Catholic News

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288668&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Sep 24, 2025 / 18:08 pm (CNA).

Opposition is mounting against Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich's decision to honor U.S. Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Illinois, with a "lifetime achievement award" for his work surrounding immigration policy despite his long pro-abortion voting record. 

Following Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Illinois' denunciation of the decision, additional bishops have followed suit in speaking out against the upcoming ceremony honoring Durbin, scheduled to take place in November. 

Bishop David Ricken of Green Bay, Wisconsin, is among those criticizing Cupich's plan, writing: "The Archdiocese of Chicago's plan to give [Durbin] a Catholic 'Lifetime Achievement Award' is untenable." 

"Works of justice & protecting life are not mutually exclusive but must be inclusive," Ricken continued, adding: "I join [Paprocki] & [Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone] in urging [Cupich] to retract this award. Let us together pray & act consistently for life!" 

Ricken's statement comes on the heels of similar remarks by Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, who spoke out against Cupich's plan earlier this week. 

"I stand in solidarity with Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Illinois, in urging Cardinal Cupich to reconsider giving Senator Durbin a Lifetime Achievement Award through the Archdiocese of Chicago's Office of Human Dignity and Solidarity given his long record of supporting legal abortion," Cordileone wrote. 

"Bishop Paprocki, who is Senator Dick Durbin's bishop, has expressed shock that the archdiocese plans to honor Senator Durbin who, although a self-professed Catholic, supports access to abortion so radically that he has even opposed legislation to protect babies born after an attempted abortion," Cordileone continued. "Bishop Paprocki is correct that both clarity and unity are at risk. I hope this will be a clarion call to all members of the body of Christ to speak out to make clear the grave evil that is the taking of innocent human life."

In a subsequent post, Cordileone added: "Imagine this: A prominent member of the U.S. Senate has a very strong record on defending the human dignity of life in the womb but also advocates for funding for Border Patrol agents to shoot people trying to enter the country illegally. Would anyone think it reasonable to honor such a senator for the senator's pro-life record on abortion? No one who advocates for the direct, intentional killing of innocent human life should be honored. Period."

"I pray for the good of the Church this award is not given to Senator Durbin and the scandal it will likely cause the faithful is avoided," Bishop James Conley of Lincoln, Nebraska, chimed in on Tuesday, noting that he was also "shocked and bewildered" to learn of Cupich's plan to honor Durbin. 

"The senator's public record has been consistently pro-abortion and he has opposed any protections or safeguards for unborn children in the womb, even to the point of rejecting legislation to protect children who survive failed abortions," Conley wrote. "That goes against the fundamental moral principles of the Catholic Church. It seems to me there is still time to reconsider this decision."

Meanwhile, Bishop James Wall of Gallup, New Mexico, expressed his support for the position taken by Paprocki, thanking the Springfield bishop for his First Things op-ed in a social media post on Wednesday morning. Wall quoted St. John Paul II's encyclical Evangelium Vitae in a post linking to the article: "Man's life comes from God; it is his gift, his image and imprint, a sharing in his breath of life. God therefore is the sole Lord of this life: Man cannot do with it as he wills."

Cupich offered a defense of his decision in a Sept. 22 statement, writing: "I have remained faithful to the May 2021 instructions of the then-Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, advising bishops to 'reach out to and engage in dialogue with Catholic politicians within their jurisdictions ... as a means of understanding the nature of their positions and their comprehension of Catholic teaching.'"

"At the heart of the consistent ethic of life is the recognition that Catholic teaching on life and dignity cannot be reduced to a single issue, even an issue as important as abortion," Cupich continued. 

Cupich emphasized that Durbin would be honored for his efforts to advance Catholic social teaching in immigration, care for the poor, Laudato Si', and world peace.

"The recognition of his defense of immigrants at this moment, when they are subjected to terror and harm, is not something to be regretted but a reflection that the Lord stands profoundly with both immigrants who are in danger and those who work to protect them," he said.

Durbin has been prohibited from receiving the Eucharist in what has been previously reported as his home Diocese of Springfield, Illinois — the state capital — since 2004 due to his pro-abortion voting record. In his statement, Cupich claimed that Durbin had transferred to the Archdiocese of Chicago "some years ago." 

Prominent pro-life leaders have also weighed in. Live Action President Lila Rose condemned the plan to award Durbin, writing: "This is shameful. The blood of innocent children cries out."

