Logo

Welcome to nwpaCatholic.com
Read the following stories to be informed about the latest diocesan news and to enjoy regular features, columns, as well as articles from Faith magazine, all generated in our parishes, schools and various ministries.

Read the Diocese of EriE-news
Important news in your mailbox
E-news logo
Midnight-Mass-2024-featured-image.webp Bishop Persico presides at Midnight Mass at Saint Peter Cathedral
By Allison Mosier
12/26/2025
Midnight Mass at Saint Peter Cathedral stands as one of the most beloved and enduring traditions in the life of the Diocese of Erie—a sacred gathering where faith, beauty and memory meet in the stillness of Christmas night.
DSC06141-X3.jpg Gathered in Hope: Lessons and Carols at St. Peter Cathedral
By Allison Mosier
12/22/2025
As the Diocese of Erie entered the final days of Advent, the faithful gathered on Sunday, December 21, at St. Peter Cathedral
VOTE NO.png Pennsylvania House Schedules Abortion Legislation Days Before Christmas
Diocese of Erie Office of Communications
12/18/2025
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives is scheduled to consider a package of seven abortion-related bills in the days leading up to Christmas.
DSC06014.JPG Advent Prayer Service reflects on hope and anticipation
By Kristine Rilling
12/15/2025
On December 9, an Advent Prayer Service was held in the Saint Mark Seminary Chapel. The service centered on the Great “O Antiphons,” ancient prayers of the church that express humanity’s longing for the promised Messiah.
DSC03815-4K.jpg Community Prayer Service marks Jubilee of Prisoners
By Allison Mosier
12/15/2025
As part of the Jubilee Year of Hope, the faithful gathered on December 12 at St. James Parish in Erie for a Community Prayer Service marking the Jubilee of Prisoners.
594138915_1299751262195865_1918909205920886193_n.jpg Gannon University concludes Centennial year by celebrating Class of 2025 at Winter Commencement
By Kristine Rilling
12/10/2025
Gannon University marked the close of its Centennial year with a joyful celebration of the Class of 2025 during Winter Commencement on Sunday, Dec. 7. The Diocese of Erie is pleased to share highlights from this milestone event, which brought together fam
Thank you.png Closing the Jubilee Year of Hope
By Allison Mosier
12/09/2025
s the Jubilee Year of Hope draws to a close, the Diocese of Erie looks back with gratitude on twelve remarkable months in which the Holy Spirit steadily gathered God’s people as true “pilgrims of hope.”
Thanksgiving deliveries 2025.png 37 years of serving the dear neighbor: A Thanksgiving tradition of the Sisters of St. Joseph
By Allison Mosier
12/04/2025
For 37 years, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania have embraced Thanksgiving as a day of service, an opportunity to nourish both body and spirit for neighbors in need.
Very Rev. Peter T. Sticco, S.A.C..png Legacy of friendship: Remembering the Very Rev. Peter T. Sticco, S.A.C.
By Allison Mosier
12/04/2025
When the Very Rev. Peter T. Sticco, S.A.C., entered eternal life on November 30, 2025, the Diocese of Erie joined countless others in mourning the loss of a priest whose ministry embodied the heart of the Gospel: friendship, service and steadfast love for
one.jpg The church is alive: A teen’s witness from NCYC
By Sadie Pituch
12/03/2025
Sadie Pituch, a student at Cathedral Prep and member of Our Lady of Peace Parish, shares her NCYC experience with the Diocese of Erie.
Seminary-Discernment-Weekend_social.jpg Called by name—a weekend of discernment at St. Mark Seminary
By Allison Mosier
12/02/2025
Every vocation begins with a question—quiet, persistent and deeply personal. “What is God calling me to do with my life?”
590718361_10214463799904330_2086319167804707824_n.jpg A new tradition of love: Holy Spirit Parish extends its mission through free community meals
By Allison Mosier
12/02/2025
When Holy Spirit Parish in DuBois served 146 Thanksgiving meals this year, no one expected the effort to become the beginning of a new parish tradition.
November (3).png St. Gregory Thaumaturgus Parish Celebrates 150 Years of Faith and Fortitude
By Melanie Sisinni with Father Tom Brooks
11/24/2025
On Saturday, November 22, St. Gregory Thaumaturgus Parish joyfully marked 150 years as a parish family and the 100th anniversary of its current church building.
Thank you.png White Mass honors local healthcare professionals
By Melanie Sisinni
11/20/2025
The annual White Mass for healthcare professionals was celebrated on Saturday, Nov. 15 at St. Joseph Bread of Life Church in Erie. The liturgy, named for the white coats traditionally worn by medical professionals honored doctors, nurses, caregivers and a
580044686_1266907682146176_2036554083974325528_n.jpg Leadership, Immigration and Eucharistic Renewal Shape 2025 Plenary Assembly
By Kristine Rilling
11/18/2025
Bishop Lawrence T. Persico returned to the Diocese of Erie this week following the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Fall Plenary Assembly, describing the gathering as a “profound moment of collective discernment and renewed resolve for the church’s mi
DSC05657.JPG I am Called – I am Sent: The Diocesan Confirmation Retreat
By Kristine Rilling
11/11/2025
Hosted by the Faith Formation Office with the support of Bishop Lawrence Persico, the retreat welcomed over 400 students and parish leaders who came ready to prepare their hearts for the sacrament of Confirmation.
f1843fe2-.JPG Pilgrims find peace and renewal in Medjugorje
By Jeff McGovern, MD
11/11/2025
From October 13-22, eighteen pilgrims from the Diocese of Erie as well as two from other states traveled to Bosnia-Herzegovina to the town of Medjugorje.
_BabyBottleGroup-2025.jpg Knights of Columbus Baby Bottle Fundraiser raises over $88,000 for Women’s Care Center
By Allison Mosier
11/07/2025
Bishop Lawrence Persico joined representatives of the Knights of Columbus and Cathedral Preparatory School to present a check for $88,659 to the Women’s Care Center, the result of this year’s Baby Bottle Fundraiser.
Respect Life.png ‘Be a Sign of Hope’ conference highlights dignity of life at every stage
By Melanie Sisinni
11/04/2025
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Erie hosted the Be a Sign of Hope: Respect Life Conference on Saturday, Nov. 1, at St. Mark Catholic Center in Erie.
thumbnail_image001.jpg Honoring the faithful departed: A reflection on All Souls Day
By Allison Mosier
11/03/2025
Each year on November 2, Catholics around the world observe All Souls Day—a tradition rooted in remembrance and prayer for the faithful departed.
Thanksgiving-Part-II_general-social.jpg A season of gratitude: Giving thanks in the Diocese of Erie
By Allison Mosier
10/30/2025
Throughout this month, the Diocese of Erie invites you to join us in a shared expression of gratitude as we celebrate faith, family and community during this Jubilee Year of Hope.
Basilica Pontificia Pompei-B.png Pilgrims of Hope: Diocese of Erie journeys to Italy
By Kristine Rilling
10/28/2025
A group of pilgrims from across the Diocese of Erie recently returned from a faith-filled journey to Italy, part of the worldwide celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope.
Shroud (2).png The Man of the Shroud Exhibit tours the Diocese of Erie
By Allison Mosier
10/28/2025
This fall, the Diocese of Erie welcomes a rare opportunity to engage with the profound mystery of the Shroud.
Training.JPG A season of hope: Diocese of Erie welcomes three new pastors
By Allison Mosier
10/27/2025
The Diocese of Erie is celebrating an important moment of growth and renewed leadership. During the Jubilee Year of Hope, three priests have been installed in their first pastoral assignments, each beginning a new chapter of service to the church and to t
All-Souls-Day-2025_social.jpg The Communion of Saints: Three Holy Days of Hope
By Allison Mosier
10/25/2025
The Diocese of Erie celebrates All Hallows' Eve, All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day
Respect Life.png Catholic Charities announces “Be a Sign of Hope: Respect Life Conference” — A day of faith, education and compassion
By Allison Mosier
10/21/2025
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Erie will host the Be a Sign of Hope: Respect Life Conference on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at St. Mark Catholic Center, 429 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie.
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY.png Celebrating World Mission Sunday in the Jubilee of Hope
By Allison Mosier
10/20/2025
The Diocese of Erie gathered at Saint Peter Cathedral on October 19 for the annual celebration of World Mission Sunday, joining Catholics around the world in prayer and solidarity with the church’s missionary efforts.
DSC03714.JPG Mass for the Jubilee of Consecrated Life
By Allison Mosier
10/20/2025
Religious women and men from across the Diocese of Erie gathered for the Mass celebrating the Jubilee of Consecrated Life.
HH.png Catholic Charities honors service and hope at annual Helping Hands Gala
By Melanie Sisinni
10/14/2025
The spirit of generosity filled Gannon University’s Yehl Ballroom on Thursday, October 9, as Catholic Charities hosted its annual Helping Hands Gala
DSC03422.JPG A diocese united in prayer: faithful gather for the 31st Annual Rosary March
By Allison Mosier
10/14/2025
Hundreds of faithful gathered at St. Peter Cathedral on Sunday, October 12, 2025 for the 31st Annual Rosary March marking the 108th anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun at Fatima.
DSC04569.JPG Beloved Disciple Parish marks 100 years of faith and fellowship
By Allison Mosier
10/14/2025
The joy was palpable on October 5, 2025, as parishioners, clergy and friends of Beloved Disciple Parish in Grove City gathered to celebrate a century of faith.
St Francis Pilgrimage.png Pilgrimage of Faith: St. Francis Xavier Parish visits St. Peter Cathedral
By Kristine Rilling
10/07/2025
Students of St. Francis Xavier Faith Formation, along with their parents, families and guardians, set out on a special pilgrimage to St. Peter Cathedral in Erie.
Pilgrimage.png Pilgrimages mark the Jubilee Year of Hope in the Diocese of Erie
By Allison Mosier
10/07/2025
The Diocese of Erie is joining Catholics around the world in celebrating the Jubilee Year. As pilgrims from our diocese travel to Rome, all are invited to submit prayer intentions to be carried with them, representing the faithful from every corner of our
October-Clergy-Month_general-social1b.jpg Diocese of Erie celebrates Clergy Appreciation Month
By Allison Mosier
10/01/2025
Each October, churches around the country observe Clergy Appreciation Month, a time to pause and reflect on the incredible gift of our clergy.
Gift Planning.png End-of-year gift planning already?
By Lisa Brown, The Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Lansing
09/30/2025
It may seem like the holidays are still far off — but if you blink, it’ll be Advent, and then Christmas, and then … January. That’s why now is the perfect time to start thinking about your year-end charitable giving plans.
BlueMass.png Blue Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church Honors First Responders
By Kristine Rilling
09/30/2025
On Monday, September 29, St. Francis Xavier Church in McKean was filled with respect and gratitude as parishioners, families and civic leaders gathered for the annual Blue Mass, honoring law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, emergency person
Installation Masses.png Diocese of Erie to celebrate Installation Masses for new pastors
By Allison Mosier
09/23/2025
This fall, the Diocese of Erie will celebrate three Installation Masses for priests newly appointed as pastors, marking a significant milestone in their priestly ministry.
Homecoming2025_CentennialMass_20250914_0001.jpg Cardinal Christophe Pierre presides at Gannon University’s Centennial Mass
By Kristine Rilling
09/16/2025
The Diocese of Erie welcomed His Eminence Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, to preside at the Centennial Mass for Gannon University at Saint Peter Cathedral, Erie.
Fr Glenn.png Golden Anniversary of service: Honoring Father Glenn Whitman
By Allison Mosier
09/16/2025
The parish community of the Church of the Good Shepherd in West Middlesex gathered with joy and gratitude to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ordination of Father Glenn Whitman.
4th 091325 sacred heart (2)a.jpg Knights embrace the Exemplification of Patriotism at Sacred Heart Parish
By Mark Steffan, Recording Secretary, KofC Council #403
09/15/2025
Last Saturday ten brother Knights from Council 403, chose to embrace the Order’s fourth principle of patriotism, known as: The Exemplification of Patriotism.
DSC04391.png The faithful come together to celebrate Pier Giorgio Frassati in McKean
By Annie Moks & Allison Mosier
09/09/2025
On Saturday evening, following the vigil Mass, the parish hosted a special showing of a film recounting the life of the young Italian layman whose deep love for Christ and dedication to others led him to be canonized as a saint by Pope Leo XIV on Sunday,
Hispanic-Heritage-Month_social-general.jpg Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month in the Diocese of Erie
By Allison Mosier
09/09/2025
Each year, from September 15 to October 15, the United States observes Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich histories, cultures and contributions of our Hispanic brothers and sisters.
Mercyhurst Prep.jpg A new school year begins with faith at the center
By Allison Mosier
09/02/2025
As summer draws to a close, schools across the Diocese of Erie have welcomed back their students with joy, energy and, most importantly, prayer.
DSC02839.JPG Faith, heritage and celebration unite at Zabawa
By Kristine Rilling
08/26/2025
The 32nd annual Zabawa Polish Heritage Festival at Holy Trinity Parish, Erie, once again featured one of its most beloved traditions.
DSC04160.JPG A testament of vocation: second Anniversary Mass in Brockway
By Allison Mosier
08/25/2025
On Sunday, August 24, the Diocese of Erie gathered at Saint Tobias Church for its second Milestone Anniversary Celebration Mass of the year.
DSC04004.JPG Knights of Columbus John Mark Gannon Assembly celebrates 125 years of faith and service
By Allison Mosier
08/24/2025
The John Mark Gannon Assembly of the Knights of Columbus marked a historic milestone.
518239954_1170852838418617_6671648017437575469_n.jpg Sisters of St. Joseph celebrate 375 years of love and service
By Allison Mosier
08/20/2025
Hundreds of Sisters of St. Joseph, agrégées, associates, partners and friends gathered in Kansas City, Missouri, for a joyous and powerful celebration.
DSC03834-X3.jpg Faith and heritage endure at St. Paul’s Italian Festival in Erie’s Little Italy
By Allison Mosier
08/12/2025
Every August, Erie’s Little Italy comes alive with the sights, smells and sounds of one of the city’s most cherished traditions: the St. Paul’s Italian Festival.
DSC03782.JPG Pilgrimage to Rome: Diocese of Erie joins the Jubilee of Hope
By Allison Mosier
08/11/2025
This fall, pilgrims from the Diocese of Erie will embark on an extraordinary 10-day journey through Italy in honor of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee of Hope.
Canonizations_Carlo-and-Pier_social.jpg Two beloved young Catholics set to be canonized: Diocese of Erie invites the faithful to learn more
By Kristine Rilling
08/11/2025
In a powerful moment of hope and inspiration for the global church, two modern-day witnesses of faith – Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati – are poised to be canonized saints. Earlier this year, Pope Francis approved the canonization
Assumption-of-the-BVM_social.jpg Celebrating the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary | August 15, 2025
By Allison Mosier
08/07/2025
A Holy Day of Obligation and a Holy Year opportunity
Anniversary Mass.png Celebrating a lifetime of love: Diocese honors 72 couples at special Anniversary Mass
By Allison Mosier
08/05/2025
The Diocese of Erie joyfully celebrated the vocation of marriage on Sunday, August 3, at Our Lady of Peace Church in Erie, where 72 couples from across the 13-county diocese gathered with family and friends to mark milestone wedding anniversaries.
Blue Mass.png Blue Mass to honor First Responders and Military on 91st anniversary
By Allison Mosier
08/05/2025
On Monday, September 29, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., the Diocese of Erie will celebrate its second Blue Mass of the year at St. Francis Xavier Church, 8880 Main Street in McKean, Pa.
thumbnail_8.1.25 Lighthouse Ride Belize 2.jpg Lighthouse Ride cyclists stop in Erie to share stories and raise support for Belizean students
By Allison Mosier
08/04/2025
A small group is cycling across the United States this summer on a 3,500-mile journey from Maine to California to raise awareness and funds for Catholic schools in Belize. Called the Lighthouse Ride for Belize.
transition.png A time of transition: Walking with faith through clergy changes
By Kristine Rilling
07/30/2025
Each year, the Diocese of Erie experiences a season of transition as clergy receive new assignments.
Euch.png One year later: Diocese of Erie reflects on pilgrimage to historic Eucharistic Congress
By Kristine Rilling
07/22/2025
In July 2024, faithful from the Diocese of Erie embarked on a historic pilgrimage to the 10th National Eucharistic Congress (NEC) in Indianapolis, Indiana, marking the first such gathering in 83 years.
DSC03494.JPG A celebration of love and life: Diocese of Erie marks Natural Family Planning Awareness Week with special Mass
By Allison Mosier
07/22/2025
Saint Peter Cathedral was filled with prayer and purpose on Saturday, July 20, 2025, as the Diocese of Erie gathered to celebrate Natural Family Planning Awareness Week.
PeopleatOLMfest.jpg Food, faith and fellowship at OLM Ol’ Mercy Fest
By Annie Moks & Allison Mosier
07/17/2025
“When people come together to create something joyful, welcoming and rooted in community, it strengthens who we are as a parish family
IMG_2525.JPEG Bishop Mark Eckman installed as 13th Bishop of Pittsburgh
By Kristine Rilling
07/15/2025
The Diocese of Pittsburgh celebrated a historic and spirit-filled moment on July 14, 2025, as Bishop Mark A. Eckman was formally installed as the 13th bishop of the diocese.
St Benedict.png Honoring St. Benedict and the Benedictine legacy in the Diocese of Erie
By Allison Mosier
07/11/2025
Each year on July 11 the Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Benedict, Father of Western Monasticism and one of the most influential saints in Christian history.
OLMC - 1.png Rooted in Mary’s care: Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Erie
By Allison Mosier
07/09/2025
Nestled in the Grandview neighborhood of Erie, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church has long been a spiritual home for those seeking the guidance and protection of the Blessed Mother.
DSC02589.JPG Young men explore the call to priesthood at Quo Vadis Days Retreat
By Kristine Rilling
07/08/2025
Eighteen young men from around the Diocese of Erie gathered at St. Mark Seminary in Erie this past week for Quo Vadis Days.
fe7902b3-d5f3-4b26-a598-fe0e85550cb0.jpg Grove City faithful embrace diocesan unity through Jubilee pilgrimages
By Allison Mosier
07/08/2025
As part of the ongoing Holy Year celebrations, Deacon Owen Wagner of Beloved Disciple Catholic Parish in Grove City organized two pilgrimages this spring, one to St. Leo Magnus in Ridgway and another to St. Peter Cathedral in Erie.
IMG_7108.png Youth find revival and joy at OLP overnight retreat
By Allison Mosier
06/24/2025
Laughter echoed across the fields of Findley Lake as dozens of high school students gathered June 13-14 for Our Lady of Peace parish’s annual Summer Overnight Retreat.
2654890687319687600.png Listening, leading, living the call: A day of spiritual leadership
By Kristine Rilling
06/24/2025
Catholic school leaders from across the Diocese of Erie gathered for an afternoon rooted in prayer, reflection and purpose for their annual Catholic School Leadership Conference.
DSC02386.JPG Apostolic welcome: The significance of Saints Peter and Paul at St. Peter Cathedral
By Allison Mosier
06/23/2025
At the heart of downtown Erie stands St. Peter Cathedral, the mother church of the Diocese of Erie and a sacred place where architecture and theology meet in quiet harmony.
DSC02155.JPG Sisters mark milestone with Jubilee Mass and celebration dinner
By Kristine Rilling
06/13/2025
Women religious from across the Diocese of Erie gathered on June 12 at St. Mark Catholic Center to celebrate a special Jubilee Mass honoring the many years of service and devotion shared by the religious sisters of the region.
Emmaus.png Walking together: Brotherhood at the 43rd Emmaus Clergy Convocation
By Allison Mosier
06/11/2025
Each year, the Diocese of Erie’s clergy step away from the daily rhythm of ministry to walk the road to Emmaus together - a time to rest, reflect and renew their commitment to Christ and to one another.
Quo Vadis Days.png Quo Vadis Days: Answering God’s call, June 29 – July 2
By Allison Mosier
06/11/2025
This June 29 – July 2, the Diocese of Erie welcomes young men in grades 9–12 and college into a transformative encounter with Christ at Quo Vadis Days, a seminary-led retreat designed for those discerning the priesthood.
thumbnail_The-Most-Holy-Body-and-Blood-of-Christ_social.jpg Faith on the move: Diocese of Erie prepares for regional Eucharistic processions on Corpus Christi
By Allison Mosier
06/09/2025
On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the Diocese of Erie will join Catholics around the world in celebrating the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, commonly known as Corpus Christi.
Serra.png Serra Club of Erie celebrates faith and service at annual Installation Mass and dinner
By Melanie Sisinni
06/03/2025
The Serra Club of Erie honored four extraordinary individuals at its annual Installation Mass and dinner on Tuesday, May 27.
DSC01033.JPG Sealed with the Holy Spirit: a diocesan celebration of Confirmation
By Allison Mosier
06/03/2025
This spring, the Diocese of Erie’s Office of Communications launched a meaningful initiative to highlight one of the Catholic Church’s most powerful and joy-filled sacraments: Confirmation.
IMG_0644.JPG A sacred beginning: first Masses of Fr. Brandon Feikles and Fr. Michael Scanga
By Allison Mosier
05/27/2025
On Saturday, May 24, the Diocese of Erie was blessed to witness a powerful moment in the life of the church as Fr. Brandon Feikles and Fr. Michael Scanga each celebrated their First Mass of Thanksgiving—one of the most significant traditions following ord
DSC02435.JPG Ordination of Fr. Brandon Feikles and Fr. Michael Scanga: a call answered
By Allison Mosier
05/27/2025
On the evening of May 23, 2025, the Diocese of Erie gathered in joyful reverence to celebrate a moment that will echo through its parishes for years to come.
IMG_2065.JPEG Reflections on historic papal inauguration

