VATICAN CITY - The Vatican defended the wide-ranging work throughout the world of its missionary arm, which has come under scrutiny in an Italian investigation into a public works corruption scandal.Read More

PHILADELPHIA – Men and women across the country who are members of a little-known community that is open to people with disabilities – as well as those without – are imitating the crucified Christ by drawing on their own suffering to minister to others. “Handicapped people are not worthless,” said Maria Burke, 53, a parishioner...Read More

WASHINGTON – In January, as many of the world’s political movers and shakers met in Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum, thousands of would-be societal movers and shakers met in Nairobi, Kenya, for the seventh World Social Forum.Read More

VATICAN CITY - The Vatican has urged the international community to implement social and health care measures to reduce what it called the “shocking” number of maternal deaths around the world.Read More

SAN DIEGO – Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich seems to be everywhere these days.Read More

Three deputies from the Sheriff’s Department of Frederick County spoke to eighth graders at Mother Seton School, Emmitsburg, about careers in law enforcement. Demonstrations included a tactical vest, an 82-pound K-9 dog named Bayco, and a taser device (stun gun). Discussions included S.W.A.T. officers, handling hostage situations and escorting President George W. Bush to Camp...Read More

This year Stella Maris’ highest form of praise, the Mercy Spirit Award, went to Stephanie Gramling and Phyllistine Davis. The award is given to two employees who live the values of the Sisters of Mercy. Nominees must demonstrate four of the seven core values of the Mercy Health Services, including respect, hospitality, mercy/justice, excellence, empowerment,...Read More

WASHINGTON – Those who were conceived through sperm donation are more likely to experience depression, delinquency and substance abuse than their counterparts who were adopted or raised by their biological parents, according to a new survey by the New York-based Commission on Parenthood’s Future.Read More