Day: November 4, 2026

Hubble Reveals Cosmic Mystery – This is an image from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope of NGC 4449, one of the dwarf galaxies in the Galaxies Losing Oxygen via Winds (GLOW) study. Researchers found that dwarf galaxies can hold onto only a small fraction of the oxygen made by their stars.

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This is an image from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope of NGC 4449, one of the dwarf galaxies in the Galaxies Losing Oxygen via Winds (GLOW) study. Researchers found that dwarf galaxies can hold onto only a small fraction of the oxygen made by their stars.

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Texas Democrats sweep statewide offices; Catholics, pro-lifers respond #Catholic Democrats captured every major statewide office in Texas on Tuesday, ending more than three decades of Republican dominance in the Lone Star State. Catholics and other Christians are warning that the results threaten hard-won gains on the protection of unborn life and parental rights in education.In a surprise defeat in the governor’s race, former state legislator Gina Hinojosa defeated three-time incumbent Greg Abbott, who was first elected in 2014. In 2021, he signed into law the Texas Heartbeat Act, which banned abortions once fetal cardiac activity is detectable (around six weeks).While both Hinojosa and Abbott are Catholic, Hinojosa is pro-abortion, voting against the Heartbeat Act and saying she would sign a bill repealing Texas’ abortion law if it came to her desk, though she has expressed that would be unlikely due to the Republican-majority Legislature. Republicans retained the state Senate but lost their majority in the House.She said in September that expanding abortion access will not be a priority for her as governor because it will take more than her election to get Texas out of the “deep hole” itʼs in regarding what she calls “reproductive rights.”Pro-life advocates warn of setbacks, see opportunitiesJohn Seago, president of Texas Right to Life, a Christian pro-life advocacy group, told EWTN News the election results dealt a “devastating blow” to the pro-life movement in Texas, though he said it was not an “utter disaster” because Republicans, many of whom are pro-life, hung on to the state Senate. He said that will provide “a backstop to kill legislation that would move the pro-life movement backwards.”Seago said the major political change is an opportunity for those who defend life to explain “even more passionately and articulately” why it is so important to do so.In a message to its supporters, the organization wrote: “We cannot simply focus on elections and expect our culture to change by itself. We must make the case for life in our churches, our communities, and our everyday conversations.”Seago said the Republican Party is to blame for the massive electoral shift, saying “the only discussion about abortion in Texas in this election came from [U.S. Senate candidate] James Talarico, who claimed God gave Mary the choice to abort Jesus and said the Bible is silent on abortion.” “Democrats appeared moderate, while Republicans stayed silent,” he said. “That sent a message to pro-lifers that they had a choice between two equal candidates.”He said Texas Right to Life will now focus its efforts on making sure the Republican-majority state Senate blocks “bad” bills, emphasizing the group will be “vigilant” in working with senators. He said even in the Democrat-controlled house, the organization will try to make progress on other pro-life issues where there is bipartisan support and “where the Democrats are usually right there with us,” including protecting patients’ rights, improving foster care and adoption services, and supporting nonprofits that help women.Anthony Joseph, a history professor at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, told EWTN News that Catholics “who’ve been buoyed by the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision are being painfully reminded yet again that the democratic process often morally misfires and creates innocent human casualties.”“Voters often are simply unaware of the harm they are doing,” he said.Joseph said “one consolation for pro-lifers is that Dobbs allowed states to protect unborn children, and the protective laws that resulted in some states will not easily be repealed.”“In Texas, the state Senate will likely continue to have a pro-life majority but Catholics must continue to urge these legislators to uphold current Texas law,” he said.Catholics in those states need “to double and triple their outreach” to state legislators to ensure that these laws stay on the books, he said.Parental rights and education policy at riskHinojosa opposes Abbott’s Texas Freedom of Education Act, which expanded school choice through vouchers parents can use at private schools, calling it a “payout for the privileged” because she says it takes money away from public schools and favors the rich.Joseph said school vouchers encourage religious freedom and empower parents, who, as the Church teaches, bear the primary responsibility for the education of their children.“Parents should have more say in where and how their children are educated,” Joseph said, highlighting that low-income parents who live in neighborhoods with failing public schools especially benefit from the program.Susan Hanssen, a history professor at the University of Dallas, agreed, telling EWTN News that Hinojosaʼs election is “a big loss for a key principle of Catholic social doctrine — the rights of parents over their childrenʼs education.”“The school voucher program frees parents from the stranglehold of the teacherʼs unions, which consistently oppose parental rights in education legislation. It will now be up to the Republicans in the state Senate to defend parental rights,” Hanssen said.“The Church urges Catholics to participate in civic life,” Joseph noted, saying they should remain engaged between elections as much as during election seasons. “Our duty to seek the common good is not episodic but ongoing. It neither begins nor ends with voting, and continues whether our preferred party wins or not.”
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Texas Democrats sweep statewide offices; Catholics, pro-lifers respond #Catholic Democrats captured every major statewide office in Texas on Tuesday, ending more than three decades of Republican dominance in the Lone Star State. Catholics and other Christians are warning that the results threaten hard-won gains on the protection of unborn life and parental rights in education.In a surprise defeat in the governor’s race, former state legislator Gina Hinojosa defeated three-time incumbent Greg Abbott, who was first elected in 2014. In 2021, he signed into law the Texas Heartbeat Act, which banned abortions once fetal cardiac activity is detectable (around six weeks).While both Hinojosa and Abbott are Catholic, Hinojosa is pro-abortion, voting against the Heartbeat Act and saying she would sign a bill repealing Texas’ abortion law if it came to her desk, though she has expressed that would be unlikely due to the Republican-majority Legislature. Republicans retained the state Senate but lost their majority in the House.She said in September that expanding abortion access will not be a priority for her as governor because it will take more than her election to get Texas out of the “deep hole” itʼs in regarding what she calls “reproductive rights.”Pro-life advocates warn of setbacks, see opportunitiesJohn Seago, president of Texas Right to Life, a Christian pro-life advocacy group, told EWTN News the election results dealt a “devastating blow” to the pro-life movement in Texas, though he said it was not an “utter disaster” because Republicans, many of whom are pro-life, hung on to the state Senate. He said that will provide “a backstop to kill legislation that would move the pro-life movement backwards.”Seago said the major political change is an opportunity for those who defend life to explain “even more passionately and articulately” why it is so important to do so.In a message to its supporters, the organization wrote: “We cannot simply focus on elections and expect our culture to change by itself. We must make the case for life in our churches, our communities, and our everyday conversations.”Seago said the Republican Party is to blame for the massive electoral shift, saying “the only discussion about abortion in Texas in this election came from [U.S. Senate candidate] James Talarico, who claimed God gave Mary the choice to abort Jesus and said the Bible is silent on abortion.” “Democrats appeared moderate, while Republicans stayed silent,” he said. “That sent a message to pro-lifers that they had a choice between two equal candidates.”He said Texas Right to Life will now focus its efforts on making sure the Republican-majority state Senate blocks “bad” bills, emphasizing the group will be “vigilant” in working with senators. He said even in the Democrat-controlled house, the organization will try to make progress on other pro-life issues where there is bipartisan support and “where the Democrats are usually right there with us,” including protecting patients’ rights, improving foster care and adoption services, and supporting nonprofits that help women.Anthony Joseph, a history professor at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, told EWTN News that Catholics “who’ve been buoyed by the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision are being painfully reminded yet again that the democratic process often morally misfires and creates innocent human casualties.”“Voters often are simply unaware of the harm they are doing,” he said.Joseph said “one consolation for pro-lifers is that Dobbs allowed states to protect unborn children, and the protective laws that resulted in some states will not easily be repealed.”“In Texas, the state Senate will likely continue to have a pro-life majority but Catholics must continue to urge these legislators to uphold current Texas law,” he said.Catholics in those states need “to double and triple their outreach” to state legislators to ensure that these laws stay on the books, he said.Parental rights and education policy at riskHinojosa opposes Abbott’s Texas Freedom of Education Act, which expanded school choice through vouchers parents can use at private schools, calling it a “payout for the privileged” because she says it takes money away from public schools and favors the rich.Joseph said school vouchers encourage religious freedom and empower parents, who, as the Church teaches, bear the primary responsibility for the education of their children.“Parents should have more say in where and how their children are educated,” Joseph said, highlighting that low-income parents who live in neighborhoods with failing public schools especially benefit from the program.Susan Hanssen, a history professor at the University of Dallas, agreed, telling EWTN News that Hinojosaʼs election is “a big loss for a key principle of Catholic social doctrine — the rights of parents over their childrenʼs education.”“The school voucher program frees parents from the stranglehold of the teacherʼs unions, which consistently oppose parental rights in education legislation. It will now be up to the Republicans in the state Senate to defend parental rights,” Hanssen said.“The Church urges Catholics to participate in civic life,” Joseph noted, saying they should remain engaged between elections as much as during election seasons. “Our duty to seek the common good is not episodic but ongoing. It neither begins nor ends with voting, and continues whether our preferred party wins or not.”