Students for Life President Kristan Hawkins also addressed Cupich in a post on Tuesday, asking the Chicago cardinal: "If a politician had spent decades voting against laws to stop the live dismemberment of African Americans, Jews, or other minority group in America, would you still give him a lifetime achievement award … citing his 'good' votes on other issues?"

"I don't think so," she said, adding: "You are treating preborn children as less than full persons."

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288665&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Puebla, Mexico, Sep 24, 2025 / 15:57 pm (CNA).

The Diocese of Tlaxcala, the oldest in Mexico, is commemorating the quincentennial of its canonical establishment with a 500-hour period of continuous Eucharistic adoration before the Blessed Sacrament as an expression of gratitude and renewal of faith.

The initiative began on Sept. 12 and will conclude on Oct. 3, with the hours being distributed among the 93 churches that make up the seven deaneries of the diocese. Each deanery is responsible for 50 hours of adoration.

A statement noted that the objective of the activity is to spiritually prepare for the celebration of the jubilee of the 500th anniversary "as a form of thanksgiving and renewal of faith."

Parish priests, vicars, and community leaders are also invited to promote the initiative during Sunday Masses and encourage families, parish groups, and the faithful in general "to join in this moment of unity around Christ."

This period of adoration is part of the commemorative program for the five centuries of the diocese's existence. At a Sept. 23 press conference, the diocese announced that a jubilee Mass will be held on Oct. 12 at 11 a.m. local time at the Conciliar Seminary of Our Lady of Ocotlán, celebrated by Archbishop Joseph Spiteri, apostolic nuncio to Mexico.

During the ceremony, a replica of the image Our Lady of Guadalupe will be presented along with three palm branches in memory of the Holy Children Martyrs, a heart symbolizing Mary's maternal love under her title of Our Lady of Ocotlán, and the sending off on mission of more than 1,000 catechists. Parish Masses will be canceled on that day so that the entire community can participate in the solemn jubilee Mass.

It was also reported that the official blessing and consecration of the Holy Cathedral of Tlaxcala — a former Franciscan convent dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in July 2021 — will take place on Oct. 13. Although the church has historically functioned as a cathedral, it had never been formally dedicated. The ceremony will also be conducted by the apostolic nuncio.

The first diocese in Mexico

The website of the Diocese of Tlaxcala notes that the diocese was the first episcopal see established on the mainland of New Spain. Although Pope Leo X established the diocese of Yucatán in 1519, it was never consolidated due to the scarcity of the population. 

The history of the diocese began with the arrival of the first evangelizers: "When the Spanish arrived on the American continent, they brought the Catholic faith with them. Along with Hernán Cortés, Friar Bartolomé de Olmedo and the cleric Juan Díaz arrived, who celebrated the first Mass in New Spain in the lands of what is now Mexico, in 1519," the website explains.

It wasn't until 1527 that the Dominican friar Julián Garcés arrived in Tlaxcala, took possession of the Franciscan monastery, and formally established the episcopal see in the Church of the Assumption.

Although the see was later moved to the state of Puebla, Tlaxcala retains its historical roots. After centuries of changes and the temporary loss of the diocese's name, Pope John XXIII reinstated the current diocese in 1959.

The diocese's faithful celebrate its history and mission annually, giving thanks "for the gift of life and to Mary for her intercession on behalf of this people who love her," the diocese website states. 

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288661&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Vatican City, Sep 24, 2025 / 07:24 am (CNA).

Pope Leo XIV renewed the Holy See's support for a two-state solution in the Holy Land and voiced concern over rising tensions in Ukraine, speaking with reporters Tuesday before returning from Castel Gandolfo to the Vatican.

"The Holy See has supported the two-state solution for many years," the pope recalled, pointing out that the Vatican formally recognized Palestine in 2015 with the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement. "The Holy See recognized the two-state solution some time ago. That is clear: We must seek a path that respects all peoples."

Asked whether broader international recognition of Palestine might help, he said: "It could help, but right now there is no real willingness to listen on the part of the other side; dialogue is broken."

The pope confirmed that he had spoken by phone the same day with the Catholic parish in Gaza. "Thank God, the parish is fine, although the incursions are getting closer and closer... This afternoon I got in touch with them," he said.

On Ukraine, he cautioned: "Someone is seeking an escalation. It's getting more and more dangerous. I continue to insist on the need to lay down arms, halt military advances, and return to the negotiating table." He stressed the importance of European unity, saying: "If Europe were truly united, I believe it could do a lot."

