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In honor of tomorrow's diocesan women's conference, take a look at some stories over the last year or so pertaining to women in the church. Not in the reading mood? Fr. James Kubicki reflects on respect for women.

The Diocese of Phoenix, in partnership with area law enforcement agencies and fire departments, remembers all those who have died in the line of duty at the annual Blue Mass. Last week, a local parishioner's name was added to that list: Detective John T. Hobbs, a 21-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department.

I found myself waiting for Lent to begin on Ash Wednesday. I’ve been looking forward to this period of relationship with Jesus. I know what is coming for Him in His passion and death and I want to be there beside Him.

Tomorrow, weather permitting, marks the first full schedule of Spring Training games in the Valley. The 15 teams who train here bring with them the players who are big names today and rookies working their way up. They largely focus on training while in the Valley, but local Catholic efforts are affiliated with a few of the teams.

Talk to any of the nearly 6,400 parish-level Vincentians throughout the Diocese of Phoenix and they can vouch for how the challenge of poverty and hunger isn't limited to inner-city areas. There is actually more living in poverty in the suburbs than in big cities.

All six area Catholic high schools are putting on spring plays or musicals in the coming weeks. Be sure to check out at least one of them.

I just returned from one of my favorite annual activities – 4 days spent in Pomona, working with second year osteopathic medical students. My job was to supervise and direct their enthusiasm, idealism, and energy, as they tried to learn some of the intricacies of cranial treatment. I also tried to unobtrusively probe their commitment to Christian values.

The Faith & Values Awards gala is in Los Angeles today. I'm sure some great family-friendly movies and TV shows are among the nominees. Here is a small list of resources to find other family-friendly and Catholic DVDs and film guides.

Pop quiz for all of you who have lived in the Diocese of Phoenix for some time: You'll find the following headlines and news makers in our archived January issues in what year? Hint: it was the same time local Catholics celebrated a diocesan Year of the Family.

The Americans for Civil Liberties Union is suing the U.S. Bishops.