An ‘extraordinary’ way of living? They’re just being Christians
Here's a great look at a way of living as community, via The Catholic Spirit in the Archdiocese of St.
On the road again: Traveling to El Paso with St. Jerome
Greetings from LaGuardia's amazing new Terminal B. It's a gorgeous September morning in New York City. I'm headed to the
‘Seek the City to Come’: Archdiocese of Baltimore begins review, considering major changes
The Archdiocese of Baltimore is taking a hard look at Mass attendance and how to face the future. From The
Patriarch Kirill: Russian war dead have their sins forgiven
Image: by Jim Forest / Flickr / Creative Commons license From Radio Free Europe: Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian
RIP: Brother Andrew, known as ‘God’s Smuggler’
'Lord, in my luggage I have Scripture that I want to take to your children across this border. When you
Archbishop: wearing religious clothing is ‘revolutionary’
He was evidently speaking at an ordination for transitional deacons. From CNA: The archbishop of Valladolid, Spain, Luis Argüello, called
Ordination update: 17 new deacons for Rockford
Details from the diocesan website: Most Reverend David J. Malloy ordained 17 men to the permanent diaconate for the Diocese
Worth your time: Pope Francis’s beautiful homily on the Eucharist
This is too important and beautiful to miss. Pope Francis offered a stirring, eloquent homily Sunday on the Eucharist: One
What can you give the Catholic who has everything? Look no further
If you're looking to do some early Christmas shopping, you need to check this out: The Holy Hour: Meditations for
In a first, Catholics now outnumber Protestants in Northern Ireland
From The Guardian: Catholics outnumber Protestants in Northern Ireland for the first time, a demographic milestone for a state that was designed
Video projection on life of St. Peter to illuminate his basilica
From Vatican News: Beginning Sunday 2 October at 9 pm, a special video showing the life of St. Peter will
Defiance: Belgian bishops publish blessings for same-sex couples
From CNA: Catholic bishops in Belgium on Tuesday announced the introduction of blessing ceremonies for same-sex couples in their dioceses.
Vatican turns down request for ‘Feast of the Holy Spouses’
Interesting news, via The Pillar: The Vatican has turned down a request from some U.S. bishops to add a feast
From the BBC: ‘The Queen’s faith went far beyond protocol and duty’
A worthwhile read: Almost every aspect of official ceremony surrounding the death of the Queen has been steeped in religious
Orlando’s next big attraction: the Stations of the Cross by Timothy Schmalz
This will be something to see. CNA reports: Catholic artist Timothy P. Schmalz sought to find and bring to life
Pastors ‘mixed’ on migrants in Martha’s Vineyard?
This item from the AP caught my eye this morning: As Republican governors ramp up their high-profile transports of migrants to
‘Behold, the wood of the cross…’
From the vault, some thoughts for the feast we mark today, The Exaltation of the Holy Cross: Behold the wood
And then there were ‘nones’: Christians could make up less than half of U.S. population by 2070
By one projection, “nones” would rise to somewhere between 34% and 52% of the U.S. population. Some sobering statistics, from
Daughters of St. Paul prepare to leave Chicago
The story in RNS: When the Daughters of St. Paul received permission from Chicago’s then-Cardinal John Cody to open a
‘We accompany those who struggle’: Diocese launches Office of Mental Health Ministry
“It’s about time we put this in the forefront. We need to recognize it and talk about it.” Kudos to
On the road again: next stop, Pittsburgh
After a quiet summer, I'm back on the road. The fall season of retreats and missions is beginning. First stop:
‘The last Christian monarch’: Remembering Elizabeth II, servant and queen
Much will be written about her historic reign, and the extraordinary — epic, really — life she lived, during a
Dutch diocese will no longer offer Mass in every parish every Sunday
From CNA: A diocese in the Netherlands says it will no longer offer Mass every Sunday in its parishes. Instead,
Pregnant and with cancer, she chose life: ‘This was God calling me to something so big’
Beautiful and humbling, via CNA: Jessica Hanna, a mother of four, was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer when she was
What are critics saying about Shia LaBeouf’s ‘Padre Pio’ movie?
