Photographer captures final stages of abandoned churches, factories

Philadelphia photographer Matthew Christopher strongly believes in restoring abandoned buildings, but says if a structure is going to be demolished, it should at least be documented.

In hindsight, Pope Benedict’s resignation seems almost predictable

As much as he astonished the world when he announced his resignation Feb. 11, Pope Benedict XVI's decision seems almost predictable in hindsight. Given his previous statements on the subject and his recent signs of aging, one might say that people should have seen it coming.

A walk with God: Youth prepare for ‘Camino de Santiago’ in Spain

For more than a thousand years, millions have made their way through the lush landscapes of France and Spain, traversing what’s known as the Camino de Santiago or the Way of St. James. This summer, a group of young people from St. Anne Parish in Gilbert is joining their ranks.

Cardinal O’Brien says pope’s resignation is teaching moment

The retirement of Pope Benedict XVI and the election of a new pope "is a unique moment for teaching about the role of the papacy and the individual involved," said U.S. Cardinal Edwin F. O'Brien.

Work on Wisconsin farm prepared slain brother for service in Guatemala

GREEN BAY, Wis. (CNS) — Before donning the habit of a Christian Brother in 1962, Br. James Miller wore the bib overalls of a Wisconsin farm boy.

Speculation, suspense: Italian media rife with papal predictions

Online betting and trending sites were not the only outlets posting their papal predictions. Italian newspapers are historically the boldest and most confident in their daily speculations and conclave scenarios.

Prospective Catholic Air Force Captain moves step closer to priesthood

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Archdiocese for the Military Services has a 12-year Air Force veteran-turned-seminarian one step closer to priesthood. Bishop John M. Kudrick...

Pope Benedict’s pontificate marked by teaching, call to return to faith

During his almost eight-year pontificate, Pope Benedict XVI impressed the world as a teacher, guiding Catholics to the sources of the faith and urging modern society not to turn its back on God.

Young, new Philippine cardinal has extensive international ties

At 55, Cardinal Luis Tagle of Manila, Philippines, is one of the youngest and newest members of the College of Cardinals, but he is also one of the cardinals most frequently mentioned as a possible pope.

Amid economic growth, pope urges Mauritius to care for the young, poor

PORT LOUIS, Mauritius (CNS) — Statistical indicators show Mauritius’ rapid economic growth has benefited all sectors of society, lifting thousands out of poverty over the past 30 years, but Pope Francis still urged the island’s Catholics to be careful.