NEWS

On Oct. 5 the Catholic Church’s leaders began a process of prayerful and deliberative reflection on: “The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization.”

Hours before opening a Synod of Bishops whose members have already started a public debate over Catholic teaching on marriage and sexuality, Pope Francis prayed the bishops would express themselves and listen to each other openly, trusting in God to reconcile their differences.

The "freedom of expression" that characterized preparations for the Synod of Bishops on the family -- especially in responses to a Vatican questionnaire -- "will also characterize the synod assembly, which certainly will take place in a climate of respect for every position, mutual charity and an authentic sense of constructiveness," said the head of the synod.

The author of a controversial proposal to make it easier for divorced and civilly remarried Catholics to receive Communion says he believes Pope Francis backs the measure but would not apply it without support from bishops at two upcoming synods on the family.

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- For the first time, federal funding will help pay for unaccompanied minor immigrants to get legal assistance, including through Catholic agencies...

Arizona Forward recognized the transformation of a vacant hospital building into a Catholic university campus in an annual recognition program that honors environmental excellence in sustainability.

The André House of Hospitality west of downtown Phoenix is about to turn 30. Its outreach began with evening meals for homeless guests and expanded in response to need for clothes, transitional housing, showers and other services.

Xavier College Preparatory's three senior golfers will turn 18 this school year, and thanks to their performance on the course this week, the Gators' historic win streak extends all the way back to their infancy if not their life in the womb. The Gators have not lost a dual match since Oct. 6, 1996, totaling 200 straight wins in the streak so far.

WASHINGTON (CNS) — In an effort to help lay Catholics gain a deeper understanding of religious life, priests, brothers and women religious intend to open their convents, monasteries, abbeys and religious houses to the public one day next February. It's one of several events for the upcoming Year of Consecrated Life, which begins this Advent.

Avoid the melodrama and self-pity over minor problems in life, Pope Francis said. Instead, use life's inevitable difficulties to pray for strength and pray for those who are suffering real tragedy.