity to experience conversion. It's a powerful experience of God’s grace in Jesus Christ whose coming we anticipate by rejoicing always, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.

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Profile

Deacon Thomas Croke Looks to Renewal in ‘Fulfilling’ Role as Leader of Holy Martyrs Parish

The permanent deacon, assuming the new role of Parish Life Director in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, hopes to use his unique skill set to inspire new energy at the parish in Oreland that has faced challenges in recent years.

Parish Life Director Mark Griswold Works to Grow a Vital Catholic Presence in Delaware County

Adopting a new model of parish leadership in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, the longtime lay minister at St. Norbert Parish now leads St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lenni. It’s a role he views as “a sign from God.”

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People and Events

Family Film Offers Philly-Flavored Take on Nativity Story

“Finding Christmas,” available on streaming platforms, is set in Northeast Philadelphia as it follows the story of a young man who travels in a dreamy adventure with an angel to the time of Christ’s birth, and back to his city neighborhood.

Cristo Rey Philadelphia Celebrates Mission Moments Gathering

The Nov. 19 gathering brought together Cristo Rey Philadelphia supporters to reflect on the religious charisms and faith communities that continue to guide the school’s culture and mission since its founding.

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Commentaries

Finding God in a Game: The Eagles’ 1960 NFL Championship Game

Sixty-five years later, the stories surrounding Philadelphia’s victory over the Green Bay Packers in the title game continue to reflect many Catholic themes and personalities, writes Jay Sorgi.

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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.

The Second Time Around: Karen Barnes Helps Grandparents Find Hope in Parenting Again

Across Pennsylvania, thousands of grandparents are raising children for a second time, but they aren’t alone. Karen Barnes is there with support, strength, and the hope they need to keep going.

She Knows Their Names: How Colleen McDonough and Christ in the City Turn Sidewalks into Sacred Spaces

Not every need is visible. Colleen from Christ in the City is walking with people who carry a deep loneliness — offering presence, friendship, and a reminder that they’re not forgotten.

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Calendar of Events

Blessing of the Nativity Scene at Cathedral Set for Dec. 17

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will celebrate its 29th annual Blessing of the Nativity Scene on Dec. 17 with prayer, music, and community at the Cathedral Basilica.

Young Catholic Professionals Executive Speaker Series Set for Jan. 14 with Dr. Laura Sicola

Young Catholic Professionals Philadelphia will host Dr. Laura Sicola on Jan. 14 for an inspiring talk on leadership, faith, and communication.

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Obituaries

Permanent Deacon James Mahar

Retired Deacon James Mahar, passed away on December 1, 2025, at the age of 80.

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Vatican News

Live Authentically with Prayer, Letting Go of the Unnecessary, Pope Says

The secret to living an authentic life is praying to understand what is truly beneficial according to God's plan and letting go of the superfluous, Pope Leo XIV said.

Dialogue, Diplomacy Can Lead to Just, Lasting Peace in Ukraine, Pope Says

Meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Pope Leo XIV reiterated the importance of dialogue and his hopes for a just and lasting peace in the region.

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Hispanic Catholics

Adviento: Preparando el Corazón para un Encuentro Real con Cristo – La Voz de Dios Dec. 7, 2025

En este episodio especial de La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos, Marianela conversa con Sister Linda Sariego, OSF, profesora universitaria, franciscana y mujer profundamente arraigada en la espiritualidad del Adviento.

Spanish Advent Morning of Reflection Dec. 15

On Sunday, Dec. 15, the Mother Boniface Spirituality Center will host a Spanish Advent Morning of Reflection titled “From Darkness to Light.” Spanish translation included.

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USCCB

U.S. Bishops Grant More Than $7.5 Million to Strengthen Nearly 70 U.S. Mission Dioceses

Bishop Garcia Appointed Inaugural Chairman of Subcommittee for the Promotion of Racial Justice and Reconciliation

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