The U.S. Supreme Court Jan. 29 announced that it will hear oral arguments March 23 in seven pending appeals in lawsuits brought by several Catholic and other faith-based entities against the Obama administration’s contraceptive mandate.
National News
New Bishop Is Installed for Diocese of Ponce, Puerto Rico
During a five-hour celebration that was mix of solemnity and festivity, Bishop Ruben Antonio Gonzalez Medina was installed Jan. 31 as the eighth bishop of the Diocese of Ponce.
Religious Freedom Is Being Challenged in Basic Ways
Religious freedom is being challenged in fundamental ways, according to speakers at a panel discussion on “Religious Liberty and the Future: Faith, Skepticism, Culture and Hope” at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C., Jan. 21.
Panthers’ Linebacker Keeps Focus on Faith
Middle linebacker Luke Kuechly of the Carolina Panthers, the team going up against the Denver Broncos in the Feb. 7 Super Bowl, credits his parents and his Catholic faith for making a positive impact on his NFL career and his outlook on life.
Philly Will Auction Papal Car to Aid Ministry
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Pa., is auctioning off one low-mileage car, in mint condition, used slightly by one owner. Proceeds from the auction will benefit ministries of the archdiocese.
West Coast March for Life
San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone addresses the crowd during the Walk for Life West Coast in San Francisco Jan. 23.
In Pro-Life Homily, Cardinal Cites Queens Priest, Parish
baby in a manger is proof enough for Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York that Americans can express a culture of life. And it wasn’t the Christ child. Instead, it was a newborn infant left by his mother in the crib of a manger scene at a parish in Queens.
Knights Will Work More Closely With Churches
The Knights of Columbus has announced an initiative designed to bring the Knights into closer cooperation with parishes. “We will use our resources of time, talent and money to strengthen parish-based and parish-sponsored programs,” Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson said.
Social Media Can Aid Pro- Life Cause
As the Jan. 22 anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision approached, the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities urged everyone concerned about “the tragedy of abortion” to recommit themselves to a “vision of life and love, a vision that excludes no one.”
El Paso Diocese Cancels Plans For Concurrent ‘Papal’ Mass
The Diocese of El Paso has scrapped plans for a border Mass that would have taken place at the same time as the closing Mass of Pope Francis’ visit to Mexico in February.