With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing families to stay home during this Christmas season, many folks are turning to sacred music as a means to help relieve stress and find meaning in classical hymns of faith and devotion.
National News
Eviction Moratorium Only Delaying the Inevitable, Says Catholic Charities Head
The president of Catholic Charities USA fears an extended eviction moratorium just delays the inevitable loss of homes for millions of Americans during the global pandemic and diminished job market.
Lots of Money, and Hard Work, Bring Pandemic Aid Bill to Finish Line
What had been separate Democratic and Republican coronavirus relief bills became a bipartisan effort thanks to Congress’ Problem Solvers Caucus, according to a lobbyist for Network, a Catholic social justice lobby.
Mary on the Mantel Dolls Fly Off the Shelf
Children often look high and low to spot their Elf on Shelf dolls during this time of year, but one entrepreneur took the concept to the next level. Erica Campbell, owner and designer of the “Be a Heart” brand and mother to an 11-month-old girl, created Mary on the Mantel to provide comfort to kids and teach them about their faith.
HHS Acts on Violations of Conscience Protection by California, Vermont Hospital
Two U.S. bishop’s committee said Dec. 17 they “strongly commend” the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services taking “corrective action” against a Vermont medical center and the state of California for violating federal conscience protection laws when it comes to abortion.
Death Penalty Hits Historic Low in U.S. ‘Despite Federal Execution Spree,’ Says Report
A new report Dec. 16 by the Death Penalty Information Center said the use of capital punishment reached a historic low this year in the United States even with the return of federal executions by the Trump administration.
Archbishop Wenski First Bishop to Get Coronavirus Vaccination
Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami joined a couple hundred South Floridians Wednesday at St. John’s Nursing Center to become the first U.S. Bishop to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.
Cardinal Dolan Urges Congress to Include Non-Public Schools in COVID Bill
Cardinal Timothy Dolan urged congressional leaders to include religious and other non-public schools in the COVID-19 financial aid package being finalized by lawmakers ahead of an expected vote on Dec. 18 — a week before Christmas.
Chaplains, Care Home Staff Coping With COVID-19 Protocols
When Father Michael Garvey arrived for his shift as a chaplain at the Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, Florida, on Dec. 15, his first stop was the coronavirus floor, right now full with 24 patients.
Woman’s Cancer Journey Inspires Trust, Prepares for Eternity
Sandy Gross of Longmont, Colorado, believes there is redemption in suffering. She knows, having endured aggressive treatments in her nearly two-year fight with breast cancer.