The actor got a lot of attention several days ago, for his interview with Bishop Barron about his conversion to
Saints ahoy! Dorothy Day sets sail for New York
This is pretty neat, via The Staten Island Advance: Anchors Aweigh! The third and final new Staten Island Ferry boat
Patricia Heaton on meeting Pope Francis — and working as a Catholic in Hollywood
'As much as people want to paint Hollywood as a sort of anti-religious place, I have found that going into
In new video, pope calls for worldwide abolition of death penalty
"Always, in every legal sentence, there must be a window of hope. Capital punishment offers no justice to victims, but
In praise of St. Jeanne Jugan, humblest of servants
August 30 is the feast day of this remarkable woman — someone who can teach us all a thing or
Ordination update: 4 new deacons for Baton Rouge
Bishop Michael G. Duca ordained the men on Saturday August 13, at St. Joseph Cathedral in Baton Rouge. The new
Bishop Barron: ‘One of my dreams is to establish an order of priests’
From Fox Digital: Bishop Robert Barron, a controversial cleric on both the secular left and right for his talks on ethics
‘Whoever needs, come and eat’
This is just great. This photo went viral last week and caused a sensation. The story, from The Columbia Missourian:
Ordination update: 13 new deacons for San Bernardino
The new deacons — 11 permanent and 2 transitional — were ordained by Bishop Alberto Rojas on Saturday at St.
WATCH: Shia LaBeouf on his conversion to Catholicism and playing Padre Pio
From Fox News: Actor Shia LaBeouf said he converted to Christianity while shooting his upcoming film "Padre Pio" and has
Why many Latinos are choosing to become Protestant
From Axios: The percentage of Latinos who identify as Protestant — evangelical and other Christian faiths — is expected to grow from
Father and son make a little history in New Jersey
You see this happening more and more — and it recently happened in the Archdiocese of Newark. The story (h/t
Want a great way to start the new school year? Try this.
This video has begun circulating on social media. Humbling. Moving. Profoundly beautiful. All of the above. Just look. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQJa9wpKtvk Twitter
Archbishop Weakland dies
From CNA: Archbishop Rembert Weakland, a Benedictine who served as archbishop of Milwaukee from 1977 to 2002, died overnight on
Discovering Mary Magdalene in Nice
A parishioner, Joseph Terry, posted this stunning image on social media this morning, from Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice: I had
‘No grounds’: Vatican says it will not conduct canonical investigation into Ouellet charges
Details: The Vatican said Thursday it will not hold a trial against Cardinal Marc Ouellet over allegations he sexually assaulted
Canada’s Cardinal Marc Ouellet accused
Details: Quebec Cardinal Marc Ouellet, once considered a front-runner to become pope, has been accused of sexual assault and is
Must-read: Frederick Buechner on ministry and being ‘however inadequately’ a servant of Christ
"Again and again Christ is present not where, as priests, you would be apt to look for him but precisely
WATCH: Inside what will reportedly be North America’s largest Catholic parish church
This is something else, via The Fresno Bee: When the work is completed on the new $21 million St. Charles
Olivia Newton-John’s Catholic connection
From CNA: Singer and actress Olivia Newton-John, perhaps best known for her role as Sandy Olsson in the 1978 film
Must-see video: ‘I wanted to go over there and spread God’s love and make sure that he’s OK…’
WWJD? I think he'd do this. Check out this emotion-filled clip from a Little League game this week in Oklahoma.
On St. Lawrence and the true meaning of a deacon’s service
"The diaconal service of charity must include imitation of Christ by means of unconditional self-giving." Today is the Feast of
Lightning strike damages historic Illinois church
Details: A lightning strike caused a roof fire Monday that severely damaged a historic Catholic church in Rockford, Illinois, and
‘Some of the blame for poor preaching in Catholic churches belongs to the people in the pews…’
That's the provocative idea put forth by Rev. Terrence Klein in the current issue of America. He offers some tips
Consultants recommend suspending sainthood cause of Father Capodanno
In September 1967, the native New Yorker, Father Vincent Capodanno — a Maryknoll priest known as "The Grunt Padre" —
RIP: Oldest cardinal dies at 98
From CNA: Cardinal Jozef Tomko died early Monday morning in Rome at the age of 98. At the time of
‘This isn’t the only stop on the train’: Homily for August 7, 2022, 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
He was known as “the voice of summer” — Vincent Edward Scully, Vin Scully, simply the greatest sports announcer of
‘This is how you do Church…’
"The music was accessible and easy to sing. The homily was on-point and offered food for thought. The Liturgy of
Persecution watch: Media outlets closed, parish raided, as Nicaragua cracks down on Catholic Church
Attention must be paid. From CNS: Nicaraguan authorities have ordered the closure of Catholic media outlets and raided a parish
Tom Cornell, activist and deacon, dies
Details from NCR: Tom Cornell, whose actions and writings through more than six decades brought Christian nonviolence and war resistance
RIP: Vin Scully, legendary broadcaster and Catholic
"You know, this isn’t the only stop on the train. There’s one big one we’re still waiting for. I used
Detroit auxiliary bishop accused, denies allegation
“Archbishop Russell is shocked and saddened by the claims that have been made, and states that they are without merit."
