Archbishop formally bars Nancy Pelosi from Holy Communion
This letter to the faithful was released today by San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone: My Dear Brothers and Sisters
Remembering Blessed Franz Jägerstätter
I discovered today that this remarkable Catholic hero and martyr was born on May 20, in 1907. His feast day
Shock: Catholic New York newspaper to cease publication
The closure will bring to an end one of the most successful and well-honored diocesan publishing operations. More sad news
When Bono asked the pope a question …
An unusual encounter between the pope and the pop star today in Rome: An atypical scene at the Benedict XVI
The deacon at Mass: ‘Am I really doing this? Yes. It was really happening.’
My friends at Ave Maria Press (we've worked together a time or two) asked me to share some personal thoughts
May 19, 2007: ‘Oh, the places you’ll go…’
May 19, 2007: By the grace of God, I was ordained a deacon. It's been 15 years? Where has the
Sheriff: California church shooting was a ‘hate incident’
Pray for our country. From The New York Times: Gathered to celebrate a beloved former pastor, snapping photographs of their
Living the #ConventLife on TikTok
From The New York Times: Before she entered the Community of St. John Baptist in 2012, Claudette Monica Powell performed
You gotta love this
The Holy Father knows what's good for him. Here's your smile for a Monday. A seminarian from Mexico posted this
‘We need her’: Why more people are turning to St. Dymphna
A timely reminder during Mental Health Awareness Month, from The Los Angeles Times: Elena Zuniga didn’t go searching for the
Ordination update: 20 new deacons for Chicago
On Saturday, Cardinal Blaise Cupich ordained 20 men to the order of deacon at Chicago's Holy Name Cathedral. The release:
Ordination update: 15 new deacons for Metuchen, diocese’s first Spanish-speaking class
It happened Saturday. Bishop James F. Checchio ordained the new deacons at Methuchen's Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. Details:
Solidarity: Notre Dame expands partnership with Ukrainian university
The press release: University of Notre Dame President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., and Metropolitan-Archbishop Borys Gudziak, organizer and president of
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/13/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here to
On the demise of CNS: ‘Catholic journalism is not piety or apologetics’
Let this serve as a clarion call for the bishops to rethink their decision to shut down the domestic offices
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/12/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here to
Report: Hong Kong police arrest, release Cardinal Zen
From CNS: Hong Kong’s national security police released Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun, retired archbishop of Hong Kong, May 11 after
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/11/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here to
Bishops ask faithful to fast, pray the rosary on May 13
From the USCCB: In response to the leak of a draft opinion in the U.S. Supreme Court case of Dobbs v.
Conservative Americans are gravitating toward Orthodox churches
From NPR: When Sarah Riccardi-Swartz moved from New York City to a small Appalachian town in West Virginia in the
CNN’s Brian Stelter talks with EWTN’s Montse Alvarado
Details: CNN’s Brian Stelter had a remarkably civil conversation with Eternal Word Television Network host Montse Alvarado, as they discussed the Catholic perspective
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/10/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here
Pope to LGBT Catholics: ‘God does not disown any of his children’
From Vatican News: “God’s style is closeness, mercy and tenderness” Pope Francis said answering three questions put to him by Jesuit Father
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/9/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here
Costumed protestors disrupt Mass at Los Angeles cathedral
Details: Several protesters dressed in "huge hats" and "red, hooded gowns," disrupted a Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady
‘Help me abort my babies’: Abortion supporters stage protest outside New York basilica
From Kathryn Jean Lopez in National Review: “God killed his kid, why can’t I kill mine?” A woman in a
‘He made us, his we are’: Homily for May 8, 2022, the 4th Sunday of Easter
Every year at this time, on the 4th Sunday of Easter, we encounter readings about Jesus the Good Shepherd. We
Pro-choice group calls for protests at Catholic churches this weekend
Details: Pro-choice abortion activists are calling on Americans to storm Catholic churches on Mother’s Day to protest the potential overturning of
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/6/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here to
Colorado Catholic church vandalized with abortion graffiti
Details: Criminals sharing abortion-rights sentiments targeted a church in Boulder Tuesday night, smashing windows and spray painting Sacred Heart of
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/5/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here to
Shock: Catholic News Service to cease domestic operations
“Catholic News Service offices in New York and Washington will be closed at the end of the year, as will
Female Swiss Guards?
Maybe: The new barracks of the Vatican Swiss guards will be built to accommodate female members if Pope Francis or
Pope Francis on Kirill: ‘The Patriarch cannot transform himself into Putin’s altar boy’
From CNN: Pope Francis warned the leader of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, not to become "Putin's altar boy,"
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/4/22
NOTE: On May 16, this daily feature, The Church Bulletin, will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out:
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/3/22
NOTE: On May 16, The Church Bulletin will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don’t miss out: click here to learn how
Politico: Draft opinion shows SCOTUS has voted to overturn Roe v. Wade
The court’s holding will not be final until it is published, likely in the next two months. The leak of
Great Moments in Journalism: ‘Symbolic’? ‘Grape juice’?
