LOCAL NEWS

Fr. Jose Antonio Fortea, a priest of the Diocese of Alcala de Henares in Spain who has published numerous books on the subject of demonology and exorcism, visited the Valley May 28-30. Those who were hoping for a sensationalistic treatment of the topic were likely disappointed.

Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted blessed St. Henry's chapel and church hall during the vigil Mass for the Feast of the Ascension. The spaces mark the first of an ongoing multi-phase effort to permanently re-locate parish activities four-miles north of what is now called the “pastoral center” or “office location.”

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has struck down an Arizona law banning abortions after 20 weeks. The Mother's Health and Safety Act, passed by the Arizona Legislature and signed by Gov. Jan Brewer in 2012, was originally upheld by a federal judge but subsequently challenged.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has called for a two-week period of prayer and penance in defense of marriage, life and religious liberty. The “Fortnight for Freedom,” held for the first time during 2012, begins June 21.

Women considering an abortion will soon have a new window into the womb that could change their mind, thanks to the Knights of Columbus. Nine months ago, five local Knights of Columbus councils began fund raising efforts in order to help 1st Way Pregnancy Center purchase a 4-D ultrasound machine.

When Fr. José Antonio Fortea Cucurull began his ministry as an exorcist, he was the only one in all of Spain. That was some 15 years ago.

A federal mandate issued by the Obama administration is the target of 44 separate lawsuits, 58 cases and 190 plaintiffs — many of them Catholic — from across the country.

The Queen of Heaven is so revered for her relationship with Christ and her love and guidance of her earthly children, the Catholic Church has dedicated the month of May in her honor.

Founding Notre Dame Preparatory principal David Gonsalves is retiring after 12 years at the helm of the Scottsdale Catholic high school.

Nearly 1,100 students are expected to graduate from the six local Catholic high schools this month. They will do so wholly prepared for higher education, grounded in their Catholic faith and instilled with a desire to serve their community.