
Local News
2026 Catholic Charities Appeal Sets $10 Million Goal, Kicks Off Feb. 21–22
The 2026 Catholic Charities Appeal will launch with an in-pew commitment weekend on Feb. 21–22, inviting parishioners to support more than 100 ministries providing food, shelter, and care to those in need under the theme “Giving Hope to All.”
Profile
Setting the World on Fire for Christ, at least in NE Philly, is Jeffrey Shields’ Goal
The Missionary Hub director at St. Matthew Parish in the city’s Mayfair section brings a creative missionary spirit and a lifetime of evangelization and ministry experience to his new role.
For 41 Years, Catholic Charities’ Fran Swiacki Has Seen ‘God’s Face’
The Port Richmond native prepares for retirement after a long career serving at-risk adolescents and individuals with disabilities. The work has reinforced the values instilled by his parents and strengthened his Catholic faith.

Photo features
Faithful Gather at Cathedral to Celebrate World Day for Consecrated Life
The Feb. 1 Mass brought together members of religious communities and the faithful to celebrate lifelong vocations to God.
Photos: Archbishop Joins Neocatechumenal Way Communities for Mass
Archbishop Pérez celebrated Mass Jan. 31 with Neocatechumenal Way members at St. Charles Borromeo and St. Michael Parishes, joined by local pastors.
Spirituality
In Ways Simple and Profound, We Share Our ‘Salt’ and ‘Light’
Msgr. Joseph Prior tells the story of a couple who opened their home to a man in need. Their love and compassion flowed from within, echoing the teaching of Jesus in this Sunday's Gospel.
Archbishop Pérez
Archbishop Pérez: Mass Attendance Up 7.5% in 2025
In a Feb. 6 video message, Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez said Mass attendance in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia was up 7.5% in 2025 compared to 2024 as the Trust and Hope initiative moves forward.
Commentaries
Pregnant Women Find They’ve Got Sisters on Their Journey of Life
From the Sisters of Life convent in North Philadelphia comes a witness to the transforming power of vulnerability and accompaniment, and the gifts of life and love, as writer Matthew Gambino discovered on a recent visit.
Is it Prudent to Trek to Mass in a Snowstorm?
With snow on the ground and possibly more on the way, Father Patrick Brady shows how to balance the obligation to attend Sunday Mass with deciding whether to drive, ride or walk to church – or stay home.
‘Year of St. Francis’ to Shine Light on EcoPhilly’s Work in Philly Region
The Catholic environmental stewardship group invites more local Catholics to its work of caring for our common home – this year featuring mini grants for parishes and schools.
Vatican News
This Week: Trafficking a ‘Crime Against Humanity;’ Papal Letter on Sports; Sistine Clean Up
CatholicPhilly presents a weekly roundup of international news from Vatican News, the official news portal of the Holy See. The following report on the week of Feb. 1, 2026 links to stories on VaticanNews.va.
Sports
BLOCS to Sponsor 2026 PCL Basketball Championships
BLOCS will present the 2026 Philadelphia Catholic League girls’ and boys’ basketball championships, with first-round games starting Feb. 11 and finals at the Palestra on Feb. 22.
Senior’s Resilience Pays Off as Father Judge’s All-Time Scoring Leader
Derrick “Mir” Morton-Rivera dropped in 19 points in a Jan. 30 Crusaders’ win over Conwell-Egan, pushing his career total to 1,261 points. He broke the record after recovering from a major injury last fall.

Calendar of Events
March Trainings to Equip Parishes for Disability-Inclusive Ministry
The Office for Persons with Disabilities will host free two‑day trainings in English and Spanish to equip parish leaders and volunteers with tools for welcoming parishioners of all abilities.
St. Patrick Parish, Philadelphia, Announces Lenten Eucharistic Series and Devotions
Guest preachers will lead reflections on the Eucharist throughout Lent, culminating in the parish’s annual Forty Hours Devotions.

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