This video popped up on the Sunday edition of TODAY over the weekend. First, I was impressed that the parish
LISTEN: Talking about St. Joe
Last week, I was delighted to join Deacon Scott and Brenda Aikin on their show A View from the Pew
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 5/2/22
NOTE: On May 16, The Church Bulletin will become available exclusively to Patreon subscribers. Don't miss out: click here to
Prayer to St. Joseph, Carpenter
Holy Joseph, You lived the simple and predictable life of a carpenter, Planning and building, dreaming and praying. Yet, you
‘Listen to the messenger!’: watch the joy of the Gospel in this jubilant Mass
Need a lift? Here you go! Dancing nuns and a dancing deacon? Yes. Take a few minutes to watch. You
Announcing the May 2022 Book-a-Palooza
A couple years back, I offered a special gift for folks who became patrons of The Deacon's Bench, and I'm
‘Err on the side of generosity’
Joan Sheen Cunningham is the niece of Archbishop Fulton Sheen. She tells the story of visiting him when she was
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/29/22
Seattle settles two abuse claims (AP) The Archdiocese of Seattle said Thursday it will pay $375,000 to settle two separate
‘Catholicism is losing its grip on Latin America’
From Axios: Catholicism is losing its grip in Latin America as the percentage of people who say they identify as
Catholic League v. Marjorie Taylor Greene — UPDATED
"Her burst of anti-Catholicism now demands stronger sanctions against her." It's rare to see a politician on the national stage
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/28/22
Pope tells pilgrims knee still "not healing" (CNA) Pope Francis told pilgrims at his Wednesday general audience that he was
Timothy Schmalz’s ‘Angels’ land in Washington
From Catholic Standard: A monumental work of art depicting migrants and refugees seeking a home has found a permanent home
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/27/22
Catholic priest sentenced in shooting of bishop-elect (CNA) A Catholic priest was among four people sentenced on Monday over the
A little COVID update
Just wanted to offer a brief coda to last week's post, about my wife being diagnosed with COVID. All is
‘I love baptisms’
With spring in the air and "Alleluia" on our lips, heres a reflection on one of my favorite ministries, from
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/26/22
Pope names new archbishop of Paris (CNA) Pope Francis on Tuesday named Archbishop Laurent Ulrich as the new Catholic archbishop of
Easter in Ukraine: ‘What church service? The churches around us were ruined’
A glimpse of Easter in one Ukrainian village, via AP. Pray for Ukraine and her people. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuYuJLR6mZA
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/25/22
Pope sends Easter message to Patriarch Kirill (Vatican News) “Dear Brother! May the Holy Spirit transform our hearts and make
One woman’s mission with pysanky: ‘The egg is my weapon’
From The Washington Post comes this story of a Ukrainian-American artist who is using a beautiful Easter tradition to spread
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/22/22
Pope's agenda cancelled for "medical checkups that are needed" (CNA) Pope Francis’ agenda was cleared on Friday for needed medical
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/21/22
Vatican's foreign minister contemplates visit to Ukraine (Crux) As Ukraine awaits word on whether a potential visit from Pope Francis
COVID hits home — UPDATED
To put it simply: COVID is in the house. After several days of sniffling and coughing, my wife on Easter
Blessed Augustus Tolton?
This slipped under the radar last week, when the Triduum was kicking off, but this could be very big news.
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/20/22
Camden agrees to settle sex abuse claims for $87.5 million (The New York Times) The Diocese of Camden, N.J., said
In massive settlement, Camden to pay $87.5 million over sex abuse claims
In what may be a first, the settlement allows for further litigation against insurance companies for the diocese. From The
Want to keep the Easter fire going?
Lumen Christi! Join me on retreat next month! I'm delighted to be offering a retreat for parish ministers — Extraordinary
WATCH: An Exsultet to raise the rafters
Think you know the Exsultet? Think again. Chances are, you've never heard it quite like this. It serves as a
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/19/22
Days after tabernacle was stolen, donors provide replacement (Crux) Days after a tabernacle containing the Eucharist was stolen from a
Next year, don’t just follow Christ’s story — walk in his footsteps
This has been in the planning stages for a while, but I’m excited to announce: it’s finally happening. I’m leading
After COVID: How a remarkable ‘prayer project’ helped bring people back to church
This is a creative and inspiring idea, from The Leaven in Kansas City, Kansas: “We started with the welcome-back mosaic,”
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/18/22
Pope Francis: Christ's resurrection brings hope amid "Easter of war" (CNS) The joy of Christ’s resurrection is needed now more
Worth your time: Bishop Paul Sanchez’s homily for Easter Vigil 2022
It's rare to find Seamus Heaney, Julian of Norwich, Ukraine and the Exsultet cited in the same homily. But my
Pope Francis issues impassioned plea for peace in Easter blessing
"Please, please, let us not get used to war! Let us all commit ourselves to imploring peace, from our balconies
After outcry, Vatican makes change to Good Friday Way of the Cross
Details: The Vatican adapted Pope Francis’ Way of the Cross on Good Friday after an outcry in Ukraine over a
Prayer Before Chanting the Exsultet
Father of wonder and miracles: This is the night. Tonight, your Church announces the scattering of darkness, the hope of
Behold the wood of the cross: Homily for Good Friday
Just after World War II, the psychiatrist Viktor Frankl wrote a best-selling book about his experiences as a prisoner in
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/15/22
Cardinal marks Way of the Cross in Kyiv (Vatican) The stations of the Cross in Ukraine are marked by carcasses
Pope celebrates Mass, washes feet at Rome prison
Details: Before washing the feet of 12 inmates, Pope Francis told them and other prisoners that God never tires of
The heart remembers: Homily for Holy Thursday, Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Back home, buried in a box of old photos, I have something that should be in a time capsule. It’s
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/14/22
Pope at Chrism Mass: Priests must fix eyes on Christ (Vatican News) Being a priest is a very great grace,
What did the critics think of ‘Father Stu’?
