NEWS

Honor a veteran these coming days via a special Mass, a Patriotic Rosary or another means.

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Political polarization in America has recently peaked, according to surveys conducted by Pew Research Center and Gallup, among others.

An emerging Arizona chapter of an international peer ministry to Catholic women is taking root in the Diocese of Phoenix. Catholic women from throughout the Valley have been in formation for two years and are eager to see a slew of fresh faces at an inaugural meal. Catholic women and their friends of any or no faith are invited.

The steps outlined by at least three dioceses are designed to minimize contact among the faithful in order to reduce the possibility of transmission of an influenza virus.

BATON ROUGE, La. (CNS) — As Louisiana’s governor announced the federal government had declared a major disaster for the state Aug. 14, Catholic churches in the Baton Rouge Diocese called for volunteers to help those displaced by extreme flooding and asked flood victims what assistance they needed.

Pope Francis personally appealed to President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro this year to encourage both leaders to normalize diplomatic relations, a senior Obama administration official said.

A full water bottle can quench someone's thirst. An empty one can still sustain body and soul.

God is knocking to come into people's lives, so be attentive, humble and courageous to let him in, Pope Francis said. On the fourth Sunday of Advent, Pope Francis talked about Mary showing the way to be ready, humble, generous and courageous when God calls people in their lives.

Night was falling at the end of a gray day. A few dozen silent, shabby figures were sitting at round tables waiting.

PHILADELPHIA — Closing remarks by the Holy Father during the Festival of Families prompted a Valley seminarian to pause in deep gratitude. An emotional Frank Cicero, who is in his sixth year at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, wept as he spoke about his love for his mother.