05/20/2025
Among the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square for Pope Leo XIV's inaugural mass was Father Rich Toohey, pastor of Our Lady of Peace Parish in Erie.
Seminarians.png Forming future shepherds: a summer update on our seminarians

05/20/2025
As the Diocese of Erie joyfully prepares for the ordination of two of our transitional deacons to the priesthood, we also take this opportunity to shine a light on the seminarians currently discerning and preparing for their own call to serve the church.
DSC02161.JPG Bishop Lawrence Persico celebrates Pope Leo XIV at Mass of Thanksgiving, emphasizing unity and renewal in the Catholic Church
By Melanie Sisinni
05/13/2025
A Mass of Thanksgiving for the newly elected Pope Leo XIV was held early Monday evening at St. Peter Cathedral, Erie.
IMG_1763.jpg From Assisi to Pennsylvania: the Diocese of Erie welcomes Pope Leo XIV
By Allison Mosier
05/13/2025
“Annuntio vobis gaudium: habemus papam…”—We have a pope.
DSC01975.JPG Holy Mass for Pope Francis, servant of the servants of God
By Kristine Rilling
05/03/2025
The Mass for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis was held on Friday, May 2, at St. Peter Cathedral in Erie.
DSC00513.png Mass for the Patronal Feast of Saint Mark
By Kristine Rilling
04/29/2025
On Monday, April 28, the Mass for the Patronal Feast of Saint Mark was held in the Saint Mark Seminary Chapel. This annual celebration is a testament to the beauty of the vocation—a noble calling that inspires great hope and joy within our church.
IMG_1362.jpg Local Catholic universities welcome new disciples of Christ 
By Melanie Sisinni & Allison Mosier
04/28/2025
The movement of the Holy Spirit was palpable on Sunday, April 27, as both Gannon University and Mercyhurst University celebrated the profound joy of welcoming new members into the Catholic Church.
Resized_20250424_185239_1745535315609.jpg A night of faith and fellowship: community supports seminarians at annual Card Party

04/25/2025
The St. Mark Seminary Auxiliary’s annual Card Party once again brought the Erie Catholic community together in a powerful show of support for the future of the church.
bp-crest.jpg Message from The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico

04/21/2025
“Pope Francis was a beacon of hope in troubled times, a voice for the voiceless and a tireless advocate for the dignity of every human person,” said Bishop Persico in a letter to the faithful.
DSC01679.JPG Chrism Mass unites the diocese in a spirit of hope and service

04/15/2025
Saint Peter Cathedral was filled with reverence and joy on Monday, April 14, as Bishop Lawrence Persico celebrated the Chrism Mass alongside priests, deacons, seminarians, consecrated religious and laity from across the Diocese of Erie.
For website 1.jpg Faith on campus: Bishop Persico engages college students in prayer and conversation
By Aaron Kerr, Director for Catechesis and Sacraments
04/15/2025
Students spend time with Bishop Persico at Allegheny College
488257429_17984110475807494_3699759159398124018_n.jpg A journey of faith: vocation to the priesthood at St. Mark Seminary

04/06/2025
The upcoming Palm Sunday Discernment Weekend, taking place April 12-13, 2025, is an open invitation for any young man, high school age and older, who is interested in exploring the call to priesthood.
Jubilee Posts (3).png Holy Redeemer Parish Pilgrimage: A journey of faith and community in the Jubilee Year of Hope

04/01/2025
As part of the Jubilee Year of Hope celebrations, Holy Redeemer Parish in Warren is organizing a meaningful pilgrimage to Lancaster, PA, on May 6-7, 2025.
DSC01087.JPG Hundreds experience grace and renewal at 24 Hours for the Lord

04/01/2025
Hundreds of people from across the Diocese of Erie gathered at St. Peter Cathedral on March 28 and 29, 2025, to participate in the Lenten initiative
2025 Ministry of Lector-22.jpg Bishop Persico presides over Installation of Lectors at Saint Vincent Seminary

04/01/2025
On March 26, 2025, Saint Vincent Seminary in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, held the Installation of Lectors during a special liturgy at the Saint Vincent Archabbey Basilica. The ceremony, which began at 5:00 p.m., was presided over by Bishop Lawrence T. Persico,
IMG_2212.jpg Saint Mark Parish in Emporium displays their Trellis of Hope for the Jubilee Year

03/26/2025
As part of the universal celebration of the Jubilee Year, Saint Mark Parish in Emporium has unveiled a moving visual reminder of faith, prayer and community.
Good Shepherd.png Church of the Good Shepherd food pantry celebrates first anniversary

03/12/2025
he Church of the Good Shepherd marked the first anniversary of its food pantry with a ribbon-cutting ceremony this week, celebrating a year of service to local families in need.
coffee fellowship 1a.png Knights of Columbus revive coffee fellowship at St. Bernard’s

03/12/2025
The Knights of Columbus Council #403 continue their mission of faith and service by reviving a beloved tradition in the Bradford Catholic community.
St Patrick.png Saint Patrick: Patron Saint of the Diocese of Erie
By Allison Mosier
03/03/2025
Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, holds a significant place in the hearts of Catholics worldwide, including those in Erie, Pennsylvania. His life and missionary work have inspired countless faithful, and his legacy continues to influence religio
Athletic Hall of Fame.png A Night of Athletic Excellence: Mercyhurst and Gannon Induct Hall of Fame Classes on the Same Evening
By Allison Mosier
02/13/2025
In a remarkable celebration of athletic history, both Mercyhurst University and Gannon University hosted their respective Athletic Hall of Fame inductions on the evening of February 8, 2025, honoring outstanding student-athletes, coaches and contributors
Organ Dedication.jpg Cathedral Celebrates Restored and Newly Installed Casavant Organs
By Allison Mosier
02/11/2025
On Sunday, February 2, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, music filled the cathedral in a way not heard in years. The highly anticipated dedication concert for the restored Casavant Opus 3353 Gallery Organ and the newly installed Casavant Opus 395
Knight of Columbus.png St. Francis Xavier Knights of Columbus Complete 3rd Annual Crib Collection to Support Women’s Care Center

02/04/2025
The St. Francis Xavier Knights of Columbus Council #17105 has successfully completed its 3rd Annual Crib Collection
Housewarming Kits 3.jpg Prince of Peace Center to distribute housewarming kits to those previously unsheltered

01/22/2025
Prince of Peace Center is set to launch its community service initiatives in 2025 by distributing housewarming kits to individuals and families who have previously been unsheltered or are fleeing domestic violence.
DSC00838.JPG People for Life host 47th annual Pro-Life Breakfast

01/21/2025
People for Life hosted the 47th annual Pro-Life Breakfast on January 18, 2025.
GU blessing.png Highmark Events Center Blessed and Dedicated in Historic Ceremony
By Allison Mosier
01/17/2025
Gannon University celebrated a momentous occasion with the blessing and dedication of the newly renovated Highmark Events Center
472090837_1039054361593939_4385062121744788153_n.jpg A Blessed Beginning to the Holy Year of Jubilee 2025
By Kristine Rilling
01/07/2025
Bishop Lawrence Persico inaugurates the Holy Year of Jubilee
MaryMajor2.JPG Nativity scenes are reminder of Lord's love and tenderness, pope says

12/16/2024
Making his customary visit to the Rome Basilica of St. Mary Major to pray before his trip to the French island of Corsica, Pope Francis also met and prayed with dozens of actors staging a living Nativity scene.
SaintsPelicans.JPG Saints, Pelicans owner honored for service 'empowering the most vulnerable'

12/16/2024
he owner of two New Orleans professional sports teams has been recognized by the Catholic Near East Welfare Association for her "unwavering commitment to her Catholic faith
Aviator.JPG A mother's prayer leads her son to move from a military career to the priesthood

12/09/2024
Father Danny Herman’s ordination as a priest in Knoxville reflects the profound impact of his mother, Lucia Herman, who nurtured her family’s faith despite challenges, inspiring his vocation through her devotion and prayer.
2025PopeConsistory.JPG New cardinals from 17 nations are called to build church unity, pope says

12/08/2024
Pope Francis created 21 new cardinals on Dec. 7, reflecting the diversity of the church.
MalvernCross.JPG Enormous cross at center of '79 papal Mass in Philadelphia has new home at retreat house

12/02/2024
A towering cross used during St. John Paul II's historic 1979 Mass in Philadelphia has found a new home at Malvern Retreat House, where it was unveiled on Nov. 11 following a meticulous restoration.
NOTREDAMEREOPENING-WEEK.JPG Notre Dame shines bright as French president visits days before the ‘grande réouverture'

12/02/2024
The world was left stunned when the first images of the rebuilt Notre Dame were published as President Emmanuel Macron walked through the Parisian cathedral on Nov. 29, a week ahead of the Dec. 7-8 official reopening.
NationwidePrayerVigil.JPG U.S. bishops announce Prayer Vigil for Life to take place Jan. 23-24

11/24/2024
The annual Prayer Vigil for Life will take place Jan. 23-24, 2025, the U.S. bishops' conference announced Nov. 22.
Child.JPG Blessing of the New Baptismal Font at Our Lady of the Lake Parish

11/19/2024
A Community United in Faith and Generosity
PopeLunch.JPG The poor cannot keep waiting for justice, solidarity, pope says

11/17/2024
Pope Francis celebrates World Day of the Poor
USCCBBarber.JPG Sainthood causes for Benedictine sister and disabilities education advocate get US bishops’ approval

11/15/2024
During their fall plenary assembly in Baltimore, the U.S. bishops voted 206 to 7, with 11 abstentions, to support the local advancement of Sister Annella's cause, and 205 to 6, with 19 abstentions, to support the same for Barber's cause.
Confirmation Retreat.png Faith and fellowship: Diocese of Erie confirmation retreat inspires young Catholics

11/12/2024
Office of Faith Formation hosts annual confirmation retreat
Angelus Responsibility 2.JPG Pope urges leaders to serve with humility, care for vulnerable

11/11/2024
People in positions of authority should care for the vulnerable and exercise their power with humility, not with hypocrisy and arrogance, Pope Francis said.
KOCCans.JPG Knights of Columbus exceeds $100 million in support for vocations to priesthood, religious life

11/10/2024
As Catholics in the U.S. wrap up National Vocation Awareness Week Nov. 3-9, one of the world's largest Catholic fraternal organizations announced it has provided more than $100 million to date to those seeking religious life.
20241029T1310-ASCENSION-ROSARY-YEAR-PODCAST-1784258_preview.jpg Host of new 'The Rosary in a Year' podcast hopes people 'fall in love' with the prayer

11/04/2024
A new podcast about the rosary promises to deepen listeners' love of the Marian devotion and draw them closer to Jesus and his mother, Mary, in the new year.
20241030T0845-POPE-AUDIENCE-CONFIRMATION-1784333_preview.jpg Pope: Make sure confirmation is not last time parish sees young people