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Pro-life activists note that Republicans, many of whom are pro-life, retain control of the state Senate, which will be “a backstop to kill legislation that would move the pro-life movement backwards.”

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Pope Leo meets with renowned singer Bob Dylan #Catholic Pope Leo XIV welcomed legendary American singer-songwriter and 2016 Nobel Prize in literature laureate Bob Dylan to the Vatican on Wednesday, Nov. 4.During the meeting, for which Dylan wore a black-hooded jacket, the Holy Father presented him with a rosary, while the 85-year-old singer gifted the pontiff a copy of his autobiography, “Chronicles: Volume One,” according to Vatican News.Dylan is in Rome for a Thursday, Nov. 5, concert at the Palazzo dello Sport as part of his “Rough and Rowdy Ways” tour, which also includes stops in Milan and Bologna.Pope Leo XIV has quoted DylanIn July, Pope Leo XIV quoted Dylan to criticize the arms race, which he described as something that “frightens and terrifies us today.”"As singer-songwriter and poet Bob Dylan wrote, figuratively addressing the atomic bomb, in one of his poetic compositions: ‘I hate you cause yer man-made and man-owned an’ man-handled,’" the pope wrote, referring to the song "Go Away You Bomb" (1963).The quote appears in an unpublished text from the book “Unarmed and Disarming: Peace Is a Gift,” published by the Vatican Publishing House. It is the first anthology to collect various statements by Pope Leo XIV on the subject of peace, dating from his election on May 8, 2025.A performance before St. John Paul II and a multitude of young peopleDylan’s audience with Pope Leo XIV was not the first time the singer-songwriter had met a pope.In September 1997, Dylan was invited to perform at the 23rd National Eucharistic Congress in Bologna, Italy, before St. John Paul II and a crowd of approximately 300,000 young people.The singer performed some of his hits, such as "Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door" — a song also popularized by Guns N’ Roses and Eric Clapton.Although Dylan did not perform "Blowin’ in the Wind," the song’s theme was referenced by Pope John Paul II in his address to the gathering. In the song, the singer-songwriter asks, “How many roads must a man walk down before he can truly call himself a man?” — to which he himself provides the answer, in the song’s title: “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind.”In his address, John Paul II revisited Dylan’s question, gave it a masterful twist, and offered an answer imbued with Christian realism: “One of your representatives has said, on your behalf, that the answer to the questions in your life ‘is blowin’ in the wind.’ That is true. But it is not the wind that scatters everything into the whirlpools of nothingness; rather, it is the wind that is the breath and voice of the Spirit.”And he added: “You have asked me: ‘How many paths must a man travel to be able to recognize himself as a man?’ I answer you: one. There is only one path for man; it is Christ, who said: ‘I am the way’ (Jn 14:6). He is the way of truth, the way of life.”This story was first published by EWTN News Español, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
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Pope Leo meets with renowned singer Bob Dylan #Catholic Pope Leo XIV welcomed legendary American singer-songwriter and 2016 Nobel Prize in literature laureate Bob Dylan to the Vatican on Wednesday, Nov. 4.During the meeting, for which Dylan wore a black-hooded jacket, the Holy Father presented him with a rosary, while the 85-year-old singer gifted the pontiff a copy of his autobiography, “Chronicles: Volume One,” according to Vatican News.Dylan is in Rome for a Thursday, Nov. 5, concert at the Palazzo dello Sport as part of his “Rough and Rowdy Ways” tour, which also includes stops in Milan and Bologna.Pope Leo XIV has quoted DylanIn July, Pope Leo XIV quoted Dylan to criticize the arms race, which he described as something that “frightens and terrifies us today.”"As singer-songwriter and poet Bob Dylan wrote, figuratively addressing the atomic bomb, in one of his poetic compositions: ‘I hate you cause yer man-made and man-owned an’ man-handled,’" the pope wrote, referring to the song "Go Away You Bomb" (1963).The quote appears in an unpublished text from the book “Unarmed and Disarming: Peace Is a Gift,” published by the Vatican Publishing House. It is the first anthology to collect various statements by Pope Leo XIV on the subject of peace, dating from his election on May 8, 2025.A performance before St. John Paul II and a multitude of young peopleDylan’s audience with Pope Leo XIV was not the first time the singer-songwriter had met a pope.In September 1997, Dylan was invited to perform at the 23rd National Eucharistic Congress in Bologna, Italy, before St. John Paul II and a crowd of approximately 300,000 young people.The singer performed some of his hits, such as "Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door" — a song also popularized by Guns N’ Roses and Eric Clapton.Although Dylan did not perform "Blowin’ in the Wind," the song’s theme was referenced by Pope John Paul II in his address to the gathering. In the song, the singer-songwriter asks, “How many roads must a man walk down before he can truly call himself a man?” — to which he himself provides the answer, in the song’s title: “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind.”In his address, John Paul II revisited Dylan’s question, gave it a masterful twist, and offered an answer imbued with Christian realism: “One of your representatives has said, on your behalf, that the answer to the questions in your life ‘is blowin’ in the wind.’ That is true. But it is not the wind that scatters everything into the whirlpools of nothingness; rather, it is the wind that is the breath and voice of the Spirit.”And he added: “You have asked me: ‘How many paths must a man travel to be able to recognize himself as a man?’ I answer you: one. There is only one path for man; it is Christ, who said: ‘I am the way’ (Jn 14:6). He is the way of truth, the way of life.”This story was first published by EWTN News Español, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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During the meeting, the Holy Father presented Dylan with a rosary.

