‘The admission of women to the diaconate is a doctrinal matter…’
Whenever I travel, I find people asking me about the latest Vatican commission on women deacons. One of the members
UPDATE: Charges dropped against woman arrested for praying outside U.K. abortion clinic
You may remember her story from late last year. The update: Authorities in the U.K. have dropped charges against a
The biggest parish church in North America is now open
Wow: North America’s largest Catholic parish church – St. Charles Borromeo with seating for 3,200 souls – was officially dedicated
Rejoice! Watch the offertory for the papal Mass in Kinshasa, DRC
An estimated one million people attended the Mass at the local airport Wednesday — evidently, the only space large enough
Ordination update: 5 new deacons for Arlington
From The Arlington Catholic Herald: Bishop Michael F. Burbidge ordained five men to the permanent diaconate at the Cathedral of
Report: Jean Vanier’s L’Arche hid a ‘mystical-sexual sect’
'Vanier was part of a small sectarian group that subscribed to … predatory and deviant doctrine and practices...' Horrifying: Two
Father Hallowell: ‘I was healed at Lourdes’
Many of you will remember the inspiring story of Father John Hallowell, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor in
Pope Francis explains his comments about homosexuality and sin
Earlier this week, in an interview with the Associated Press, Pope Francis made some headlines when he answered a question
Revealed: the real reason Benedict resigned
Details: Ever since Benedict XVI announced his resignation on Feb. 11, 2013, cardinals and others have speculated on the main
Could this ad about Jesus show up during the Super Bowl?
Maybe: For the past 10 months, the “He Gets Us” ads have shown up on billboards, YouTube channels and television
Machete attacks in Spanish churches leave one dead, four wounded
From The Guardian: A machete-wielding man killed a sexton and wounded a priest in attacks at two churches in the
What country has the highest Mass attendance?
That's the lead question in a new post at the 1964 blog, run by the good people at Center for
Pope: Homosexuality is not a crime
From the AP: Pope Francis criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality as “unjust,” saying God loves all his children just as
Pope Francis on preaching: ‘The homilies, they are a disaster’
Last week, Pope Francis offered a few words to participants in a course for Diocesan liturgical officials, organized by the
A prayer for Pope Benedict
From CNA: A bishop has authorized and published a prayer for private devotion to Pope Benedict XVI, who died Dec.
Sister André, world’s oldest person, dies at 118
From CNN: French nun Sister André, the world’s oldest known person, died on Tuesday at the age of 118 in
Lawyers say McCarrick is unfit to stand trial
Given his advancing age, this shouldn't be a surprise: Former cardinal Theodore McCarrick is in “significant” mental decline and may
Are you ready for Sunday of the Word of God?
Four years ago, Pope Francis issued an Apostolic Letter, Aperuit Illis, instituting Sunday of the Word of God for the
WATCH: Man ordered to remove ‘Jesus saves’ tee shirt at Mall of America
This happened two weekends ago, but this story is now gathering steam on social media. Details: A man inside the
‘Ungodly and inhumane’: Priest burned alive in Nigeria
From AP: A Nigerian priest was burned alive in his home in the country’s north on Sunday, police said. Rev.