Pressed on whether rearmament in Europe is necessary, the pope declined to weigh in directly: "These are political matters, also influenced by external pressure on Europe. I prefer not to comment."

Regarding Vatican diplomacy, he explained: "We are in constant dialogue with ambassadors. We also try to speak with heads of state when they come, always seeking a solution."

Rosary for peace in October

At his weekly general audience on Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics around the world to dedicate October to praying the rosary for peace.

"Dear brothers and sisters, the month of October is now approaching, and in the Church it is dedicated in a special way to the holy rosary. Therefore, I invite everyone, every day of the coming month, to pray the rosary for peace: personally, in the family, in the community," he said.

The pope asked Vatican employees to join in this prayer daily at 7 p.m. in St. Peter's Basilica. He also announced that on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 6 p.m., he will lead a rosary in St. Peter's Square during the vigil for the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality, marking as well the anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council.

Catechesis: Christ descends to the depths

Continuing his catechesis for the Jubilee of 2025 on the theme "Jesus Christ Our Hope," the pope reflected on the mystery of Holy Saturday and Christ's descent into the realm of the dead.

"Today, again, we will look at the mystery of Holy Saturday. It is the day of the paschal mystery in which everything seems immobile and silent, while in reality an invisible action of salvation is being fulfilled: Christ descends into the realm of the dead to bring the news of the Resurrection to all those who were in the darkness and in the shadow of death," he said.

"This event, which the liturgy and tradition have handed down to us, represents the most profound and radical gesture of God's love for humanity," the pope said. "Indeed, it is not enough to say or to believe that Jesus died for us: It is necessary to recognize that the fidelity of his love sought us out where we ourselves were lost, where only the power of a light capable of penetrating the realm of darkness can reach."

He noted that Christ's descent is not just a past event but one that touches every believer today: "The underworld is not only the condition of the dead but also of those who live death as a result of evil and sin. It is also the daily hell of loneliness, shame, abandonment, and the struggle of life. Christ enters into all these dark realities to bear witness to the love of the Father. Not to judge, but to set free. Not to blame, but to save."

The pope concluded: "Dear brothers and sisters, to descend, for God, is not a defeat but the fulfillment of his love. It is not a failure but the way by which he shows that no place is too far away, no heart is too closed, no tomb too tightly sealed for his love. This consoles us, this sustains us. And if at times we seem to have hit rock bottom, let us remember: that is the place from which God is able to begin a new creation."

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288658&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

ACI Prensa Staff, Sep 24, 2025 / 07:00 am (CNA).

At age 94 and with seven decades of priesthood behind him, Catalan priest Father José Giner, who has lived in Ecuador for 70 years, said he doesn't feel like a teacher but rather like a "disciple."

"At this age, I don't feel like a teacher at all: I'm still a disciple. I don't want to be a 'has-been priest'; that's why I strive to keep up to date; I read a lot, and I ask young people to correct me," he said in an interview with ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner.

Giner surprises many with his vitality: He starts the day with a cold shower, does exercises, plays pingpong, watches sports, reads, and spends time woodworking, where he creates religious art. And, most importantly, he said he celebrates Mass twice a day.

"I'm a very ordinary man, but with something wonderful: Christ, who is the true sun. I'm a poor 94-year-old man — that's my true description. The essential thing is that I am a priest for eternity, and everything else is secondary. I believe the goal of life is to work for God and allow his goodness to penetrate us completely," he said.

"I think very little about myself because I was always taught to value and appreciate others. With these values, I say, 'Lord, I contribute very little,' but what matters is what I can give as a priest," he explained.

The priest, a member of Opus Dei who belongs to St. Josemaría Church in Guayaquil, also highlighted the fraternity he shares with his brother priests. In total, he has 15-20 priest friends, all from the apostolate, who meet frequently to read, play guitar, sing, and share lunch. He emphasized that it is an atmosphere of unity and fraternity.

The secret to his health

Giner said he exercises every day. "It's important, and doctors always recommend it. Also — although it may seem funny — I have an electric skateboard. Sometimes I use it near my house; people laugh when they see me, and I say, 'Bye, bye!' because I'm so happy," he shared with a laugh.

"I also read a lot. I have a very sharp mind and I like to read scientists, important authors, and also novelists. I never say 'I'm tired'; on the contrary, I think you have to walk and move. Thanks to that, I feel very agile: I walk calmly, I move without problems. Sometimes my body aches — it's natural — but I feel that God gives me the grace to stay on my feet. That's the strength that sustains me," he explained.