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Bishops, pro-life movement react to abortion referendums, election results – #Catholic – Pro-abortion advocates prevailed in three of four ballot referendums, while Democrats won control of both the House and Senate in the Nov. 3 elections, prompting responses from some U.S. Catholic bishops and pro-life groups.Voters in Virginia and Nevada adopted amendments to their state constitutions to create a legal right to abortion, with more than 62% support in both states. Voters in Missouri easily defeated a pro-life referendum that would have repealed their state constitution’s legal right to abortion, with 55.5% voting against it.Alternatively, voters in Idaho decisively rejected a referendum that would have changed state law to create a legal right to abortion, with 56% of voters casting their ballots for “no.”The balance of power in Congress shifted significantly. Democrats have flipped at least seven Republican Senate seats (two Republican-held seats are still too close to call). Democrats won control of the House and are on pace to have more than a 70-seat majority.Reactions to abortion referendumsCatholic bishops were heavily involved in the four abortion referendum battles, seeking to rally the faithful behind the Church’s teaching about the sanctity of life and cast their ballots in line with the pro-life causes.After a resounding 25-point victory for abortion in Virginia, the bishops in both Catholic dioceses in the commonwealth called the results “profoundly tragic.”“Unless a court intervenes, this decision will embed virtually limitless abortion into the constitution,” Diocese of Richmond Bishop Barry C. Knestout and Diocese of Arlington Bishop Michael F. Burbidge said in a joint statement.“It will put women’s health and safety at severe risk and leave parents out of life-altering and irreversible decisions involving their minor daughters,” they said. “Most fundamentally, this extreme, radical, dangerous and deadly constitutional amendment is a complete rejection of the immeasurable value of human life, created in God’s image and likeness.”Olivia Gans Turner, president of Virginia Society for Human Life, expressed concern about how far-reaching the referendum would go and said: “The winners of this vote will be abortion businesses who will be able to operate unregulated and without any serious accountability in the commonwealth. The losers of tonight’s vote are the women and unborn children who will now be without any legal protections going forward.”The Nevada Catholic Conference — which represents the state’s two dioceses, the Diocese of Reno and the Archdiocese of Las Vegas — also issued a statement following the 26-point win for abortion rights in their state.“A vote can change Nevadaʼs constitution, but it cannot change the dignity and value of every human life,” the statement read. “We are deeply disappointed by the passage of Question 6. However, this election does not end our responsibility to the unborn or to mothers who need our help.”“The Nevada Catholic Conference remains committed to protecting human life and supporting women and families,” it added. “We will keep speaking up for the unborn and all human life from conception to natural death.”The Missouri Catholic Conference also issued a statement — signed by the bishops of all four dioceses — which said it is “profoundly saddened” voters rejected the pro-life amendment.“This result, however, does not mark the end of our work,” the statement read. “The Catholic Church in Missouri will continue to advocate for policies that uphold the dignity of every person, protect the most vulnerable among us, and provide compassionate support to those in need, as she has always done.”“We remain steadfast in our commitment to accompany mothers and fathers facing hardship in their pregnancies and to offer hope and healing to those who have been wounded by the scourge of abortion,” the bishops added.Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, said the pro-life defeat “will continue to open the door to abortion throughout pregnancy” but that “tonight’s results are a setback, but it’s not the final word.”“An election cannot diminish the humanity of an unborn child or end our responsibility to speak for those whose lives are at risk,” Tobias said.The Diocese of Boise, the only Catholic diocese in Idaho, has not yet issued a statement on the pro-life victory in the state. The diocese did not immediately respond to a request for comment, though Bishop Peter Christensen had been encouraging priests to emphasize the teaching on the sanctity of human life at every Mass leading up to the vote.Emily Naugle, president of Right to Life of Idaho, said in a statement that “Idaho voters saw through a campaign designed to pit women against their unborn babies and recognized that our current laws protect both.”“Pro-Life advocates came together and fought as though lives depended on it, because they do. They worked tirelessly to expose the truth about Proposition 1,” Naugle said. “We are relishing this victory and are proud to stand among the many voices who spoke up for the most vulnerable in our society this election.”Reaction to election resultsThere have not been many reactions from bishops about the congressional results, although the Colorado Catholic Conference — which represents all of the state’s bishops — put out a statement congratulating all winners and urging them to support the common good.“We call upon our elected leaders to implement policies that defend and uplift the most vulnerable members of our human family,” the statement read, according to the Denver Catholic.“We also urge you to firmly protect the religious liberty of all individuals and faith-based organizations, safeguarding their right to serve the community according to their convictions,” it added. “May your governance be guided by a steadfast commitment to justice, peace and the flourishing of our entire state.”Some pro-life organizations have expressed concern about the Democrats’ congressional wins due to the pro-abortion stances of the bulk of the party’s candidates.Tobias said in a statement that many pro-life politicians were “replaced with rabidly anti-life candidates” but noted “we’ve faced difficult times before — and we’re still here.”“We will continue to push for laws that protect babies and help their moms, while looking for new and innovative ways to love them both,” she said. “We will work to make sure that every pregnant woman knows she is not alone. And we will continue to promote the value of innocent human life so that, even if abortion is legal, no woman will want one.”Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser asserted in a statement that Republican turnout was low because the Republican Party has watered down its pro-life stances.“Republican consultants got the campaign they wanted — and the defeat they earned,” she said. “You cannot spend years telling your base to sit down and shut up, then act surprised when they don’t stand up for you on Election Day. Republicans must stop running from the pro-life fight and start giving voters a reason to fight for them.”A poll released by the Pew Research Center in October found that 43% of Republicans listed abortion as a “very important” factor in their vote. However, 82% listed the economy as “very important” and many other issues surpassed abortion in terms of importance for Republican voters, such as immigration, foreign policy, and violent crime.