A diaconal connection to the funeral of Cardinal Pell
Reading about the funeral of Cardinal George Pell in St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, I saw this photograph: I thought
‘I trust that you will always be signs of a Church that goes forth’
From Pope Francis's remarks Saturday morning to the priests, deacons, seminarians and staff from the North American College, here's a
‘If discouragement overwhelms you, think of Joseph…’
Part of this homily popped up in my Facebook feed yesterday. I really needed to see it. Maybe you do,
‘Pray for Damar’: the birth of a movement
The collapse of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin has sparked something of a movement, according to Bills team chaplain Len
Ordination update: 18 new deacons for Fort Wayne-South Bend
Happy new year! Happy new deacons! Details from Today's Catholic: A glorious day! More than 1,300 people witnessed the ordination of 18
Shock: Cardinal Pell dead at 81
From the BBC: Cardinal George Pell, whose conviction on child abuse charges shocked the Catholic Church before being quashed, has
Damar Hamlin’s recovery: ‘Prayer is real’
'Damar got the whole world to pray. God allowed Damar to get the whole world to pray.' From OSV News:
The gift of Benedict: Homily for January 8, 2023 Memorial Mass
We dedicated the 1 p.m. Mass at my parish Sunday to Pope Emeritus Benedict. I was asked to preach the
When a funeral homily is also a eulogy: Cardinal Ratzinger on Pope John Paul II
There has been a lot of discussion lately about Pope Francis's homily for the funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict; some
Man arrested after destroying altar in Arkansas abbey
'The man had wanted to break into the tabernacle but had looked up at the statue of Mary and decided
Joseph Ratzinger, ‘led where you do not want to go’
A different look at the trajectory of Benedict's life, from Elizabeth Scalia at OSV News: It was a coldish day
Catholic urban ‘village’ proposed for Detroit
Details: Many thousands of churches are being abandoned in North America as worship communities become geographically dissipated, often spread over
Report: ‘Passion of the Christ’ sequel to begin shooting this spring
Details: After almost a decade of anticipation, the Passion of the Christ sequel is finally in the works. Passion of the Christ:
The New York Times looks at the bond between football and faith
Check this out: As the ambulance carrying the injured Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin rolled slowly off the field in Cincinnati Monday
Read: Pope Francis’s homily at funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict
'Benedict, faithful friend of the Bridegroom, may your joy be complete as you hear his voice, now and forever!' From
Damar Hamlin: ‘I see myself through God’s eyes’
From OSV News: The Central Catholic High School community in Pittsburgh is joining in prayer for NFL player Damar Hamlin,
2017 letter from bishop explained plan to laicize Pavone
From The Pillar: A 2017 letter to then-Father Frank Pavone warned the now-laicized leader of Priests for Life that his
Gänswein: The devil was ‘very against Pope Benedict’
From Crux: Retired Pope Benedict XVI’s longtime personal secretary has given an interview in which he says he believes the
WATCH: Benedict’s last journey to St. Peter’s
The remains of the Pope Emeritus were transferred to St. Peter's Monday morning. Video below, from Vatican News. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0vmyUJSAAM
Happy New Year, happy new news service: the debut of OSV News
At the end of 2022, before the ball fell, an important piece of news dropped: the launch of OSV News.
Benedict’s last words: ‘Lord, I love you!’
The Vatican released this photograph Sunday: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, lying in state at his home chapel in the Monastery
‘A shepherd must love the people entrusted to him’: Homily for January 1, 2023
This weekend, as we start a new year, we’re doing more than changing calendars and making resolutions. We’re watching history
Pope Benedict at installation: ‘Do not be afraid of Christ!’
My mind goes back to 22 October 1978, when Pope John Paul II began his ministry here in Saint Peter’s
Vatican: Pope Emeritus Benedict has returned to the Father’s house
From the Vatican: The Holy See Press Office announced that the Pope Emeritus died at 9:34 AM on Saturday morning
‘The story of the Holy Family is about life not always turning out the way you expected’
A little something from the vault: I’m struck every year by the timing of this feast, celebrating the Holy Family. It
Diocese of Rome to offer special Mass for Pope Emeritus
'Although his condition remains serious, the situation at the moment is stable.' Details: The Diocese of Rome will offer a
Prayer to St. Joseph for a happy death
"Since we all must die, we should cherish a special devotion to St. Joseph, that he may obtain for us
Benedict: ‘Quite soon, I shall find myself before the final judge of my life…’
"Quite soon, I shall find myself before the final judge of my life. Even though, as I look back on
