CatholicPhilly

Local News

Advent ‘Novena for the 83%’ Aims to Invite Catholics Back

The prayer campaign this month, which invokes the grace of reconciliation, focuses on loved ones who are inactive in their Catholic faith and healing broken relationships.

Philadelphia Oratory, St. Francis Xavier Parish Celebrate Ordination of New Priest

Father Alexander Mosko last month became the second priest ordained for the Philadelphia Oratory in 35 years – a blessing for the religious community and a joy for Fairmount parishioners.

Advent Retreat Explores Blessed ‘Foolishness of Hope’ in God

At a day of reflection Nov. 30 at Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Northeast Philadelphia, Sister Linda Sariego explained God’s unconditional love through salvation history.

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Spirituality

Advent Week 2: Peace Comes Not Into Calm, But Into Chaos of the Ordinary

The second candle that we light on the Advent wreath this Sunday reminds us of peace, and Deacon Franz Fruehwald points to three ways we can welcome Christ’s peace: through simplicity, stillness, and forgiveness.

Advent Teaches Vigilance for Hope in Jesus, Who Remains With Us

Intense mental focus is not only a trait of elite athletes, but of followers of Christ who await his arrival in history and in their hearts. We remain focused and aware of God's presence with us through life, even until its end.

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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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People and Events

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.

Philadelphia Pilgrims Share Their NCYC 2025 Experience

Philadelphia-area teens share their National Catholic Youth Conference 2025 experiences in a series of videos from the Archdiocesan Office for Ministry with Youth.

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Profile

Amy Stoner’s Calling to Serve Will Continue Even in Retirement

The Catholic Charities of Philadelphia division director has touched countless lives in her 38 years uplifting the underserved through the Catholic Church.

Broadcaster Andie Summers Loves Her Work, Her Family, Her Faith

The devout Catholic, Downingtown resident, and host of a popular morning radio show will be inducted into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia Hall of Fame.

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.

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Calendar of Events

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.

Holy Martyrs, Oreland, To Host Holiday Events for Families and Youth

The Montgomery County parish is inviting families to upcoming seasonal events of faith, fun, and service.

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Photo features

Scenes: Philadelphia Priests Gather for Annual Day of Sanctification

Archbishop Nelson Pérez and priests from across Philadelphia gathered Dec. 1 for the archdiocese’s annual Day of Sanctification.

Scenes from National Catholic Youth Conference 2025

See highlights from NCYC 2025 in our photo gallery.

St. Kevin, Springfield, Welcomes Archbishop for Confirmation

Young Catholics received the sacrament of confirmation conferred by Archbishop Pérez as he celebrated Mass Nov. 17 at the Delaware County parish.

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Obituaries

Permanent Deacon Peter H. Burghart

Permanent Deacon Peter H. Burghart, passed away on December 1, 2025, at the age of 77.

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Vatican News

Pope Visits Famous Istanbul Mosque but Does Not Pause to Pray

Pope Leo XIV, like his two immediate predecessors, visited the so-called Blue Mosque in Turkey's capital; he spent about 20 minutes inside but did not appear to pause for prayer as Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis had done.

Pope Arrives in Turkey Giving Thanks, Preaching Peace

Pope Leo XIV began his first papal trip speaking of dialogue, peace and thanksgiving -- referring to both the holiday and his own gratitude.

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Hispanic Catholics

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.

San Juan de la Cruz & La Noche Oscura – La Voz de Dios Nov. 30, 2025

En este episodio de La Voz de Dios, Marianela nos invita a profundizar en la espiritualidad de San Juan de la Cruz, uno de los grandes místicos de la Iglesia. Descubrimos el verdadero significado de la noche oscura, ese camino silencioso donde Dios nos transforma desde lo más profundo del alma.

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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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