Milwaukee project makes, markets soaps to help former prostitutes

MILWAUKEE (CNS) -- Soothing aromas of peppermint, lavender, gingerbread and lemon verbena waft through the hallways of the Franciscan Peacemakers headquarters in Milwaukee.

Vatican hosts top world leaders, experts to seek end to Syrian war

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and former Egyptian Vice President Mohamed ElBaradei are among the key political experts invited by the Vatican for a one-day meeting aimed at promoting a cease-fire in Syria, the protection of Christians there and a transitional and unified government.

The World Day of Peace, 2014

In these days of the Christmas season, writes Archbishop Charles Chaput, this is a good moment to commit ourselves to living more modestly and giving ourselves and our resources to others more generously. If we want peace, the road to that destination begins in our own actions.

Vatican news highlights of 2013

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In terms of Vatican news, 2013 was surely one of the most eventful years in living memory. We review some of the highlights.

Catholic voices raise moral concerns over fracking

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- In ongoing national discussions about the mining of natural gas, Catholic voices are not necessarily taking sides while decidedly upholding the church's social teaching on the importance of protecting creation and promoting the common good.

Naples’ Nativity scene nears completion in St. Peter’s Square

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The world famous Nativity scenes of Naples never follow just the biblical account of Jesus' birth; for one thing, the figures usually are dressed in 18th-century costumes, but also it's not unusual for a modern-day politician or even pope to enter the scen

Catholic-Orthodox ties improve in Russia, church official says

OXFORD, England (CNS) -- The Catholic Church in Russia predicted a "steady improvement" in ties with the predominant Orthodox Church after a visit by Cardinal Kurt Koch, president of the Pontifical Council fort Promoting Christian Unity.

Vatican hires firms to streamline communications, improve bookkeeping

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In an effort to streamline and modernize its communications structures and bring its accounting practices in line with international standards, the Vatican hired two international consulting agencies.

Two pilgrimages of faith offered in 2014

The Philadelphia Archdiocese is sponsoring a trip to Rome in April for the canonization of Blessed Popes John XXIII and John Paul II. Another trip, led by Archbishop Chaput, is set for September to see the Catholic shrines of Canada.

Letter says Koch grant to Catholic University sends ‘confusing message’

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Fifty prominent Catholics have signed a letter to The Catholic University of America questioning the decision to accept a $1 million pledge from the Charles Koch Foundation to help fund a new business school. The letter released Dec. 16 contrasts the ideological agenda of industrialists Charles and David Koch with Catholic social teaching.