Pope Francis describes Benedict as ‘very ill,’ asks for prayers
From Vatican News: Concluding the General Audience on Wednesday morning Pope Francis asked the faithful for a "special prayer" for
‘I said I was Jew-ish’: The case of Catholic Congressman-elect George Santos
It turns out that New York's congressman-to-be misled, embellished, fabricated and outright lied about parts of his life — including
‘The manger reminds us that Jesus was surrounded by nothing but love’
"The manger of Bethlehem speaks to us not only of closeness, but also of poverty. Around the manger there is
My first Christmas homily
In December 2007, the first Christmas after my ordination, my pastor asked me to preach at Midnight Mass. The homily
Great moments in weather reporting
Let's hear it for Mark Woodley, ladies and gentlemen: Anyone who has ever seen a local news broadcast during a
Christ is always coming: Homily for Christmas 2022
Merry Christmas! If you’ve said it someone today, say it again! And say it again tonight. And tomorrow. And for
Holiday cheer in the U.K.: Woman arrested for silently praying
This incident has understandably caused a firestorm. The report from CNA: A pro-life volunteer has been arrested and charged after
Poll: All I want for Christmas is less Mariah Carey
A blessed sign of hope for our troubled times, via RNS: Most Americans plan to give a dozen gifts during
Remembering ‘Sean Patrick’ of Catholic Digest: ‘He loved God, loved life, and loved to tell stories’
My friend Paul McKibben alerted me to this sad news: a man who was a beloved fixture of Catholic Digest
The town that ‘Silent Night’ put on the map
Some fascinating history here, via CNS: The Christmas song “Stille Nacht” (“Silent Night”) may have put the town of Oberndorf,
One number for the new year that can really count
My latest for OSV: As the new year begins, it’s all about numbers, isn’t it? From the annual countdown in
Holy humility — and a saint for this moment, Jeanne Jugan
Reflecting on the idea of obedience, many people this week have mentioned the case of Padre Pio. Others have brought
Nearly 1,000 U.S. faith leaders call for Christmas cease-fire in Ukraine
Details: Nearly 1,000 U.S. faith leaders are calling for a Christmas cease-fire in Ukraine 10 months after Russia invaded its
Mary, did you know?: One reason why it’s a wonderful film
'Mary sees the big man in George from the first, because she is a big woman.' From The Bulwark, writer
Everything you wanted to know about the Pavone case
Sources said that the Pavone case had less to do with his media profile and public statements, and more to
‘Be open to believe’: Just in time for Christmas, ’60 Minutes’ gives us a story of miracles
This is something to see: From CBS News's Bill Whitaker, a fascinating, inspiring and superbly-reported account of the miracles that
Pavone vows legal action
From CNA: The national director of Priests for Life, Frank Pavone, canceled a scheduled livestreamed Mass today, one day after
CNA: Father Pavone dismissed from clerical state — UPDATED
This has been a long time coming. Details: Father Frank Pavone, a well-known pro-life activist and national director of the
Martyrs: Married couple with 7 children, all executed by the Nazis, could be beatified
Details: Pope Francis has recognized the martyrdom of a married couple with seven children who were killed by the Nazis
Life matters: Oregon’s governor commutes sentences of death row inmates
Attention must be paid: Democratic Gov. Kate Brown of Oregon announced on Tuesday she is commuting the sentences of the state's 17
Women deacons? A member of the Vatican commission weighs in
From Our Sunday Visitor, here's part of an interview with Deacon Dominic Cerrato, editor of OSV’s The Deacon magazine, and
Pope names Holy Cross priest bishop of St. Cloud
From the Diocese of St. Cloud website: The Holy See announced that Pope Francis has appointed Father Patrick Neary, C.S.C., a
On Jordan’s bank: a stunning development rises at baptism site
Those of us who have been to this ancient site can't help but find this jarring and a little disorienting
‘We are all Newtown’: Remembering the tragedy of Sandy Hook
From 2012, part of my homily after the tragedy in Sandy Hook: As some of you know, my office is
More Protestant churches are celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe
The presence of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Episcopalian, Lutheran or other Protestant spaces could be more commonplace in Mexican
‘Men for others’: Heisman winner Caleb Williams salutes Gonzaga’s influence on his life
"To the 11-year-old out there who’s watching right now, who was told you’re too small, like they told me. Go
Chicago’s Father Pfleger cleared of abuse allegations, reinstated as pastor
Details, via CNN: Father Michael Pfleger, the senior pastor of the St. Sabina Parish in Chicago, has been reinstated after
The Lord is near: Homily for December 11, 2022, 3rd Sunday in Advent
“Rejoice in the Lord always…the Lord is near!” That message from St. Paul, from the opening chant for this Mass,
