WASHINGTON – Although authentic reform of the nation’s health system is “a public good, moral imperative and urgent national priority,” the Senate version of health reform legislation “should not move forward in its current form,” the heads of three committees of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops said Dec. 19.Read More

NEW YORK – On his first trip to the United States, Pope Benedict XVI achieved three objectives that could be considered critical to the pastoral future of the American church.Read More

In many ways, it’s the quintessential image of Christ’s birth. With her hands folded in prayer and a golden halo encircling her equally golden hair, the Blessed Virgin Mary kneels before her newborn son. A white-haired Joseph stands nearby, carrying a lantern. Animals recline near the serene babe, while a bearded shepherd gazes at winged...Read More

WASHINGTON – Pope Benedict XVI held an unscheduled meeting with victims of priestly sexual abuse, shortly after pledging the church’s continued efforts to help heal the wounds caused by such acts.Read More