A few excerpts from Wednesday's papers show a decidedly lukewarm reception from the secular media. From Variety: “Father Stu” is
The women who carry the weight of Holy Week in Spain
Fascinating: The team of women rocked rhythmically from foot to foot carrying a 1.5-tonne float topped with a statue of
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/13/22
Pope: war is an outrage and a blasphemy (Vatican News) At his weekly General Audience, Pope Francis once again denounced “the
The Chrism Mass Deacon Ken Conklin never thought he’d see
You may remember my postings last year about deacon candidate Ken Conklin: dying from cancer, given just weeks to live,
Head of Ukrainian Catholic Church asks Vatican to change plans for Rome’s Way of the Cross
“The texts and gestures of the 13th station of this Way of the Cross are incoherent and even offensive." From
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/12/22
Report: Caritas workers killed in Ukraine (America) Two staff members and five others taking shelter at a Caritas office in
COVID and the clergy: ‘The last Mass … it was like a funeral.’
COVID hit all of us in different ways, and for a lot of us clergy, it changed us in ways
‘We have no tears left’: Way of the Cross with Pope Francis for 2022
The meditations this year were composed by families, which gives them a very distinct and intimate character. I was a
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/11/22
Pope calls for "Easter truce" in Ukraine (CNA) Pope Francis said on Palm Sunday 2022 that nothing is impossible for
A sign of joyful hope: Palm Sunday 2022
After two long years, on Palm Sunday we saw something beautiful: a church packed with people. It wasn't the capacity
O happy fault: Living with a deacon in the days before Easter
A little something from the vault: It can’t be easy living with a deacon, especially now. Every year, for a
Wounds of war: stunning drone footage shows before and after in Ukraine
This comes from The Guardian newspaper, which put together this side-by-side comparison of key cities in Ukraine. And this is
Schindler’s ‘girl in the red coat’ is now helping Ukrainian refugees
Inspiring: An actress who was the “girl in the red coat” in “Schindler’s List” has turned real life heroine by
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/8/22
Pope meets Ukrainian ambassador to Holy See (CNS) Andrii Yurash, Ukraine’s ambassador to the Holy See, presented his credentials to
Mark Wahlberg on faith, Father Stu and financing his movie
The producer and star of "Father Stu" spoke about the new movie Thursday on the TODAY show. You don't often
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/7/22
Jesuit professor and editor Father Drew Christiansen dies (CNS) Jesuit Fr. Drew Christiansen, a professor at Georgetown University and formerly
Palm Sunday challenge: How can you turn your palms into works of art?
We'd all like to have palms like the ones they have in Rome, wouldn't we? Well, this is why God
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/6/22
Pope: UN organizations "impotent" in facing Ukraine war (Crux) Pope Francis on Wednesday said that the international organizations, such as
Calling Dorothy Day a saint
As Rome begins to consider the evidence that's been collected for her cause, a leading authority on Dorothy Day's life,
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/5/22
English police guidelines change after MP's death (CNA) Police guidelines in the U.K. have changed to allow clergy to assist
Want some homily ideas? ‘Preaching with the Sciences’ is here
I'm delighted to pull back the curtain and reveal, at last, the website for an extraordinary homiletics project: Preaching with
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/4/22
Diocese, school in standoff over BLM, Pride flags (MassLive) The vivid rainbow hues of the Pride flag and bold monochromatic
What are you doing the day after Easter? This deacon will be busy.
Two weeks from Monday — on the day when many of us in ministry are going to clutching our pillows
The new bishop of Columbus: son of immigrants
Here's a terrific testimony Father Earl Fernandes gave nearly a decade ago, telling his vocation story. With today's appointment, he
Pope names Cincinnati priest as bishop of Columbus
From the Holy See Bulletin: The Holy Father has appointed Reverend Earl K. Fernandes, currently pastor of Saint Ignatius of Loyola
When a non-Catholic tries to go to Adoration
A field report from Julia Duin (h/t to David Mills!) tells us what a lot of us know — and
Pope to indigenous people of Canada: ‘I feel shame’
From Vatican News: Over the last few days, Pope Francis has been meeting with delegations from Canada’s First Nations, Inuit,
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 4/1/22
Pope begs forgiveness for Canada school abuses (AP) Pope Francis apologized and begged forgiveness Friday for the “deplorable” abuses suffered
Cardinal Dolan remembers his mother: ‘I praise God for her life and her death’
From Catholic New York, Cardinal Dolan's homily at his mother's funeral: That all of you would gather with me at
‘O Lord of saints and sinners…’: A prayer for Lent
Source: The Busy Person's Guide to an Extraordinary Life
Finding Lenten inspiration in Disney’s ‘Encanto’
Some terrific insight here from my friend Nicole Perone in U.S. Catholic: As Encanto is rereleased in theaters this Lent, I am
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/31/22
Historic installation of Louisville archbishop hailed as "new era" for church (WFPL) The Archdiocese of Louisville has a new archbishop.
My pastor, the bishop, resigns
Several people have written to ask me about this. So yeah: my pastor, Brooklyn Auxiliary Bishop Paul Sanchez, is now
Brazil court allows giant statue of Virgin to be built
Details: São Paulo State’s Court of Appeals has reversed a 2019 decision that stopped the building of a giant steel
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/30/22
Tabernacle stolen from Maryland church (WBAL) The search is on for the person who stole several things from inside a
Cardinals, bishops, theologians gather in Chicago to discuss how to support Pope Francis — UPDATED
This wasn't publicized in advance, but news is beginning to trickle out: A group of about 70 cardinals, bishops and
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/29/22
Vatican issues new document on Catholic education (Vatican News) The underlying principle of the new “Instruction” issued by the Congregation
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/28/22
Indigenous leaders meet with Pope Francis (AP) Indigenous leaders from Canada and survivors of the country’s notorious residential schools met
Looking for homily material for this weekend? Look no further.