The composer behind ‘Mary’s Boy Child’
He also composed that contemporary classic, "Amen," that we all remember from "Lilies of the Field." (He also dubbed Sidney
Mary, the woman of ‘Yes’
This feast we celebrate, the Immaculate Conception, commemorates a great mystery and a miracle: that God so loved the world
Prominent Jesuit artist has ministry restricted after allegations
Photo: by Centroaletti / Creative Commons From CNS: Slovenian Jesuit Father Marko Rupnik, whose mosaics decorate chapels in the Vatican,
‘Carol of the Bells’: Ukraine’s enduring song of hope
One hundred years after it was introduced to Western audiences at Carnegie Hall, this enduring classic returned. And it's even
Ordination update: 20 new deacons for Peoria
An early Christmas gift! Details from The Catholic Post: In ordaining 20 permanent deacons for the Diocese of Peoria on
Another diocese plans to file for bankruptcy
From the Press Democrat in California: The Roman Catholic Diocese of Santa Rosa plans to file for bankruptcy protection in
Next stop: the glorious lights of Attleboro
The Fall Tour (Deaconpalooza '22) is wrapping up. I'm heading to the train station this morning with my wife to
The great religious caretakers of America: chaplains
About a quarter of new students in the Master of Divinity programs at Boston University and Union Theological Seminary in
Check it out: A gift for the preacher in your life
I'm pleased to announce that a new collection of homilies is being released today by the good people at Clear
Amid scandals and politics, Poland’s young people are losing faith
“This is a time bomb that was always going to explode sooner or later.” Further evidence that we are often
Census: Less than half of England and Wales is Christian
From the BBC: For the first time fewer than half of people in England and Wales describe themselves as Christian,
Rest in peace: ‘Die Hard’ actor Clarence Gilyard, Catholic
His memorable turn as a computer hacker in the Bruce Willis smash led to ongoing roles in "Waker, Texas Ranger"
History: Deacon becomes first Indigenous man ordained in Brisbane
From The Catholic Leader in Australia: Deacon Clinton McGoldrick became the first Indigenous man ordained in the history of Brisbane
Must-read: Pope Francis’s wide-ranging interview with America magazine
The Holy Father spoke exclusively with Matt Malone, S.J., the departing editor in chief of America, Sam Sawyer, S.J., the
Ordination update: 8 new deacons for Scranton
Just in time for Advent! Details: Bishop Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton, ordained eight men as permanent deacons for
Vatican: China violated terms of agreement with bishop installation
From CNA: The Vatican said on Saturday that Chinese authorities had violated the terms stipulated in its provisional agreement on
No, you don’t have to sing that hymn this weekend. Really.
It's everybody's go-to chant for Advent: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." It's a classic, sober piece of music, and it's
Jesus Christ, streaming star: ‘The Chosen’ becomes a breakout hit
The streaming sensation has even caught the attention of The New York Times: In the biblical account of the miracle
Report: Apostolic Visitation for Diocese of Knoxville
From The Pillar: A Vatican-ordered apostolic visitation will be conducted in the Diocese of Knoxville next week, several sources close
‘Oh, the humanity’: The true story behind the WKRP ‘Turkey Drop’
From Rodney Ho at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, who re-posts this item every year: The show was created by former Atlanta
Bishop Henning of Rockville Centre becomes coadjutor bishop of Providence
News from the In My Backyard Desk: The Holy Father, Pope Francis, has appointed Most Reverend Richard G. Henning, S.T.D.
Shock: Pope removes entire leadership of Caritas, appoints administrator
From CNA: Pope Francis on Tuesday removed the entire leadership of an international confederation of charities and appointed a temporary
Singing phenomenon Sister Cristina of ‘The Voice’ leaves religious life
You remember she caused a sensation a few years back. Now, this news: A nun who became a singing sensation
Unpacking the USCCB meeting — and finding some surprises
Elizabeth Scalia sat through most of the public sessions (so we wouldn't have to) and offers this assessment over at
Rest in peace: ‘Miracle deacon’ Ken Conklin has died
Friday evening, Bishop Rick Stika posted the news on Facebook: It is with sadness that I share with you the
Albany’s retired Bishop Hubbard asks Vatican ‘to return to the lay state’
This is extraordinary, via The Evangelist newspaper: Bishop Emeritus Howard J. Hubbard of the Diocese of Albany has asked the
Patriarch: discussions underway about one date for Easter
From Zenit: In an interview with a Turkish media , the Patriarch of Constantinople stated that conversations are underway between
Rest in peace: writer Michael Gerson dies at 58
A writer of great faith and passion is gone: Michael Gerson, a speechwriter for President George W. Bush who helped
Catholic vs. Catholic for president? Could happen.