11/04/2024
The Catholic Church must put more effort into ensuring that the sacrament of confirmation is not the "sacrament of goodbye" for young people
sacredheart-foresthills.jpg Only love will save humanity, pope says in encyclical on Sacred Heart

10/28/2024
The Vatican has released Pope Francis’ fourth encyclical
NatStory-flag.jpg Faithful urged to pray for religious liberty with novena ahead of Nov. 24 feast of Christ the King

10/28/2024
Novena encourages broadened perspective on religious freedom.
hurricane-2boys.jpg From Prayers to Action: Saint Gregory School Students Help Hurricane Victims

10/23/2024
Students help those in need
catena.jpg At home or abroad, mission work involves 'radical transformation' in Christ, says US missions expert

10/21/2024
Global church turns its focus to those in need
SARGEANT-Procession.jpg Faith, trust and 'grace in sacrament of marriage' guide couple in cancer journey

10/21/2024
The Sargeant family story
Yehl Alumni Ballroom.JPG Together in Support: Catholic Charities Helping Hands Gala raises funds for those in need

10/21/2024
The SSJ and Dale DeMarco were honored for helping our community
SEATED  20220824T0745-VATICAN-LETTER-COLLEGE-CARDINALS-1746980_preview(1).jpg Statistically speaking: How pope's choices change College of Cardinals

10/11/2024
Newly named cardinals will impact selection of the next pope
PCOM  4K2A0017 - higher.jpg Knights’ Baby Bottle Fundraiser benefits Erie and Crawford counties women’s resource centers

10/11/2024
KofC initiative raises more than $100,000
tornadohouse.jpg Catholic Charities USA launches Hurricane Milton relief fund

10/11/2024
Still reeling from Hurricane Helene, Floridians are desperately in need of financial support
for Mail chimp and thumbnailSYNOD-OPENING-SESSION-1782852_preview.jpg Pope defends decision to give women, laymen voting rights at synod

10/04/2024
Pope Francis responds to “chatter” about voting at the synod
ThumbnailDOMINICAN-ROSARY-PILGRIMAGE-1782843_preview.jpg Rosary pilgrimage in nation's capital unites thousands of Catholics in love for Mary

10/04/2024
Devotion to the rosary draws thousands to national shrine
Popebyairplane.jpg Seeking truth requires taking risks, questioning, pope says

10/01/2024
Pope Francis reflects on faith and truth as Catholic research university in Belgium marks 600th anniversary
Culinary 1 20180820T1303-CULINARY-SKILLS-SUCCESS-570645_preview.jpg The Friars' Table aims to leave workers, diners feeling uplifted

09/27/2024
Cleveland Capuchin Ministries and EDWINS collaborate on new initiative
Migrants plight 20240822T1631-GSR-MIGRANTS-PLIGHT-GOVERNMENTS-1780855_preview.jpg Catholic bishops mark National Migration Week; Notre Dame hosts reflection on the topic

09/18/2024
Notre Dame theologian urges Catholics to see the body of Christ in the migrant
20240805T1544-NOTRE-DAME-OLYMPIC-EVENT-1780272_preview.jpg Tradition will meet subtle modernity in restored Notre Dame Cathedral

09/17/2024
Design decisions already debated but 'joy, hope and peace' have prevailed during renovation
DSC09879.JPG St. Stanislaus Parish, Erie, hosts Blue Mass

09/16/2024
'....an opportunity for unity.'
Bishop Dolan AZ-ELECTION-PEACE-VIGIL-1781847_preview.jpg Arizona Christian leaders at prayer vigil call all to be peacemakers amid election tensions

09/16/2024
Bishop challenges attendeeds to be peacemakers
20240916T0519-POPE-ANGELUS-KNOW-JESUS-1782015_preview.jpg Angelus: Encountering, following Jesus changes everything, pope says

09/16/2024
Pope Francis also reflects on the 'innocent victims
Christ of Peace 20240911T0931-BOLIVIA-FIRES-1781832_preview.jpg As wildfires rage in Bolivia, bishops warn of lasting damage to 'Mother Earth'

09/11/2024
The bishops call on civil authorities to act quickly
Dome 20240821T1200-STOCK-CNS-VATICAN-1780848_preview.jpg Diocese organizes pilgrimage to Italy

09/09/2024
Basilicas of Rome, general audience with the Holy Father, and stops in San Giovanni Rotondo, Pompeii and Lanciano among the highlights
RaleighMigrant.JPG Raleigh Catholics strive to accompany migrant farmworkers in oft 'forgotten' counties

09/09/2024
"God walks with his people," encapsulate what many volunteers try to show farmworkers in the Diocese of Raleigh through their visits.
PopePNG.JPG Pope in Papua New Guinea: No to fear, yes to God and each other

09/08/2024
God calls Christians to have the courage to be open to faith and to be true neighbors to one another, Pope Francis preached in Papua New Guinea.
Indonesia.JPG Pope arrives in Indonesia at start of four-nation tour

09/03/2024
Pope Francis landed in Jakarta after a 13-hour flight from Rome and was greeted by the religious affairs minister of Indonesia and two children in traditional dress who offered him flowers.
Mission year.JPG Parishes take next missionary steps amid post-Eucharistic congress ‘spiritual surge’

09/01/2024
How does the church channel the exhilarating spiritual momentum of the congress and pilgrimage into a concrete and country-wide Eucharistic revival, especially in its Year of Mission?
Munley.JPG Speaker sees a time of new beginnings amid transformation of religious congregations

08/26/2024
hough the historical era of armies of women religious functioning as a workforce for the Catholic Church is over, the sister at the forefront of efforts to guide congregations through their transformations says it is also a time of new beginnings.
PopeAug25.JPG Pope expresses concern about religious freedom in Ukraine

08/25/2024
Religious freedom in Ukraine
Father Fitzgerald.JPG Olympic chaplain calls on Catholics to get ready to evangelize at LA's 2028 games

08/20/2024
With Los Angeles set to host the Summer Olympics and Paralympics in 2028, the Catholic Church in the U.S. is "in the quad" — a four-year-period of training between the global competitions — to hone its evangelization game, a priest and former Olympian tol
SisterAgnes.JPG Woman religious who was Our Lady of Akita visionary dies at 93 on Feast of Assumption

08/19/2024
A Japanese woman religious and Marian visionary has died some five decades after witnessing the miraculous weeping of a statue of Mary and receiving urgent messages to pray in reparation for humanity's sins.
SupremeKnight.JPG Supreme Knight summons a new generation of Catholic men: ‘Days of easy faith are over’

08/12/2024
The "days of easy faith are over," and a "new generation of Catholic men" are needed in the church, said the head of the Knights of Columbus at the global Catholic fraternal organization's annual gathering.
OlympicsCeremony.JPG As Paris wraps Olympics with pride, bishop says church’s Holy Games equally successful

08/12/2024
Paris wrapped its Olympic Games bursting with pride, closing the Games at Stade de France.
IMG_9854.jpeg Summer School

08/05/2024
Educators respond to immersive art experience
Jubilee2025.JPG Diocesan Holy Doors will not be feature of Jubilee 2025, Vatican says

08/04/2024
While bishops around the world are asked to designate their cathedrals or other significant churches as special places of pilgrimage and prayer for the Holy Year 2025, the Vatican is not asking them to dedicate and open a
Simone.JPG American Olympic medalists in Paris known for leaning on faith

08/04/2024
Among American Olympians achieving a spot on the podium in Paris are Catholics who have expressed their dependence on faith over the years as they've pursued excellence in their athletic pursuits.
FDMM.jpg Witnessing divine connection: Lessons and moments from the 10th National Eucharistic Congress

07/30/2024
A reflection on the first National Eucharistic Congress in 83 years.
RelicVeneration.JPG Despite long wait, chance to venerate saints’ relics offers ‘graces’ for congress-goers

07/29/2024
The line to enter the relic chapel at the National Eucharistic Congress snaked a long way through the Indiana Convention Center while the event took place from July 17-21.
Athlete boat.JPG Bishops, other Catholics around world decry ‘derision’ of Christianity at Olympics opening ceremony

07/27/2024
The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games — a sports festival aimed to unite all nations of the world — created shock and disbelief instead as Catholics around the world felt offended by the parody of the Last Supper, which was part of the opening c
Aa 20240718T1430-NEC24-DAY2-DAYTIME-1779348.JPG Congress attendees 'ready for everyone in the church to get on fire'

07/22/2024
Participants young and old share their takeaways
DSC07978.JPG Final revival night energizes thousands at Eucharistic congress to be 'alive again' in Christ

07/22/2024
'(Jesus) is after your heart and my heart ...
FLAG 451038642_911837197648990_6636214880793773676_n.jpg A statement and a homily after Butler

07/16/2024
Bishop Lawrence Persico and Deacon Greg Kandra offer thoughts after the attempted assassination
SPAIN 2 -CHAMPIONSHIP-COACH-FAITH-1779168_preview.jpg Spanish bishops celebrate success of champion soccer team

07/16/2024
Catholic Coach Luis de la Fuente praised for his faith
II.JPG Eucharistic procession nears Indianapolis after passing both humble and iconic sites across the country

07/15/2024
Parishioners from the Diocese of Erie participated at sites in the dioceses of Greensburg and Pittsburgh
DSC08003.JPG Catherine's Club Giving Circle surpasses $50,000 in grant awards

07/12/2024
Now in its sixth year, the organization supports women and young girls in need
Gift shop.jpg Benedictine Gift Shop in Saint Marys celebrates ten years of serving the Catholic community

07/09/2024
The Benedictine Gift Shop at 139 Church Street, Saint Marys, has been a community staple for Catholics in the Saint Marys area for the last ten years. With the closure of other local religious goods stores, like Hoffmans in Erie, the store
Triste.JPG Pope: Indifference is a ‘cancer of democracy’

07/08/2024
Catholics are called to be active participants in political life and be a force against the decline of democracy worldwide, Pope Francis said.
Movie.JPG New movie about foster care invites people of faith to take action

07/07/2024
A new film promises to open people’s eyes to the 100,000 children nationwide in need of loving homes while also inviting them to be a part of the solution.
DSC08730.JPG Nurturing vocations and honoring devotion at Serra Club of Erie's annual Installation Mass and dinner

06/18/2024
The Serra Club of Erie celebrates their annual Installation Mass and dinner, where the call to pray for vocations is louder than ever.
BishopMeeting.JPG US bishops discuss anti-poverty arm, pastoral fireworks, groundbreaking proposals at spring meeting

06/16/2024
Gathered in Louisville for their spring plenary assembly, the U.S. bishops' June 12-14 meeting saw a mix of important matters discussed
PopeG7.JPG Pope holds private talks with American, other world leaders at G7 summit

06/16/2024
Pope Francis met individually with several world leaders at the Group of Seven summit in southern Italy, including with U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
cathopic_1486607420809376.jpg Week of fellowship, study and spiritual growth on the horizon for clergy heading to Emmaus

06/11/2024
Parishioners asked to keep them in their prayers
OliveTree.JPG Under olive tree planted as sign of peace, pope begs God to help Holy Land

06/09/2024
Sitting in the Vatican Gardens with the dome of St. Peter's Basilica as a backdrop, Pope Francis told cardinals and diplomats, including the ambassadors of Israel and Palestine, "Every day I pray that this war will finally end."
SistersProgram.JPG Sisters completing Catholic Extension program called the 'face of God's love' in ministry

06/09/2024
Forty-four women religious graduated this spring with university degrees upon completing the U.S.-Latin American Sisters Exchange Program, sponsored by the Catholic Extension Society in partnership with the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation.
Acutis shrine.JPG Pope to hold consistory July 1 on canonization of Carlo Acutis, others

06/03/2024
Although Pope Francis usually takes the month of July off -- except for leading the recitation of the Angelus on Sundays -- he will hold a consistory with cardinals in Rome July 1 for the final approval of the canonization of several sainthood candidates,
DSC07514a.JPG Bishop Persico ordains Father Luke Daghir to the priesthood

06/03/2024
'He just has so much to give...'
NEP Texas.JPG Stories of conversion, 'amazing' encounters mark National Eucharistic Pilgrimage's first 10 days

06/02/2024
As a Eucharistic procession made its way May 28 through Victoria, Texas, a 20-something man sitting on the side of a street caught Charlie McCullough's attention.
Bishop Persico COA_color_silver.jpg Diocese of Erie releases clergy appointment list, many related to pastoral plan restructuring

05/31/2024
New appointments to take effect July 9, 2024
NEPmonstrance.jpg The eclipse, the northern lights, and now: The largest Eucharistic procession in the history of the US to pass through three neighboring dioceses

05/27/2024
Learn how you can take part!
TAC.JPG California Catholic college says new energy independence plan models 'creative' stewardship

05/26/2024
A small Catholic college in California announced recently that it had gained energy independence from the California power grid, marking a landmark in the use of alternative energy resources in higher education.
PopeBalloons.JPG Pope tells children joy is good for the soul, always help others

05/25/2024
To change the world, children must press ahead, be joyful, ask adults why there is injustice and always help others, Pope Francis told thousands of children gathered in Rome's Olympic Stadium for the church's first ever World Children's Day.
NewHaven.JPG National Eucharistic Pilgrimage's eastern route kicks off: 'We walk together as the body of Christ'

05/21/2024
Under a cold drizzle, scores of Catholics in New Haven sang and prayed while following the Eucharistic Jesus in procession. This May 18 display of faith marked the first Eucharistic procession of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage's eastern route.
Verona.JPG Don't let discord lead to death, pope says in city of Romeo and Juliet

05/21/2024
Adults in the world's richest nations deserve
MotherDaughterTea.png Annual Mother-Daughter Tea brings mothers and daughters together

05/14/2024
April showers bring May flowers, but in the Diocese of Erie, spring means it’s time for the Office of Chastity Education’s annual Mother-Daughter tea. Two teas were held in late April, one at St. Mary’s Church, St. Marys, and another at St. Mark Cat
DSC07206a.JPG Egg-citing end-of-year event a 'smashing' success at St. Luke School

05/14/2024
Principal, pastor demonstrate what it really means to be an 'egghead!'
Landry.JPG Pilgrim priest: National Eucharistic Pilgrimage helps reveal the church's 'deepest core'

05/14/2024
Father Roger Landry may be the reason 24 young people and several priests are walking thousands of miles across the United States this summer with the Eucharist.
VaticanSchools.JPG Pope praises role of archives, libraries, in tech-oriented world

05/14/2024
The troves of knowledge stored in archives and libraries must be made available and accessible to all people, especially as they increasingly depend on technological means for their knowledge, Pope Francis said.
Palestine.JPG Protesters at US Catholic colleges, universities join voices to pro-Palestinian movement

05/14/2024
As the school year draws to a close, student protesters at Catholic colleges and universities in the U.S. have added their voices to the din of pro-Palestinian shouts at campuses across the country and around the word.
K of C State Convention Award Presentation Photo 2.jpg Father Jerry Priscaro honored with Blessed Michael J. McGivney Award, PA Chaplain of the Year

05/07/2024
Father Jerry Priscaro, priest in residence at Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, Erie, and a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus, was recently bestowed with the prestigious Blessed Michael J. McGivney Award for the Pennsylvania State Chaplain of the Ye
20240506T0815-POPE-SWISS-GUARD-1776089.JPG Pope encourages Swiss Guard to foster friendships, avoid isolation

05/07/2024
Meeting members of the Swiss Guard, including 34 new recruits, Pope Francis thanked them for their dedication and generous service protecting the pope every day.
Freedom2.JPG Father Greg Boyle among Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients

05/05/2024
Father Greg Boyle, a Jesuit priest who is the founder and director of Homeboy Industries, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi were among 19 Americans awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, on May 3.
Iowa tornado.jpg Faithful respond to Midwest tornadoes, help storm victims 'carry their cross'

04/29/2024
(OSV News) -- Parishioners in several Midwestern states are coming together to bring help and healing after tornadoes ravaged the area April 26-28, killing at least four.
Padre Pio.JPG New photos reveal many sides of Padre Pio

04/29/2024
A foundation that promotes devotion to St. Pio of Pietrelcina, more widely known as Padre Pio, is making 10 never-before-seen photographs of the saint available to the devout for free.
DSC06620.JPG Two men ordained to the diaconate on their way to priestly ordination in 2025