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Bishops, pro-life movement react to abortion referendums, election results – #Catholic – Pro-abortion advocates prevailed in three of four ballot referendums, while Democrats won control of both the House and Senate in the Nov. 3 elections, prompting responses from some U.S. Catholic bishops and pro-life groups.Voters in Virginia and Nevada adopted amendments to their state constitutions to create a legal right to abortion, with more than 62% support in both states. Voters in Missouri easily defeated a pro-life referendum that would have repealed their state constitution’s legal right to abortion, with 55.5% voting against it.Alternatively, voters in Idaho decisively rejected a referendum that would have changed state law to create a legal right to abortion, with 56% of voters casting their ballots for “no.”The balance of power in Congress shifted significantly. Democrats have flipped at least seven Republican Senate seats (two Republican-held seats are still too close to call). Democrats won control of the House and are on pace to have more than a 70-seat majority.Reactions to abortion referendumsCatholic bishops were heavily involved in the four abortion referendum battles, seeking to rally the faithful behind the Church’s teaching about the sanctity of life and cast their ballots in line with the pro-life causes.After a resounding 25-point victory for abortion in Virginia, the bishops in both Catholic dioceses in the commonwealth called the results “profoundly tragic.”“Unless a court intervenes, this decision will embed virtually limitless abortion into the constitution,” Diocese of Richmond Bishop Barry C. Knestout and Diocese of Arlington Bishop Michael F. Burbidge said in a joint statement.“It will put women’s health and safety at severe risk and leave parents out of life-altering and irreversible decisions involving their minor daughters,” they said. “Most fundamentally, this extreme, radical, dangerous and deadly constitutional amendment is a complete rejection of the immeasurable value of human life, created in God’s image and likeness.”Olivia Gans Turner, president of Virginia Society for Human Life, expressed concern about how far-reaching the referendum would go and said: “The winners of this vote will be abortion businesses who will be able to operate unregulated and without any serious accountability in the commonwealth. The losers of tonight’s vote are the women and unborn children who will now be without any legal protections going forward.”The Nevada Catholic Conference — which represents the state’s two dioceses, the Diocese of Reno and the Archdiocese of Las Vegas — also issued a statement following the 26-point win for abortion rights in their state.“A vote can change Nevadaʼs constitution, but it cannot change the dignity and value of every human life,” the statement read. “We are deeply disappointed by the passage of Question 6. However, this election does not end our responsibility to the unborn or to mothers who need our help.”“The Nevada Catholic Conference remains committed to protecting human life and supporting women and families,” it added. “We will keep speaking up for the unborn and all human life from conception to natural death.”The Missouri Catholic Conference also issued a statement — signed by the bishops of all four dioceses — which said it is “profoundly saddened” voters rejected the pro-life amendment.“This result, however, does not mark the end of our work,” the statement read. “The Catholic Church in Missouri will continue to advocate for policies that uphold the dignity of every person, protect the most vulnerable among us, and provide compassionate support to those in need, as she has always done.”“We remain steadfast in our commitment to accompany mothers and fathers facing hardship in their pregnancies and to offer hope and healing to those who have been wounded by the scourge of abortion,” the bishops added.Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, said the pro-life defeat “will continue to open the door to abortion throughout pregnancy” but that “tonight’s results are a setback, but it’s not the final word.”“An election cannot diminish the humanity of an unborn child or end our responsibility to speak for those whose lives are at risk,” Tobias said.The Diocese of Boise, the only Catholic diocese in Idaho, has not yet issued a statement on the pro-life victory in the state. The diocese did not immediately respond to a request for comment, though Bishop Peter Christensen had been encouraging priests to emphasize the teaching on the sanctity of human life at every Mass leading up to the vote.Emily Naugle, president of Right to Life of Idaho, said in a statement that “Idaho voters saw through a campaign designed to pit women against their unborn babies and recognized that our current laws protect both.”“Pro-Life advocates came together and fought as though lives depended on it, because they do. They worked tirelessly to expose the truth about Proposition 1,” Naugle said. “We are relishing this victory and are proud to stand among the many voices who spoke up for the most vulnerable in our society this election.”Reaction to election resultsThere have not been many reactions from bishops about the congressional results, although the Colorado Catholic Conference — which represents all of the state’s bishops — put out a statement congratulating all winners and urging them to support the common good.“We call upon our elected leaders to implement policies that defend and uplift the most vulnerable members of our human family,” the statement read, according to the Denver Catholic.“We also urge you to firmly protect the religious liberty of all individuals and faith-based organizations, safeguarding their right to serve the community according to their convictions,” it added. “May your governance be guided by a steadfast commitment to justice, peace and the flourishing of our entire state.”Some pro-life organizations have expressed concern about the Democrats’ congressional wins due to the pro-abortion stances of the bulk of the party’s candidates.Tobias said in a statement that many pro-life politicians were “replaced with rabidly anti-life candidates” but noted “we’ve faced difficult times before — and we’re still here.”“We will continue to push for laws that protect babies and help their moms, while looking for new and innovative ways to love them both,” she said. “We will work to make sure that every pregnant woman knows she is not alone. And we will continue to promote the value of innocent human life so that, even if abortion is legal, no woman will want one.”Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser asserted in a statement that Republican turnout was low because the Republican Party has watered down its pro-life stances.“Republican consultants got the campaign they wanted — and the defeat they earned,” she said. “You cannot spend years telling your base to sit down and shut up, then act surprised when they don’t stand up for you on Election Day. Republicans must stop running from the pro-life fight and start giving voters a reason to fight for them.”A poll released by the Pew Research Center in October found that 43% of Republicans listed abortion as a “very important” factor in their vote. However, 82% listed the economy as “very important” and many other issues surpassed abortion in terms of importance for Republican voters, such as immigration, foreign policy, and violent crime.

