The Catholic Sun

Catholics packed into Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral bowed their heads as they joined Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted in a prayer that consecrated the diocese to the Immaculate Heart of Mary during an Oct. 13 Mass.

A St. Thomas the Apostle parishioner, will escort the statue, which travels the country throughout the year — seated as a passenger and not as mere luggage.

As the oil was poured a number of people had tears running down their cheeks. Once the altar was consecrated, the darkened sanctuary’s lights were turned on, the whole congregation began clapping joyously.

Los tres niños — todos 12 o 13 años cuando serán canonizados el 15 de octubre en el Vaticano. Los dos últimos tenían 12 o 13 años cuando fallecieron en 1529.

"A mother's love is what I needed," one participant said, "Mary took me by the hand and gently drew me to the bosom of Jesus when I was so far from Him that I couldn't imagine ever being reconciled." The consecration redoubled efforts at reconciliation and discipleship.

The special Oct. 4 liturgy marked a major milestone in the life of its host, the Franciscan Renewal Center, as a brand-new worship space finally brought every worshipper under one roof.

Interim rules are now in place for religious employers concerned about the Affordable Care Act's contraceptive mandate.

Bishop Kicanas will now serve as administrator of the diocese until his successor's installation Nov. 29.

Catholic parishes and schools have been praying and collecting items — especially restaurant gift cards — to be donated to the local hospitals to give to the family members who have flown into the city from all over the country to be with their wounded family members.

"We need to pray and to take care of those who are suffering" following "yet another night filled with unspeakable terror," president of the U.S. bishops said, noting that, "In the end, the only response is to do good..."