04/23/2024
'...grateful and excited.'
FrancisCoeli.JPG Historians' work should lead to dialogue, truth, pope says

04/22/2024
Historians serve the common good when they seek historical truth and not an ideological interpretation of events, Pope Francis said.
NEC.JPG Pope Francis grants plenary indulgences for National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, Congress participants

04/21/2024
Participants in the National Eucharistic Congress and related National Eucharistic Pilgrimage now have opportunities to receive plenary indulgences, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, announced April 9.
Bishop Seitz at the border.jpg BISHOP SEITZ: US THRIVING DEPENDS ON A MORE CHRISTIAN AND LOVING TREATMENT OF MIGRANTS

04/16/2024
President of CUA interviews US Bishops' chair of Committee on Migration
Chrism.jpeg Serving those who served us every week: The annual Good Shepherd Collection

04/15/2024
The Diocese of Erie is blessed with a large group of retired priests, many of whom continue to serve the faithful in various ways.
AdultScouts.JPG Seek contact with nature to change polluting lifestyles, pope says

04/15/2024
Humanity must have more direct contact with nature to counter the modern lifestyles that are destroying the planet, Pope Francis said.
PopeViews.JPG Pew finds Catholics diverge by political parties, Mass attendance on many, but not all, issues

04/15/2024
A new study of U.S. Catholics suggests that Mass attendance and political affiliation are associated with their views of Pope Francis and Catholic teaching on key moral issues.
Dignitas.JPG US Catholic pastoral leaders welcome Vatican document on human dignity

04/09/2024
A number of Catholic pastoral leaders in the U.S. are applauding a new Vatican declaration on human dignity for its specific treatment of several key — and contentious — issues.
RenewedNotreDame2.JPG Fire 'gave us all a boost,' Notre Dame chaplain says as Paris prepares for cathedral's reopening

04/09/2024
For some, the Notre Dame fire was a sign of devastation of faith and Christian values. But for many more in France, it meant awakening of faith on an unprecedented scale.
EclipseLogoBLUE_1.png An out of this world event

04/02/2024
The much-anticipated total solar eclipse is taking place on April 8, with much of the Diocese of Erie in its path.
NYCcathedral.JPG Protesters disrupt Easter Vigil at St. Patrick’s Cathedral to call for Gaza cease-fire

04/01/2024
Three protesters from a group called "Extinction Rebellion (XR) NYC Palestine Solidarity" were arrested during the March 30 Easter Vigil at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York.
PopeEasterVigil.JPG Easter marks the ‘rebirth of hope amid the ruins of failure,’ pope says

04/01/2024
Easter is a promise that no matter how dark the world may seem and no matter how heavy the burdens one carries, victory belongs to the Risen Christ and all who believe in him, Pope Francis said.
Local story.jpg Igniting the flames of excellence at the Cathedral Preparatory School Legacy Gala

03/26/2024
Cathedral Preparatory School’s annual Legacy Gala was held on March 16 at Erie’s Bayfront Convention Center.
CANTALAMESSA.JPG Discernment is essential to discipleship, papal preacher says

03/23/2024
The Holy Spirit is like a line prompter at a theater, behind the scenes and constantly whispering to Christians the words of Jesus, said the preacher of the papal household.
FamilyMass.JPG How Catholic families can participate in the National Eucharistic Congress

03/23/2024
This summer's National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis will provide a
dreamstime_m_29392460.jpg ENTER INTO HOLY WEEK WITH AN OPEN HEART

03/19/2024
An Easter message from Erie Bishop Lawrence Persico
MarchMadness.JPG Seven Catholic schools dancing in this year's March Madness

03/18/2024
The 2024 Men's Division I NCAA Tournament gets underway March 19 with the "First Four" play-in games, and seven Catholic schools will be playing at least once in the single-elimination Big Dance.
Hospital2.JPG Medical advances must be at service of those most in need, pope says

03/18/2024
Cutting-edge science and medical research cannot benefit only the privileged few but must be placed at the service of those most in need, Pope Francis said.
Local 1B.png Holy Week 2024: Lent's prayerful finale

03/12/2024
A brief introduction to Holy Week.
AngelusMarch.JPG Jesus wants all people to be saved, pope says at Angelus

03/11/2024
Christians should pray for the grace to look at others with the same mercy and care with which Jesus looks at them, Pope Francis said.
Latare.JPG CEO of Feeding America named recipient of Notre Dame’s 2024 Laetare Medal

03/10/2024
Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, has been named the recipient of the University of Notre Dame's 2024 Laetare Medal, the oldest and most prestigious honor given to American Catholics.
DSC05163.JPG THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS

03/05/2024
Rediscovered in Scripture and art
Angelushome.JPG Relationship with God should be intimate, not transactional, pope says

03/04/2024
Just as Jesus drove out merchants from the temple in Jerusalem, Christians should cleanse themselves from a transactional relationship with God by developing an intimacy with him like that of a family in their home, Pope Francis said.
IVF.JPG Q&A: Why does the church oppose IVF? What can be done about frozen embryos?

03/02/2024
When the Alabama Supreme Court recently recognized the personhood of embryos, it gave legal standing to something the church has clearly established: An embryo is a human being and should be treated with the dignity and rights due to all people, especiall
DCC CUP3.jpg DuBois Central Catholic School awarded DuBois Chamber of Commerce Community Cup

02/27/2024
During the DuBois Chamber of Commerce Business Bash on January 27th, DuBois Central Catholic School received the DuBois Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Community Cup.
LightAngelus.JPG POPE PROPOSES LENTEN RESOLUTION: KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS

02/26/2024
This Lent, Christians should become "seekers of light" by keeping their sights set on the light of Jesus through prayer and participating in the sacraments, Pope Francis said.
Basilian.JPG BASILIAN SISTERS HONORED FOR BRINGING CHRIST TO PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM WAR, POVERTY, ADDICTION

02/26/2024
Mere days before the second anniversary of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, women religious from that nation and the United States were recognized for their extraordinary efforts to bring Jesus Christ to those suffering from war, poverty and ad
2SynodSynthesis.JPG VATICAN ANNOUNCES SYNOD ASSEMBLY DATES; FORMATION OF STUDY GROUPS

02/19/2024
The second assembly of the Synod of Bishops on synodality will meet Oct. 2-27 and will be preceded by several formal studies coordinated by the synod general secretariat working with various offices of the Roman Curia.
MassGuide.JPG AUTHOR TURNS TO KICKSTARTER TO PUBLISH MASS GUIDE; 'MASS IS THE CENTER OF MY LIFE,' HE SAYS

02/17/2024
Dan Gonzalez, an author from Miami, is preparing to independently publish a book he has been writing and designing since he was in college. It was an encounter in college that he said spurred a deep dive into his faith and prompted the idea for "Mass Expl
ChicagoRecipe.JPG CHICAGO CHEF SHARES 'RECIPE FOR CHANGE' WITH POPE

02/12/2024
Eight hours after meeting Pope Francis, Bruno Abate still could not believe it happened.
AcademyForLife.JPG CREATIVE POWER MUST BE USED RESPONSIBLY, POPE TELLS ACADEMY

02/12/2024
Scientific and technological abilities, which are the product of human creativity, are accelerating at such a rapid pace that people must decide how to use their creativity responsibly, Pope Francis said.
20210907T0745-VATICAN-SYNOD-PREPARATORY-DOCUMENT-1507644_preview.jpg SYNOD ON SYNODALITY IS PROCESS FOR BECOMING A 'BETTER' CHURCH, CARDINAL TELLS EDUCATORS

02/06/2024
Diocese of Erie to hold three Zoom sessions open to all
LetUsLearn.JPG VATICAN OPENS REGISTRATION FOR MAY CELEBRATION OF WORLD CHILDREN'S DAY

02/04/2024
Although the Vatican knows most of the children who will come to Rome May 25-26 for the first World Children's Day will be Italians, Pope Francis hopes local celebrations also will take place so that the whole Catholic Church can experience their joy and
ChildTax.JPG CHILD TAX CREDIT INCREASE PASSED BY HOUSE SEEN AS MODEST STEP FORWARD TO AID FAMILIES

02/04/2024
Even in a politically divided country, the reduction of child poverty in America can typically be embraced as a bipartisan, pro-family and pro-life goal.
20240130T0Narnia.JPG AWARD-WINNING CREATOR OF 'BARBIE' GEARS UP TO ADAPT BELOVED 'NARNIA' SERIES FOR NETFLIX

01/30/2024
Renowned filmmaker Greta Gerwig, fresh off the success of her record-breaking box office hit "Barbie," is gearing up for her next major project -- the adaptation of C.S. Lewis' beloved children's series, "The Chronicles of Narnia," for Netflix.
NCEA CSW logo.jpg CELEBRATING CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

01/29/2024
In observance of Catholic Schools Week, the Diocese of Erie is celebrating the pivotal role of Catholic education in fostering community, faith and service.
HolocaustFlower.JPG JEWISH-CATHOLIC EXPERTS: HOLOCAUST REMEMBERANCE IS CALL TO 'REPUIDATE' DEHUMANIZING PEOPLE

01/27/2024
An annual commemoration of Nazi Germany's slaughter of millions of Jews during World War II is a call to prioritize human dignity, two Jewish-Catholic experts told OSV News.
WalkingWithMoms.JPG WALKING WITH MOMS IN NEED

01/23/2024
St. Michael Parish in Fryburg and St. Joseph Parish in Lucinda are among the first parishes to participate in the national pro-life program,
ParisOlympics.JPG FRENCH CATHOLIC DIOCESES EMBRACE SPIRIT OF OLYMPICS WITH 'SPORTS AND FAITH' YEAR

01/21/2024
The 2024 Summer Olympic Games will open in Paris in six months, and in Saint-Denis, a northern suburb of the French capital, efforts are under way to build the Olympic and Paralympic Village, as well as the Olympic Aquatics Center.
Pro-life washington.JPG PRO-LIFERS WILL MARCH UNTIL ABORTION IS 'UNTHINKABLE,' SAYS HEAD OF MARCH FOR LIFE

01/21/2024
Thousands of pro-life advocates descended upon the nation's capital for the 51st annual March for Life Jan. 19, undeterred by several inches of snow that accumulated in Washington leading up to - and during - the event.
2024 Pro-Life Breakfast-10.jpg PEOPLE FOR LIFE HOST 46TH ANNUAL PRO-LIFE BREAKFAST

01/17/2024
On January 13, People for Life Held its 46th annual pro-life breakfast
Archive scan.JPG POPE CALLS FOR INVESTING IN PRESERVATION OF CHURCH'S AUDIOVISUAL ARCHIVES

01/14/2024
There is a growing and urgent need to invest in and plan concrete initiatives to preserve and share the Catholic Church's rich but fragile audiovisual heritage, Pope Francis said.
Passionist.JPG PASSIONIST PROVINCES TURN TO SOLAR ENERGY TO POWER MINISTRY AND CARE FOR CREATION

01/14/2024
Two provinces of the Congregation of the Passion and a lay-run Catholic nonprofit have all taken the lead in switching to solar energy to power their work as part of their response to Pope Francis' encyclical
USCCBSurrogacy.JPG USCCB AFFIRMS POPE'S DESCRIPTION OF SURROGACY AS TURNING A CHILD INTO 'AN OBJECT OF TRAFFICKING'

01/09/2024
Pope Francis told diplomats Jan. 8 that he finds surrogacy
Deacon Tom at confirmation 2.jpg CANDIDATES SOUGHT FOR NEXT CLASS OF PERMANENT DEACONS

01/09/2024
First Q & A Zoom scheduled for January 20
PopeBaptism2023SECOND.JPG FAITH IS A GIFT TO CELEBRATE, POPE SAYS AS HE BAPTIZES BABIES

01/07/2024
In the Sistine Chapel, where popes are elected, Pope Francis baptized 16 infants, who, he said, "give us the witness of how to receive the faith: with innocence and with an open heart."
VaticanPopeBlessing.JPG DOCTRINAL DICASTERY ISSUES TEACHING ON BLESSINGS
While church’s definition of marriage remains unchanged, gay and unmarried couples may now receive a blessing.
12/19/2023
A Catholic priest can bless a gay or other unmarried couple as long as it is not a formal liturgical blessing and does not give the impression that the Catholic Church is blessing the union as if it were a marriage, the Vatican doctrinal office said.
FERNANDEZ.JPG HAVING CHILD OUT OF WEDLOCK DOES NOT BAR ACCESS TO SACRAMENTS, VATICAN SAYS

12/16/2023
Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández comments on changes in the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, where he serves as prefect, as meets a CNS reporter in the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican after Pope Francis made him a cardinal Sept. 30, 2023. (CNS p
immigration.JPG US CATHOLICS' PRIEST SHORTAGE FACES NEW 'SERIOUS CRISIS' DUE TO IMMIGRATION LAW

12/16/2023
A recent U.S. federal government procedural change in green card processing for foreign-born religious workers has raised concerns about the potential departure of priests and religious sisters and brothers crucial to U.S. dioceses.
EucharisticRevivalLogo.JPG NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL INVITES CATHOLICS TO 'SPARK' A FIRE WITH PRAYER SERIES

12/10/2023
The National Eucharistic Revival is inviting everyday Catholics to personally participate in the nationwide movement by asking God to transform and renew their hearts through prayer.
Nativity scene.JPG POPE MARKS 800TH ANNIVERSARY OF NATIVITY SCENE, ASKS FOR PRAYERS FOR HOLY LAND

12/10/2023
A 15th-century fresco inspired the Nativity scene erected in St. Peter's Square for the 800th anniversary celebrations.
St. Catherine 33.17.jpg A NEW BEGINNING FOR HOLY SPIRIT PARISH COMMUNITY IN DUBOIS

12/05/2023
On December 2, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, Sykesville; St. Bernard Parish, Falls Creek; St. Catherine of Siena Parish, DuBois; St. Mary Parish, Reynoldsville; and St. Michael the Archangel Parish, DuBois, officially merged into Holy Spir
PeaceLight.JPG MESSAGE OF PEACE LIGHT, NOW IN US, SEEN AS MORE URGENT AMID ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

12/04/2023
As Catholics across the New York metropolitan area were given the opportunity to light their first candle of the Advent season the weekend of Dec. 2-3, a flame drawn from a source that dates back 1,000 years arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airpor
COP28.JPG POPE CALLS WORLD LEADERS TO END DIVISIONS TO FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE

12/04/2023
The future of humanity depends on what people choose now, Pope Francis said in his message to global leaders at the World Climate Action Summit of the U.N. Climate Change Conference.
Seamstress.JPG YOUNG WOMAN STITCHES TOGETHER FAITH, FASHION TO CREATE TIMELESS LITURGICAL GARMENTS

11/26/2023
: In Warwick, Rhode Island, Emily Boni, a talented sacred seamstress and graduate in fashion design, is using her passion for faith and fashion to create intricate vestments for Catholic priests.
AngelusNov2.JPG POPE LEADS ANGELUS FROM HIS RESIDENCE BECAUSE OF ILLNESS

11/26/2023
Pope Francis led the Angelus prayer from the chapel of his residence instead of the usual window overlooking St. Peter's Square due to inflammation of his lungs.
Baptism.jpg THE DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN

11/21/2023
It's never too late to participate in the sacraments of the church.
PovertyScandal.JPG 'POVERTY IS A SCANDAL,' POPE SAYS; CHRISTIANS MUST USE GIFTS FOR CHARITY

11/20/2023
The material, cultural and spiritual poverties that exist in the world are a
BidenClimate.JPG CATHOLIC LEADERS, WHITE HOUSE OFFICIALS TALK CLIMATE CHANGE AS COP28 NEARS

11/20/2023
A group of delegates, including three U.S. Catholic bishops and the head of a conference of women religious, met with Biden administration officials Nov. 17 to discuss the Catholic Church's priorities for what Pope Francis has called
Program.JPG U.S. BISHOPS OPEN FALL ASSEMBLY WITH PRAYER, REFLECTION AND A MASS FOR PEACE

11/14/2023
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services, who is president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, led his brother bishops in prayer for wisdom as they began their fall plenary assembly in Baltimore Nov. 13 with
Clinic.JPG VATICAN CLINIC EXTENDS HOURS AHEAD OF WORLD DAY OF THE POOR

