Local News
New Office to Unify Catholic Church of Philadelphia’s Advancement Efforts with ‘One Heart and One Mind’
The new Office of Stewardship and Development will strengthen and unify advancement across the Catholic Church of Philadelphia by fostering a renewed culture of stewardship through technology, collaboration, and a best-in-class experience for benefactors and beneficiaries alike.
Hope, Healing Come With Ministry to Bury Babies After Miscarriage
The Angel Ministry of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lenni, Delaware County, works with hospitals to inter babies’ remains in a prayerful and dignified way.
Black Catholics Gather Online to Pray Rosary in October
Devotion to Mary has always been a part of the Black Catholic experience, according to Stacy Williams, director of the archdiocesan Office for Black Catholics.
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.
A Place to Belong: Micah Spader’s Ministry of Presence in the City
Every week, Micah Spader opens doors for teens to gather, play, pray, and belong in Chester. It’s more than youth ministry for him and his work with Vagabond Missions — it’s a safe place for young people to be seen, loved, and reminded of God’s goodness.
Saying ‘Yes’: How Rising Together Alliance Builds Inclusion in Catholic Schools
With the Rising Together Alliance, Vicki Szostek and Susan Schuller are opening doors so kids with disabilities can learn—and feel included—in their Catholic schools.

Photo features
Across the Aisles: St. Anthony of Padua, Ambler
Archbishop Nelson Pérez confirmed 40 young Catholics during a special Mass at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Ambler.
La Salle Academy Welcomes Archbishop for Mass, Blessing
Archbishop Nelson Pérez visited with the La Salle Academy school community Oct. 19.
Scenes: Deacons and Wives Gather for Workshop at St. Charles Seminary
Deacons and their wives from across the Archdiocese gathered at St. Charles Seminary on Oct. 18 for a day of prayer, formation, and fellowship. See our photo gallery.

Profile
From Resident to Leader – How St. John’s Hospice Transformed One Man’s Life
Peter Greenland, once a resident of St. John’s Hospice and now a dedicated staff member, shelters and nourishes vulnerable men experiencing homelessness by offering safe refuge, warm meals, and compassionate care through Catholic Charities of Philadelphia.
A Safe Haven for Children, A Mission of Faith – D’Aulerio’s 20 Years with Catholic Charities of Philadelphia
For nearly 20 years, Dee D’Aulerio has supported and strengthened children and families through Catholic Charities of Philadelphia’s Out-of-School Time program, creating a safe, nurturing space rooted in faith, learning, and community.
Serving Seniors with Compassion is Senetta Boyd’s Lifelong Mission
Senetta Boyd, Social Services Care Manager with Catholic Housing and Community Services, stabilizes and enriches the lives of nearly 100 Philadelphia seniors by helping them live independently with dignity and faith-driven support.
Building Homes of Faith, Hope – Holly Piccirelli’s Journey with The Communities of Don Guanella and Divine Providence Village
After two decades in several roles at Catholic Charities of Philadelphia, Holly Piccirelli now leads as Director of Professional Services and Performance, empowering Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to live with dignity, joy, and community.
Commentaries
Pope Francis’ Decade-Old Lesson: Detainees Are Our Family
When the Holy Father visited Philadelphia in 2015, few people witnessed his visit to the men and women in a Philadelphia prison. His words to them ring as prophetic witness to us today, writes Matthew Gambino.
Spirituality
The Power of Persistent Prayer
Msgr. Joseph Prior reflects on how St. Monica’s unwavering prayer for her son reminds us that true faith trusts God’s timing even when the answers seem delayed.
People and Events
Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia Appoint First Chief Operating Officer
Florence Smith steps into a newly created leadership role as Chief Operating Officer for the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, bringing nearly two decades of experience.
Missionary Hub Directors Meet Archbishop Pérez Following Initiative Launch
The new missionary hubs will bring parish ministries, education, and outreach to communities across the Archdiocese, guided by teams of trained directors and pastors.

Calendar of Events
Cranaleith Spiritual Center to Mark 10th Anniversary of ‘Laudato Si’ on Nov. 2
Celebrate a decade of Laudato Si’ with a panel event exploring its impact, challenges, and enduring call to action.
St. Hubert Pumpkin Spice Bingo Nov. 9
Celebrate fall, win prizes, and enjoy bingo at St. Hubert High School.
Obituaries
Permanent Deacon Robert Frankenberger
Retired Permanent Deacon Robert Frankenberger, passed away on October 19, 2025, at the age of 99.

Vatican News
Attacks on Religious Liberty Increase, Say Cardinal, Papal Foundation
Religious freedom is not only a fundamental and essential human right, "it is also a pathway to truth and deeper communion with God and neighbor," said Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state.
Pope Leo Meets with Coalition of Survivors of Clergy Abuse
Pope Leo XIV met with a coalition of survivors of abuse and victims' advocates for the first time at the Vatican Oct. 20.

Hispanic Catholics
Hubs Misioneros y la Amistad con Jesús – La Voz de Dios Oct. 19, 2025
Esta semana en La Voz de Dios, Marianela Núñez conversa con el Arzobispo Nelson Pérez sobre cómo redescubrir el corazón de la Iglesia a través de los Hubs Misioneros, espacios que buscan renovar la vida parroquial y reavivar la fe.
El Mes de la Salud Mental – La Voz de Dios Oct. 12
Octubre es el Mes de la Salud Mental, y en La Voz de Dios conversamos con la psicóloga católica, Noemi Lopez, sobre cómo cuidar nuestra mente también es cuidar el alma.