However, he said the most important thing in his daily life is celebrating Mass and praying: "I celebrate Mass every day, always. The most important thing is that I have tried to pray a lot. I have prayers to maintain my inner peace, and God has given me a very contemplative life. I spend all day talking to the Lord."

The priest said that when he raises his gaze to heaven, he asks God: "Give me, Lord, your light: Give it to this neighborhood, to these girls and boys, to all who need it. Grant them the fire of the Holy Spirit, because that is what sets us on fire and gives us life." 

"Everything else is fleeting, something external," he added.

St. Josemaría Escrivá invited him to become a priest

Giner, originally from Barcelona, ??Spain, arrived in Ecuador 70 years ago and considers it his spiritual home. "Sometimes I travel, but my life is here, in Guayaquil. I have worked in schools like Torremar, always in contact with young people. That has been a wonderful part of my life, because being with young people gives you special strength."

His vocation emerged in adolescence, when he discovered Opus Dei. "At 17, I asked to be admitted to the [apostolate]. Later, in Rome, I had the grace of meeting St. Josemaría Escrivá personally and lived with him for three years. He was a true father to me, and that helped me to make that final gift of myself to my priestly vocation."

It was St. Josemaría himself who asked Giner if he wanted to be a priest and told him it was "the greatest celebration a man can experience in this world." For Giner, that call meant serving God and contributing to making the world a better place.

"Then I came to Ecuador, where I have served for so many years. I am a theologian, I completed all my studies, but beyond academic knowledge, the important thing is the wisdom to live the faith day by day," he said.

Priests, 'a country's treasure'

For 25 years, Giner was a judicial vicar in Ecuador, an experience he said he values ??for his accompaniment of other priests. "That has given me great inner peace, because I deeply love and value my brother priests. For me, they are 'a country's treasure.' If there are no priests in a country, we are facing an immense catastrophe."

What brings him the greatest joy when looking back on his life is knowing that in his 70 years of priesthood, "there have been so many people who have converted, so many people who have drawn closer to God… So many souls I have been able to accompany… And there are wonderful things that, I believe, remain between God and oneself."

"They call me at any time, even if I'm having lunch or dinner, and I drop everything to hear a confession. Why? Because I believe that a soul is worth much more than anything we have around us. And that gives me great joy," he added.

Message to the new generations

Amid his reflections, the priest had special words for young people. "I tell young people: Be faithful, because God gives you the grace."

"I ask people, and especially priests, to be very faithful, very real, joyful, happy, and spiritual; to be steeped in the Bible and pedagogy, and to understand that they are a fundamental pillar of a country's culture and tradition," he noted.

Giner reiterated that if there were a lack of priests, the world would become "a dark, almost frozen place." 

"That's why I insist: The important thing is to be faithful. That fidelity is what sustains the Church and illuminates the world," he said.

"The priesthood is forever: It brings joy, divine happiness, and, above all, a totally full life… People seek a full life; the priest embodies it because, in a certain sense, it is a participation in Christ, in the Holy Spirit; it is a vocation that lasts," he added.

A critical moment for the Church

Giner said he believes a profound moral crisis began in 1968, symbolized by the Sorbonne University motto "It Is Forbidden to Forbid." For him, the slogan paved the way for a cultural and spiritual decline that has deepened in recent decades.

"The change has been immense," he said. "Young people today are often unpunctual, superficial, and lack a sense of responsibility. But I try to adapt to that world and, at the same time, elevate it."

He emphasized that, despite the current challenges, he trusts in the Church's fidelity: "God's hands are not closed to his love or mercy. He continues to illuminate us like the golden rays of the sun."

"Today we are at a critical moment for the Church, but it is also an opportunity that God gives us to draw closer to him. If there is anything that truly needs to be saved in the world, it is the Church and the peace of God. Everything else is fleeting, it goes away like smoke," he said.

Regarding the future, he has confidence: "Many are afraid, but I say: 'Why?' Every century has had its own fears, but the future is in God's hands. This gives fantastic sensibility and profound peace."

Looking back and reflecting on his mission in life, he said: "Seventy years is like watching the leaves fall from a tree. You can't stand still, because day by day God's will is fulfilled." 

He concluded: "The important thing, in the end, is to always seek the meaning of the life that God has given us."

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288657&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Vatican City, Sep 24, 2025 / 07:24 am (CNA).

