Mission is to make disciples for Christ, not for one’s group, pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Every Christian is called to be a missionary, sharing the good news of salvation in Christ and making disciples for Him, not for oneself or one’s clique of like-minded believers, Pope Francis said.

Resident says Dorian’s devastation teaches lesson: ‘God is in control’

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama (CNS) — “After the storm” — a phrase undoubtedly used for generations in the “Hurricane Alley” of the warm-water Atlantic — carries added meaning following Hurricane Dorian’s historic landfall more than a month ago.

Synod groups propose Amazonian rite, new ministries for women

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Creating an Amazonian-rite liturgy and new ministries for laypeople, including the ordination of women deacons, are some of the recurring proposals made by small groups at the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon.

New film on St. Faustina makes one-night-only debut Oct. 28

WASHINGTON (CNS) — A new film on the life of St. Faustina Kowalska, the Polish nun whose visions of Jesus led to the Divine Mercy devotion, will have a one-night-only showing Oct. 28 on more than 700 screens across the United States.

Under Our Lady’s Protection: Catholics urged to consecrate themselves to Christ through Mary

Marian consecrations often involve a 33-day preparation period which end on the vigil of a Marian feast day. Kid-friendly options are also available.

Women’s role in Amazon Church does not depend on diaconate, sisters say

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Whether or not the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon helps open the door to ordaining women deacons, women will continue to play a fundamental role in ministry in the Church in the region, religious sisters said.

Celibacy is a gift, not an obstacle, indigenous priest says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — While indigenous cultures may have difficulty accepting the concept of celibacy, indigenous candidates for the priesthood are more than capable of understanding that it is a gift from God, said an indigenous priest from Brazil.

Cured Chicago mother: Newman events ‘experience of a thousand lifetimes’

Melissa Villalobos attended the Oct. 13 canonization ceremony, carried the offertory gifts to Pope Francis, read a prayer at a vigil and greeted pilgrims.

‘Amazin’ Mets’ of ‘69 can inspire Church to evangelize, Long Island bishop writes

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y. (CNS) — The New York Mets’ improbable World Series championship in 1969 can inspire the Catholic Church to a new era of evangelization, Bishop John O. Barres of Rockville Center wrote in a new pastoral letter.

U.S. bishops speak at synod for the Amazon

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The Synod of Bishops for the Amazon is not a “referendum” on priestly celibacy; it is looking for ways to provide for the sacramental life and formation of the people there, U.S. Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley of Boston said.