Pope Francis remains one of the best homilists of the modern papacy — with preaching that is consistently clear, relatable,
Becoming a Jersey Boy for a few days …
March, true to form, has been a breezy month, and I've been blown from one corner of the country to
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/25/22
How can you join in the pope's Act of Consecration? (CNA) Pope Francis will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/24/22
Pope Francis to meet indigenous people, bishops next week (CNA) Pope Francis will meet with a delegation of Canadian Indigenous
Pope writes to world’s bishops ahead of Act of Consecration
'At this dark hour, the Church is urgently called to intercede before the Prince of Peace and to demonstrate her
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/23/22
Pope sends letter to world's bishops ahead of consecration (Vatican News) The Pope is formally inviting every Catholic Bishop around
The generous faith of Ukraine, where war-torn parishes have become ‘humanitarian hubs’
Beautiful and humbling: As internally displaced Ukrainians flee the Russian bombardment of their cities, Catholic parishes in the country have
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/22/22
Italy prepares to welcome 600 Ukrainian refugees (Crux) As the war in Ukraine draws near to the one-month mark and
Ordination update: 16 new deacons for Austin
Thanks to Deacon Rob Embry for this happy news and the picture. Bishop Joe Vásquez ordained the new deacons Saturday,
Pope issues new Vatican constitution, allowing lay people to lead key departments
This news dropped unexpectedly over the weekend, on the Feast of St. Joseph. From The New York Times: Pope Francis
My Prayer to St. Joseph: ‘Help me to open my arms to God’s will…’
Holy Joseph, You lived the simple and predictable life of a carpenter, Planning and building, dreaming and praying. Yet, you
Pope to invite all bishops around the world to join in consecration of Russia, Ukraine
Details: In a letter sent urgently on Mar. 17 to all U.S. bishops, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Christophe
See you in California!
I'm tweaking my talk and packing my bags and early Friday morning, God willing, The Deacon's Wife and I will
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/17/22
Pope Francis speaks with Patriarch Kirill (CNS) Pope Francis and Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill spoke via video conference about the
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/16/22
Pope offers special prayer for Ukraine (Vatican News) As Pope Francis wrapped up the General Audience on Wednesday, he led
Pope will consecrate Russia, Ukraine to Mary on Feast of Annunciation
From the Vatican: Pope Francis will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on Friday, 25 March,
German bishop commissions lay people to do baptisms
"Over the past 2,000 years, the church has repeatedly reacted to external circumstances." AP broke the news Monday: The Roman
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/15/22
German bishop institutes lay ministers, including 17 women, to perform baptisms (AP) The Roman Catholic Diocese of Essen has become
A quick update from Chicago — and a preview of coming attractions
So I've been in Chicago for a few days and I thought I'd tell you what I've been up to.
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/14/22
Pope Francis issues new plea to end war in Ukraine (CNA) Pope Francis on Sunday called for an end to
Former Anglican bishop ordained a Catholic priest
Details: Cardinal Vincent Nichols of Westminster reflected on the priesthood on Saturday, preaching at the Mass of the priestly ordination
A letter to Patriarch Kiril: ‘Prayerfully reconsider the support you have given to this war’
'Before God, we bear witness that there is no religious justification from any side for the destruction and terror the
Father James Goode dies, ‘Dean of Black Catholic Preachers’
From CNS: Franciscan Father James E. Goode, whose evangelizing work among Black Catholics became known throughout the United States and
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/11/22
Pope's almsgiver in Ukraine, speaks with journalists (Vatican News) “I am not a diplomat. I came here with the logic
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/10/22
Pope removes Puerto Rican bishop from office (CNS) Pope Francis has “relieved” Bishop Daniel Fernández Torres of Arecibo, Puerto Rico,
‘Morally, Ukraine has won the war’
Details from CNS: Archbishop Borys Gudziak, the highest ranking Ukrainian Catholic prelate in the United States, declared during a March 5
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/9/22
Bishop removes pastor over COVID refusal (Catholic World Report) In a letter to parishioners of Holy Family Parish in Springfield,
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/8/22
Vatican official reiterates willingness to mediate in Ukraine (Crux) At nearly two weeks since Russia invaded Ukraine, causing civilian deaths,
Bishop Cozzens: Former bishop will not have ministry in diocese
From The Pillar: The first U.S. bishop to resign after a Vos estis lux mundi investigation will not conduct priestly ministry in
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/7/22
Pope: "Rivers of and tears blood" flowing in Ukraine (CNS) Pope Francis said the Vatican “is ready to do everything
Hello, Columbus
I didn't give up traveling for Lent. I'm headed Saturday to Lancaster, Ohio, in the Diocese of Columbus, to offer
‘Command this stone to become bread…’
With this Sunday's Gospel in mind, I wanted to post this dramatic image, one of my favorite interpretations by one
The Way of the Cross for Deacons
This Friday, many of us will begin the Lenten tradition of praying the Way of the Cross. There are countless
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/4/22
Pope sends medical supplies to support Ukraine (Vatican News) In a concrete gesture of closeness to the people of Ukraine,
‘Wears sandals too much’: How would today’s students evaluate the teaching style of Jesus?