Pope Leo XIV renewed the Holy See's support for a two-state solution in the Holy Land and voiced concern over rising tensions in Ukraine, speaking with reporters Tuesday before returning from Castel Gandolfo to the Vatican.

"The Holy See has supported the two-state solution for many years," the pope recalled, pointing out that the Vatican formally recognized Palestine in 2015 with the signing of the Global Agreement. He added, "The Holy See recognized the two-state solution some time ago. That is clear: we must seek a path that respects all peoples."

Asked whether broader international recognition of Palestine might help, he said: "It could help, but right now there is no real willingness to listen on the part of the other side; dialogue is broken."

The pope confirmed that he had spoken by phone the same day with the Catholic parish in Gaza. "Thank God, the parish is fine, although the incursions are getting closer and closer... This afternoon I got in touch with them," he said.

On Ukraine, he cautioned: "Someone is seeking an escalation. It's getting more and more dangerous. I continue to insist on the need to lay down arms, halt military advances, and return to the negotiating table." He stressed the importance of European unity, saying, "If Europe were truly united, I believe it could do a lot."

Pressed on whether rearmament in Europe is necessary, the pope declined to weigh in directly: "These are political matters, also influenced by external pressure on Europe. I prefer not to comment."

Regarding Vatican diplomacy, he explained: "We are in constant dialogue with ambassadors. We also try to speak with heads of state when they come, always seeking a solution."

Rosary for peace in October

At his weekly general audience on Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics around the world to dedicate October to praying the Rosary for peace.

"Dear brothers and sisters, the month of October is now approaching, and in the Church it is dedicated in a special way to the Holy Rosary. Therefore, I invite everyone, every day of the coming month, to pray the Rosary for peace: personally, in the family, in the community," he said.

The pope asked Vatican employees to join in this prayer daily at 7 p.m. in St. Peter's Basilica. He also announced that on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 6 p.m., he will lead a Rosary in St. Peter's Square during the vigil for the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality, marking as well the anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council.

Catechesis: Christ descends to the depths

Continuing his catechesis for the Jubilee of 2025 on the theme Jesus Christ our Hope, the pope reflected on the mystery of Holy Saturday and Christ's descent into the realm of the dead.

"Today, again, we will look at the mystery of Holy Saturday. It is the day of the Paschal Mystery in which everything seems immobile and silent, while in reality an invisible action of salvation is being fulfilled: Christ descends into the realm of the dead to bring the news of the Resurrection to all those who were in the darkness and in the shadow of death," he said.

"This event, which the liturgy and tradition have handed down to us, represents the most profound and radical gesture of God's love for humanity," the pope said. "Indeed, it is not enough to say or to believe that Jesus died for us: it is necessary to recognize that the fidelity of his love sought us out where we ourselves were lost, where only the power of a light capable of penetrating the realm of darkness can reach."

He noted that Christ's descent is not just a past event, but one that touches every believer today: "The underworld is not only the condition of the dead, but also of those who live death as a result of evil and sin. It is also the daily hell of loneliness, shame, abandonment, and the struggle of life. Christ enters into all these dark realities to bear witness to the love of the Father. Not to judge, but to set free. Not to blame, but to save."

The pope concluded: "Dear brothers and sisters, to descend, for God, is not a defeat, but the fulfillment of his love. It is not a failure, but the way by which he shows that no place is too far away, no heart is too closed, no tomb too tightly sealed for his love. This consoles us, this sustains us. And if at times we seem to have hit rock bottom, let us remember: that is the place from which God is able to begin a new creation."

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288639&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

ACI Prensa Staff, Sep 23, 2025 / 15:12 pm (CNA).

The Vatican's secretary for relations with states, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, on Tuesday reaffirmed before the United Nations the Holy See's commitment to promoting the dignity and equality of women but warned that these goals cannot be achieved without respecting dignity "from the unborn to the elderly."

"Women's equality cannot be achieved unless the dignity of all people is respected, especially the most fragile and vulnerable, from the unborn to the elderly," the archbishop, a native of Liverpool, England, said Sept. 23.

Gallagher gave his address on the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, and the text was released by the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations in New York.

The archbishop emphasized that the protection of the right to life "is essential, as it underpins all other fundamental rights."

Gallagher also called for comprehensive, quality health care for pregnant women, noting: "Although maternal mortality rates have dropped significantly since 1990, progress has stalled in recent years. Access to prenatal care and skilled birth attendants as well as to health care systems and infrastructure must increase, while false solutions such as abortion rejected."

