The Catholic Sun

German reflections on the power of prayer to bring down walls and the Gospel call to reconciliation lie at the heart of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

GOODYEAR — Construction is proceeding on schedule on a new wing that will enable St. John Vianney School to meet steadily growing student demand by this time next year.

One sister has motivated nearly 100 groups of interfaith Americans to gather in their respective cities Jan. 15 for 30 minutes of silent meditation, hand in hand.

It was fittingly dedicated on the feast of the Epiphany, Bishop Olmsted said. There was something the Magi found valuable in their quiet encounter with a young Jesus.

Students at Our Lady of Perpetual Help witnessed the intersection of past, present and future on their first day back in 2017.

"This year, we are invited to create a culture of encounter where citizens old and new, alongside immigrants recent and long-standing, can share with one another their hopes for a better life," a U.S. cardinal said.

CANTON, Ohio (CNS) — In the fall when the Diocese of Youngstown formally opened the sainthood cause for an Ohio woman known for her life of prayer and spiritual gifts, more than 1,000 people filled St. Peter Church in Canton.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Stand up and protect children from exploitation, slaughter and abuse, which includes committing to a policy of “zero tolerance” of sexual abuse by clergy, Pope Francis told the world’s bishops.

AUSTIN, Texas (CNS) — A federal judge in Texas Dec. 31 blocked a regulation by the Department of Health and Human Services requiring Catholic hospitals and health care providers to perform or provide gender transition services, saying it would place “substantial pressure” on the plaintiffs — a coalition of religious medical organizations who said the ruling was contrary to their religious beliefs.

The religious makeup of the 115th Congress is significantly Christian — 91 percent — with four more Catholics than last term.