CatholicPhilly

Local News

Pope Leo XIV Calls American Youths to Relationship With Christ

The pope spoke via video from Rome to 16,000 young people in Indianapolis and answered their questions, as 10,000 more in Philadelphia-area Catholic schools plus millions worldwide watched.

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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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People and Events

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.

‘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.

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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

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.

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Photo features

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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