People look at a poster expressing criticism of Pope Francis in Rome Feb. 5.
National News
Former Minister, Now a Congressman, Supports Repeal of Johnson Amendment
People of goodwill can disagree on matters of public policy – even if they’re ordained clergy, and the public policy under debate has the potential to affect the way they conduct their ministry.
Bishops Seek Order On Religious Freedom
Saying “religious freedom in America has suffered years of unprecedented erosion,” the U.S. Catholic bishops have posted an online letter for Catholics to send to President Trump urging him to sign an executive order promoting religious freedom.
Bishops Oppose Death Penalty for Priest Killer
Saying “justice needs to be tamed by mercy,” Bishop Felipe J. Estevez of St. Augustine, Fla., and two brother bishops called for the state of Georgia to drop the death penalty in the case of accused priest killer Steven J. Murray.
Dominicans Appalled by Immigration Order
In response to President Donald Trump’s executive order temporarily halting immigrants from seven terror-prone countries, the Sisters of St. Dominic, Amityville, L.I., say they were “appalled” by the action.
US Church Leaders Blast Trump’s Immigration Action
President Trump’s executive memorandum intended to restrict the entry of terrorists into the U.S. brought an outcry from Catholic leaders, who used phrases such as “devastating” and “chaotic” to describe the action that left already-approved refugees stranded at U.S. airports.
Oakland Diocese to Close Five Schools
The face of Catholic education in the Diocese of Oakland, Calif., will change with a plan that will close five schools and move seven schools into a separate network charged with bolstering the educational and faith formation experience by sharing teaching specialists and administrative services.
Brentwood Josephites Pray At Climate Control Service
People of diverse faiths gathered on Sunday, Jan. 22 at Sacred Heart Chapel, on the grounds of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Brentwood, L.I., to pray for the U.S. government to accelerate its response to climate change.
Vice President Pence: Life Is Winning In America
Vice President Mike Pence told pro-life advocates from across the U.S. Jan. 27 that “life is winning in America, and today is a celebration of that progress.”ers.
Newark Bishop Attacked on Altar
Auxiliary Bishop Manuel A. Cruz of Newark told a congregation he was fine Jan. 29, the day after he had been punched in the mouth by an assailant.