What if Jesus was a college professor? What would students think of him? From writer Amanda Lehr at the humor
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/3/22
Archbishop to patriarch: Urge Putin to stop the war in Ukraine (CNA) The president of Poland’s Catholic bishops’ conference has
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/2/22
Bomb strikes Catholic headquarters in Ukraine (CNA) A bomb struck the headquarters of a Catholic diocese on Tuesday in the
Marked for Lent: Homily for March 2, 2022, Ash Wednesday
Here’s a name you probably didn’t expect to hear on Ash Wednesday: Martin Hildebrandt. You've probably never heard of him.
Writing the next chapter
Well, what do you know? Forty years ago this month, on the Ides of March in 1982, I took the
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 3/1/22
Priest who performed invalid baptisms does them over (AP) Families came one by one to the baptismal font in a
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/28/22
Pope Francis to sit out ceremonies because of knee pain (The New York Times) Pope Francis has abandoned plans for
The archangel Michael and Kyiv
"Christian tradition above all thinks of Michael as the one who is successful in combating Satan." A statue of St.
On Ukraine: ‘No one can afford to be silent’
The Major Archbishop of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and Pope Francis both made powerful statements today about the war
Praying for Ukraine: Homily for February 27, 2022
I have to be honest: This isn’t the homily I was planning to preach this weekend. But Wednesday changed everything.
MUST-SEE VIDEO: The heartbreak of war
This video below is circulating widely on social media: a father in Ukraine sending his daughter to safety, while he
In Ukraine, Christians and Jews join together to pray this psalm
“For me, as a pastor, that Psalm … well, I read it differently now, because it’s about our current situation
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/25/22
Vatican decries Russian invasion of Ukraine (CNA) Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin lamented on Thursday the “tragic scenes”
So how is Bill Ditewig doing?
No, he's not palling around with the Pope — at least, not yet. But he'd love to, if he could.
Ukraine faces ‘colossal human catastrophe’
“We need your support to have a chance to respond to the humanitarian crisis and assist the people affected by
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/24/22
Major Archbishop calls for solidarity with Ukraine (Vatican News) In the aftermath of Russian troops entering the rebel-held territories of
Pope Francis calls for global day of fasting for peace in Ukraine on Ash Wednesday
Details: Expressing great sadness at the worsening situation in Ukraine, Pope Francis asked world leaders on Wednesday to “make a
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/23/22
Pope declares day of prayer for Ukraine (Vatican News) During the General Audience on Wednesday, Pope Francis made a heartfelt
Where have all the clergy gone?
The pandemic spurred the Great Resignation — and evidently, that includes pastors and rabbis. From The Wall Street Journal: In
Pope names missionary and Haitian immigrant Father Jacques Fabre as bishop of Charleston, SC
First official word, from the Vatican: The Holy Father accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the Diocese of
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/22/22
Father Jacques E. Fabre, CS, named bishop of Charleston (Holy See Bulletin) The Holy Father has appointed as Bishop of
‘It’s probable that the Catholic Church in Poland will meet the fate of the church in Ireland’
From The Wall Street Journal: Julian Rembelski, 21, grew up in the Catholic Church, like most other Polish children, receiving
Looking for some preaching ideas for Lent?
The good people from the Jordan Ministry Team are here to help. You may remember that Deacon Steve Kramer offered
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/18/22
Cardinal Oullet on celibacy, clericalism and ordaining women (Crux) Speaking to Crux, Ouellet said the main reason for organizing the Feb.
What does a deacon do?
As with most things ... it depends who you ask. H/T and a grateful diaconal bow to Deacon Doug Konzel.
Frank Francis on his 52 years as a priest: ‘These reflections are the swan song of my own priestly life’
From CNA: Pope Francis on Thursday offered a long reflection on his more than 52 years of priesthood, giving advice
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/17/22
Pope calls priests to draw near to God, bishop, priests, people (Vatican News) Pope Francis drew on over fifty years
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/16/22
Catholic school enrollment makes biggest increase in 50 years (AP) Enrollment in Catholic schools in the United States rose 3.8%
Bill Ditewig update: ‘He is doing really well’
Deacon Bill Ditewig had his spinal surgery yesterday, the 14th, and today his wife, Diann, sent me this text: He
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/15/22
Pope issues motu proprio transferring some responsibilities to local bishops (Vatican News) With a new motu proprio published on Tuesday,
For St. Valentine’s Day: Wise words on persevering in love
"If you allow true love and the unselfish spirit of perfect sacrifice to guide your every action, you can expect
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/14/22
Ukrainian bishops call for prayer vigil as invasion looms (CatholicPhilly.com) As fears of a Russian invasion of Ukraine continue to
‘By the middle of this century, three-quarters of the Catholic Church will live outside the west…’
Crux's John Allen has been unpacking the recently published numbers of the Vatican's Annuario Pontificio, and he has some eye-opening
Vatican: Number of permanent deacons worldwide continues to grow
It's one of many statistics found in the new edition of Annuario Pontificio, tallying up the numbers of 2020. Details:
Prayer request: for Bill Ditewig
As we tick down the final hours of this World Day of the Sick, I wanted to ask for a
VIDEO: Meet and hear the real ‘Father Stu’
Years before Mark Wahlberg began the work of bringing the remarkable story of Father Stuart Long to the screen, the
In a first, Fordham names woman as its new president
From The New York Times: Fordham University, one of the most prominent Jesuit universities in the United States, announced its
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/11/22
Fordham's names new president — and it's not a priest (The New York Times) Fordham University, one of the most
WATCH: The powerful trailer to Mark Wahlberg’s ‘Father Stu’
This looks sensational. The studio announced that this is movie is opening on Good Friday. (Read more about that here.)
