Archdiocese of Philadelphia
Philadelphia Archdiocese accused of transferring known abuser to Catholic college
By Kathryn Post — April 21, 2023
(RNS) — 'I don't think that you can even begin to have any semblance of justice unless there is responsibility taken,' the plaintiff said.
In Philadelphia, artwork brings Catholic Church’s synod to life
By Kyle Desrosiers — November 30, 2022
(RNS) — Artwork reflecting the thoughts of young Catholics in Philadelphia pointed up the contentious issues swirling as the continental phase of the Synod on Synodality begins.
Demolition of shuttered church begins after long battle
By Associated Press — August 22, 2022
PHILADELPHIA (AP) – Demolition of the 140-year-old St. Laurentius Church in Philadelphia has begun after years of efforts by some in the area to save the "heavily deteriorated" 19th century building.
Priests navigate Catholics’ fears and consciences in vaccine exemption pleas
By Alejandra Molina — August 19, 2021
(RNS) — It’s unclear how many Catholics are seeking vaccine religious exemptions, but more and more of their bishops are urging their priests to decline such requests.
Pope Francis remakes the American hierarchy, one bishop at a time
By Thomas Reese — January 28, 2020
(RNS) — In the appointment of a new archbishop for Philadelphia, the U.S. church has traded a longtime conservative intellectual leader for a pastoral bishop who is most comfortable being with his people.
Cleveland bishop named Philadelphia’s next archbishop
By Bruce Shipkowski — January 23, 2020
(AP) — Nelson Perez will succeed Charles Chaput as leader of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the Vatican announced Thursday, making him the first Hispanic archbishop to lead the region's 1.3 million-member flock.
Pope Francis firms up his legacy with appointment of new cardinals
By Thomas Reese — September 2, 2019
(RNS) — After Oct. 15, 53% of the cardinal electors will have been appointed by Francis.
For some Pennsylvania laity, being Catholic has become embarrassing and troubling
By Bob Smietana — February 5, 2019
DOWNINGTOWN, Pa. (RNS) — The latest sex abuse scandal in the Catholic Church has left many lay people wondering if it is time to leave the church.
In Philadelphia, ordinary Catholics keep the faith — despite the church’s failings
By Bob Smietana — December 6, 2018
(RNS) — Despite the abuse scandal, lay Catholics in Philadelphia say their faith remains a central part of their lives.
Pennsylvania monsignor to plead guilty to embezzling $500,000
By David DeKok — April 6, 2017
(RNS) “He is ashamed and remorseful, and hopes he can someday redeem himself in the eyes of the archdiocese and parishioners,” said his lawyer.
Philadelphia Archbishop Chaput welcomes ‘smaller church’ of holier Catholics
By David Gibson — October 20, 2016
(RNS) The stark prognosis is part of a debate on whether Catholicism should be exclusive or inclusive, but Chaput also used this week's speech to slam Catholic Democrats like Joe Biden and Tim Kaine.
Fiat from Pope Francis’ US visit fetches $82,000 at auction
By Reuters — January 30, 2016
The winning bid of $82,000 was put forward by Michael and Kate Chapman of Chapman Auto Stores and the money will benefit the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Philadelphia, church officials said.
Pope to bishops: Don’t blame others for gay marriage, family problems
By David Gibson — September 27, 2015
PHILADELPHIA (RNS) Pope Francis said a church that constantly explains doctrines without providing real support to families “is dangerously unbalanced.”
Pope Francis in Philly: Exhorts clergy to collaborate, urges women to stick with the faith
By David Gibson — September 26, 2015
PHILADELPHIA (RNS) But the pontiff seemed to rule out the idea of ordaining women, while also hinting that wealthy Catholics -- many of whom have complained about Francis' blasts at the evils of modern-day capitalism -- could follow the example of a local saint who gave away all she had.
Music chief for pope’s Philly Mass quits in dispute with Archbishop Chaput
By David Gibson — June 2, 2015
(RNS) The head of liturgical music for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, who was also to play a key role planning the huge outdoor Mass concluding Pope Francis’ trip to the U.S. in September, is resigning his post over differences with Archbishop Charles Chaput over musical style.
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