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Catholic bishops reacted to three pro-life losses in referendum battles, and pro-life groups have weighed in on the referendum results and the impact of the decisive Democratic congressional wins.

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Pilgrimage follows St. Paul’s footsteps under Hanover pastor’s lead #Catholic – On Oct. 4, 27 pilgrims departed New Jersey for a pilgrimage to Turkey and Greece, following in the footsteps of St. Paul through Greece and Turkey, which continued through Oct. 14. As their spiritual guide, Father Vidal Gonzales, pastor of Notre Dame of Mount Carmel Parish in the Cedar Knolls neighborhood of Hanover Township, N.J., reminded pilgrims that this was more than a journey to places of historical and religious significance. Above all, it was a journey of faith, reflection, and a deeper relationship with God. Walking through the ancient cities where St. Paul preached the Gospel, the group imagined his courage, perseverance, and unwavering faith despite the hardships he endured. Visiting Ephesus, Thessalonica, Corinth, and Athens reminded them that their faith was built not on comfort or convenience, but on trust in God, perseverance through difficulties, and a willingness to surrender ourselves to his will, Father Gonzales said. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Although each of person experienced the pilgrimage uniquely, the pilgrimage group shared a common realization: Jesus’ promise, “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Matt 28:20), which remains alive and true in our lives today. Through the sacred places pilgrims visited, the Scriptures they reflected upon, the Eucharist they celebrated, and the fellowship they shared, they were reminded that Christ continues to accompany us on our journey, Father Gonzales said. As a priest, St. Paul’s example especially inspired Father Gonzales. “His courage and perseverance challenged me to reflect on how faithfully I trust God, how I respond to difficulties, and how willing I am to step outside my comfort zone to serve others. His life reminds me that faith must be lived, not simply professed, and that I am called to share God’s love through my words and actions.” Father Gonzales said. Also reflecting on the experience, pilgrim Debra Hanley said, “The Scriptures came alive as we walked through the places where St. Paul proclaimed the Gospel and celebrated the Eucharist.” Hanley said she was especially moved by the island of Patmos and the cave where St. John received the Book of Revelation. “Beyond the sacred places, I treasured the bonds of love and friendship we formed and the opportunity to encounter people of different cultures and faiths,” Hanley said. “I was reminded that, in our common humanity, we are all God’s precious children,” she said. Remy Nshuti, another pilgrim, called the devotional experience “life-changing,” especially at historic places connected to St. Paul, the early Church, St. John, and the Virgin Mary. “I returned home with a deeper appreciation for Scripture, a strengthened faith, and a grateful heart. Most importantly, I was reminded that a pilgrimage does not end when we return home — it continues in how we live our faith, serve others, and grow closer to God each day,” Nshuti said. This was her first pilgrimage for Denise Denk, who added, “and it certainly will not be my last.” “The daily rhythm of waking early, walking, and praying opened a special space in my heart. I experienced a deep sense of peace and holiness at Mary’s house in Ephesus and St. John’s cave in Patmos,” Denk said. “I returned home with a lighter heart, a deeper sense of gratitude, and a renewed understanding that life itself is a pilgrimage and that every step is guided,” she said. Shaila D’Souza, a pilgrim, enjoyed the Catholic fellowship they shared and was filled with “wonder and awe” by the ancient churches, monasteries, and Byzantine artwork that have endured for centuries. The art, culture, sights, stories, food, and prayer all stirred my soul and reminded me of St. Paul’s words to focus on whatever is good, true, noble, and lovely. I came home with so many beautiful things to think about after our amazing journey!” Further reflecting on the experience, Father Gonzales added, “The pilgrimage also renewed my appreciation for the Holy Mass and the Eucharist’s central role in my spiritual life. The Eucharist nourishes my soul, strengthens my faith, renews my hope, and reminds me that I do not have to rely on my own strength. Christ is always present to guide, sustain, and strengthen me. As a priest, I am deeply grateful for the privilege of celebrating the Holy Mass and accompanying others on their journey of faith.”  
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Pilgrimage follows St. Paul’s footsteps under Hanover pastor’s lead #Catholic – On Oct. 4, 27 pilgrims departed New Jersey for a pilgrimage to Turkey and Greece, following in the footsteps of St. Paul through Greece and Turkey, which continued through Oct. 14. As their spiritual guide, Father Vidal Gonzales, pastor of Notre Dame of Mount Carmel Parish in the Cedar Knolls neighborhood of Hanover Township, N.J., reminded pilgrims that this was more than a journey to places of historical and religious significance. Above all, it was a journey of faith, reflection, and a deeper relationship with God. Walking through the ancient cities where St. Paul preached the Gospel, the group imagined his courage, perseverance, and unwavering faith despite the hardships he endured. Visiting Ephesus, Thessalonica, Corinth, and Athens reminded them that their faith was built not on comfort or convenience, but on trust in God, perseverance through difficulties, and a willingness to surrender ourselves to his will, Father Gonzales said. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Although each of person experienced the pilgrimage uniquely, the pilgrimage group shared a common realization: Jesus’ promise, “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Matt 28:20), which remains alive and true in our lives today. Through the sacred places pilgrims visited, the Scriptures they reflected upon, the Eucharist they celebrated, and the fellowship they shared, they were reminded that Christ continues to accompany us on our journey, Father Gonzales said. As a priest, St. Paul’s example especially inspired Father Gonzales. “His courage and perseverance challenged me to reflect on how faithfully I trust God, how I respond to difficulties, and how willing I am to step outside my comfort zone to serve others. His life reminds me that faith must be lived, not simply professed, and that I am called to share God’s love through my words and actions.” Father Gonzales said. Also reflecting on the experience, pilgrim Debra Hanley said, “The Scriptures came alive as we walked through the places where St. Paul proclaimed the Gospel and celebrated the Eucharist.” Hanley said she was especially moved by the island of Patmos and the cave where St. John received the Book of Revelation. “Beyond the sacred places, I treasured the bonds of love and friendship we formed and the opportunity to encounter people of different cultures and faiths,” Hanley said. “I was reminded that, in our common humanity, we are all God’s precious children,” she said. Remy Nshuti, another pilgrim, called the devotional experience “life-changing,” especially at historic places connected to St. Paul, the early Church, St. John, and the Virgin Mary. “I returned home with a deeper appreciation for Scripture, a strengthened faith, and a grateful heart. Most importantly, I was reminded that a pilgrimage does not end when we return home — it continues in how we live our faith, serve others, and grow closer to God each day,” Nshuti said. This was her first pilgrimage for Denise Denk, who added, “and it certainly will not be my last.” “The daily rhythm of waking early, walking, and praying opened a special space in my heart. I experienced a deep sense of peace and holiness at Mary’s house in Ephesus and St. John’s cave in Patmos,” Denk said. “I returned home with a lighter heart, a deeper sense of gratitude, and a renewed understanding that life itself is a pilgrimage and that every step is guided,” she said. Shaila D’Souza, a pilgrim, enjoyed the Catholic fellowship they shared and was filled with “wonder and awe” by the ancient churches, monasteries, and Byzantine artwork that have endured for centuries. The art, culture, sights, stories, food, and prayer all stirred my soul and reminded me of St. Paul’s words to focus on whatever is good, true, noble, and lovely. I came home with so many beautiful things to think about after our amazing journey!” Further reflecting on the experience, Father Gonzales added, “The pilgrimage also renewed my appreciation for the Holy Mass and the Eucharist’s central role in my spiritual life. The Eucharist nourishes my soul, strengthens my faith, renews my hope, and reminds me that I do not have to rely on my own strength. Christ is always present to guide, sustain, and strengthen me. As a priest, I am deeply grateful for the privilege of celebrating the Holy Mass and accompanying others on their journey of faith.”  

