The Romero case: Changing times bring changing definition of ‘martyr’

Who can be called a martyr? Be it Maximilian Kolbe, Archbishop Romero or other 20th century figures, martyrdom has been at the heart of a high-level Vatican debate for more than 40 years.

Catholic, Orthodox leaders urge ‘unity against aggression’ in Ukraine

Catholic and Orthodox archbishops in Ukraine appealed for national unity against pro-Russia separatists as calls mounted for the United States to help arm Ukrainian forces.

Ennobling what it means to be human, and the alternative

In his column, Archbishop Charles Chaput notes the irony of Sunday, Feb. 8: The day observes both the necessity of strengthening marriages and the imperative to fight the barbarism of human slavery through trafficking.

St. Joseph Sisters host open house this Sunday

Visitors to the Motherhouse on Feb. 8 will have informal opportunities to meet the sisters, join a guided tour of the chapel, share in prayer and family activities and enjoy refreshments.

U.S. Senate looks at ways to address ‘modern slavery’

The Catholic Church has put a spotlight on the global human trafficking crisis by declaring the first International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking on Sunday, Feb. 8, the feast of St. Josephine Bakhita, a former Sudanese slave.

Research finds ‘secular bias’ in Western diplomacy

Marginalizing or eliminating religion severely hinders diplomatic dialogue and engagement with countries outside of the industrialized world, wrote two researchers studying foreign policy.

Archbishop Romero’s beatification will be soon, official says

Archbishop Oscar Romero could be declared blessed within months, said the chief promoter of his cause for sainthood, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia.

Cruel and unusual? High court to rule on lethal injections

The Supreme Court's ruling on lethal injections this year won't be the tipping point for ending capital punishment in the U.S., but it might be the beginning of the end of the practice, experts say.

‘A burqa made of flesh’: Vatican looks at challenges women face

Cultural pressures for plastic surgery, violence against women and the growing alienation of women from the church in some parts of the world are themes a pontifical council is set to explore.

In this life and the next: Questions on purgatory and papal speechwriting

Father Ken Doyle reviews the biblical basis for praying for souls in purgatory, and speculates on whether the pope has help in writing speeches.