US coronavirus relief bill would discriminate against private schools

CNA Staff, May 18, 2020 / 11:21 am MT (CNA).- Bishop David O’Connell of Trenton lamented Thursday that the U.S. Congress’ latest coronavirus relief bill would bar private schools’ access to financial relief. The New Jersey Catholic Conference is encouraging Catholics to ask their senators and representatives to include aid …
Catholics rejoice as public Masses resume in Rome with safety precautions

by Courtney Mares Rome, Italy, May 18, 2020 / 09:30 am MT (CNA).- As Rome reopened shops and restaurants on Monday, Catholics rejoiced in being able to attend Mass again for the first time in 10 weeks after Masses were first closed to the public. “To receive Communion again as …
Tamar’s Center Serves as “Lifeline” to Those in Need During Pandemic

Lockdown Difficult for Homeless, Center Provides Outside Handwashing and Other Services Most folks realize the importance of frequently washing their hands to help prevent the spread of disease, especially as a precaution against COVID-19. However, what happens when you don’t have access to clean water or soap? “People who are …
Pope Francis adds St. Faustina Kowalska’s feast day to Roman Calendar

Vatican City, May 18, 2020 / 07:15 am MT (CNA).- Pope Francis has decreed that St. Faustina Kowalska’s feast day be added to the Roman Calendar as an optional memorial to be celebrated by all on October 5. The Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship issued the decree May 18, the …
Pope Francis praises St. John Paul II as man of prayer and justice

Vatican City, May 18, 2020 / 04:15 am MT (CNA).- St. John Paul II was a man of prayer who was close to the people and loved justice, Pope Francis said at his morning Mass Monday. Celebrating Mass at the saint’s tomb in St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope noted that …
Baking cookies for St. John Paul II and other memories for his 100th birthday

By Courtney Mares Vatican City, May 18, 2020 / 05:00 am MT (CNA).- “Thirty-nine years ago today I was on my way into St. Peter’s Square when the pope was shot,” Joan Lewis said over the phone on May 13. It is just one of many vivid memories Lewis has …
Today’s Video: The Best Christian Band (that isn’t even Christian!)

Father Casey wants to tell you about the greatest band in the world that plays Christian music… even though the band itself isn’t Christian.
The Archdiocese of Cincinnati celebrates ordination of three priests

Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr ordained Fathers Chris Komoroski, Benson Lokidiriyo and Andrew Reckers to the priesthood on May 16 at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Chains. Because of the pandemic, attendance at the ordination was by invitation only. The ceremony was live-streamed to thousands. Before the Mass ended, first …
Polish bishops launch #ThankYouJohnPaul2 campaign for pope’s centenary

CNA Staff, May 16, 2020 / 12:00 pm MT (CNA).- The Polish bishops’ conference is encouraging the faithful to participate in a social media campaign to mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Pope St. John Paul II on Monday. Pope St. John Paul II was born Karol Wojtyla …
Why a porn magnate funds an international abortion agency

by Perry West Denver, Colo., May 17, 2020 / 06:21 am MT (CNA).- After a pornography tycoon donated millions to an international abortion group, one non-profit youth initiative warned of a dangerous link between the two industries. Lindsay Fay, a mission team manager for The Culture Project, highlighted the connection …