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/10/22
Quebec bishops reluctantly accept vaccine passports for Mass attendance (CNA) The Catholic bishops of Quebec, while registering their opposition to
Survey: 85% of Catholics say they’ve gotten the COVID vaccine
That would make Catholics the most vaccinated religious group in the U.S. From Pew: The new Pew Research Center survey
Ordination update: 15 new deacons for Port of Spain
This is unusual: I got an email from a priest in Germany (!) wanting me to know about ordinations of
Here: 30 seconds of holy delight
Maybe the neighbors of this church feel differently, but I think the world needs this right now. It popped up
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/9/22
Ukraine's Catholic leader repeats his call for a papal visit (Crux) As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to foment,
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/8/22
Pope names Bishop Shelton Fabre to succeed Archbishop Kurtz in Louisville (Holy See Bulletin) The Holy Father accepted the resignation
Pope Francis’ reaction to conflict is a lesson for us all
A little something I wrote for Our Sunday Visitor this week: Let’s face it: We live in an era of
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/7/22
New Zealand inquiry finds hundreds of reports of abuse (The New York Times) Reports of abuse were filed against hundreds
Ordination update: 8 new deacons for Atlanta
I received this happy news Sunday from Deacon José Espinosa: the Archdiocese of Atlanta has eight new deacons, ordained Saturday
Study sheds light on religion, living together and what makes for a lasting marriage
"Religious women might look for spouses who share values, beliefs, or practices that are important for union stability. Sharing these
Man who was the longest-serving Anglican bishop becomes Catholic
Details: Peter Forster, a former Anglican Bishop of Chester, was received into the Catholic Church in Scotland last year, a
Priest resigns as pastor over invalid baptisms
From CNS: Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of Phoenix said baptisms performed by a priest during years of ministry in the
Colbert: ‘I hope when I get to heaven, Jesus has a sense of humor’
This is something you just don't see on television — except on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert." Here, pop
How can you engage parishioners this Lent?
How about a little online workshop? This landed in my in-box, from the good people at Word on Fire. Best
Timothy Schmalz’s ‘Let the Oppressed Go Free’ to be displayed at Vatican
Details: A statue of Saint Josephine Bakhita, the patron of human trafficking victims, will be displayed in St. Peter’s Square
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/4/22
Ukrainian Catholics praying for peace in their homeland (B.C. Catholic) As threats of a Russian invasion of Ukraine intensify, Ukrainian-Catholics
Iowa priest battles breast cancer
Here's a reminder that this disease can strike both women and men: It may seem unusual for a Catholic priest
Trail Blaise-er: The story behind the blessing of throats today
When I was growing up, going to Catholic school in Maryland, it was a winter ritual: every February 3rd, the
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/3/22
Cardinal Marx backs loosening rules in celibacy for priests (AP) A prominent German archbishop advocated loosening celibacy rules for Catholic
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/2/22
Pope interrupted during audience; he responds with prayer (NCR) Pope Francis' weekly general audience was interrupted on Feb. 2 by
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 2/1/22
Vatican projects budget deficit (CNS) Presenting a budget projection that foresees a deficit of $37.1 million in 2022, the prefect
Should churches drop online services?
Anglican priest Tish Harrison Warren in The New York Times offered this opinion Sunday: I think it’s time to drop
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/31/22
Cop wins settlement after suspension for praying at abortion clinic (CNA) The city of Louisville, Ky., is paying a local
Mark Wahlberg’s long-planned film on ‘Father Stu’ to be released on Good Friday
From RNS: Mark Wahlberg and Mel Gibson will star in a movie about a boxer-turned-actor-turned Catholic priest known as “Father
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/28/22
Pope denounces fake news in meeting with media (AP) Pope Francis denounced fake news about COVID-19 and vaccines Friday, blasting
Is this the most beautiful Bible you can own? Maybe.
Like a lot of people who do what I do, I have my share of Bibles. There's the Good News
Sister Janet Mead, whose ‘Our Father’ was a smash in the ’70s, has died
Those of us of a Certain Age remember this song vividly, and recall with fondness the voice of the singing
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/27/22
Pope Francis calls on parents to "never condemn" gay children (AP) Pope Francis on Wednesday called on parents around the
Cardinal: ‘Why not have married priests, too?’
"In my diocese, I have married deacons who carry out their diaconate role in a marvelous way, who give homilies
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/26/22
Pope appeals for peace in Ukraine (Vatican News) At the conclusion of his weekly General Audience, Pope Francis asked the
Deacons, have you heard about this?
Deacon Mark Miller of the Josephinum Diaconate Institute dropped me a note recently. He wanted me to know they have
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/25/22
Benedict corrects statement for Munich abuse report (CNS) Amending a written statement made to a panel investigating clerical sexual abuse
Caught on camera: 100 abortion activists protest outside St. Patrick’s
CNA has the story: Barricades and a line of police protected pro-life attendees entering and exiting the Archdiocese of New
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/24/22
Pope confers ministries of lector, catechist on lay men and women (CNS) Highlighting the importance of the Bible in the
‘Many homilies are abstract and instead of awakening the soul, they put it to sleep’
Pope Francis had some thoughts on preaching at Sunday's Angelus, for Word of God Sunday: In the Gospel of today's
Did the mainstream media ignore the March for Life?