The secret to being an everyday evangelist
My latest for Our Sunday Visitor: Psssst. Want to be an evangelist? Here’s a secret you may not know: You
‘I embrace this willingly’: The cross of Father John Hollowell
Longtime readers may remember the posts about Father John Hollowell. Sean Gallagher from Indianapolis told his story in 2020: Father
Pope Francis: ‘Door is open’ to retirement
From AFP: Pope Francis admitted Saturday he needs to slow down, telling reporters after a six-day trip to Canada that
Francis in Canada: Pope apologizes for clergy sexual abuse
It happened Thursday night in Quebec, during vespers at the Cathedral of Notre Dame: At the cathedral, Francis pointed the
Is this a Eucharistic miracle?
Details, from Catholic News Agency: A video circulating on social media shows what appears to be a eucharistic miracle —
Judge dismisses five libel suits by Nick Sandmann
Details: A federal judge has dismissed libel lawsuits against five media companies that a Kentucky student filed over an incident
Francis in Canada: ‘I humbly beg forgiveness for the evil committed by so many Christians’
"I am here because the first step of my penitential pilgrimage among you is that of again asking forgiveness, of
Francis in Canada: A pope and a high-stakes apology
From Politico: The big question when the Pope speaks to First Nations, Métis and Inuit gathered at Maskwacis is: Who will
A home seller’s prayer to St. Joseph
Beloved St. Joseph, You found shelter for Mary and made a welcoming home for your adopted son Jesus in Nazareth.
‘Astonishment’: German Church leaders respond to Vatican intervention
If Germany's bishops are feeling a little hot under the Roman collar, it's not necessarily because of the summer heat.
‘The Bishop of Madison has taken disciplinary action regarding Fr. Richard Heilman…’
Here's a followup on the controversy about Father Richard Heilman, whose public political posturing has raised eyebrows (and blood pressures)
Holy See issues statement on Germany’s ‘Synodal Path’
"The 'Synodal Path' in Germany does not have the faculty to ... to assume new forms of governance and new
Who will choose the next pope? A lot fewer Europeans
The leadership structure of the Roman Catholic Church is tilting away from its historic European base and toward developing nations
Wisconsin priest encourages donations to help January 6 defendants
Details: A Cross Plains Catholic priest warned last year by Madison Diocese officials to temper his right-wing political activity is
Ivana Trump’s Catholic funeral — UPDATED
The details: Ivana Trump will get a flashy send-off in New York City on Wednesday, as friends and family gather at
Worth your time: ‘How America Lost Its Religion’
From The Atlantic comes this interesting and sobering effort to unpack what has happened over the last 30 years, citing
‘A misunderstanding’: Bishops will allow lesbian to foster a child
“That is neither a ‘change’ in the USCCB’s position, nor a change in Church teaching." From The Washington Post: An
Historic: Pope names 3 women to Dicastery for Bishops
Details: Pope Francis on Wednesday named three women to the Dicastery for Bishops, the first time women have been appointed
Priestless funerals in Ireland?
''I think it is a shock still to people. There are a lot of lay people and priests who are
In new interview, Pope Francis discusses what he would do if he retires
'I am the Bishop of Rome. In that case I would be the bishop emeritus of Rome,' he said, adding
Vandalism, suspected arson at Maryland churches
This strikes close to home. The incidents all occurred over the weekend, not far from where my wife and I
Who is my neighbor?: Homily for July 10, 2022, 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
It sounds like such a simple, obvious question. Who is my neighbor? If you think you know, this Gospel says: think
‘A Deacon Prays’ wins First Place at Catholic Media Awards
Wow. Deo Gratias! The winners were announced last night at the Catholic Media Association's conference in Portland, Oregon. A complete
Prayer request: for a new deacon and his wife
Last month, I had the privilege of leading the pre-ordination retreat for deacon candidates in the Diocese of St. Augustine.