11/13/2023
In the bustling heart of Rome, the Vatican's "Madre di Misericordia" clinic, spearheaded by dedicated physicians like Dr. Massimo Ralli, is witnessing a surge in demand, now tending to over 1,500 patients each month
20231107T1046-CORNELL-THREATS-CATHOLIC-RESPONSE-1768337_preview.jpg CATHOLIC COMMUNITY AT CORNELL RESPONDS TO HATE POSTS WITH PRAYER, OUTREACH

11/07/2023
Threats traced to Cornell student
Group.JPG ST. MARY PARISH'S ALL SAINTS DAY FESTIVAL: A JOYOUS GATHERING OF YOUNG SAINTS-TO-BE

11/07/2023
St. Mary Parish, Reynoldsville celebrated All Saints Day with a festival where children had the opportunity to emulate their favorite saints.
WarAngelus.JPG WARS IN GAZA, UKRAINE, 'KILL' THE FUTURE OF CHILDREN, POPE SAYS

11/06/2023
he wars being fought in Gaza, Ukraine and other parts of the world are destroying the future of the children who live in those nations, Pope Francis said.
Reparation mass.JPG BROOKLYN BISHOP CELEBRATES MASS OF REPARATION IN CHURCH AFTER MUSIC VIDEO 'DESECRATION'

11/06/2023
Bishop Robert J. Brennan of Brooklyn celebrated a Mass of Reparation Nov. 4 in a Brooklyn Catholic Church used in a violent and sexually provocative music video, and he has removed its well-known pastor from his diocesan development role.
Antonia Acutis-19a updated.jpg RAISING SAINTS: LESSONS FROM THE MOTHER OF BLESSED CARLO ACUTIS

10/31/2023
Antonia Acutis discusses her new book, her children and the vocation of parenthood
MaineParish.JPG AFTER MASS SHOOTING, MAINE PARISH BECOMES HUB OF HEALING

10/31/2023
A Maine parish has become a hub of healing as its community grapples with a devastating mass shooting.
SynodSynthesis.JPG SYNOD SYNTHESIS SHOWS AGREEMENT, DIVERGENCES, INCLUDING ON 'SYNODALITY'

10/30/2023
A report summarizing discussions at the assembly of the Synod of Bishops said the church may need more welcoming pastoral approaches, especially to people who feel excluded, but also acknowledged fears of betraying traditional church teachings and practic
LocalStory2.jpg HONORING SERVICE AND JUSTICE: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2023 HELPING HANDS GALA

10/24/2023
The annual event, hosted by Catholic Charities, In., of the Diocese of Erie, was held at Gannon University’s Yehl Alumni Ballroom on Thursday, October 12.
SynodMeetingHall.JPG SYNOD ASSEMBLY TO ISSUE 'LETTER TO THE PEOPLE OF GOD' AT SESSION'S END

10/22/2023
Members of the Synod of Bishops will issue a "Letter to the People of God" at the close of the first session of the synod assembly, which ends Oct. 29, the Vatican said.
SVDP-COMMUNITY-OUTREACH-CENTER-1767140.JPG ABANDONED LAUNDROMAT THAT IS NOW CATHOLIC OUTREACH CENTER HELPS CHANGE LIVES

10/17/2023
An abandoned laundromat might seem an odd place to transform into a Society of St. Vincent de Paul facility for community outreach.
SynodPilgrimage.JPG PILGRIM PATH: SYNOD PARTICIPANTS JOURNEY TO ROOTS OF FAITH IN ROME

10/14/2023
Since
Gannon-Horror Films Talk-2023-6.jpg ARE HORROR FILMS CATHOLIC? A LOFTUS LECTURE AT GANNON UNIVERSITY

10/10/2023
Sister Rose Pacatte, F.S.P, gives a lecture on horror films and Catholicism at Gannon University.
MarchForLife.JPG MARCH FOR LIFE EXPANDS STATE MARCHES, UNDERSCORING STATES' VARIED ABORTION LAWS

10/08/2023
Headed into its 50th year, the March for Life, a fixture of Catholic pro-life activism held in the nation's capital each January, is about to become part of a tapestry.
HamasIsrael.JPG JERUSALEM CHURCH LEADERS CALL FOR PEACE FOLLOWING DEADLY HAMAS ATTACK

10/08/2023
Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem united in a call for peace and justice amid unfolding violence, following a surprise attack by Hamas in southern Israel.
IMG_7860.JPG SERVICE AND JUSTICE MEET AT 2023 HELPING HANDS GALA

10/03/2023
The 2023 Catholic Charities Helping Hands Gala will be held on October 12.
PopeClimateChange.JPG POLL: U.S. CATHOLICS' VIEWS ON CLIMATE SHOW NO SIGNIFICANT 'LAUDATO SI'' EFFECT YEARS LATER

10/01/2023
Despite Pope Francis' advocacy for caring for creation, U.S. Catholics are no more likely than other Americans to view climate change as
Redhatscrolls.JPG CREATING CARDINALS FROM 16 NATIONS, POPE ASKS THEM TO JOIN CHURCH 'SYMPHONY'

10/01/2023
Coming from different parts of the world and having different experiences and talents, members of the College of Cardinals are called to create a "symphony," listening to one another and to the Holy Spirit, Pope Francis said.
FarmBill2.JPG FARM BILL KEY TO FOOD SECURITY IN US AND ABROAD, CATHOLIC ACTIVISTS SAY

09/26/2023
As the 2023 Farm Bill approaches renewal in December, Catholic activists stress the vital importance of prioritizing food security measures both domestically and internationally.
AngelusJustice.JPG GOD HAS THE SAME LOVE FOR ALL, POPE SAYS AT ANGELUS

09/25/2023
People often are tempted to think their relationship with God is some kind of commercial transaction where they buy God's grace with their hard work, Pope Francis said.
synod-logo hi res.jpg WITH INTERNATIONAL SYNOD ON THE HORIZON, FAITHFUL CALLED TO PRAYER

09/19/2023
Rome assembly to gather October 4-28
BeheadedJesus2.JPG PARISH FORGIVES VANDAL BEHIND BEHEADED JESUS STATUE AT LOUISIANA CATHOLIC SCHOOL

09/18/2023
A Louisiana Catholic parish and its school are mourning the destruction of a beloved, life-sized statue of Jesus -- and extending forgiveness and prayers to the perpetrator -- after its decapitation during the overnight hours of Sept. 12-13.
Astronomer.JPG VATICAN ASTRONOMER HELPS NASA IN HISTORIC MISSION TO STUDY ASTEROID

09/18/2023
Jesuit Brother Bob Macke, a Vatican astronomer and meteorite expert, has built a custom device for studying material from the first U.S. mission to collect a sample from an asteroid.
MoroccoEarthquake2.JPG CHURCH IN MOROCCO: POPE OFFERS PRAYERS AFTER DEADLY QUAKE KILLS MORE THAN 2,800 PEOPLE

09/10/2023
A powerful earthquake struck Morocco the night of Sept. 8, killing more than 2,800 people, with the numbers expected to rise as rescuers continue to search through the rubble. Search and rescue teams continue their attempt to reach those in remote village
JudeRelicsPromo.JPG RELIC OF ST. JUDE, APOSTLE AND PATRON OF DESPERATE CAUSES, BEGINS US TOUR

09/09/2023
A relic of St. Jude, patron saint of hopes causes, and the namesake of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis is traveling through the United States for the first time.
LocalStory.jpeg WALKING IN FAITH: DIOCESAN CATHOLIC SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION FINDS UNITY IN PRAYER

09/09/2023
The Diocese of Erie's Catholic school leaders use a unique prayer walk to foster spiritual connection and community among its distant schools' management teams, bridging geographical gaps through faith and prayer.
MongoliaPlane.JPG SYNOD ASSEMBLY WON'T BE SECRET, BUT WON'T BE OPEN TO PRESS, POPE SAYS

09/04/2023
The Synod of Bishops is not a television show or a parliamentary debate, and its discussions will not be open to the public or to reporters, Pope Francis said.
NewMexico.JPG US CATHOLIC DIOCESES ARE LEADING THE 'GREEN REVOLUTION' CHAMPIONED BY POPES

09/03/2023
Many Catholics, increasingly aware of the environmental impact of fossil fuels, are at the forefront of a
CatholicSchools.JPG U.S. CATHOLIC SCHOOLS SEE STRONG GROWTH, FORMING CHILDREN 'WHO LOVE JESUS CHRIST'

08/29/2023
As they open their doors for a new academic year, the nation's Catholic schools are enjoying overall strong growth, along with a firm commitment to mission, experts told OSV News.
Stamps.JPG LAUDATO SI' 2.0: POPE ANNOUNCES NEW DOCUMENT AHEAD OF 'SEASON OF CREATION''

08/27/2023
Ahead of the ecumenical celebrations of the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation Sept. 1 and the monthlong
RIGIDITY.JPG 'RIGIDITY IS BAD, BUT FIRMNESS IS GOOD,' POPE SAYS AT ANGELUS

08/22/2023
Christians must stand firm in their faith but that is not the same as being rigid and unwilling to bend out of compassion for another, Pope Francis said.
Catechumenate.JPG INDIANAPOLIS PARISH PILOTS NEW PREP PROGRAM, MODELED AFTER 'CATECHUMENATE,' TO STRENGTHEN MARRIAGES IN FAITH

08/21/2023
A new form of marriage preparation is being developed to help strengthen marriages rooted in the faith.
PopeAngelusStorms.JPG JESUS DOES NOT ABANDON INDIVIDUALS OR THE CHURCH, POPE SAYS AT ANGELUS

08/14/2023
aving faith does not mean there will be no difficulties in life, either for individuals or for the church as a whole, Pope Francis said, but it does mean knowing that Jesus is there to give courage and to defeat evil.
2023 Anniversary Mass-42.jpg DIOCESE RECOGNIZES COUPLES CELEBRATING MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES

08/14/2023
Bishop Lawrence Persico presided over the first of two anniversary Masses on August 6, at Our Lady of Peace Parish, Erie.
HawaiiFires2.JPG CATHOLICS APPEAL FOR HELP AS BIDEN DELCARES MAUI'S DEADLY FIRES A FEDERAL EMERGENCY

08/13/2023
Catholic Charities Hawai'i in the Honolulu Diocese has appealed for donations to help the agency meet the housing, food and other needs of what could be thousands of victims from wildfires raging on the island of Maui that wiped out an entire town and dro
Zabawa.jpg SUMMER FESTIVALS BRING JOY, UNITE THE FAITHFUL

08/08/2023
Three festivals celebrating deep Catholic roots round out the end of the Summer season.
Korea.JPG U.S. CATHOLIC KOREANS ALREADY PLANNING TRIP HOME FOR WORLD YOUTH DAY IN SEOUL

08/07/2023
When Pope Francis announced that the South Korean capital city of Seoul would host World Youth Day 2027, Rosemary Shin realized she might make a special homecoming trip in 2027 to South Korea and let out a raucous cheer, waving arms and pumping her fists
POPEAPPEALSANGELUS.JPG POPE TO RUSSIA: DESTORYING GRAIN, CREATING HUNGER IS 'GRAVE OFFENSE TO GOD'

08/01/2023
Destroying grain is a
Fire.JPG AS RECORD HEAT SCORCHES THE GLOBE, CLIMATE ADVOCATES URGE CATHOLICS TO TAKE ACTION

07/31/2023
More than 80 million Americans are currently under dangerous heat advisories. Temperatures in California's Death Valley hover around 120 degrees Fahrenheit at midnight. Setting a city record, Phoenix as of July 31 had seen 31 straight days of heat over 11
Bishop Lohse-St. Julia Farewell-124.jpg ST. JULIA PARISH GIVES THANKS TO BELOVED PASTOR, BISHOP EDWARD LOHSE

07/25/2023
Parishioners at St. Julia Parish, Erie, say goodbye to their pastor, Bishop Edward Lohse.
ElderlyMass.JPG POPE TO YOUNG PEOPLE: TO TACKLE LIFE'S UPS AND DOWNS, LOOK TO THE ELDERLY

07/24/2023
Pope Francis celebrated a Mass for World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on July 23.
Belief.JPG NEW POLL ON DECLINING FAITH SHOULD PROMPT GREATER WITNESS, EXPERTS SAY

07/23/2023
A new survey indicates belief in spiritual entities continues to decline in the U.S. — and evangelization leaders say the data is a call for Catholics to examine their own witness to their faith.
Chalice dreamstime_l_192865555.jpg RECEPTION OF THE PRECIOUS BLOOD TO BE REINTRODUCED AT MASS

07/18/2023
Bishop Persico asks for period of instruction prior to Aug. 5 Solemnity of the Transfiguration
Sower1.JPG SOW SEEDS OF FAITH, EVEN WHEN THEIR FRUITS ARE NOT IMMEDIATE, POPE SAYS

07/17/2023
Before praying the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square on July 16, Pope Francis discussed the day’s Gospel reading from Matthew which details the parable of the sower and the seeds.
Pierre.JPG USCCB 'REJOICES' AT ANNOUNCEMENT OF TWO CARDINALS-DESIGNATE WITH 'DEEP TIES' TO U.S.

07/10/2023
On behalf of the bishops of the United States, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of Military Services, USA, and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, offered his congratulations and prayers July 9 upon Pope Francis' announcement of the creatio
ProLifeCareAct.JPG AS U.S. MATERNAL MORTALITY RISES, PRO-LIFE LEADERS CALL FOR 'CARE FOR HER ACT'

07/10/2023
The proposed "Care for Her Act" promises to provide what its title suggests: support for women, specifically pregnant and parenting women.
Synod.JPG POPE APPOINTS HUNDREDS TO ATTEND SYNOD OF BISHOPS ON SYNODALITY

07/10/2023
Pope Francis has appointed more than 450 participants, including dozens of religious men and women and laypeople from around the world, to attend the first general assembly of the Synod of Bishops on Synodality in October.
LocalStory.jpg SUMMER OF 2023 BRINGS ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT ROUND OF CLERGY APPOINTMENTS

06/19/2023
A substantial number of clergy assignments were announced at parishes across the diocese this past weekend. They fell into two different categories: those whose assignments were renewed and those who received new assignments.
PopeWave.JPG POPE LEADS ANGELUS, THANKS PEOPLE FOR PRAYERS FOR HIS RECOVERY

06/19/2023
With a slightly quivering voice, before leading the recitation of the Angelus prayer, Pope Francis thanked everyone who prayed for him and cared for him while he was in the hospital.
USCCBBishop.JPG U.S. BISHOPS ADVANCE PASTORAL INITIATIVES TO STRENGTHEN CHURCH AMID DISCUSSIONS ON EUCHARIST, PRIESTHOOD, SYNODALITY

06/19/2023
Meeting in Orlando for their spring assembly, the U.S. bishops moved ahead on some efforts to advance the church's mission in the U.S., including new pastoral initiatives aimed at activating Catholics as missionary disciples.
Awards.png DIOCESE EARNS RECOGNITION FROM THE CATHOLIC MEDIA ASSOCIATION

06/15/2023
The Catholic Media Association announced June 9 that several aspects of the work of the Communications Office and a book by Father Scott Detisch were among the winners of the national organization’s annual awards.
Serra Club2.jpg HONOREES CELEBRATED AT ANNUAL SERRA CLUB DINNER

06/13/2023
Each year, the Serra Club of Erie holds an Installation Mass and Dinner during which they install new members of the group and honor an outstanding priest, deacon, sister and layperson of the year.
Gemelli.JPG POPE CONTINUES RECOVERY WORKING, RESTING, PRAYING

06/12/2023
Pope Francis is recovering well from his abdominal surgery on June 7 at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. According to the Vatican, his post-operative recovery is proceeding normally.
HarrisonButker.JPG DURING SUPER BOWL WINNERS' WHITE HOUSE VISIT, KANSAS CITY CHIEFS KICKER CHAMPIONS PRO-LIFE MESSAGE

06/08/2023
The Kansas City Chiefs were honored with a June 6 invitation to the White House by President Joe Biden following their victory in this year's Super Bowl. The visit took an unexpected turn as Harrison Butker, the kicker who secured the game-winning field g
FosterFamily.png WEBINAR PANELISTS URGE CATHOLIC PARISHES TO DO MORE TO SUPPORT FOSTER, ADOPTIVE PARENTS

06/05/2023
During a May 31 webinar on foster care, Julia Dezelski, assistant director for marriage and family life at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Secretariat of Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth described the continued needs of foster and adoptive
20230605T0800-POPE-ANGELUS-TRINITY-1760659 (1).JPG POPE ASKS CATHOLICS TO WELCOME EVERYONE

06/05/2023
   "Our God is a communion of love: and this is how Jesus revealed him to us," the pope said before praying the Angelus with some 20,000 visitors gathered in St. Peter's Square June 4.
Beran-Pius-Ordination-02376.jpg TWO PRIESTS ORDAINED AT ST. PETER CATHEDRAL, ERIE

05/30/2023
The pews at Erie's St. Peter Cathedral were filled with priests, deacons and friends and family of Father Chris Beran and Father Cory Pius on Friday, May 26. All were gathered to celebrate the Mass of Ordination for the two newest priests of the diocese.
BishopVote.JPG EXPERTS HOPE FOR PROGRESS ON HEALTH CARE, DISABILITY MINISTRY AND HISPANIC CATHOLICS AT U.S. BISHOPS' JUNE MEETING

05/30/2023
Ahead of the U.S. bishops' June meeting, pastoral experts told OSV News they are looking forward to progress on issues impacting health care, Hispanic Catholics and persons with disabilities.
InternationalStory.JPG PROMOTE CHRISTIAN VALUES, NOT DIVISIONS, ON SOCIAL MEDIA, VATICAN SAYS

05/29/2023
Catholics should make an
WYD2023.JPG POPE FRANCIS ADDS FATIMA VISIT TO WORLD YOUTH DAY TRIP

05/23/2023
Pope Francis will visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Fátima during his trip to Portugal for World Youth Day 2023, the Vatican said.
Mental health.JPG EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL A CALL TO ACCOMPANY THOSE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS, SAYS EXPERT

05/23/2023
With U.S. Catholics in the midst of a National Eucharistic Revival, the call to accompany those with mental illness is stronger than ever, a Catholic mental health counselor and researcher told OSV News.
Flags.png MEMORIAL DAY AND THE MEANING OF SERVICE

05/22/2023
Father Marc Stockton offers his thoughts on Memorial Day, a sacred holiday in which we honor the men and women who sacrificed their lives in the armed forces.
Strike1.JPG WILL AI SERVE OR REPLACE HOLLYWOOD'S HUMAN WRITERS ON STRIKE FOR BETTER WAGES?