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Pilgrimage follows St. Paul’s footsteps under Hanover pastor’s lead #Catholic –

On Oct. 4, 27 pilgrims departed New Jersey for a pilgrimage to Turkey and Greece, following in the footsteps of St. Paul through Greece and Turkey, which continued through Oct. 14.

As their spiritual guide, Father Vidal Gonzales, pastor of Notre Dame of Mount Carmel Parish in the Cedar Knolls neighborhood of Hanover Township, N.J., reminded pilgrims that this was more than a journey to places of historical and religious significance. Above all, it was a journey of faith, reflection, and a deeper relationship with God.

Walking through the ancient cities where St. Paul preached the Gospel, the group imagined his courage, perseverance, and unwavering faith despite the hardships he endured. Visiting Ephesus, Thessalonica, Corinth, and Athens reminded them that their faith was built not on comfort or convenience, but on trust in God, perseverance through difficulties, and a willingness to surrender ourselves to his will, Father Gonzales said.

Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

Although each of person experienced the pilgrimage uniquely, the pilgrimage group shared a common realization: Jesus’ promise, “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Matt 28:20), which remains alive and true in our lives today. Through the sacred places pilgrims visited, the Scriptures they reflected upon, the Eucharist they celebrated, and the fellowship they shared, they were reminded that Christ continues to accompany us on our journey, Father Gonzales said.

As a priest, St. Paul’s example especially inspired Father Gonzales.

“His courage and perseverance challenged me to reflect on how faithfully I trust God, how I respond to difficulties, and how willing I am to step outside my comfort zone to serve others. His life reminds me that faith must be lived, not simply professed, and that I am called to share God’s love through my words and actions.” Father Gonzales said.

Also reflecting on the experience, pilgrim Debra Hanley said, “The Scriptures came alive as we walked through the places where St. Paul proclaimed the Gospel and celebrated the Eucharist.”

Hanley said she was especially moved by the island of Patmos and the cave where St. John received the Book of Revelation.

“Beyond the sacred places, I treasured the bonds of love and friendship we formed and the opportunity to encounter people of different cultures and faiths,” Hanley said. “I was reminded that, in our common humanity, we are all God’s precious children,” she said.

Remy Nshuti, another pilgrim, called the devotional experience “life-changing,” especially at historic places connected to St. Paul, the early Church, St. John, and the Virgin Mary.

“I returned home with a deeper appreciation for Scripture, a strengthened faith, and a grateful heart. Most importantly, I was reminded that a pilgrimage does not end when we return home — it continues in how we live our faith, serve others, and grow closer to God each day,” Nshuti said.

This was her first pilgrimage for Denise Denk, who added, “and it certainly will not be my last.”

“The daily rhythm of waking early, walking, and praying opened a special space in my heart. I experienced a deep sense of peace and holiness at Mary’s house in Ephesus and St. John’s cave in Patmos,” Denk said. “I returned home with a lighter heart, a deeper sense of gratitude, and a renewed understanding that life itself is a pilgrimage and that every step is guided,” she said.

Shaila D’Souza, a pilgrim, enjoyed the Catholic fellowship they shared and was filled with “wonder and awe” by the ancient churches, monasteries, and Byzantine artwork that have endured for centuries. The art, culture, sights, stories, food, and prayer all stirred my soul and reminded me of St. Paul’s words to focus on whatever is good, true, noble, and lovely. I came home with so many beautiful things to think about after our amazing journey!”

Further reflecting on the experience, Father Gonzales added, “The pilgrimage also renewed my appreciation for the Holy Mass and the Eucharist’s central role in my spiritual life. The Eucharist nourishes my soul, strengthens my faith, renews my hope, and reminds me that I do not have to rely on my own strength. Christ is always present to guide, sustain, and strengthen me. As a priest, I am deeply grateful for the privilege of celebrating the Holy Mass and accompanying others on their journey of faith.”

 

– On Oct. 4, 27 pilgrims departed New Jersey for a pilgrimage to Turkey and Greece, following in the footsteps of St. Paul through Greece and Turkey, which continued through Oct. 14. As their spiritual guide, Father Vidal Gonzales, pastor of Notre Dame of Mount Carmel Parish in the Cedar Knolls neighborhood of Hanover Township, N.J., reminded pilgrims that this was more than a journey to places of historical and religious significance. Above all, it was a journey of faith, reflection, and a deeper relationship with God. Walking through the ancient cities where St. Paul preached the Gospel, the group imagined

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Van Gogh’s Starry Night shows a real night sky, study suggests

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For decades, art historians and astronomers have wondered whether the sky of Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night shows real stars or imagined ones. A new study argues the stars are real — and that Van Gogh likely saw them a month later than most scholars thought. The study, published Oct. 22 in Scientific Reports,Continue reading “Van Gogh’s Starry Night shows a real night sky, study suggests”

The post Van Gogh’s Starry Night shows a real night sky, study suggests appeared first on Astronomy Magazine.

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Vatican publishes digital atlas honoring Pope Francis’ ecological vision – #Catholic – Ten years after the publication of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, the Vatican has launched a new digital atlas to advance his ecological vision.The Laudato Si’ Platform launched the Atlas of Laudato Si’ at a press conference Wednesday at the Holy See Press Office in Rome. The organization also presented its fifth annual report at the conference, highlighting 13,600 participants since 2021 and new tools to implement integral ecology within the Church.Presenters included Sister Alessandra Smerilli, FMA, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, and Bishop Allwyn D’Silva, auxiliary bishop emeritus of the Archdiocese of Bombay, India.Care for creation is not optionalAmong the themes discussed at the conference was the need to continue concrete actions toward care for the environment.In her presentation, Smerilli said Catholic commitment to caring for creation is “not optional.” The Atlas of Laudato Si’. | Credit: Photo courtesy of Molly Burhans “Living our vocation as guardians of Godʼs work is ‘not something optional nor a secondary aspect of Christian experience,’” Smerilli said. “Caring for creation and caring for humanity are one and the same task.”Participants also reflected on the impact of Laudato Si’ since its publication."The seeds sown by Laudato Si' have borne much fruit in different parts of the world,” DʼSilva said.A new digital Catholic atlasThe press conference also presented a new digital atlas to demonstrate the Church’s commitment to integral ecology worldwide. The atlas uses data from the Leonum Institute of the Catholic University of America and the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome.The Atlas of Laudato Si’ will allow users to explore ecological initiatives by institutions and dioceses, and also access data on natural disasters.Molly Burhans, an American cartographer who pioneered the data collection and curation for the project, explained the importance of atlases and defended the integral ecology’s importance for Catholics. Molly Burhans is an American cartographer who pioneered the data collection and curation of the Atlas of Laudato Si’. | Credit: Photo courtesy of Molly Burhans “If you want to make environmental action, you should understand the environment,” Burhans told EWTN News. “And the best way to understand the environment is maps.”“We are here to care for the garden. That’s in Genesis. If someone believes there’s a political agenda behind caring for the environment, I think they should go back and read the Bible.”
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Vatican publishes digital atlas honoring Pope Francis’ ecological vision – #Catholic – Ten years after the publication of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, the Vatican has launched a new digital atlas to advance his ecological vision.The Laudato Si’ Platform launched the Atlas of Laudato Si’ at a press conference Wednesday at the Holy See Press Office in Rome. The organization also presented its fifth annual report at the conference, highlighting 13,600 participants since 2021 and new tools to implement integral ecology within the Church.Presenters included Sister Alessandra Smerilli, FMA, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, and Bishop Allwyn D’Silva, auxiliary bishop emeritus of the Archdiocese of Bombay, India.Care for creation is not optionalAmong the themes discussed at the conference was the need to continue concrete actions toward care for the environment.In her presentation, Smerilli said Catholic commitment to caring for creation is “not optional.” The Atlas of Laudato Si’. | Credit: Photo courtesy of Molly Burhans “Living our vocation as guardians of Godʼs work is ‘not something optional nor a secondary aspect of Christian experience,’” Smerilli said. “Caring for creation and caring for humanity are one and the same task.”Participants also reflected on the impact of Laudato Si’ since its publication."The seeds sown by Laudato Si' have borne much fruit in different parts of the world,” DʼSilva said.A new digital Catholic atlasThe press conference also presented a new digital atlas to demonstrate the Church’s commitment to integral ecology worldwide. The atlas uses data from the Leonum Institute of the Catholic University of America and the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) in Rome.The Atlas of Laudato Si’ will allow users to explore ecological initiatives by institutions and dioceses, and also access data on natural disasters.Molly Burhans, an American cartographer who pioneered the data collection and curation for the project, explained the importance of atlases and defended the integral ecology’s importance for Catholics. Molly Burhans is an American cartographer who pioneered the data collection and curation of the Atlas of Laudato Si’. | Credit: Photo courtesy of Molly Burhans “If you want to make environmental action, you should understand the environment,” Burhans told EWTN News. “And the best way to understand the environment is maps.”“We are here to care for the garden. That’s in Genesis. If someone believes there’s a political agenda behind caring for the environment, I think they should go back and read the Bible.”

