CatholicPhilly

Local News

After Death of a Child, Parents Find Comfort, Connection at Annual Mass

For 15 years Father Paul Brandt, pastor of St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Limerick, has celebrated a special Mass for parents in memory of their children and to offer hope amidst a pain that never goes away.

In University City, Young Adults Entering Church Rise Fourfold

A new OCIA model focusing on the encouragement of Catholic friends and small-group relationships led 50 young adults to enter the Church at St. Agatha-St. James Parish in Philadelphia.

Plight of Migrants to U.S. Becomes Focus of Prayer at Cathedral

Catholics joining in a holy hour Nov. 16 at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul found strength from Christ’s presence in the Eucharist to be present to “the least of these,” including migrating men and women.

See more stories in Local News

National Catholic Youth Conference 2025

Updates from Indianapolis: Philly Pilgrims Experience National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC)

More than 240 young pilgrims from the Philadelphia region have arrived in Indianapolis for the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC). View live updates from their journey here.

How You Can Watch The Digital Encounter with Pope Leo XIV

The Pope Leo Live! digital encounter is set for Friday, Nov. 21 at 10:15 a.m. ET (7:15 a.m. PT) during the National Catholic Youth Conference's (NCYC) morning general session.

Thousands of Philadelphia Youths Ready to Hear Pope Leo XIV Live on Friday

Hundreds of young people from the Philadelphia region are traveling to Indianapolis for the National Catholic Youth Conference and a live conversation with the pope, which will be watched by local high school students.

Youths Set to Speak With Pope Leo, Share Concerns, Experiences

The unprecedented live, digital encounter on Friday, Nov. 21 with the Holy Father and some 15,000 young people in Indianapolis, plus millions more watching worldwide, is an historic opportunity for young Catholics and the Church, organizers say.

Spirituality

Advent Week 1: Not a Passive Waiting, But an Active Readiness

For Deacon Franz Fruehwald, Christmas with its decorations and shopping seems to arrive earlier each year. It’s easy to get distracted, which is why Advent helps us stay alert and prepare for the Lord’s arrival in our hearts.

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.

See more stories in Spirituality

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.

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.

Finding God in Every Equation: Sister Catherine’s Lessons in Faith and Education

Faith and formulas might not sound like a natural pair—but for Sr. Catherine, they’re deeply connected. Through her math lessons at St. Charles Borromeo School, she’s sharing how God is reflected in every problem they solve.

See more stories in Faces of Hope

People and Events

‘A Place at the Table’ Movie Night To Showcase Young, Inspiring Black Catholic Stories

The archdiocesan Office of Black Catholics is hosting a virtual screening of “A Place at the Table: African Americans on the Path to Sainthood” to spark dialogue among young Black Catholics about belonging, leadership, and faith.

Martin Saints Classical High School Presents Advent Lessons and Carols

The school located in East Norriton, Montgomery County will host the Advent program featuring Scripture readings, music performed by the students, plus cookies and cocoa.

See more stories in People and Events

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.

See more stories in Profile

Sports

St. Hubert’s Captures 1st PCL Soccer Title in a Generation

Six All-Catholics studded the Bambies’ roster, but standout junior goalie Quin Miller showed the resilience of this year’s championship team, and strength for the future.

PCL Threepeat Extends La Salle Soccer’s Winning Ways

The Explorers captured their third straight Philadelphia Catholic League championship, and the District 12 title, thanks to contributions from multi-position junior Brady Donovan.

See more stories in Sports

Commentaries

My Brothers and Sisters Are Hungry. I Cannot Turn Away

As food aid vanishes and hunger surges, writer Matthew Gambino says Catholics must respond with compassion.

See more stories in Commentaries

Calendar of Events

Good Shepherd Catholic School to Host Annual Christmas Bazaar Nov. 21-22

Good Shepherd Catholic School’s annual Christmas Bazaar returns Nov. 21-22 with vendors, food, raffles, and visits from Santa.

Cathedral to Open Advent with Annual Forty Hours Devotion

Gather at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul as they begin Advent with the annual Forty Hours Eucharistic Devotion.

See more stories in Calendar of Events

Photo features

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.

Photos: Faith and Culture Unite at Indian Catholic Heritage Day

Auxiliary Bishop Efren V. Esmilla joined Catholics of Indian descent and guests Nov. 8 at St. Thomas Syro‑Malabar Catholic Forane Church in Northeast Philadelphia for Indian Catholic Heritage Day.

Photos: Archbishop Ryan High School Welcomes Bishop Chylinski

Bishop Chylinski’s visit to the Northeast Philly school included recognition of longtime educators honored for 25 years of service in Catholic education.

See more stories in Photo features

Obituaries

Sister Loretta Kathleen McGuckin, SSJ, dies at 86

Sister Loretta Kathleen McGuckin SSJ, age 86, died on November 5, 2025, age 86 at Saint Joseph Villa.

See more stories in Obituaries

Vatican News

Marriage is an Exclusive Union Requiring ‘Tender Care,’ Vatican Says

The foundation of sacramental marriage is the unity of the spouses, a bond so intense and grace-filled that it is exclusive and indissoluble, said a document from the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.

Pope Issues Apostolic Letter on the Creed, Marking Anniversary of Nicaea

When Christians recite the Creed, it should prompt an examination of conscience about what they truly believe and what kind of example of faith in God they give to others, Pope Leo XIV wrote.

See more stories in Vatican News

Hispanic Catholics

Entre Risas, Recuerdos y Gratitud: El Espíritu Inmigrante del Thanksgiving – La Voz de Dios Nov. 23, 2025

En este episodio especial, grabado durante una íntima y alegre reunión de amigas de la iglesia, Marianela y seis mujeres más exploran cómo las familias inmigrantes hacemos nuestro el Día de Acción de Gracias. Entre risas, anécdotas, platos deliciosos y una bella camaradería, conversan sobre la gratitud desde su propia historia de fe y migración.

Conectados con el Papa: Jóvenes en Encuentro y Esperanza – La Voz de Dios Nov. 16

En este episodio especial de La Voz de Dios, conversamos con Marisally Santiago, Directora de la Oficina del Ministerio con Jóvenes de la Arquidiócesis de Filadelfia, sobre el histórico encuentro virtual que los jóvenes tendrán con el Papa.

See more stories in Hispanic Catholics

USCCB

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

Obispos de EE. UU. emiten un «mensaje especial» sobre inmigración durante su asamblea plenaria en Baltimore

See more stories in USCCB