"We ended slavery, we ended segregation, and now we’ll end abortion.” More than a few people on social media have
‘Please do not enter our property’: A monastery in the age of COVID
From The Washington Post, a glimpse at what life has been like for the last two years at the Monastery
Archdiocese pulls support for men’s conference over ‘significant baggage’
"This year's primary speakers ... have publicly aligned themselves with divisive political positions and have used their Catholic platforms to
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/21/22
Pope Francis declares St. Irenaeus "Doctor of Unity" (CNA) Pope Francis on Friday officially declared St. Irenaeus of Lyon as
Blasphemous stunt: Catholics for Choice projects abortion message on D.C. shrine
From John Burger at Aleteia: "Pro-choice Catholics, you are not alone,” read a large sign at one of the many
Great moments in journalism: TV reporter hit by car during live shot
In a word: Wow. This is something to see. Give this reporter an Emmy! Reporter Tori Yorgey from WSAZ was
BREAKING: Benedict faulted for handling of abuse cases while archbishop
From The New York Times: A report released on Thursday faulted Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI for what the authors called
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/20/22
Report: 1 in 7 Christians live under persecution (Forbes) Open Doors, an international NGO advocating on behalf of persecuted Christians,
Historic: Pope to confer lay ministries Sunday
Details: The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis will confer the ministries of catechist, lector, and acolyte upon lay men
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/19/22
Vatican asks bishops to invite Protestant, Orthodox leaders to take part in synod (CNA) The Vatican has issued a letter
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/18/22
Pope looks ahead to anniversary of Nicaea in 2025 (CNA) In an ecumenical meeting with a Lutheran delegation on Monday,
‘The community is devastated’: New Orleans priest takes his own life
“It is our collective prayer that through the Mercy of God, our beloved Fr. Weiss is now resting with God
A window into love: Pope Francis on Martin Luther King, Jr.
Love bears every trial with a positive attitude. It stands firm in hostile surroundings. This “endurance” involves not only the
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/17/22
Pope asks Catholics to offer up sufferings for Christian unity (CNA) Pope Francis has asked Catholics to offer up their
Pope Francis: ‘I miss not being able to wander the streets’
The pope dropped a note to the journalist who caught him slipping out of a record store this week: "What
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/14/22
Pope: Synodality is about "listening to the spirit," not "majority consensus" (CNS) The synodal process is a path of engagement
Deacons, you’re invited: join me for a pre-Lenten retreat on the ‘Holy Mountain’
Looking for a prayerful way to recharge your batteries and get ready for Lent? "Come away to a deserted place
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/13/22
Catholic universities named in lawsuit alleging rigging of financial aid (CNA) The University of Notre Dame and Georgetown University are
Heroic nun who secretly baptized babies under Communism dies
Attention must be paid. From CNA: An Albanian nun who inspired Pope Francis with her courageous faith under communist persecution
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/12/21
Pope: Work is essential for our growth in holiness (Vatican News) In his catechesis at the General Audience focusing on
WATCH: Pope Francis makes unexpected visit to Rome record store
Well, here's something you don't see every day, caught on camera by Rome Reports: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL6Pl_hs83s&feature=emb_imp_woyt Reuters reports: Pope Francis, a
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/11/22
Priest in India to face trial on charges of hate speech (CNA) A Catholic priest in India will face trial
Combatting COVID: Pope calls for global commitment to vaccines
This story got some attention early today: The COVID-19 pandemic calls for an urgent reality check against baseless information and
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/10/22
Pope: getting vaccinated against COVID a "moral obligation" (AP) Pope Francis suggested Monday that getting vaccinated against the coronavirus was
As COVID surges among priests, parishes find ways to cope
The story from St. Paul-Minneapolis: The number of priests with COVID-19 in the archdiocese is the highest it’s been since
Ordination update: 7 new deacons for Grand Rapids
Some happy news in the new year out of Michigan: Deacon Jerry Roersma, director of diaconate formation, wrote to tell
The cardinal in winter: Gregory reflects on life in quarantine
The cardinal archbishop of Washington has tested positive for COVID and he's been on lockdown for several days. This reflection
How about an ‘Amen’ for the great Sidney Poitier?
