LOCAL NEWS

On the heels of a bitter political season, an event that asks for God’s blessing on and guidance for elected officials, lawmakers, judges and lawyers takes place Jan. 24 at St. Mary’s Basilica.

For Courage member Daniel Mattson, the intersection of his life with the gay rights movement caused “all hell to break loose.”

With the nation divided following one of the most brutal political campaigns in American history, it may be more important than ever for the country to reflect on the values and philosophies of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said Fr. Manuel Williams, CR, the homilist at the diocesan Mass honoring the civil-rights icon on his holiday Jan. 16 at St. Mary’s Basilica.

Sr. Anna Priester, BVM, passed away Dec. 17, 2016, in Lancaster, California. She was 74.

GOODYEAR — Construction is proceeding on schedule on a new wing that will enable St. John Vianney School to meet steadily growing student demand by this time next year.

It was fittingly dedicated on the feast of the Epiphany, Bishop Olmsted said. There was something the Magi found valuable in their quiet encounter with a young Jesus.

Students at Our Lady of Perpetual Help witnessed the intersection of past, present and future on their first day back in 2017.

GLENDALE — On one of the busiest shopping days of the year, when most people bustle about with last-minute Christmas preparations, about 250 Catholics gathered at a Glendale Planned Parenthood facility that performs abortions through 17 weeks and six days’ gestation.

Since she took over the role of director of Safe Environment Training for the Diocese of Phoenix last month, Dr. Kathy Cisar has been moved by the support provided to survivors and the educational resources available, and she’s ready to do her part to make sure people have the tools necessary to keep children and vulnerable adults safe.

A $10,000-per-month grant through September will help address repair and home improvement projects for limited income senior citizens.