'Summer Christmas': Why does the Church celebrate the birthday of St. John the Baptist?

Because it falls exactly six months before the solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord, John the Baptist's birthday is sometimes known as "Summer Christmas."

Supreme Court: Inmate cannot sue prison guards for religious rights violation

Regardless of whether his rights were violated, the Supreme Court found that the law does not allow him to sue the prison guards in their personal capacities.

Vatican promotes Peter's Pence 2026 collection

The annual collection to support the pope's charitable activities takes place June 28, and donations can be made now online.

Pope Leo XIV: The Eucharist is a powerful antidote to division

At his Wednesday general audience, the pope continued his catechesis on Vatican II's Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, reflecting on the mystery of the Eucharist.

U.S. House passes housing bill with backing from Catholic Charities USA

Catholic Charities USA President Kerry Alys Robinson said the bill "has the potential to improve the lives of so many of our fellow citizens."

EWTN wins more than 75 awards at 2026 Catholic Media Awards

The awards were announced at the conclusion of the 2026 Catholic Media Conference, held June 16–19 in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Catholic group asks Pope Leo to clarify Church's stance on Israel

"Should Catholics interpret the creation and enduring existence of the State of Israel as a sign of God's providence — or should they not?" Catholic Voices for Israel asks Pope Leo in an open letter.

Mexico confronts its taboo history: Exhibit spotlights Cristero War against religious persecution

A new exibition in Puebla, Mexico, dramatizes the lives of those engaging in and affected by the armed popular uprising against religious persecution in Mexico that broke out in 1926.

Catholic religious community faces 'inevitable' end in Australia as it moves to settle abuse claims

Christian Brothers Oceania Province said its "shameful and painful" history of abuse has led it to sell off its assets in order to settle with victims.

One year after St. Elias Church bombing, Syrian Christians find strength in faith

For many Syrian Christians, the terrorist attack became a defining moment that shook the community in a way not seen since the final years of the Ottoman Empire.