05/15/2023
When the Writers Guild of America (WGA), the labor union that represents film, television, radio and online media writers, went on strike May 2 for the first time in 15 years, among the 11,500 members' demands to the Alliance of Motion Picture and Televis
PopeFR.JPG HOLY SPIRIT DEFENDS, CONSOLES THOSE WHO CALL ON HIS HELP, POPE SAYS

05/15/2023
The Holy Spirit consoles, defends and tenderly corrects those who turn to and listen to him, Pope Francis said.
LocalStory.jpg CREATING A SPIRITUAL AND SOCIAL CONNECTION IN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

05/15/2023
Priests and school chaplains in the Diocese of Erie help students navigate challenging educational and life lessons by creating a vibrant faith community and building authentic relationships with students.
SaintPlays.JPG TWO POTENTIAL BLACK CATHOLIC SAINTS INSPIRE AUDIENCES THROUGH THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS

05/09/2023
The stories of Venerable Father Augustus Tolton and Thea Bowman, Servant of God, are the subject of two new inspiring theatrical productions bringing their lives to audiences across the United States. If Father Tolton and Sister Bowman become saints, they
Jockey.JPG MEDALS, SCAPULARS ARE OFTEN PART OF JOCKEYS' UNIFORMS; AMID RISKS OF HORSE RACING, RIDERS VALUE PRAYER, DEVOTION

05/08/2023
The profession of riding racehorses is fulfilling but also dangerous. The rules of the sport require an ambulance to follow jockeys around the track every time a race is conducted. It's a way of life that leads many to call on their faith for protection.
Coronation.JPG CATHOLIC LEADERS WELCOME 'FOCUS ON SERVICE' AT KING'S CORONATION

05/08/2023
Catholic leaders in Britain welcomed the ecumenical and interfaith elements in the May 6 coronation of King Charles III and his consort, Queen Camilla, as well as a pledge by the new monarch
20230428T1715-OKLAHOMA-FARM-1759044_preview.jpg CHILDREN WORKING IN AGRICULTURE FACE GRUELING LABOR WITH LITTLE LEGAL PROTECTION, SPEAKERS SAY

05/02/2023
Safety, health seen as biggest issues for as many as 500,000 child farmworkers in US
Blessed Carlo relic.jpg DIOCESE TO HOST PRECIOUS RELICS OF BLESSED CARLO ACUTIS AND SAINT MANUEL GONZALES GARCIA

05/01/2023
Relics will be available in Erie, Warren, St. Marys, DuBois and Oil City
20230429T1130-POPE-HUNGARY-YOUTH-1759081_preview.jpg HUMAN POTENTIAL EXPANDS EXPONENTIALLY WHEN PEOPLE WORK TOGETHER, POPE SAYS

05/01/2023
Calls humanity and humility 'keys to creativity' during trip to Hungary
LaityFamily.JPG LAITY SHARE BAPTISMAL CALL TO MINISTRY, POPE SAYS

04/24/2023
The ministry of lay Catholics, whether formally instituted by the church or simply inspired by the Holy Spirit to serve the needs of others, flows from baptism and a recognition that every Christian is called to take part in the mission of the church, Pop
art2003-5-8-1.jpg Students respond: What does the Eucharist mean to you?

04/24/2023
Hundreds of students submit entries
BostonStrong.JPG CARDINAL RECALLS THOSE KILLED, INJURED IN 2013 BOSTON MARATHON BOMBING; URGES PRAYERS FOR 'GIFT OF PEACE'

04/17/2023
On the 10th anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing, Cardinal Seán P. O'Malley reflected on the impact the event had on the victims, survivors, first responders and what must be done to prevent such acts of violence.
Square1.JPG PEOPLE WOUNDED IN LIFE SHOULD FIND WELCOME IN THE CHURCH, POPE SAYS

04/17/2023
Christians should ask themselves where they look for Jesus, the pope said. Is it
ReginaCoeli.JPG SHARE EASTER JOY WITH OTHERS, POPE URGES

04/10/2023
Thinking of the women disciples, Pope Francis asked people in the square,
PopePalm.JPG POPE SAYS BE CLOSE TO THOSE 'ABANDONED' LIKE CHRIST: UNBORN, MIGRANTS

04/04/2023
The unborn, migrants, the elderly and the disabled are
Forsythia 2 dreamstime_l_52108799.jpg A PRAYER FOR JOY, HOPE, PEACE AND GRACE

04/04/2023
An Easter message from Bishop Lawrence Persico
cardparty.JPG AN ARTILLERY OF SUPPORT: THE SAINT MARK SEMINARY AUXILIARY

03/28/2023
 The St. Mark Seminary Auxiliary, a group of dedicated parishioners, has been supporting seminarians studying to become priests in the Diocese of Erie for almost 80 years. The auxiliary members lend their support to the young men through prayer, friendsh
PopeSpace.JPG POPE'S MESSAGE OF HOPE HEADED TO SPACE, AUDIO BEAMED BACK TO EARTH

03/27/2023
Pope Francis' message of hope for humanity will be shot into earth's orbit as a
AngelusWitness.JPG DO NOT BE AFRAID TO BE A WITNESS TO GOD'S LOVE, POPE SAYS

03/20/2023
Christians must not be afraid of being judged or condemned for bearing witness to the gifts and love they receive from God, Pope Francis said.
Clearfield March Deanery Meeting-022a.jpg DIOCESE INITIATES ANOTHER ROUND OF PARISH RESTRUCTURING

03/20/2023
First meetings held in Bradford, Clearfield, Oil City and Erie areas
Keith 3.jpg THE JOY OF JOINING THE CHURCH

03/14/2023
When the Rite of Election took place at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in DuBois on Sunday, March 5, no one was more excited than Keith Holden.
Pope10.JPG 'FRATERNITY, TEARS, SMILES': POPE SHARES HOPES FOR THE FUTURE

03/13/2023
In interviews focused on the 10th anniversary of his election, Pope Francis insisted it is not his task to make an accounting of what he has or has not accomplished since March 13, 2013.
LocalWedding2.jpg THE THREAD OF MINISTRY

03/07/2023
Anyone who lives in DuBois can tell you it’s a small but tight-knit community woven together by the relationships formed through school, work and parish life.
VaticanStatistics.JPG VATICAN STATISTICS SHOW DECLINE IN CLERGY, RELIGIOUS WOMEN, WORLDWIDE

03/06/2023
The number of Catholics and permanent deacons in the world rose in 2021, while the number of seminarians, priests, and men and women in religious orders declined, according to Vatican statistics.
OConnellFuneral.JPG THOUSANDS GATHER AT FUNERAL MASS FOR LA'S BISHOP O'CONNELL, RECALLED AS 'SOUL FRIEND' TO ALL

03/06/2023
Los Angeles Auxiliary Bishop David G. O'Connell was remembered as a man
ElPastor.JPG NEW BOOK OF INTERVIEWS TO HONOR POPE'S MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY

02/27/2023
On March 1, journalists Sergio Rubin and Francesca Ambrogetti will release a book titled, “El Pastor” (The Shepherd) featuring interviews from Pope Francis' time as pontiff.
MAHAN.JPG INDIANAPOLIS PRIEST NAMED DIRECTOR OF USCCB'S INSTITUTE ON THE CATECHISM

02/27/2023
The recently formed Institute on the Catechism will carry out the U.S. bishops' vision of the importance of
20230220T2040-BISHOP-MURDER-SUSPECT-CUSTODY-1756456_preview.jpg EMOTIONAL LA SHERIFF DETAILS ARREST OF SUSPECT IN SHOOTING DEATH OF BISHOP O'CONNELL

02/21/2023
Motive remains unclear
UkraineUpdate.JPG ONE YEAR OF WAR: HEAD OF UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH SHARES HOPES, SORROWS

02/21/2023
With the first anniversary of Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine just days away, the head of the Ukrainian Catholic Church spoke about gratitude and powerlessness in the face of a
BishopOconnell.JPG LA'S 'PEACEMAKER' BISHOP DAVID O' CONNELL FOUND FATALLY SHOT IN HIS HOME; DEATH RULED A HOMICIDE

02/20/2023
Los Angeles Auxiliary Bishop David G. O'Connell, a native of Ireland who spent most of his four decades as a priest ministering in LA's inner city, was shot and killed Feb. 18 in his Hacienda Heights home, a neighborhood east of LA.
PriestChef.JPG FRENCH-TRAINED CHEF TURNED CATHOLIC PRIEST RAISES FUNDS, BUILDS COMMUNITY WITH MEMPHIS KING CAKES

02/19/2023
When it comes to raising money for his parish, Father Ben Bradshaw of Memphis really knows how to make the dough.
Synodlogo.JPG NEXT STEP IN THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY: THE CONTINENTAL PHASE

02/14/2023
Diocesan representatives contribute to North American report
AngelusSquare.JPG POPE: JESUS WANTS US TO LOVE FULLY, NOT FLAUNT FACADE OF FOLLOWING RULES

02/13/2023
Religious rules are good and necessary, but Jesus wants his disciples to go beyond the letter of the law and fully live out its meaning, Pope Francis said.
EucharisticCongressRegistration.JPG REGISTRATION OPENS FEB. 15 FOR 2024 NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS

02/12/2023
Registration for the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis July 17-21, 2024, will open Feb. 15 at 1 p.m. (EST)/noon (CST).
TurkeyEarthquake.JPG POPE SADDENED BY 'HUGE LOSS OF LIFE' AFTER EARTHQUAKES IN TURKEY AND SYRIA

02/06/2023
Pope Francis expressed his
Train.JPG 'HAND OF THE LORD' SPARED OHIO TOWN AMID TRAIN DERAILMENT, SAYS PRIEST

02/05/2023
An Ohio priest told OSV News
GreenComet.png CATHOLICS LOOK TO NIGHT SKY

01/31/2023
New comet reveals 'the glory of God'
Erie March for Life 2023-00626.jpg LOCAL MARCH FOR LIFE ATTRACTS FAMILIES AND YOUNG ADULTS

01/31/2023
People for Life held its annual March for Life in Erie on Saturday, Jan. 28. Over 300 people gathered in Perry Square for the event which began at 11:45 am and lasted until about 1 pm.
ANGELUSJAN29.JPG CHRISTIANS IN AFFLUENT SOCIETIES MUST COMBAT 'THROWAWAY CULTURE,' POPE SAYS

01/30/2023
Christians must combat the prevalent culture of wastefulness by becoming poor in spirit, Pope Francis said.
SocialMinistryDisability.JPG CHURCH CALLED TO ADDRESS STIGMA ASSOCIATED WITH MENTAL ILLNESS, ADVOCATES SAY

01/29/2023
The church is called to address taboos associated with mental illness both within society and within its own ranks, advocates at the Catholic Social Ministry Gathering said on Jan. 28.
LunarNewYear.JPG OUTPOURING OF GRIEF, PRAYERS AS LUNAR NEW YEAR MASSACRE LATEST U.S. MASS SHOOTING

01/23/2023
"With the whole family of God here in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, I am praying for the victims of this violence," said Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez in a statement following a mass shooting that left 10 people dead and at least 10 more wounded
LiturgyDirectors.JPG POPE FRANCIS COMMENTS ON LENGTHY HOMILIES

01/23/2023
Speaking off the cuff to diocesan liturgical directors Jan. 20, the pope said homilies are not academic conferences.
158.JPG MASS ATTENDANCE GROWS SLIGHTLY AS PANDEMIC RECEDES

01/23/2023
Trend since 2014 still down by 45 percent
Pro-Life Breakfast 2023-21.jpg 45TH ANNUAL PRO-LIFE BREAKFAST HELD AT ERIE'S BAYFRONT CONVENTION CENTER

01/17/2023
Erie's Bayfront Convention Center was overflowing with people on Saturday, Jan, 14. Ticketholders for the 45th Annual Pro-Life Breakfast gave their attention to guest speaker Patricia Sandoval as they enjoyed their meal.
Barron.JPG FIRST-EVER WONDER CONFERENCE BOLDLY GOES TO FRONTIER OF 'SCIENCE AND RELIGION'

01/17/2023
Some 1,000 clergy, religious and lay attendees joined the first-ever Wonder Conference, which took place at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Dallas, Jan. 13-14.
PopeWave.JPG POPE ANNOUNCES ECUMENICAL PRAYER BEFORE SYNOD ASSEMBLY IN OCTOBER

01/16/2023
Encouraging Catholics to participate in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Pope Francis also announced that before the assembly of the Synod of Bishops opens in early October, there will be an ecumenical prayer vigil in St. Peter's Square.
PeacePope.JPG PEACE REQUIRES A 'DEFENSE OF LIFE,' POPE TELLS AMBASSADORS

01/09/2023
Pope Francis made several statements to ambassadors accredited to the Holy See regarding a pathway to peace.
Dave.JPG NET MINISTRIES APPOINTS VETERAN MISSIONARY AS NEXT PRESIDENT TO SUCCEED FOUNDER

01/09/2023
After serving NET Ministries in West St. Paul for 25 years, David Rinaldi has been named the organization's new president, succeeding Mark Berchem, who founded the Catholic youth ministry in 1981 and has served as its president since then.
Francis presides 2 20230105T0722-BENEDICT-FUNERAL-1754269_preview.jpg AT FUNERAL, POPE REMEMBERS BENEDICT'S 'WISDOM, TENDERNESS, DEVOTION'

01/05/2023
From royalty to Bavarians, an estimated 50,000 people participate in the former pontiff's funeral
CCCAS.jpg THE MISSION OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES COUNSELING AND ADOPTION SERVICES

01/03/2023
Originally founded in 1953, Catholic Charities Counseling and Adoption Services (CCCAS) has provided support to expectant and new mothers since its start.
PopeFuneral.JPG THOUSANDS PAY LAST RESPECTS TO POPE BENEDICT IN ST. PETER'S BASILICA

01/02/2023
The body of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will be laying in repose in St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, until the late evening of Jan. 4. Vatican police said that by 2 PM on Jan. 2, 40,000 people had already entered the basilica to honor the former pontiff.
Revival Procession.JPG EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL'S UPCOMING PARISH YEAR AIMS FOR CATHOLICS TO EXPERIENCE A LIFE-CHANGING 'PERSONAL ENCOUNTER' WITH CHRIST

