For Pope Francis, a year of reform and evangelization

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- As leader of the universal church, a pope must direct his ministry in both of the ways traditionally described by the Latin terms "ad intra" and "ad extra": inwardly to the church itself, and outwardly to the rest of the world.

Former student recalls life lessons from literature teacher, the pope

Jorge Milia, today an Argentine writer, reveals in a lengthy interview then-Father Jorge Bergoglio's approach to education and teaching methods, which also shed light on his pastoral style as pope.

Lost in the line of duty

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.

Pope, in interview, suggests church could tolerate some civil unions

Pope Francis suggested the Catholic Church could tolerate some types of nonmarital civil unions as a practical measure to guarantee property rights and health care. He also said the church would not change its teaching against artificial birth control but should take care to apply it with "much mercy."

Lent comes ‘to reawaken us,’ pope says at Ash Wednesday Mass

ROME (CNS) — Lent is meant to wake up Christians and help them see that God can give them the strength to change their...

Lent calls Catholics to deeper faith, stronger love, sacrifice

The worldwide Church is about to embark on its annual 40-day retreat. The season of Lent, with its ashes, palms and purple vestments intermingled...

Spring training fever strikes local Catholics

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.

Priest’s ministry helps kids overcome trauma of living on the streets

A group of young boys scurried about their cottage completing household chores, all part of the normal daily routine at the House and Treasure of St. Martin de Porres.

Upcoming conferences aimed at leading Catholic women, men to holiness

The fourth annual Phoenix Catholic Women’s Conference is set for March 15 at St. Paul Parish in Phoenix. A week later, guys will gather March 22 at Xavier College Preparatory to hear five guest speakers address “Resolution” and “Faith of Our Fathers” at the annual Catholic Men’s Conference.

Pope: Anointing the sick doesn’t bring bad luck, it brings Jesus

Never hesitate to call a priest to bless and anoint sick or elderly family members, Pope Francis said. The sacrament brings Jesus closer to those in need, strengthening their faith and hope.