If — and it's a big "if" — Ron DeSantis throws his hat in the ring and if — another
‘I had two patients to take care of’: An abortion doctor’s powerful conversion
A doctor who performed abortions tells the story of what made him change his mind in a new book, Two
USCCB: It’s Broglio and Lori
From CNS: Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services was elected Nov. 15 to a
Statue of Native American will replace toppled one of St. Junipero Serra in Sacramento
From The Sacramento Bee: State lawmakers and local tribal leaders shared details Monday on the plan to replace the toppled
A TV reporter’s big scoop: he’s returned to the Catholic Church
What a great story, from Detroit Catholic: Chuck Gaidica has been in the TV business for more than 40 years,
The big winner Tuesday night? Abortion
A sobering assessment from Religion News Service: If there was one clear winner in the November midterms, it was abortion
Wear this in memory of me: passing on a deacon’s vestments
This is great, from Baltimore's Catholic Review: Vestments once worn by a beloved deacon of St. Rita in Dundalk over
Next stop: sunny Florida
The Fall Retreat-a-Palooza continues. This morning, I'm headed to Florida, to St. Augustine and the Marywood Retreat Center to lead
Tim Ryan’s concession: ‘The highest title in this land is citizen’
No matter what party you belong to, or whose ides your support, you should be able to appreciate these words
Church Militant on Election Day: ‘Violence is not immoral…it must always be an option.’
The mind boggles. Via Salon: On Tuesday morning, the far-right Catholic media outlet Church Militant published a video editorial suggesting
Ross Douthat: How Vatican II ‘eviscerated a culture of obligatory practice’
Ross Douthat of The New York Times has taken aim at Vatican II — again — with some followup ideas
Ordination update: 7 new deacons for Phoenix
Bishop John Dolan ordained seven men to the diaconate in Phoenix on Saturday November 5. The new deacons are: William
Don’t give up
Behold: a captivating little piece of art by French choreographer Yoann Bourgeois. Here is life's journey in 90 seconds —
Report: Emile Adams, ‘the oldest active deacon in the U.S.,’ dies at 100
This news appeared on the Facebook page of Diocese of Toledo's Black Catholics Saturday afternoon: Deacon Emile Adams passed into
A ‘Father Stu’ for the whole family?
I have to wonder: why didn't they do this in the first place? Details: Mark Wahlberg's Father Stu is getting another go
Before there was DeSantis, there was Paul Harvey and this classic truck ad
There's been a lot of talk on social media about the new ad for Florida's Ron DeSantis, suggesting God's endorsement.
Bishops: Those political newspapers aren’t connected to the Catholic Church
From CNA: In recent days, residents of at least four U.S. states have received newspapers in the mail bearing variations
‘Outrage’: Minnesota cemetery desecrated; Bishop Barron vows to reconsecrate site
Details: Bishop Robert Barron has pledged to reconsecrate a Catholic Minnesota cemetery vandalized on Halloween night with satanic and vulgar
RIP, Thomas Cahill, author of ‘How the Irish Saved Civilization’
From The New York Times: Thomas Cahill, a multilingual scholar who wrote a surprise 1995 best seller demonstrating to the
We want to be in that number: Homily for November 1, 2022, Solemnity of All Saints
A few years ago, my wife and I were in New Orleans for a conference, and in the lobby of
60,000 lives saved: the impact of overturning Roe
The details, via CNA: More than 10,000 unborn babies are alive today because of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn
A Blessing for Trick-Or-Treaters
This comes from the blog for Give Us This Day, and the pen of Father Michael Kwatera, OSB: Compassionate God...