Don't focus on 'divisive issues'

The prelate therefore stated that the Holy See hopes that, "instead of focusing on divisive issues that are not necessarily beneficial to women, states fulfill their commitments to ensure equality for women and respect for their God-given dignity."

Gallagher recalled that the Beijing Declaration — the commitment adopted by 189 countries at the Fourth World Conference on Women, organized by the U.N. in September 1995 in China — was a decisive milestone in the promotion of women's rights.

However, he pointed out that there are issues that "remain unaddressed."

Specifically, he referred to "the higher extreme poverty rate among women," the "obstacles" to accessing quality education — and even "exclusion from it" — and "lower wages in the workforce."

Gallagher made it clear that these conditions "impede the full achievement of women's equal dignity and ability to fulfill their potential in all spheres of life."

Alarming level of violence against girls and women

The archbishop focused on the continued prevalence of "violence against women and girls," which he said is "deeply alarming."

"Wherever it occurs, at home, during trafficking, or in conflict and humanitarian settings, it constitutes an affront to their dignity and is a grave injustice," he emphasized.

He also noted that technology is also being used to "exacerbate certain forms of abuse and violence."

Gallagher pointed out that violence is not limited to "sexual exploitation and trafficking" but also includes "the practices of prenatal sex selection and female infanticide."

"These acts, condemned in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, continue to result in the deaths of millions of 'missing girls' each year," he stated.

The archbishop insisted that any form of violence against women and girls is "unacceptable and must be combated."

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288638&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Sep 23, 2025 / 16:52 pm (CNA).

Chicago archbishop Cardinal Blase Cupich is defending his decision to honor pro-abortion Illinois Democrat Sen. Richard Durbin with an award at the archdiocese's upcoming Keep Hope Alive immigration ministry fundraiser.

"Recently some have criticized the decision of the Archdiocese of Chicago to recognize Sen. Dick Durbin at our annual fundraiser for our immigration ministry," Cupich wrote in a Sept. 22 statement, which came after several bishops spoke out against the move.

"Sen. Durbin informed me some years ago that he has taken up residence in Chicago, registered in a parish of the archdiocese, and considers me to be his bishop," Cupich stated. "Accordingly, I have remained faithful to the May 2021 instructions of the then-Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, advising bishops to 'reach out to and engage in dialogue with Catholic politicians within their jurisdictions ... as a means of understanding the nature of their positions and their comprehension of Catholic teaching.'"

Durbin has been prohibited from receiving the Eucharist in what has been previously reported as his home diocese of Springfield — the state capital — since 2004. In a Sept. 23 article in First Things magazine titled "Sen. Durbin Is Unfit to Receive Any Catholic Honor," Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Illinois, wrote that he was "shocked" to hear of the Chicago Archdiocese's plan to honor Durbin with a lifetime achievement award.

"Because this decision threatens to scandalize the faithful and injure the bonds of ecclesial communion, it should be reversed," he stated, noting Durbin's pro-abortion voting record includes efforts to block legislation banning post-birth abortions and protections for babies who survive failed abortions. 

In light of Durbin's record, Paprocki said "it is absurd that Sen. Durbin should be given an award from the office of 'human dignity and solidarity.'" 

Paprocki pointed out that bestowing an award on Durbin violates Church teaching and goes against what U.S. bishops have said on the matter as well as the Archdiocese of Chicago's own policies regarding honors and awards, which state: "Any Catholic entity subject to the authority of the archbishop of Chicago … shall not give awards or honors or host presentations, speaking opportunities, or appearances by individuals or organizations whose public position is in opposition to the fundamental moral principles of the Catholic Church."

The Springfield bishop further claimed Cupich "did not consult with me about this award or even notify me about his decision," despite Durbin remaining under his care as a resident of Springfield.

"This failure to consult with a brother bishop concerning a member of his diocese is even more troubling given the fact that Cardinal Cupich knows that Sen. Durbin has not been permitted to receive holy Communion in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois since 2004," Paprocki added.

Addressing criticism on Monday surrounding his decision, Cupich said: "At the heart of the consistent ethic of life is the recognition that Catholic teaching on life and dignity cannot be reduced to a single issue, even an issue as important as abortion."

Cupich emphasized that Durbin would be honored for his efforts to advance Catholic social teaching in immigration, care for the poor, Laudato Si', and world peace.

