By Patricia Zapor Catholic News Service  WASHINGTON — A table spread with the components of Thanksgiving dinner, with the White House as a backdrop, set the scene Nov. 19 for what would turn out to be a last-minute pitch to the president to protect some of the nation’s 11 million …

By Catholic News Service  CHICAGO — At his installation as the ninth archbishop of Chicago Nov. 18, Archbishop Blase J.Cupich urged the congregation at Chicago’s Holy Name Cathedral to fearlessly share their faith recognizing that God calls them “to more” and “to greater things.” Before an overflow crowd, the archbishop …

By Judith Sudilovsky Catholic News Service  JERUSALEM (CNS) — After an early morning synagogue attack left four Israelis dead and eight injured Nov. 18, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal called for an end to all violence in the Holy Land. “We are praying and waiting. We are sad,” said Patriarch Twal. …

CNA/EWTN News As he enters retirement, Cardinal Francis George of Chicago noted the importance of living faith in the truth, reflecting on his time as archbishop, the approach of death, and advice for his successor, Archbishop-designate Blase Cupich. “The faith, what it means, and then the habits of life that …

By Francis X. Rocca Catholic News Service  VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis said he would attend the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia in September, making it the first confirmed stop on what is expected to be a more extensive papal visit to North America. The pope made the announcement …

By Laura Ieraci Catholic News Service  The Vatican has lifted its ban on the ordination of married men to the priesthood in Eastern Catholic churches outside their traditional territories, including in the United States, Canada and Australia. Pope Francis approved lifting the ban, also doing away with the provision that, …

By Patricia Zapor Catholic News Service  WASHINGTON — Although the Supreme Court just a few weeks ago declined to accept any of several challenges to rulings making same-sex marriage legal in various states, a 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decision Nov. 6 could lead to another shot at the …

CNA/EWTN News The reception of Communion by those with Celiac Disease, avoiding cooperation with evil in health care partnerships, and a possible English translation of an exorcism ritual book are among the topics to be discussed by the U.S. bishops at their fall meeting next week. The U.S. Conference of …

By Ann Schneible CNA/EWTN News  VATICAN CITY — During his weekly general audience on Wednesday Pope Francis said that a Church which does not foster communion with the bishop is unhealthy. In his remarks to the crowds gathered in Saint Peter’s Square on Nov. 5, the Pope called on Christian …