It was announced today that the film legend has died at the age of 94. What a treasure he was:
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/7/22
Vatican newspaper marks anniversary of 1/6 attack (CNS) The attack on the U.S. Capitol Jan. 6, 2021, “represented a direct
UK tribunal rules Catholic nurse was ‘victimized’ for wearing a cross at work
From The Guardian: A nurse who claimed she was victimized for wearing a necklace with a Christian cross at work
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/6/21
In wake of Omicron, Catholic colleges go online (CNS) In response to the current spike in COVID-19 cases across the
Former House chaplain after 1/6: ‘Stop the judgment, stop the anger, stop the blame’
Just ahead of the 1/6 anniversary, The Washington Post has published part of an interview with the former chaplain of
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/5/22
Small but dramatic change to Pope's General Audience (AP) Pope Francis called Wednesday for simplified adoption procedures and urged couples
Guest post: A Chicago deacon’s ministry in Uganda
A few days ago, I got an email from Deacon Don Grossnickle, from the Archdiocese of Chicago, eager to spread
Cardinal, Tony Blair honored by Queen Elizabeth
Details: A cardinal said on Monday that he was grateful to be honored by Queen Elizabeth II in the British
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/4/22
Chicago parishes facing pandemic hardships (Chicago Tribune) When parishioners gathered for Christmas Eve Mass at St. Clement Catholic Church last
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 1/3/21
Schools in India ordered closed for celebrating Christmas (Crux) A Christian school was ordered closed in India on Dec. 26
Chalk, Kings, Chants: Just another Epiphany in Queens
It was a jam-packed day at my parish, beginning with the 9 a.m. Mass, when our administrator, Father Passenant, blessed
Cardinal Gregory has COVID
Details: The cardinal who leads the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington has tested positive for the coronavirus. The archdiocese said
One resolution to keep: Homily for January 2, 2022, Epiphany of the Lord
“They departed for their country by another way.” Commentators and homilists have long used this phrase, the conclusion of this
Pope Francis: ‘Let us learn from Mary how to keep and ponder’
From the Holy Father's homily on January 1: Mary’s pensiveness is the expression of a mature, adult faith, not a
A Deacon’s Prayer for the Christmas Season
Heavenly Father, As I live these days of gratitude and grace, celebrating the birth of your son, guide my heart
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/31/21
Vatican pays tribute to murdered church workers (CNS) In situations of extreme poverty, war or civil tensions, 22 Catholic church
Must-read: What Catholics (and everyone else) should know about the COVID vaccines
This is one of the best overviews on the issue I've read, and it comes from Dr. Gwyneth Spaeder, writing
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/30/21
Priest who led diocesan Office of Child Protection charged in abuse case (CNS) A retired priest of the Diocese of
The New York Times: New Yorkers who pray at home in ‘sacred spaces’
"You enter in your room and you pray in front of your father who is present with you. It is
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/29/21
Vandals increasingly target Catholic churches (Newsweek) Attacks on church properties (arson; statues beheaded; limbs cut, smashed and painted; gravestones defaced
Our Lady of the Hoops? Italy’s bid to have a patroness of basketball
From The New York Times: In the chapel of a small hillside sanctuary in Porretta Terme — a handsome town
New Year’s resolution: 8 ways to kickstart your prayer life in 2022
A little something I wrote for Our Sunday Visitor: Whatever way you welcome 2022 — I’ve reached the age where
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/28/21
Recruits from Africa help ease clergy shortage (AP) As fewer American-born men and women enter seminaries and convents, U.S. dioceses
Cardinal Cupich will require priests to get permission to celebrate Latin Mass
Details: Beginning Jan. 25, 2022, all clergy in the Chicago Archdiocese will need the archbishop's permission to celebrate the Tridentine
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/27/21
Priest: Churches should require proof of vaccination (The Daily Mail) A Catholic priest and cable TV contributor has said that
On Feast of Holy Family, Pope Francis issues letter to married couples
Details: On the Feast of the Holy Family, Pope Francis encouraged married couples to rely on the strength of Christ
The clergy who quit: COVID’s other casualties
From The Washington Post: The past few years have jostled and rocked the labor market overall, with many millions losing
Urbi et Orbi: ‘Amid all the many problems of our time, hope prevails’
From CNA: Giving his traditional Christmas “Urbi et Orbi” blessing on Saturday, Pope Francis urged leaders to be open to
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/24/21
In flyover, bishop blesses people impacted by tornadoes (CNS) Owensboro Bishop William F. Medley wanted to bless his people who
An early gift: ‘Angels’ Carol’
Here's a lovely rendition of John Rutter's modern classic, performed by the Queens Oratorio Society (under the direction of my
‘Celebrate differently’: Church in Quebec cancels Masses, Christmas celebrations
Details: Faced with the seriousness of the health situation, in consultation with the leaders of the parishes and his team,
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/23/21
Pope urges humility in Christmas address to Vatican administrators (AP) Pope Francis urged Vatican cardinals, bishops and bureaucrats Thursday to
Illinois statehouse once again welcomes Satanic Temple’s holiday display
From RNS: The Satanic Temple of Illinois’ contribution to a holiday display in the Illinois Statehouse rotunda in Springfield Monday
‘It’s like a ghost town’: COVID spoils another Christmas in the Holy Land
From The New York Times: There were only a few shopping days left until Christmas, but in the Christian Quarter
Ordination update: 7 new deacons for St. Paul-Minneapolis
Details: Noting a common call to be servants in the readings chosen for the ordination Mass of seven men to the permanent diaconate Dec. 4, Archbishop Bernard Hebda encouraged
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/22/21
Prosecution of McCarrick moves forward (Crux) A Dec. 21 motion for transcript, audio and video recordings of depositions related to
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/21/21
Pope appoints Scranton parish priest to be bishop of Gaylord (Holy See Bulletin) The Holy Father has appointed as bishop
The church bulletin: Catholic headlines for 12/20/21
Report: Catholic Church in Spain faces abuse investigation (Reuters) Spain's Catholic Church is to open an investigation into alleged sex
Looking for a last-minute gift for a deacon? Look no further
This has been a good season for books that any deacon would be happy to add to his shelf. So
America faces ‘the second pandemic’
"There is an overwhelming sense of malaise and fatigue.” From The New York Times: As Americans head into a third
Yes, Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’ is really that good
The first thing to know about Steven Spielberg's stunningly good film of "West Side Story" is that it doesn't really
Mark, did you know? The writer of THAT Christmas song explains
From RNS, here's a conversation with Mark Lowry, the composer of one of the most contentious Christmas songs of our