"The recognition of his defense of immigrants at this moment, when they are subjected to terror and harm, is not something to be regretted but a reflection that the Lord stands profoundly with both immigrants who are in danger and those who work to protect them," Cupich said. 

In a social media post on X, San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone expressed his solidarity with Paprocki and urged Cupich to "reconsider" granting Durbin a lifetime achievement award, "given his long record of supporting legal abortion."

Cordileone described Paprocki as "Sen. Dick Durbin's bishop" and stated that "he is correct that both clarity and unity are at risk" in giving Durbin the award.

"I hope this will be a clarion call to all members of the body of Christ to speak out to make clear the grave evil that is the taking of innocent human life," Cordileone added.

Responding to Cupich's latest statement, in an email to CNA Illinois Right to Life President Mary Kate Zander cited the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which states: "Formal cooperation in an abortion constitutes a grave offense. The Church attaches a canonical penalty of excommunication to this crime against human life."

"The killing of the defenseless child in the womb is a grave moral evil," Zander told CNA. "Cardinal Cupich's apparent indifference to this reality is scandalous in every sense of the word. His ambiguity poses a great risk to all persons who might be affected by a lack of clarity on this issue."

According to Zander, Durbin's record on immigration "simply does not matter so long as he refuses to acknowledge that it is evil to murder an unborn child." Further, she said, Durbin's support for abortion, especially partial-birth abortion, places his soul "at serious risk."

"Our organization will proceed with our protest and we intend to work with local, state, and national pro-life organizations to bring clarity to this highly scandalous event," she said. "Make no mistake: The Lord always extends his infinite mercy to those who seek it, but it is our hope that no person will be confused by the cardinal's actions — abortion is a very grave sin."

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288637&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

CNA Staff, Sep 23, 2025 / 17:22 pm (CNA).

In one of his final acts as the bishop of Monterey, California, Bishop Daniel Garcia issued a letter terminating the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM) in the diocese "in order to strengthen our unity with the universal Church" and "to support [Pope Francis'] goal of moving toward greater unity in the postconciliar Roman rite." 

Garcia issued the letter to the Latin Mass community, located at Sacred Heart Church in Hollister, California, on Sept. 14, four days before he was installed as the new bishop of Austin, Texas.

In the letter, Garcia expressed his concern that the pastor at Sacred Heart, Father Stephen Akers, be "able to give his full attention to the entire parish rather than taking his limited time spent with a small group of individuals who are not worshipping according to ordinary (and one) rite of the Latin Church," as the number of those who attend the "preconciliar" Mass is "very small."

Garcia cited Pope Francis' motu proprio Traditionis Custodes as well as the "Letter to the Bishops of the Whole World" that accompanied it, which addressed "the rare situation" of the Church "having two liturgies being celebrated in the one Latin rite."

Garcia said the Church is "moving us to greater unity in worship," saying St. Paul VI had "declared the new rite an expression of the Church's unity" as reflected by the unanimity of the [Second Vatican] Council Fathers" as well as postconciliar documents.

He ordered Akers to stop celebrating the TLM after Oct. 13 at Sacred Heart Church. 

The bishop said he came to the decision after consulting with the chancellor, Deacon David Ford, and the director of the tribunal, Cecilia Brennan, who had visited the Latin Mass community in Hollister in the last few months.

He admonished the Latin Mass community to "join in unity with the parish … as they gather around the table of the Lord celebrating the rich Eucharistic sacrifice, each Sunday, which has been a great fruit of the Council" in order "to build the unity Pope Leo spoke about in the Mass he celebrated early in his pontificate," which called the Church to become "a leaven of harmony for humanity."

Garcia was named as the bishop of Austin on July 2 and installed on Sept. 18.

Bishop Slawomir Szkredka was named the apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Monterey on Sept. 19. 

Earlier this year, the Vatican granted a parish in Texas an exemption from restrictions to the TLM imposed by Traditionis Custodes. 

The exemption, requested by Bishop Michael Sis on Feb. 6, was granted to St. Margaret of Scotland Parish in the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas.

No other such exemption by Pope Leo XIV has been reported since the start of his pontificate. 

Akers, the pastor at Sacred Heart Church, declined to comment.

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288636&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Sep 23, 2025 / 17:59 pm (CNA).

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has launched the "Cabrini Pledge" intended to help Catholics in "witnessing to the God-given dignity of every person, including the migrants and refugees in our midst," as the Catholic Church in the U.S. observes National Migration Week. 

Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso, Texas, introduced the pledge in a video message, imploring U.S. Catholics to join the effort.

"With one voice, we proclaim every person, regardless of where they are born, is created in the image of God and has an inherent dignity that deserves respect," Seitz said, noting this sentiment guided the ministry of Mother Francis Xavier Cabrini, the patron saint of immigrants. 

"By signing this pledge, you make an intentional commitment to living out the Gospel, not an abstraction, but through acts of solidarity that affirm the inherent dignity of every person," he continued. "Through prayer, encounter, and civic engagement, we can transform fear into compassion and create a world where no one feels less than human because of their immigration status."

"The history of the U.S. Catholic Church, like the history of the United States itself, is very much intertwined with the phenomenon of migration," the USSCB also stated.

In the "Cabrini Pledge: An Invitation to be Keepers of Hope," the bishops invite America's Catholics to follow the example of Cabrini, an Italian immigrant who "accompanied her fellow immigrants and others living on the margins of society with a great missionary zeal."

The pledge includes seven parts, including a promise to affirm the human dignity of every person regardless of immigration status or country of origin, to encourage civic dialogue about policymaking grounded in the Church's understanding of human dignity, and to join Pope Leo XIV in praying for all migrants and refugees. 

"As Catholics, we are called to recognize the face of Christ in each person we encounter, especially the poor and vulnerable," the bishops said. "The Gospel and the social teaching of the Church continually affirm the equal dignity of every person, irrespective of race, nationality, or immigration status."

"The Cabrini Pledge is both a reminder of our immigrant heritage and a call to deeper engagement with our faith in response to current events," the USCCB added.

While "political divisions and reasonable disagreements about immigration policy" pervade across the country, the bishops continued, "by witnessing to the God-given dignity of every person, including the migrants and refugees in our midst, we pave the way for an approach rooted in mercy, justice, and the common good."

Full Article

http://www.myspiritfm.com/news?blogid=8838&view=post&articleid=288631&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0

ACI Africa, Sep 23, 2025 / 11:35 am (CNA).

Archbishop Zeferino Zeca Martins of Angola's Archdiocese of Huambo has urged members of the Catholic Men Organization (CMO) in the southern African nation to be involved in the fight against societal voices, strengthen faith practice in their families, and exemplify integrity.

In his homily during a Mass of thanksgiving marking the 11th anniversary of the Movimento dos Esposos da Promaica (MEP) (Movement of Promaica Husbands), Zeca said: "The battle against corruption must be seen as a moral and spiritual imperative, which begins within each family and extends to society at large."

"The Church and apostolic movements have a decisive role in transforming Angolan society, starting from the authentic living out of the faith," the archbishop said during the Sept. 20 event, which was held at St. John the Baptist Parish in the Huambo Archdiocese.

Zeca further said: "We cannot pretend that nothing is wrong in the environment we live in. Corruption, lies, selfishness, and greed are wounds that strike at the heart of our society, and even many of us, members of the MEP. That is why it is urgent that each one of us, as a husband, as a father, as a Christian, be examples of integrity and fight against these practices."

"The transformation of society begins within the home, since the family is the fundamental cell of society," the archbishop continued. "Where the wife is, there the husband should be; where the children are, there the parents should be. The family is the first battlefield against the forces that try to destroy Christian values. He who cannot live honesty and love in his own home will hardly be able to do so outside it."

He reminded CMO members that "the MEP was created precisely to strengthen family bonds and the living out of faith among Catholic spouses."

Addressing the moral crisis in Angola, Zeca said: "The apostle St. Paul warned that in the last days many would turn away from truth and justice, giving way to selfishness, lies, and corruption. We are living in those difficult times, and therefore it is up to us, as Christians and citizens, to be vigilant and fight against these forces."

He emphasized that "it is not enough to denounce injustices and corruption; each of us must also take responsibility not to be contaminated by these practices."

The archbishop, who is a member of the Society of the Divine Word, further stated: "The fight against corruption is not just a political or social issue but above all a spiritual battle. Corruption is born of selfishness and lack of love for one's neighbor, of greed and the reckless pursuit of power and wealth."

"If we do not renew our spirit and hearts in faith, we are doomed to continue living in unjust and inhuman societies. That is why I urge you to live the faith, prayer, and Christian commitment intensely, as antidotes to these evils," he said.

This story was first published by ACI Africa, CNA's news partner in Africa, and has been adapted by CNA.

Full Article