Greetings from Gallup
As I write, it's Sunday morning — 23 degrees outside, if you were wondering — and I'm wrapping up my
Up next: Galloping to Gallup
And the Fall Tour continues. I'm departing early Friday morning (very early) for Gallup, New Mexico, to lead a retreat
Poll: 45% of Americans say U.S. should be a ‘Christian nation’
But what, exactly, does that mean? Details: Most U.S. adults believe America’s founders intended the country to be a Christian
Synod document reveals desire for ‘radical inclusion’
"Many reports ask that the Church continue its discernment in the active role of women in the governing structures of
USCCB: Biden ‘gravely wrong’ on abortion
"This single-minded extremism must end, and we implore President Biden to recognize the humanity in preborn children." CNA reports: President
Diocese of Buffalo agrees to submit to secular oversight
Priests who have been credibly accused of abuse will be assigned an individual monitor with law enforcement experience to ensure
Cardinal: Church blessings of same-sex unions not a settled matter
From CNA: In an interview with Vatican media, Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, S.J., said he believes Church blessings for same-sex unions,
Chaput: ‘Biden is not in communion with the Catholic faith’
From CNA: Archbishop Charles Chaput said on Saturday that Joe Biden “is not in communion with the Catholic faith” and
Lessons from the journey: Homily for October 23, 2022, 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Everyone knows how important it is to pack for a journey — but I also think it’s important what you
Cardinal to EWTN: Unity with pope is necessary for Catholic media
From NCR: The Vatican's top diplomat has called on the U.S.-based media conglomerate Eternal Word Television Network, which regularly criticizes
Grief: Phoenix bishop loses third sibling to suicide
From the National Catholic Register: After announcing Bishop John P. Dolan lost his sister to death by suicide, the Diocese
Looking to ‘prepare the way’ this Advent? Join me for a weekend retreat in a spectacular setting
I say "spectacular," because it's the only way to describe this spot in Attleboro, Massachusetts. I'll be leading a weekend
‘Are priests flourishing or struggling?’: Survey finds fulfillment, fear, burnout
The authors of a major new survey — described as the largest conducted in more than 50 years — summarize
French bishop ordered to live a life of ‘prayer and penance’ for sexual abuse
From CNA: The Diocese of Créteil in France confirmed last week that its former bishop had been credibly accused of
Biden vows to make legal abortion the law of the land
From CNN: President Joe Biden on Tuesday made a major promise on a push to put abortion rights into law
Awake: Milwaukee group works for change in addressing sexual abuse
Awake is unique among most anti-clergy sexual abuse groups because its leaders are practicing Catholics who want to remain in
Parish stands behind Father Pfleger, as he faces another sex abuse accusation
From The Chicago Sun-Times: A day after the Rev. Michael Pfleger was accused again of child sex abuse, the popular priest
‘We can’t hurry’: Pope extends Synod another year, to 2024
From NCR: Pope Francis announced on Oct. 16 that he is significantly expanding the timeframe for his ongoing consultation process
New footage shows Pelosi praying on January 6
From RNS: House Speaker Nancy Pelosi began her day on Jan. 6, 2021, by praying with colleagues and discussing the
Someone you need to know: Bangkok’s Father Joe, ‘an outcast among outcasts’
From The New York Times: The young priest, always something of a misfit, chose an unconventional spot to start his
On the road again: the Maine event
Next stop: Portland. I'm headed there Friday to lead a retreat for deacons and their wives at the Marie Joseph
Want to persevere in prayer? Look to Father Walter Ciszek
Just in time for this weekend's Gospel, about persevering in prayer, along comes this remembrance of a future saint of
‘The council was a failure’
That's one of the bold conclusions drawn by Ross Douthat in today's New York Times. He writes: Just because a
Pope Francis on Vatican II and the command to ‘Feed my sheep’
'All of us are children of God, all brothers and sisters in the Church, all of us making up the
$100 million ad campaign tries to ‘rebrand’ Jesus
Good luck with this: Jon Lee has some words for evangelical leaders who argue that Christian ethics like kindness, honesty
Ordination update: 7 new deacons for Burlington
They were ordained by Bishop Christopher Coyne at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Burlington last Saturday. In the picture,
Report: Steubenville Diocese may merge with Columbus
The Pillar has the scoop: The Diocese of Steubenville, Ohio, is expected to announce to priests Monday that a process
‘Deacon Sunday’?? What??
Again and again on social media this weekend, I kept reading deacons who said, "How come I'm only hearing about
The Catholic roots of the oldest public library in the Americas
From AP: It is, according to UNESCO, the oldest public library in the Americas, tucked away from the street front
Check this out: Eucharistic Adoration in the 21st century
My friend Father Matthew Schneider posted this picture below on social media, showing a kiosk outside a chapel for Adoration.
Survey: 4 in 10 ‘non-Catholic’ Latinos were once Catholic
From RNS: A new NBC News/Telemundo poll focusing on the Latino electorate found that 41% of Latinos who do not
Pope Francis: ‘The saints are not sourpusses’
'It has been said that a sad saint is a sad excuse for a saint. Approach life with a sense
Got joy?
Earlier this week, I spoke at the convocation of priests in the Diocese of Cleveland, and my keynote was entitled,
Ordination update: 17 new deacons for Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh's Bishop David Zubik ordained 17 new deacons at St. Paul Cathedral on October 1. As the diocesan website notes:
Gracias, El Paso!
I had a wonderful time this weekend — praying, sharing, fraternizing and generally just enjoying the company of the deacon
WATCH: The life of St. Peter projected on St. Peter’s at the Vatican
I posted about this event a few weeks back. Now here is the video (in Italian) as it was captured
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,