VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Away in a cave near Greccio, Italy, St. Francis of Assisi had the first Nativity scene — a live one — staged for the faithful on Christmas Eve in 1223. A 15th-century fresco now decorating the cave inspired the Nativity scene erected in St. Peter’s Square for the 800th anniversary celebrations.…
Readings for the Optional Memorial of Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin Reading 1 Is 30:19-21, 23-26 Thus says the Lord GOD,the Holy One of Israel:O people of Zion, who dwell in Jerusalem,no more will you weep;He will be gracious to you when you cry out,as soon as he hears he will answer you.The Lord will give…
WASHINGTON – Pope Francis has named Rev. Cristiano G. Borro Barbosa, a priest of the Archdiocese of Boston, and current secretary for evangelization and discipleship, and episcopal vicar for the central region of the archdiocese, as the new auxiliary bishop of Boston. The appointment was publicized in Washington, D.C. on December 9, 2023, by Cardinal…
ROME (CNS) — Mary’s conception, free from original sin, shows that the destiny of humanity lies in life, brotherhood, harmony and peace rather than death, hate, conflict and war, Pope Francis said on the feast of the Immaculate Conception. “Your person, the fact that you exist, reminds us that evil does not have the first…
Reading 1 Gn 3:9-15, 20 After the man, Adam, had eaten of the tree, the LORD God called to the man and asked him, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden; but I was afraid, because I was naked, so I hid myself.” Then he asked, “Who told you that you…
WASHINGTON – Pope Francis has appointed Rev. Keith J. Chylinski, Rev. Christopher R. Cooke, and Rev. Efren V. Esmilla, as auxiliary bishops of Philadelphia. Bishop-elect Chylinski is a priest of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and currently rector of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. Bishop-elect Cooke is a priest of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia…