In Myanmar’s Kachin state, local priests carry on legacy of Columbans

Father Paul Lahpai Awng Dang, 46, grew up witnessing how violence overshadowed ethnic-majority Kachin state in northern Myanmar, just across from China’s Yunnan province. For years, the area has been part of a battleground for the Myanmar military and ethnic Kachin rebels, who allegedly have backing from their allies in China for their armed struggle […]

Indiana seminarians chop wood to help rural neighbors stay warm

INDIANAPOLIS — What does a seminarian do to prepare for priestly ministry? Pray. Check. Take theology classes. Check. Minister in parishes, hospitals, nursing homes and prisons. Check. Cut down trees and split wood. Wait, what? But that’s exactly what happens at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad. For more than 40 […]

Nicholas Sparks not shy about using Catholic influences in romance novels

Best-selling novelist Nicholas Sparks’ most recent book, “The Wish,” presents a plot common to many of his successful books. Told through flashback and reflection over a 24-year timespan, the story follows the life of 40-ish New York city photographer Maggie Dawes, who as a teenager was sent to live with her Aunt Linda — a […]

Pope Francis asks Catholics to offer their sufferings for Christian unity

Pope Francis delivers his Angelus address on Dec. 19, 2021. / Vatican Media Vatican City, Jan 16, 2022 / 05:40 am (CNA). Pope Francis has asked Catholics to offer up their sufferings this week for Christian unity. During his Sunday Angelus address, the pope called on people to participate in the upcoming Week of Prayer […]