Big news: OSV announces new Catholic news service
With CNS folding up its tent, Our Sunday Visitor is stepping in to fill the void. The press release: One
Meanwhile, in Australia …
Some interesting developments in the Catholic Church Down Under. First, tensions flared at the country's plenary council over discussion of
Reuters: Pope Francis says he will give women say in selection of bishops
'Two women will be appointed for the first time in the committee to elect bishops in the Congregation for Bishops.'
‘A papacy complicated by the shadow of resignation’
'Now it is much easier to envision a resignation because Benedict paved the way for that, and it changed our
In historic move, Congregation of Holy Cross elects a brother as superior
The announcement: On Friday afternoon, July 1, in a historic first, the 2022 General Chapter of the Congregation of Holy Cross elected
Ordination update: 9 new deacons for San Francisco
And there's one more on the way! I received this email from Deacon Russ Wertenberg: 10 of us were scheduled
Pope Francis weighs in on SCOTUS abortion decision
From Vatican News: Pope Francis has responded to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade, which returned power
WATCH: African liturgical dance at Vatican Mass
Here's something jubilant and wonderful — and not the sort of thing you see every day at St. Peter's. Details:
Wisconsin Catholic church vandalized
Details: The Madison Police Department is investigating a graffiti/damage to property complaint at a Catholic Church in Madison. MPD said
A saint speaks: ‘Yes, America, you are beautiful indeed’
For the holiday weekend, some words of wisdom from St. John Paul II, concluding a visit in Detroit in 1987:
Pope Francis: ‘It is time to rethink the concept of a just war’
'Everything I have done was neither my invention nor a dream I had after a night of indigestion. I picked
‘Devastating’: Paulist Fathers to leave Ohio State
Details: The group of priests who have run the Catholic ministry at Ohio State University for 65 years will be departing at
‘Couples need role models’
Simcha Fisher looks at what is going on with Catholic marriage preparation these days — and finds a lot that's
A pro-life ministry for this moment: Walking with Moms in Need
'This is a ministry. The same way we call people to the pastoral care of the sick. This is a
Epic ordination update: A big class for Little Rock, as bishop ordains 46
From Arkansas Catholic: Bishop Anthony B. Taylor will ordain 46 permanent deacons for the diocese at 10 a.m., Saturday, June
Pope Francis issues Apostolic Letter on liturgy
Details: The Pope has written an Apostolic Letter to the people of God on the liturgy, to recall the profound
‘Pilgrims of Hope’: Vatican unveils logo for 2025 Holy Year
Details: In a press conference held on Tuesday in the Sala Regia of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace, the Vatican revealed the official
And the prize for Best Penitential Rite goes to …
... whoever came up with THIS. A friend sent this to me. It's obviously not new — the rose vestments
Ordination update: 6 new deacons for Biloxi
From the Diocese of Biloxi Facebook page: CONGRATULATIONS!! This morning at Nativity Cathedral in Biloxi, 6 men were ordained to
Ordination update: 5 new deacons for Bridgeport
Details: “You are meant to be a counter-sign of the world in which you live by becoming a living sign
Ordination update: 15 new deacons for Indianapolis
Who says it don't rain in Indianapolis in the summertime? It's raining deacons! A grateful diaconal bow to my friend
SCOTUS overturns Roe: Reaction — UPDATED
'Now is the time to begin the work of building a post-Roe America.' The news we have been waiting for
Report: Church braces for ‘extreme violence’ following SCOTUS abortion decision
From Newsweek: The Catholic Church is heeding federal law enforcement's warning that a radical group is "calling for extreme violence"
Ordination update: 19 new deacons for Toronto
I received this message Monday from Deacon Neil Daunt: I was blessed to be ordained to the diaconate with 18
Horror: priests slaughtered in Mexican church
'They had no defense but their faith in God.' Details: Catholic dioceses throughout Mexico are condemning the murder of two
‘Can you imagine if I showed up in St. Peter’s wearing this?’
