St. Francis and the story of the first Nativity scene
by Hannah Brockhaus Rome Newsroom, Dec 23, 2023 / 07:00 am It’s a well-known origin story: how the young and wealthy Francis of Assisi freely abandoned his noble patrimony to serve Christ’s Church as a poor, itinerant preacher. One of the world’s most beloved saints, the founder of the Franciscan …
Where does the ‘Feast of the 7 Fishes’ Christmas Eve tradition come from?
By Francesca Pollio Fenton CNA Staff, Dec 24, 2023 / 07:00 am There are numerous Christmas Eve traditions families around the world take part in, whether it’s watching a certain movie together, baking cookies for Santa, opening one present before going to bed, or eating a specific meal for dinner. The …
Israel-Hamas war casts pall over Christmas Eve vespers in Bethlehem
By Marinella Bandini Bethlehem, Dec 24, 2023 / 13:04 pm On Sunday, Dec. 24, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, made his entrance into Bethlehem to celebrate Christmas. It was also his first entrance into the “City of Christmas” since being made a cardinal. Following tradition, the patriarch entered …
Advent Reflections 2023
Introduction to Advent 2023 Invitation to Prayer: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord. Reflection: The first candle is about to be lit! Tomorrow is the first Sunday of Advent. Hopefully, you are participating with an Advent Wreath in your home this season. In his excellent article, …
Before Christ
What does the Church believe happened to the souls of those who lived before Christ? Many presume that those souls who lived before Jesus had no opportunity to attain heaven, but the Catholic Church teaches that salvation is a gift from God offered to all people. Those who lived before …
10 Tips to Help Seniors Facing Holiday Loneliness
The holiday season can be difficult for seniors, especially those living alone and facing the risks of isolation. Here are a few tips on engaging, comforting, and checking up on your aging loved ones this time of year. This expert advice is thanks to St. Margaret Hall, a Carmelite System …
New Superintendent of Schools Appointed
Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr has announced the appointment of Matthew J. Daniels as Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, effective July 1, 2024. Mr. Daniels will assume this responsibility from Kathleen C. Kane, who is serving as Interim Superintendent for the 2023-24 academic year following the retirement …
Bishops around the world are divided over Vatican’s same-sex blessing declaration
By Tyler Arnold Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Dec 20, 2023 / 18:10 pm Catholic bishops around the world are deeply divided on a Vatican declaration that permits nonliturgical blessings of homosexual couples: some bishops are welcoming the news, some are approaching it with caution, while others are outright refusing to implement it. In some …
Rediscover ‘original beauty’ of Christmas music with Scythian’s new ‘Christmas Out at Sea’
By Peter Pinedo Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Dec 20, 2023 / 08:00 am Scythian, an Irish folk band headlined by two Catholic brothers, wants to help you “rediscover the original beauty” of Christmas music through their new album, “Christmas Out at Sea.” Full of energetic carols that reach moments of striking beauty …
Biden-Harris to prioritize abortion stance for reelection campaign
By Joe Bukuras CNA Staff, Dec 19, 2023 / 19:05 pm Vice President Kamala Harris announced she will embark on a tour across the nation promoting abortion rights, beginning on the anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision Roe v. Wade next month. In focusing on abortion, the vice president’s tour …
