Parish views: From do-it-all pastors to 100 ministries to guide

In the latest story in our American Parish series, the shortage of priests is impacting parishioners, their pastors and community life as parishes combine and in some cases, thrive.

A totem pole and a papal encyclical symbolize opposition to coal trains

The papal encyclical on the environment was invoked during a Washington State protest against use of fossil fuels and a planned coal shipping plant on the coast.

Brand new ballgame: 72 men start lives as seminarians in Rome

Seventy two young men recently entered the Pontifical North American seminary in Rome, where they are expected set aside secular values and dedicate themselves in serving the poor and oppressed. .

Although of many styles, Catholic schools face similar challenges

Some Catholic schools are prosperous and flourish through parental involvement. Others struggle as even teachers and nuns wear many hats to keep the classrooms and the buildings operating.

From flush to floundering, parish finances run the gamut

The American Parish series looks at how parishes across the U.S., including one in New Jersey, handle collections, deficits and new initiatives to keep the parish going.

Plight of Christians fleeing Iraq shakes archbishop’s faith

A Chaldean Catholic leader in Iraq inwardly quarrels with God over the flight of 100,000 Christians and others. Still, the archbishop sees providence working among the people.

New Orleans Archdiocese: Forever changed by Hurricane Katrina

Swept away by a flood of biblical proportions on Aug. 29, 2005, New Orleans 10 years later -- in so many ways new, improved and utterly resilient -- is a resurrection city.

For Philadelphia, a reluctant shining hour

Seminarian Eric Banecker knows the city of his birth has an inferiority complex. Despite the whining he hears, in the end, thousands of people will enjoy the papal events in the shadow of the Rocky steps.

In time for papal visit, spotlight shines on religious liberty

The National Constitution Center will remind all the visitors coming to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families in September -- and beyond -- of the struggle for religious freedom in America.

Writer heralds Catholic advantages to self and society

Catholic League president Bill Donohue believes his lightning bolt philosophy illuminates the path to health and salvation.