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October 2014

October 3

Donations a ‘tremendous witness’

October 3, 2014

The Archdiocese of Toronto’s $105-million fundraising campaign has surpassed $40 million in donations and pledges, due in large part to almost $700,000 contributed personally by clergy.

Life with atheists

October 3, 2014

“Why are you busy Sunday morning?” my high school friends would ask. “Oh, I have Church,” I would reply.

Cardinal says synod will have open discussion, even on sensitive topics

October 3, 2014

VATICAN CITY - The "freedom of expression" that characterized preparations for the Synod of Bishops on the family -- especially in responses to a Vatican questionnaire -- "will also characterize the synod assembly, which certainly will take place in a climate of respect for every position, mutual charity and an authentic sense of constructiveness," said the head of the synod.

Cardinal Kasper: Pope wants bishops to decide on Communion proposal

October 3, 2014

VATICAN CITY - The author of a controversial proposal to make it easier for divorced and civilly remarried Catholics to receive Communion says he believes Pope Francis backs the measure but would not apply it without support from bishops at two upcoming synods on the family.

Security analyst: Philippines should take threat against pope seriously

October 3, 2014

MANILA, Philippines - A Philippine security analyst said the country should take "very, very seriously" the threat of Islamic State fighters on Pope Francis' life, especially during his visit here in January.

A good weekend to be a Catholic goat

October 3, 2014

This is a good weekend to be a Catholic goat. Less so for Muslim and Jewish goats. Let us explain.

October 4

Edmonton school named after Collins

October 4, 2014

EDMONTON - With a wide smile on his face, Cardinal Thomas Collins cut the red ribbon declaring the new Cardinal Collins High School Academic Centre officially open.

Star athlete turns back on baseball for the priesthood

October 4, 2014

OAKLAND, CALIF. - Bishop Michael C. Barber was able to do what general manager Billy Beane could not: Call Grant Desme to Oakland.

Jesus is a point where Christians, Muslims can meet

October 4, 2014

With Christians on the run in the Middle East, and Muslim fighters declaring war on the West and modernity, one Muslim scholar wants to talk about Jesus.

In 65 years of religious service, teaching has been greatest joy

October 4, 2014

EDMONTON - The gold stars on his report card are many. Now 83, celebrating his 65 years of religious life, Br. Donatus Vervoort is hard pressed to reply when asked what the greatest joy has been in his life.

A Christian solution to crisis

October 4, 2014

The world’s environmental crisis reflects a global spiritual crisis, and saving the planet requires a return to a world view centred around God, argues the director of the ecumenical Green Church program in Canada

Charismatic gift takes Nigerian priest to airwaves of North America

October 4, 2014

Growing up in Nigeria, Fr. Maurice Emelu never imagined his calling would take him around the world and eventually put him in front of TV cameras that reach up to 230 million homes in 144 nations.

It’s a workable solution, says pastor

October 4, 2014

Here’s something useful for your parish — a concise, practical presentation of creation care theology and ministry in 100 pages. It is written from a Roman Catholic perspective, in easy-to-read language for everybody, not just those with theological or pastoral degrees.

All the world’s a stage for evangelization

October 4, 2014

Catholic actor and evangelist Elisa Lollino looks out from the stage to find silence and stillness has descended upon her audience.

On eve of family synod, Pope prays for "open and fraternal" debate

October 4, 2014

VATICAN CITY - Hours before opening a Synod of Bishops whose members have already started a public debate over Catholic teaching on marriage and sexuality, Pope Francis prayed the bishops would express themselves and listen to each other openly, trusting in God to reconcile their differences.

October 5

Catholic Church can play role in conquering Korean divide

October 5, 2014

TORONTO - Going home to South Korea for Fr. Anselmo Park will mean getting back to evangelizing his countrymen in the name of peace.

In Jesus I found the meaning of life

October 5, 2014

I was 17, and had just finished high school in Nigeria. The world had opened up to me with all its beauty, charm and possibilities. I had to consider what I would do with my life. I needed the best that the world could offer. I spent time with my friends. We talked about our future and the kind of profession we wanted.

Family’s spiritual awakening opened the path to priesthood

October 5, 2014

OTTAWA - Fr. Bryan Sabourin, a member of the Companions of the Cross order, recalls a time when he was embarrassed to bring his friends home.

Reflections on a year in the priesthood

October 5, 2014

TORONTO - A year ago Fr. Jim Zettel was ordained to the priesthood. His next goal is to become a saint or at least live a life worthy of one.

Saskatoon latest diocese to begin diaconate program

October 5, 2014

SASKATOON - Saskatoon Bishop Donald Bolen is accepting the recommendation of a 12-member committee to move ahead with a permanent diaconate program for the Prairie diocese.