01/02/2023
The three-year Eucharistic Revival is currently in its first year, the Year of Diocesan Revival. The second year, the Year of Parish Revival, begins June 11.
20130102cnsbr13253.jpg EIGHT YEARS AS POPE CAPPED LONG MINISTRY AS TEACHER OF THE FAITH

12/31/2022
Global ministry began with role at Second Vatican Council
20160114T1203-1475-CNS-POPE-SYNAGOGUE-DISEGNI.jpg WORLD LEADERS EXPRESS CONDOLENCES

12/31/2022
Personal memories as well as accomplishments cited
20130211nw51.jpg IMPORTANT EVENTS IN THE LIFE OF EMERITUS POPE BENEDICT XVI

12/31/2022
A timeline of his life April 1927 - December 2022
Vatican II 20221231T0515-OBIT-BENEDICT-1753952_preview.jpg THE LASTING LEGACY OF POPE BENEDICT XVI

12/31/2022
Roles as priest, cardinal, pope and pope emeritus spanned long life of service to the church
United Nations.jpg POPE BENEDICT'S 2008 US VISIT A WHIRLWIND WITH TIMELY, POINTED MESSAGES

12/31/2022
Pope offered many key messages during six-day visit
20221229T1215-OBIT-BENEDICT-1753634.JPG DETAILS ON WATCHING POPE BENEDICT'S FUNERAL, WHICH WILL BE SIMPLE

12/31/2022
Plans developed around the former pontiff's wishes
14 20210913T1100-POPE-FRANCIS-EUROPE-BENEDICT-1508114.JPG POPE FRANCIS PAYS TRIBUTE TO POPE BENEDICT; HIGHLIGHTS GENTLENESS

12/31/2022
Offers thoughts during evening prayer
PopeCharity.JPG POPE PAYS TRIBUTE TO THOSE WHO EXERCISE CHARITY

12/19/2022
Pope Francis spent part of his 86th birthday paying tribute to people who have gone above and beyond in the exercise of charity.
Vera.JPG POPE ADVANCES SAINTHOOD CAUSES, INCLUDING FIRST 'MARTYR' OF CHARITY

12/19/2022
Pope Francis recognized the martyrdom of members of a Polish family who were sheltering a Jewish family during World War II, and, for the first time, advanced the sainthood cause of a candidate under the category of heroically offering his life out of lov
Benedictine.jpg KEEPING THE SPIRIT OF THE BENEDICTINE SISTERS ALIVE IN ST. MARYS

12/13/2022
The Benedictine Gift Shop at 139 Church Street in St. Marys is so much more than a typical gift shop.
Doubt1.JPG DOUBT CAN BE A STEP TOWARD DEEPER FAITH, POPE SAYS

12/12/2022
Even the most fervent believers go through moments of doubt and questioning about God, and it is a good thing, Pope Francis said, because it helps one see that God does not fit into the little box people make for him.
AngelTree.JPG VOLUNTEER HELPS CHILDREN WITH PARENTS IN PRISON RECEIVE CHRISTMAS GIFTS

12/11/2022
A Minnesota man works hard every year to make sure that children with incarcerated parents have presents on Christmas.
Photo of Jubilarians-2022.jpg GIVING BACK TO THOSE WHO HAVE GIVEN SO MUCH

12/06/2022
The weekend of December 10-11, the Diocese of Erie will participate in the national Retirement Fund for Religious Collection.
Deaf Priest.JPG FIRST DEAF PRIEST IN U.S. VISITS MINNESOTA PARISH, INSPIRES JESUIT NOVICE

12/05/2022
MINNEAPOLIS (CNS) -- Parishioners at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Minneapolis, about half of whom are deaf, had the chance to attend Mass celebrated by the first deaf man ordained a Roman Catholic priest in the U.S., Father Tom Coughlin. About 80 p
LightingCeremony.JPG KEEP THE CRECHE IN CHRISTMAS, POPE URGES

12/03/2022
Stopping to gaze at and perhaps pray before a Nativity scene is one of the best ways to remember the real meaning of Christmas, Pope Francis said.
IMG_6270.jpg ST. PATRICK'S HAVEN TO BENEFIT FROM BOOK SALE

11/29/2022
Fire at the site inspires author to donate proceeds
Box Village.png CATHEDRAL PREPARATORY STUDENTS BUILD COMMUNITY AND RAISE AWARENESS IN 10TH ANNUAL BOX VILLAGE FUNDRAISER

11/28/2022
Students from Cathedral Preparatory School participated in the school’s 10th annual Box Village fundraiser from the evening of Monday, Nov. 21, through the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 22.
PopeAmericaMagazine.JPG POPE TALKS ABOUT CHURCH DIVISION, WOMEN, ABORTION

11/28/2022
In a wide-ranging interview with top staff of America magazine, Pope Francis decried increased polarization within the Catholic Church, affirmed the need to involve more women in church administration but ruled out women priests and emphasized the importa
Baltimore.JPG 'FRATERNAL DIOLOGUE,' MORE PRAYER, HAVE PLACE ON BISHOPS' ASSEMBLY AGENDA

11/21/2022
The USCCB fall general assembly took place Nov. 14-17.
VaticanTreeControversy.jpg VATICAN CHRISTMAS TREE CONTROVERSY

11/17/2022
Things didn't go as planned for the Vatican's 2022 Christmas tree.
20221114T1715-PRAYER-VIGIL-FOR-LIFE-1751821_preview.jpg NATIONAL PRAYER VIGIL FOR LIFE/MARCH FOR LIFE SLATED FOR JANUARY

11/15/2022
Work continues despite reversal of Roe v. Wade
official.png CATHOLIC ORGANIZATIONS ACROSS THE DIOCESE PREPARE FOR #iGiveCatholic 2022

11/15/2022
Advanced giving for #iGiveCatholic has already begun, and almost 100 Catholic organizations will benefit from generous donations.
InternationalVolunteers.JPG LIVE THE GOSPEL BY TREATING OTHERS AS A BROTHER OR SISTER, POPE SAYS

11/14/2022
Treating everyone as a brother or sister is the clearest, most simple way to live the Gospel each day, Pope Francis said.
Pic8.jpg THE CURTAIN RISES FOR THE FORMER SACRED HEART CHURCH'S NEW BEGINNING IN SHARON

11/07/2022
When the doors to Sacred Heart Church in Sharon closed in 2018, new doors opened to a world of opportunity for the Area Community Theater of Sharpsville, also known as ACTS.
Schools.jpg NCEA REPORTS QUICKER ACADEMIC RECOVERY FROM PANDEMIC FOR CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

11/07/2022
The National Catholic Educational Association says Catholic schools have recovered more quickly from the pandemic than their public school counterparts.
PopeReligiousHope.JPG DESPAIR OVER DECLINING NUMBERS SHOWS LACK OF FAITH, POPE TELLS RELIGIOUS

11/07/2022
Aging or declining membership should prompt members of religious orders to ask,
NovIntent.JPG POPE'S NOVEMBER PRAYER INTENTION: 'FOR CHILDREN WHO SUFFER'

10/31/2022
In a video released on Oct. 31, Pope Francis revealed his November prayer intention.
Teach-in.JPG IGNATIAN FAMILY TEACH-IN FOR JUSTICE PARTICIPANTS CONTINUE ITS EARLY SPIRIT

10/31/2022
Nearly 2,000 students came to Washington Oct. 22-24 for the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice, described as the largest annual Catholic social justice gathering in the United States.
WashingtonMary.JPG CARDINAL GREGORY BLESSES SHRINE'S REPLACEMENT OF VANDALIZED MARY STATUE

10/24/2022
Ten months after a marble statue of Our Lady of Fatima in the Rosary Walk and Garden outside the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception was vandalized and destroyed beyond repair, a replacement statue was blessed Oct. 23, by Washingt
PopeFamily.JPG POPE: CHURCH'S CONCERN FOR THE FAMILY GOES BEYOND FOCUS ON COUPLES

10/24/2022
The importance of the family for the Catholic Church and for society means that theological reflection on family life and pastoral responses to the joys and problems of families must focus on more than the relationship between a husband and wife, Pope Fra
IMG_5453.jpeg FROM CABBAGE TO TUBING, INNOVATIVE COMMITTEE EMERGES AT ST. MARY PARISH, ST. MARYS

10/20/2022
Group's annual fundraising sauerkraut dinner set for Nov. 12
SynodBishops.JPG POPE ANNOUNCES A SECOND SESSION FOR SYNOD OF BISHOPS ASSEMBLY

10/17/2022
Pope Francis announced that the next assembly of the Synod of Bishops would take place in two sessions.
Shooter.JPG LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE FOR SCHOOL SHOOTER CALLED 'SEVERE AND JUST PUNISHMENT'

10/16/2022
A jury rejected the prosecution's request for the death penalty in the trial for Parkland, FL school shooter.
IMG_7769.JPG AUTUMN LEAVES AND PASTORAL ASSIGNMENTS FALL INTO PLACE

10/03/2022
As Bishop Persico often reminds the faithful: “Change must become a way of life for our diocese.” In a time where nothing is certain, the certainty of change might just be the thing that brings us together.
Ian2.JPG FLORIDA CONTINUES WITH RESCUE EFFORTS AS HURRICANE IAN HEADS NORTH

10/03/2022
Authorities in Florida are continuing rescue efforts and damage is being assessed in the wake of Hurricane Ian.
Angelus1.JPG POPE TELLS PUTIN: STOP THE WAR

10/02/2022
On Sunday, October 2, Pope Francis did not offer his customary commentary on the day's gospel reading. Instead, he called for peace in Ukraine before the war escalates further.
Shalom1.JPG POPE ENCOURAGES YOUNG CATHOLICS TO USE "CREATIVE COURAGE" TO EVANGELIZE

09/26/2022
Pope Francis encouraged young Catholics to take an active role — not be spectators — in the church's mission.
IMG_3629.JPG OCT. 8 HELPING HANDS GALA TO SUPPORT THE WORK OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES

09/20/2022
Deacon Dick O'Polka and his wife, Tammy, named 2022 Helping Hands honorees
Jubilee2025.JPG VATICAN ANNOUNCES CONTEST TO COMPOSE MUSIC FOR HOLY YEAR 2025 HYMN

09/19/2022
The Vatican is looking for an original musical score for the official hymn for the Holy Year 2025 that will highlight its theme,
business2.JPG POPE ENCOURAGES BUSINESS OWNERS TO SHARE WEALTH, CREATE JOBS

09/12/2022
In Matthew 19:24, Jesus tells a rich young man,
Nuclear Crisis 1.JPG AFTER U.N. CONFERENCE, NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT ADVOCATES LOOK TO NEW STRATEGIES

09/12/2022
After four weeks of debate, there was still no consensus in how to move forward with nuclear disarmament efforts.
WCC.jpg KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BABY BOTTLE CAMPAIGN RAISES OVER $120,000 FOR THE WOMEN'S CARE CENTER OF ERIE COUNTY

09/12/2022
As part of a pro-life initiative, the Knights of Columbus held a baby bottle fundraiser that ultimately raised more than $120,000 for The Women's Care Center of Erie County.
KENYA 20220606T1345-AFRICA-ENVIRONMENT-ACTION-1716030_preview.jpg BISHOPS URGE LISTENING TO THE CALL OF THE EARTH DURING SEASON OF CREATION

09/05/2022
During the observance of the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, bishops encouraged Catholics to protect the environment.
CNS 911 one.jpg WRITER OF CBS DOCUMENTARY, '9/11,' RIVETS BLESSED SACRAMENT CROWD WITH HIS EXPERIENCE

09/04/2022
'You felt as if you were a piece of history watching this...'
Beatification1.JPG BLESSED JOHN PAUL I, "THE SMILING POPE,' SHOWED GOD'S GOODNESS, POPE SAYS

09/04/2022
Beatifying Blessed John Paul I, Pope Francis praised the late pope for showing the world God's goodness and for living the Gospel without compromise.
NewCardinal3.JPG NEW CARDINALS FEEL HONORED, HUMBLED, READY TO PROMOTE RENEWAL OF CHURCH

08/29/2022
On August 27, Pope Francis appointed 20 new Cardinals, representing 16 countries. Several of these cardinals spoke to Catholic news service about the significance of this honor through their eyes.
Synodlogo.JPG CATHOLICS SEE SYNOD LISTENING SESSIONS AS SIGNIFICANT FOR THE ENTIRE CHURCH

08/29/2022
Common themes surfaced in the U.S. diocese synod listening reports. The regional reports will be turned into one national report to be submitted to the Vatican Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops.
Lifemark.JPG FILM BASED ON INDIANA WOMAN'S TRUE STORY 'RECLAIMS BEAUTY OF ADOPTION'

08/26/2022
A new movie starring and produced by Kirk Cameron is about to hit theaters. The film celebrates the gift of life, and the sacrifice of a birth mother choosing to place her child for adoption.
KCHS thumbnail.jpg KENNEDY CATHOLIC RAISES NEARLY $500,000

08/22/2022
'Significant' budget shortfall galvanizes community
Nicaragua1.JPG AS POPE CALLS FOR DIALOGUE, NICARAGUAN POLICE CONTINUE HARASSING CATHOLICS

08/22/2022
Tensions are still high in Nicaragua as police continue to harass protesters following the arrest of a bishop and 11 others.
Uvalde2.JPG SURVIVORS OF UVALDE MASS SHOOTING GET TUITION AID TO ATTEND CATHOLIC SCHOOL

08/22/2022
Catholic Extension, a Chicago-based nonprofit has awarded 30 full scholarships to survivors who want to attend Catholic school.
Cathedral becker.jpg DIOCESAN SYNOD REPORT INTEGRATED INTO REGION III REPORT

08/16/2022
Report available on diocesan website now headed for the national report
Assumptionpope.JPG MARY TEACHES PRIMACY OF HUMILITY OVER POWER, SUCCESS

08/15/2022
On the Feast of the Assumption, Pope Francis addressed approximately 10,000 pilgrims and spoke about the humility and importance of the example set by the Blessed Mother.
Nuns1.png LCWR PRESIDENT OUTLINES 'MAP-SHAPING' CONCEPTS FOR FUTURE OF RELIGIOUS LIFE

08/15/2022
The president of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious outlined several suggestions for the future of religious life, ahead of 2023's Synod of Bishops on synodality.
Foodline.JPG FAMILIES, FOOD BANKS SEEK CREATIVE WAYS TO COUNTER INFLATION'S BITE

08/08/2022
The effects of inflation are being felt by everyone, including food pantries across the country.
PopeHandshake.JPG AMBASSADOR SAYS POPE WILL VISIT UKRAINE BEFORE KAZAKHSTAN TRIP

08/08/2022
Pope Francis is making plans to visit the war-torn country of Ukraine
Mailchimp Option 2.jpg 'REMARKABLE WOMEN OF FAITH' MOVED TO PUBLIC GRAVESITE

08/05/2022
Nine deceased Carmelite sisters reinterred at Gate of Heaven Cemetery
USCapitol.JPG HOUSE OKs ANTI-TRAFFICKING BILL TO 'PROTECT THE MOST VULNERABLE AMONG US'

08/01/2022
The House of Representatives voted to approve legislation to protect and support human trafficking victims
Kentucky Mailchimp 20220729T1040-KENTUCKY-HISTORIC-FLOODING-1732984_preview.jpg KENTUCKY CHURCHES, COMMUNITIES WORK TOGETHER TO MEET FLOOD VICTIMS' NEEDS

08/01/2022
From fresh food and water to emergency contacts, it's a minute-by-minute effort
CanadaPlane1.jpg AFTER CANADA VISIT, POPE DISCUSSES THE FUTURE OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

08/01/2022
Pope Francis discusses his trip to Canada, his health, the potential for more papal trips and changes to Church teachings.
Wheeler.jpg THE JOY OF SERRA CLUB MEMBERSHIP

07/31/2022
11-year member of the Serra Club, Dave Wayman gives a personal reflection on his experience
Vintage photo 20220722T1330-PAX-CHRISTI-USA-50-1730686_preview(1).jpg PAX CHRISTI CELEBRATES 50 YEARS PURSUING PEACE

