By Lou Baldwin PHILADELPHIA (CNS) — What does Thanksgiving really mean to you? Is it just a really big dinner, or is there something more about it that maybe you’ve forgotten? It is unique among American holidays in that it is both civic and religious in its origins. It is …

IMAGE: CNS By DETROIT (CNS) — Blessed Solanus Casey always said that “as long as there is a spark of faith,” there can be no discouragement or sorrow, said Cardinal Angelo Amato, head of the Vatican’s Congregation for Saints’ Causes. His words were accompanied by “the concrete practice of faith, …

By Junno Arocho Esteves VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The same hope that moves people to seek a better life for themselves and their loved ones also moves the hearts of men and women to welcome migrants and refugees with open arms, Pope Francis said. “Those who come to our land …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Michael Alexander, Georgia Bulletin By Nichole Golden ATLANTA (CNS) — Perseverance has been Grant Aasen’s longtime ally. In recovering from a life-threatening injury, walking on to the Georgia Tech football team as a punter, and discerning the priesthood, Aasen has demonstrated a desire to succeed. Aasen, who graduated …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz By ARMAGH, Northern Ireland (CNS) — The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland has urged Irish people and those of Irish descent celebrating St. Patrick’s Day to remember the plight of migrants. Archbishop Eamon Martin — St. Patrick’s modern-day successor as archbishop of Armagh …

By Carol Glatz VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Recent exchanges in the media between the head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and a former member of a papal advisory commission have highlighted a lack of clarity and transparency when it comes to finding better ways to make …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Katie Breidenbach By Katie Breidenbach MEDINA, Ohio (CNS) — Dozens of little wax flowers lay on the table in front of her. With a gentle grip, Judy Hamrick picks up each one and covers the back in glue. “It’s very peaceful work,” Hamrick said. “I’ve worked here 24 …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Matt Palmer By Matt Palmer AUSTIN, Texas (CNS) — McDonald’s, Apple, Starbucks and ‘ the Catholic Church? In terms of recognizable organization names, the Catholic Church has to rank near the top. But, does it view itself as a brand to be marketed? That was among several questions …

IMAGE: CNS/Paul Haring By Cindy Wooden VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Acknowledging and sharing God’s mercy is a permanent part of the Christian life, so initiatives undertaken during the special Year of Mercy must continue, Pope Francis said. “Mercy cannot become a mere parenthesis in the life of the church,” the …

IMAGE: CNS/Paul Haring By Carol Glatz VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The church is not a prop for one’s ego, a soapbox for ideas or a suit of armor protecting a sad life, Pope Francis said. “The church exists only as an instrument for communicating God’s merciful plan to the people,” …