Catholic advocates visited Capitol Hill Feb. 6 hoping members of Congress were ready to listen to their push for a federal budget that makes the needs of poor and vulnerable people a priority.
Protecting social service safety net is Catholic priority with Congress
Letter in case of Chilean bishop raises new questions
The Vatican had said Jan. 30 that Pope Francis’ decision to send Archbishop Charles Scicluna of Malta to investigate was prompted by “recently received information” in the case of Bishop Juan Barros, who was named bishop of Osorno, Chile, in 2015.
Pope asks people to work together to end human trafficking
Highlighting the Feb. 8 World Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking, the pope noted this year’s theme was dedicated to ending the trafficking of migrants.
Homilies must help people reflect, not nap, pope says
Catholic priests must deliver good homilies so the “good news” of the Gospel can take root in people’s hearts and help them live holier lives, Pope Francis said.
Parish throws Super Bowl party for homeless displaced by game security
St. Olaf Church, in downtown Minneapolis, hosted many homeless guests Feb. 1-4, Super Bowl weekend, who were displaced by game security.
Major flu outbreak prompts dioceses to implement prevention protocols
The nationwide flu outbreak has prompted dioceses to take steps to suspend traditional rituals to prevent the spread of the virus as much as possible.
Vatican, China nearing agreement on bishops, according to reports
Multiple news reports indicate the Vatican has made substantial progress in reaching an agreement with China’s communist government on the naming of bishops for several dioceses without papal approval.
Pope to religious: Your hearts must be open 24-7
For the feast of the Presentation of the Lord and the World Day for Consecrated Life, Pope Francis said believers’ hearts must be open, because every believer receives the faith from someone and is called to share it with others.