VATICAN CITY (CNS) — 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. But the faithful in the pews need to do their part, too, the pope said at his weekly general audience Feb. 7. Catholics
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Lift up your eyes from your smartphones and see your brothers and sisters, those who share your journey of faith and those who are longing for the Word of life, Pope Francis told consecrated men and women. “Today’s frantic pace leads us to close many doors to encounter, often for fear
ROME (CNS) — The president of the German bishops’ conference urged priests to provide better pastoral care to Catholics who are homosexual, but he said, “I think that would not be right” when asked if he could imagine the Catholic Church blessing gay couples. The German bishops’ conference released an English translation Feb. 7 of
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The presence of a unified delegation and team for North and South Korea at this year’s Olympic Games gives people hope for a world dedicated to peace through dialogue and respect, Pope Francis said. At the end of his weekly general audience at the Vatican Feb. 7, the pope offered his
WASHINGTON (CNS) — 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. From encouraging a simple nod or a smile during the sign of peace to draining holy water fonts, the actions come as the flu sweeps through virtually
WASHINGTON (CNS) — Meeting needs has long been the signature of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Now, the Vincentians are looking to add their signature to eliminating the reasons behind those needs. During a Feb. 3 lunch session for the society prior to the formal opening of the Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — With so many direct attacks on human life, from abortion to war, Pope Francis said he is worried that so few people are involved in pro-life activities. Reciting the Angelus prayer at the Vatican Feb. 4, Pope Francis marked Italy’s Pro-Life Sunday and also called for a day of prayer and
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Listening to the Scripture readings at Mass is hearing God speak directly to his people, offering spiritual sustenance and needed guidance for life’s difficult journey, Pope Francis said. For that reason, the prescribed texts should never be skipped or substituted during the Mass, lectors should read clearly and people should always
WASHINGTON (CNS) — A coalition of Jesuit schools and universities is encouraging those in their network and beyond to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year by sending cards to lawmakers, asking them and others to “love your neighbor” and send “migrants welcome” Valentine’s Day messages from Feb. 11-18. “On Valentine’s Day, show your love to your
WASHINGTON (CNS) — Consecrated men and women reflect the light of Christ and are witnesses to that light “in a world that is often shrouded in shadow,” Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark, New Jersey, said Jan. 29. “They are the glory of God’s people. We pray for the perseverance of consecrated men and women
