In a new Vatican document from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development (“Considerations for an Ethical Discernment Regarding Some Aspects of the Present Economic-Financial System”), which was approved by Pope Francis, one section explains how the Church’s understanding of the social nature of the human… Read More Why Catholics Care About Economic Justice

In Gaudete et Exsultate, Pope Francis writes: Still, some Christians insist on taking another path, that of justification by their own efforts, the worship of the human will and their own abilities. The result is a self-centred and elitist complacency, bereft of true love. This finds expression in a variety of apparently unconnected ways of thinking… Read More Pope Francis: The Church is Not the Possession of a Select Few

Illinois governor Bruce Rauner called for the reinstatement of the death penalty yesterday. The Catholic Conference of Illinois released the following statement in response: We are distressed and alarmed by Gov. Bruce Rauner’s call for the reinstatement of the death penalty in any way, shape or form. His call to put to death individuals convicted… Read More Don’t Bring Back the Death Penalty, Illinois

In Gaudete et Exsultate, Pope Francis writes: Christians too can be caught up in networks of verbal violence through the internet and the various forums of digital communication. Even in Catholic media, limits can be overstepped, defamation and slander can become commonplace, and all ethical standards and respect for the good name of others can… Read More Pope Francis on Defamation and Slander in Catholic Media

In Gaudete et Exsultate, Pope Francis writes: Hedonism and consumerism can prove our downfall, for when we are obsessed with our own pleasure, we end up being all too concerned about ourselves and our rights, and we feel a desperate need for free time to enjoy ourselves. We will find it hard to feel and… Read More Pope Francis: Hedonism and Consumerism Can Prove Our Downfall

via NY Times: Tens of thousands of Hondurans who have lived in the United States for up to two decades must prepare to leave, government officials announced Friday, a decision that effectively spells the demise of a humanitarian program that has protected nearly half a million people who had sought refuge from unstable homelands. The… Read More Catholic Leaders Criticize Trump Decision to End TPS for Tens of Thousands of Hondurans in US

Lay people are on the front line of the life of the Church. We need their testimony regarding the truth of the Gospel and their example of expressing their faith by practicing solidarity. Let us give thanks for the lay people who take risks, who are not afraid and who offer reasons for hope to… Read More Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for May 2018: For the Lay Faithful