Pope Francis met with bishops from Brazil at the Vatican and they brought him an unusual gift. Watch the video
Deacon: ‘I survived because of the Real Presence’
Quite a story here, via National Catholic Register and Thomas McDonald: At dawn on Oct. 4, 1966, Maj. Joseph Tedeschi
RIP, Mark Shields
Details: Mark Shields, a piercing analyst of America’s political virtues and failings, first as a Democratic campaign strategist and then
Bringing Christ into the world: Homily for June 19, 2022, Corpus Christi
Her name was Juliana of Liège If you ever doubt that one person can have an impact on the world,
‘The Bench’ just got a fresh coat of paint
If you visit The Deacon's Bench, you'll see it has a new look. You can still find my latest blog
Ordination update: 7 new deacons for St. Augustine
Last week, I was privileged to direct their pre-ordination retreat; Saturday morning, June 11, just hours after completing the retreat,
Ordination update: 16 new deacons for San Antonio
I haven't been able to find a published list of the new deacons, but this text of Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller's
Bishop issues decree: school may no longer call itself Catholic
"Mass, sacraments and sacramentals are no longer permitted to be celebrated on Nativity School premises or be sponsored by Nativity
Ordination update: 18 new deacons for Orlando
Details: Eighteen men entered the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in anticipation and gratitude,
Report: Number of abortions in U.S. rose
Details: The number of patients seeking abortions in the U.S. rose in 2020, reversing some 30 years of decline in the number
WATCH: Chaplains offering God’s love to soldiers in Ukraine
This is one more reminder of why CNS is so valuable. Here, from Ukraine, is a remarkable video showing a
Pope: Number of U.S. Catholics want to ‘gag’ reform
Details: The United States contains a "significant" number of groups seeking to "gag" the reforms of the Catholic Church initiated
‘God may be calling us’: the women who want to be deacons
From America: While the Catholic Church is not considering ordaining women to the priesthood, the ordination of women to the
Ordination update: 18 new deacons for Los Angeles
Details from Angelus News: On the night of Oct. 13, 2013, having just suffered a heart attack, cardiac arrest, and
A tee shirt for today
You know you want one. Different sizes and colors available. Find it here. You're welcome.
In Uvalde, a bishop makes an impassioned plea for gun control
From The New York Times: The day after an 18-year-old gunman massacred 21 students and teachers at an elementary school,
Catholics, Muslims sign agreement to work on interfaith peace
Details: A Catholic lay group based in Rome, and Indonesia’s largest moderate Islamic organization have signed a deal to continue
Ordination update: 6 new deacons for Philadelphia
Details: Six men will be ordained permanent deacons by Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on Saturday,
Behold: 3 new Paulist Affiliate Deacons
The news, from Deacon Dennis Dolan: Deacon Mark Asselin of Rockville, MD; Deacon Patrick Ouellette of Alexandria, VA; and Deacon
French archbishop to seminarians: stop wearing cassocks
Details: A letter sent by the new archbishop of Toulouse in southwestern France to the seminarians of his archdiocese, in
‘The bond of perfection’: Homily for deacon candidates of St. Augustine
I spent this week in St. Augustine, Florida, leading the pre-ordination retreat for seven men who will be ordained deacons
From Uganda: ‘If you see that look with your eyes, you have to jump in and help’
From Deacon Don Grossnickle, recently back from a mission trip to Uganda: Truck driver, Rick Swope in 1990, heroically jumped
A COVID vaccine for those with religious concerns?
Details: A COVID-19 vaccine that could soon win federal authorization may offer a boost for the U.S. military: an opportunity
Ordination update: 14 new deacons for San Angelo
Details, courtesy Deacon Freddy Medina, Director of the Office of Diaconal Ministry for the Diocese of San Angelo: On June
Colorado bishops: pro-abortion lawmakers must refrain from communion
From RNS: Catholic bishops from Colorado asked Catholic lawmakers who voted in favor of abortion rights legislation earlier this year
‘We are broken’: Brooklyn bishop blesses church after desecration
The attack and theft made headlines around the globe. An update: The loss of St. Augustine Church’s tabernacle in a burglary
Ordination update: 18 new deacons for St. Louis
From the St. Louis Review: Eighteen men who were ordained to the permanent diaconate for the Archdiocese of St. Louis
‘Vile and satanic attack’: Gunmen open fire at Catholic church in Nigeria
Words fail. Details: Gunmen opened fire on worshippers and detonated explosives at a Catholic church in southwestern Nigeria on Sunday,
Another Palm Sunday — pray for us!
I'm heading south this Pentecost — flying to the land of palms, St. Augustine, Florida, to begin leading a five-day
Great moments in journalism, royal edition
My friend Ellen Fleysher shared this on Facebook, as seen on KCBS-TV in Los Angeles.