07/26/2022
Pax Christi USA has remained persistent in pursuit of peace for 50 years
Cover story option 1 DSC_0129.JPG PANDEMIC USHERS IN NEW ERA OF TECHNOLOGY FOR DIOCESAN PARISHES

07/26/2022
New options for interaction and community strengthen ties
Edmonton2.jpg INDIGENOUS AND CATHOLIC: ONE CAN PROUDLY BE BOTH, POPE SAYS

07/26/2022
Pope Francis acknowledges the hurt caused by forcing Indigenous Catholics to attend residential schools.
PopeCanada2.jpg CANADIAN INDIGENOUS CATHOLICS SHARE TRADITIONS WITH POPE FRANCIS

07/25/2022
Indigenous priest shares practices that will be part of pope's Canada trip
Sister Fides 3.jpg MISSIONARY COOPERATIVE PLAN RESUMES AS COVID RESTRICTIONS RELAX

07/12/2022
Each parish in the diocese will host a missionary this year
Vatican Climate Treaties.jpg VATICAN CLIMATE TREATIES

07/11/2022
Vatican now a formal party to U.N. Framework Convention on climate change
Illinois 3.jpg BISHOPS SAY US MASS SHOOTINGS HAVE BECOME 'SHOCKINGLY COMMONPLACE'

07/11/2022
National bishop chairmen weigh in on Independence Day shooting
abortion.png CATHOLIC AGENCIES, CHURCH EXPECT TO HELP MORE WOMEN, NEWBORNS AFTER DOBBS

07/01/2022
Agencies will broaden services
ETHIOPIA-AID-COMPLICATIONS-1717067.JPG INFLATION, UKRAINE WAR COMPLICATE GETTING AID TO ETHIOPIA'S MOST NEEDY

06/30/2022
World issues are connected
22.jpg EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL BEGINS WITH PROCESSIONS THROUGHOUT DIOCESE, NATION

06/30/2022
Parishioners gather in Bradford, DuBois, Erie and Hermitage to honor and witness
LITURGY-LETTER-1717125 (1).JPG CATHOLICS NEED A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE MASS, POPE SAYS

06/30/2022
Dynamic liturgical formation needed, pope says
20220623T1716-CATHOLIC-CHARITIES-WELCOMING-NEWCOMERS-1716766.JPG AGENCY HEAD SAYS COMMUNITY RESPONSE TO RESETTLING REFUGEES 'OVERWHELMING'

06/27/2022
Immigrants served by Catholic Charities
IMG_5745.JPG DRAFT OF DOCUMENT BEING PREPARED FOR THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY SHARED WITH FACILITATORS

06/21/2022
'...a window into the hopes of the people we serve.'
IMG_5892.JPG 'WHAT A BLESSING YOU CONTINUE TO BE...'

06/20/2022
Bishop Persico offers Mass for sisters celebrating jubilees  
20220616T1540-CAJUN-CHEFS-KENTUCKY-TORNADO-RECOVERY-1716051.JPG KENTUCKY MAN'S POST-HURRICANE HELP SPURS 'CAJUN CHEFS' TO AID TORNADO VICTIMS

06/20/2022
Recipient remembers kindness
20220615T1045-UKRAINE-MILITARY-CHAPLAINS-1716459_preview.jpg THE SPIRITUAL AND THE HUMAN: CHAPLAINS HELP UKRAINIAN SOLDIERS WITH BOTH

06/20/2022
Chaplains are 'the voice of Christ'
National Story for Mailchimp.jpg CHEF URGES GRADUATES TO 'FEED THE WORLD' BY USING TALENTS TO SPREAD HOPE

06/14/2022
Word Central Kitchen's chef inspires class of 2022
Emmaus Sheila Grove.jpg PRAY FOR CLERGY DURING EMMAUS

06/13/2022
Bishop, priests, deacons headed for week-long convocation
Serra honorees for Mailchimp.jpeg SERRA CLUB OF ERIE HONORS PRIEST, SISTER, DEACON OF THE YEAR

06/13/2022
Bishop Persico thanks Serra for their ongoing support and prayers
IMG_5523.JPG BISHOP LAWRENCE PERSICO DEANERY PLANNING MEETING REMARKS

06/06/2022
Comments shared with parish leaders from Bradford, Oil City and West Erie deaneries
RELIGIOUS-FREEDOM-ANNUAL-REPORT-1715829.JPG BLINKEN CALLS RESPECT FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM 'VITAL FOREIGN POLICY PRIORITY'

06/06/2022
Progress made, more is needed
Bishop Persico COA_color_silver.jpg CHANGE IS IN THE AIR

06/06/2022
Large number of clergy assignments across the diocese announced over the weekend
Angelsatmamre-trinity-rublev-1410.jpg THE ICON OF THE HOLY TRINITY

06/06/2022
Icon inspires perspective on Holy Trinity
DSCN3486.jpg THREE NEW PRIESTS ORDAINED FOR THE DIOCESE OF ERIE

05/30/2022
'We choose these, our brethren, for the order of priesthood....'
CARDINALS-1715536 (1).JPG POPE ANNOUNCES NEW CARDINALS, INCLUDING U.S. BISHOP McELROY

05/30/2022
New cardinals hale from many countries
BUFFALO-SHOOTING-MEMORIALS-1715315.JPG BISHOPS PUSH GUN CONTROL; CALL MASS SHOOTINGS 'PRESSING LIFE ISSUE'

05/30/2022
Bishops respond to recent violence
IMG_9173.jpeg MIRACLE UPON MIRACLE: MARIA HOUSE PROJECT CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

05/24/2022
Hundreds gather to pray, reminisce and celebrate
SYNODALITY-CONSULTATION-DELIBERATION-1715024.JPG CARDINALS, THEOLOGIANS DISCUSS DECISION-MAKING ROLE OF LAITY IN CHURCH

05/23/2022
Synodality viewed as communion
BOOK-JOSEPH-1525716.JPG BOOK TELLS HOW ARTISTS TURNED ST. JOSEPH INTO COMPLEX HISTORICAL FIGURE

05/23/2022
Review highlights multiple perspectives
20220517T1056-SHOOTING-BUFFALO-1691112_preview.jpg BISHOPS EXPRESS SORROW, CONDEMN RACIALLY MOTIVATED SHOOTING IN BUFFALO

05/17/2022
'We can't give in to hopelessness,' Bishop Persico says
PAULINE-JARICOT-BEATIFICATION-1548522_preview.jpg POPE URGES MISSION SOCIETIES TO HAVE FAITH, COURAGE, CREATIVITY

05/17/2022
Points to missionary outreach as fundamental aspect of Catholicism
20220510T0845-VATICAN-LETTER-SAINTS-1595155_preview.jpg SAINTS' LIVES PROVE GOD'S LOVE FOR ALL; Saint Titus Brandsma among those canonized May 15

05/17/2022
Pope Francis canonizes 10 new saints
IMG_7658.JPG PASTORAL PLANNING UPDATE

05/10/2022
Three deaneries begin planning in earnest for third phase of restructuring
20180319T0821-POPE-PADRE-PIO-552864_preview.jpg PADRE PIO: THREE DEGREES OF SEPARATION

05/09/2022
A personal essay as the saint's relics come to the Diocese of Erie
Mailchimp international.jpeg POPE FRANCIS: VOCATION 'IS ABOUT MAKING GOD'S DREAM COME TRUE'

05/09/2022
Pope Francis' message for World Day of Prayer for Vocations
DONNELLY-AMBASSADOR-1525404.JPG MEET THE NEW US AMBASSADOR TO THE HOLY SEE, JOSEPH DONNELLY

05/09/2022
Ambassador reflects upon his mission
ukraine chaplain.jpg 'SMELL OF SHEEP' IN UKRAINE REEKS OF SCORCHED HOMES, DEATH, CHAPLAIN SAYS

05/03/2022
A challenge of mercy
ordination.jpg ANNUAL STUDY ON ORDINATION CLASS RELEASED AS CHURCH PREPARES FOR WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS

05/02/2022
Report highlights demographics and influences on vocations
DSCN3172.JPG IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO CELEBRATE SERVICE

05/02/2022
Gannon University honors St. Luke, Erie, students
MARYKNOLL-SOUTH-SUDAN-BASSANO-1526035.JPG DISPLACED SOUTH SUDANESE AT U.N. BASE LOOK TO MARYKNOLL PRIEST FOR HOPE

04/25/2022
Priest demonstrates commitment to ministry
TOLTON-SAINTHOOD-CAUSE-VATICAN-TEAM-1526116.JPG VATICAN OFFICIALS IN U.S. TO STUDY ALLEGED MIRACLES IN FATHER TOLTON'S CAUSE

04/25/2022
Father Tolton is first U. S. African American priest
Ferrick eucharist.png 'SOURCE AND SUMMIT' OF THE CATHOLIC FAITH IS FOCUS OF REVIVAL

04/22/2022
Three-year event begins June 19
RELIC-1525314.JPG ARCHBISHOP FROM ASSISI BRINGS FIRST-CLASS RELIC OF BLESSED ACUTIS TO U.S.

04/18/2022
Blessed Acutis is patron of Eucharistic Revival
EASTER-VIGIL-1525926.JPG CHRIST'S RESURRECTION BRINGS HOPE AMID 'EASTER OF WAR,' POPE SAYS

04/18/2022
Easter blessing urbi et orbi
Students in Crown.png FROM THE CLASSROOM TO DISCIPLESHIP

04/12/2022
Faith Formation Office unveils dramatic new approach for students in grades six through 12
20220406T0930-HOLY-LAND-HOLIDAYS-1525004.JPG AS THREE FEASTS CONVERGE, HOLY LAND CHRISTIAN HOPE FOR PEACE, TOURISM

04/11/2022
Hope for return to 'normalcy'
MOVIE-REVIEW-FATHER-STU-1524981.JPG WAHLBERG: REAL-LIFE FATHER STU HAS HIM 'CONTINUING TO CARRY ON HIS MESSAGE'

04/11/2022
Movie tells story of conversion
Dinner a.jpg SYNOD MEETINGS COME TO AN END

04/05/2022
Survey participation extended through Friday
LUBLIN-UKRAINIANS-PARISH-1524079.JPG ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH PLEDGES SOLIDARITY WITH UKRAINIANS DURING WARSAW VISIT

04/01/2022
Catholics in Poland extend hospitality
FIRST-NATIONS-1524609.JPG POPE APOLOGIZES FOR TREATMENT OF INDIGENOUS IN CANADA, PROMISES TO VISIT

04/01/2022
Representatives from First Nations meet with pope
KINO-VESPERS-COMMEMORATION-1524369.JPG TUCSON BISHOP RECALLS PADRE KINO'S ZEAL TO EVANGELIZE ACROSS VAST TERRITORY

04/01/2022
Missionary remembered for witnessing God's mercy
JESUITICAL-PODCAST-ANNIVERSARY-1523758 (1).JPG JESUITICAL MARKS FIVE YEARS; 'YOUNG, HIP AND LAY' PODCAST HAS GLOBAL REACH

03/28/2022
Podcast 'speaks' to young adult audience
CONSECRATION-1524239.JPG POPE CONSECRATES UKRAINE, RUSSIA TO MARY

03/28/2022
Consecration: "no magic formula but a spiritual act," pope says
PENANCE-SERVICE-1524238.JPG CONFESSION IS MORE ABOUT GOD'S FORGIVENESS THAN OUR SINS, POPE SAYS

03/28/2022
Confession is reason for joy
Relics 20220321T1615-BERNADETTE-RELICS-US-1523887_preview.jpg RELICS OF ST. BERNADETTE TO VISIT U.S.

03/22/2022
Several locations within a one-day drive from the Diocese of Erie
Warren IMG_7387a.jpg GENEROSITY ON TWO CONTINENTS

03/22/2022
Students at St. Joseph in Warren connect with refugee children in Slovakia
20220319T1030-VATICAN-INVESTMENTS-MISPERCEPTIONS-1523803_preview.jpg POPE PROMULGATES CURIA REFORM

03/22/2022
Stronger emphasis placed on the church's missionary nature
GP2.JPG STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT POVERTY IN THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY

03/11/2022
Global Poverty Project — year 3
CZERNY-UKRAINE-HUNGARY-1522927.JPG HORROR OF WAR 'LODGES IN YOUR GUT' WHEN RECOUNTED BY REFUGEES, CARDINAL SAYS

03/11/2022
Displacement has lasting impact
staircase.jpg MYSTERY, MIRACLE OR BOTH?

03/11/2022
The Loretto staircase
UTAH-ARTIST-1521804.JPG LOVE OF DRAWING, DOODLING LEADS TO NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR UTAH CATHOLIC

03/11/2022
Woman shares faith with doodles
IMG_5633.JPG BISHOP TRAUTMAN LAID TO REST

03/08/2022
Bishop Persico presides; Msgr. Smith offers homily
Catholic sisters week for mailchimp.png CARING FOR EARTH, CARING FOR YOU

03/07/2022
Catholic Sisters Week, March 8-14
MINNESOTA-ICE-MASS-1522155.JPG 'ICE MASS' ON FROZEN CAMPUS LAKE IN MINNESOTA DRAWS HUNDREDS OF STUDENTS

03/04/2022
Students gather at novel location
UKRAINIANS-MARY-SOURCE-OF-STRENGTH-1522528.JPG CENTURIES-OLD MARIAN ICON OFFERS SOLACE, PROTECTION AMID HORROR OF WAR

03/04/2022
Ukrainians look to Mary for hope
ASH-WED-1521975.JPG LENT 3.0: THIRD LENT IN PANDEMIC OFFERS CHANCE FOR SPIRITUAL RESET

03/01/2022
A joyful embrace of Lent
dreamstime_l_128588907.jpg MANY SCHOOLS GO MASK-OPTIONAL AS COVID CASES SUBSIDE

03/01/2022
Many recommendations have been revised
ZELENSKYY-SHEVCHUK-1522043.JPG ENDING CONFLICT REQUIRES DIALOGUE; VATICAN READY TO HELP, CARDINAL SAYS

03/01/2022
Pope Francis continues to advocate conflict resolution
family-saying-prayer-eating-roast-dinner-18044146.jpg REASONS TO BE GRATEFUL DURING A TIME OF PANDEMIC

11/19/2020
Taking stock of what is of value
Mission.png PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR WORLD MISSION DAY

10/12/2020
Mission needs continue in pandemic
Day of Prayer for Humanity.jpg DAY OF PRAYER FOR HUMANITY MAY 14

05/12/2020
Pontificate for Interreligious Dialogue calls for ecumenical day of prayer
Soviskys.jpg REFLECTIONS ON THE (VIRTUAL) REALITY OF OUR TIME

03/30/2020
Connections are made in time of distancing
Bishop in cathedral.jpg WE DO NOT FACE THIS PANDEMIC ALONE

03/22/2020
Bishop Persico offers words of comfort, hope in the face of the pandemic
leap date.jpg LEAP YEAR'S EXTRA DAY HAS A CATHOLIC ORIGIN

02/24/2020
Learn something new about leap day.
20200210T1042-33908-CNS-MIDEAST-PATRIARCHS-POPE (1).jpg MIDEAST PATRIARCHS CONCERNED ABOUT CHRISTIAN SURVIVAL

02/11/2020
Issue raised in private meeting with Holy Father
St. Joseph Husband of Mary, Anita.jpg SCHOOLS TO CLOSE, ANOTHER PARISH RELEGATED IN ONGOING STRATEGIC PLANNING

01/21/2020
Bishop Persico announces plans affecting Elk, Jefferson and Venango counties
shelter.jpg SOME DIOCESAN PARISHES SERVE AS OVERFLOW HOMELESS SHELTERS

01/14/2019
Part of broader 'Our Neighbors' Place' effort at various Erie-area churches
prolifebreakfast.jpeg 41st ANNUAL PRO-LIFE BREAKFAST DRAWS 500

01/13/2019
Speaker Obianuju Ekeocha discusses 'ideological colonialism'
Better Homes Old Closeup (002).jpg HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF ERIE PURCHASES BETTER HOUSING FOR ERIE

01/11/2019
Discussions between H.A.C.E. and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Erie began several months ago
thumbnail_PolicyUpdate.JPG Diocese confronts sex abuse history, updates child protection policy

04/06/2018
The Diocese of Erie—as part of a sweeping update to its Policy for the Protection of Children—announced on April 6 the names of 34 priests and 17 lay men and women who have been credibly accused