Happy Pentecost from Manville, NJ!
Saturday, I had a wonderful visit to the parish of Sacred Heart / Christ the Redeemer in the town of
Snapshot: Annual survey offers a glimpse at the diaconate in the U.S.
From the USCCB: The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life, and Vocations has released the
Theft of Brooklyn tabernacle leaves more than just a physical void
Congregations that were sparse before the pandemic have gotten even thinner since it started. Tight budgets continue to shrink, priests
‘Praying 4 Vocations’: Teen pilgrims walking for seminarians and deacons
From the Arlington Catholic Herald: The sun came out Memorial Day weekend for the fourth Annual Arlington Camino, an event
It’s official: Barron to Winona-Rochester; bishop ‘overjoyed and humbled’
"I’m thrilled to receive this new appointment as bishop of Winona-Rochester ... I'd humbly ask for prayers." — Bishop Robert
So what is an indulgence, anyway?
A few people were surprised to see that Pope Francis, as he did last year, is offering a plenary indulgence
Ordination update: 12 new deacons for Savannah
It happened Saturday May 28, as Bishop Stephen Parkes ordained 11 men as permanent deacons and one as a transitional
WATCH: How Mark Wahlberg congratulated his son on his confirmation
The producer and star of "Father Stu" posted a video and message on Instagram. The video is from Europe, and
For Memorial Day: Mrs. Ryan and Mrs. Bixby
This gets me every time: a pivotal scene from "Saving Private Ryan." Spielberg at his best. He has often said
‘This is devastating’: Tabernacle stolen from Brooklyn church
From Ed Wilkinson on Facebook: Tabernacle dating back to the 1890s stolen from the altar at Brooklyn Catholic Church The
Pope announces new cardinals — including one from the U.S.
Details: Pope Francis announced he will create 21 new cardinals Aug. 27, including 68-year-old Bishop Robert W. McElroy of San
A prayer for peace
Thursday afternoon, I was invited to take part in an interfaith prayer vigil in my community. (My pastor was unable
Ukrainian Orthodox Church issues resolution, condemns the war
"The Council appeals to the authorities of Ukraine and the authorities of the Russian Federation to continue the negotiation process
Ordination update: 17 new deacons for Dallas
From Deacon Vincent R. Vaillancourt, this happy news: On Saturday, Bishop Edward Burns ordained seventeen men to the Order of
Ordination update: 1 new deacon for San Jose
Bishop Oscar Cantú did the honors last weekend, ordaining Ken Wright as a new deacon for the diocese. He's pictured
Ordination update: 3 new deacons for Rochester
Photo: Catholic Courier photo by Jeff Witherow. Details from Catholic Courier: On April 17, 1982, the first class of permanent
Pope: ‘My heart is broken for the massacre in Texas’
Details: Pope Francis said on Wednesday that his heart was broken by the killing of at least 19 children and
Worth your time: From 2012, Obama’s remarks at Sandy Hook prayer vigil
On December 16, 2012, President Obama traveled to Newtown, Connecticut for an interfaith prayer service honoring the victims of the
Did Nancy Pelosi receive Communion this weekend?
This is what we have come to: a reporter watching a livestream of Mass to see if someone goes to
Anonymous and unforgettable
My reflection for May 24, 2022 from Give Us This Day:
New bishop of St. Augustine is son of a deacon — and he’s the head of Little Rock’s Deacon Formation
The press release: The Vatican announced today that Pope Francis has appointed Father Erik Pohlmeier the next bishop of the
Oops: DC archdiocese mistakenly sends email about Pelosi to reporter
From The Washington Examiner: Archbishop Wilton Gregory of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., has refused to comment publicly on whether he
Ordination update: 3 new deacons for Buffalo
Here they are, with their wives, after the Big Event. The release: With Gratitude to Almighty God, the Diocese of
Bombshell: sex abuse, coverup in America’s largest Protestant denomination
It's all so painfully, shockingly familiar. From The New York Times: National leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention suppressed reports
Ordination update: 6 new deacons for Trenton
Jersey Boys! Details: Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will confer the Sacrament of Holy Orders on six men who will
Ordination update: 10 new deacons for Syracuse
Here they are, in their first formal photograph. They are: Adeolu Ademoyo Michael Carroll Michael Casey Louis Delsole Dale Grey
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