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The Laudato Si’ Platform launched the map during a press conference at the Holy See Press Office on Wednesday.

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Pope Leo XIV appoints youngest bishop in France – #Catholic – Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Martial Bernard as the new bishop of Soissons in France. At 48 years of age, he will become the youngest bishop in France on Dec. 20, when he receives his episcopal consecration.According to the website Catholic-Hierarchy, which specializes in information about bishops worldwide, the previous youngest bishop in France was Étienne Guillet, bishop of Saint-Denis, a 50-year-old prelate who was also 48 when he was appointed bishop.“I accept this appointment with confidence. I have always trusted the Church, and so I say that if it calls me to this mission, I respond ‘yes’ with confidence,” the bishop-designate stated in an interview with KTO.Bernard shared that over the last eight years as vicar general he has had the “joy of accompanying his brother priests,” and he expressed his desire to get to know and to “journey together,” guided by the Gospel with “the people of God who have been entrusted to me.”Bernard will receive episcopal consecration and take possession of the Diocese of Soissons on Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. local time at Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais Cathedral in Soissons.Who is the youngest bishop in France?Bernard was born on Jan. 26, 1978, in Bourg-la-Reine in the Diocese of Nanterre. According to an Oct. 31 statement from the Vatican Press Office, he studied at the Saint-Sulpice Seminary in Issy-lès-Moulineaux and completed an internship at the Municipal Conservatory of Viry-Châtillon.After studying at the Saint-Paul Seminary in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, he earned a licentiate degree in theology, specializing in catechetical and practical theology at the Catholic Institute of Paris. He was ordained a priest on June 25, 2005, for the Diocese of Évry-Corbeil-Essonnes.Within that particular Church, he held several positions, including: diocesan delegate for the pastoral care of altar servers (2005–2009); “parochus in solidum” (sharing responsibility for more than one parish) in the deanery of Brétigny (2006–2008); and diocesan delegate for vocations, as well as a member of the Council for the Protection of Catholic Education (2008–2011).He also served as parish priest and dean of Brétigny (2009–2014); “parochus in solidum” and dean of Évry-Corbeil-Essonnes, as well as rector of the cathedral of Évry (2014–2018); and episcopal vicar for Catholic education and diocesan delegate for the formation of seminarians (2015–2018).Furthermore, he has served as vicar general and moderator of the Évry curia; as a member of the Diocesan Council for Financial Affairs, the Parish Mutual Aid Fund, the Board of Directors, the General Assembly, and the Association of Friends of the Cathedral (since 2018); as coordinator of pastoral sector leaders (since 2021); and as head of the Fidei Donum program for foreign priests (2021–2022).Until now he was responsible for the permanent diaconate, childrenʼs catechesis, ecumenism, pilgrimages, relations with Judaism, and prison and hospital chaplaincies.This story was first published by EWTN News Español, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
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Pope Leo XIV appoints youngest bishop in France – #Catholic – Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Martial Bernard as the new bishop of Soissons in France. At 48 years of age, he will become the youngest bishop in France on Dec. 20, when he receives his episcopal consecration.According to the website Catholic-Hierarchy, which specializes in information about bishops worldwide, the previous youngest bishop in France was Étienne Guillet, bishop of Saint-Denis, a 50-year-old prelate who was also 48 when he was appointed bishop.“I accept this appointment with confidence. I have always trusted the Church, and so I say that if it calls me to this mission, I respond ‘yes’ with confidence,” the bishop-designate stated in an interview with KTO.Bernard shared that over the last eight years as vicar general he has had the “joy of accompanying his brother priests,” and he expressed his desire to get to know and to “journey together,” guided by the Gospel with “the people of God who have been entrusted to me.”Bernard will receive episcopal consecration and take possession of the Diocese of Soissons on Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. local time at Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais Cathedral in Soissons.Who is the youngest bishop in France?Bernard was born on Jan. 26, 1978, in Bourg-la-Reine in the Diocese of Nanterre. According to an Oct. 31 statement from the Vatican Press Office, he studied at the Saint-Sulpice Seminary in Issy-lès-Moulineaux and completed an internship at the Municipal Conservatory of Viry-Châtillon.After studying at the Saint-Paul Seminary in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, he earned a licentiate degree in theology, specializing in catechetical and practical theology at the Catholic Institute of Paris. He was ordained a priest on June 25, 2005, for the Diocese of Évry-Corbeil-Essonnes.Within that particular Church, he held several positions, including: diocesan delegate for the pastoral care of altar servers (2005–2009); “parochus in solidum” (sharing responsibility for more than one parish) in the deanery of Brétigny (2006–2008); and diocesan delegate for vocations, as well as a member of the Council for the Protection of Catholic Education (2008–2011).He also served as parish priest and dean of Brétigny (2009–2014); “parochus in solidum” and dean of Évry-Corbeil-Essonnes, as well as rector of the cathedral of Évry (2014–2018); and episcopal vicar for Catholic education and diocesan delegate for the formation of seminarians (2015–2018).Furthermore, he has served as vicar general and moderator of the Évry curia; as a member of the Diocesan Council for Financial Affairs, the Parish Mutual Aid Fund, the Board of Directors, the General Assembly, and the Association of Friends of the Cathedral (since 2018); as coordinator of pastoral sector leaders (since 2021); and as head of the Fidei Donum program for foreign priests (2021–2022).Until now he was responsible for the permanent diaconate, childrenʼs catechesis, ecumenism, pilgrimages, relations with Judaism, and prison and hospital chaplaincies.This story was first published by EWTN News Español, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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Pope Leo XIV has appointed Martial Bernard as the new bishop of Soissons. At 48 years of age at his Dec. 20 episcopal ordination, he will become the youngest bishop in France.

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Paterson youth change world one pet at a time #Catholic – The Youth Ministry of St. Gerard Majella Parish in Paterson, N.J., turned this year’s annual Blessing of the Animals into an opportunity to do a little more than bless the beloved pets. Held in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the parish’s annual Blessing of the Animals became the starting point for a pet supply donation drive. Parishioners were invited to bring gently used towels, sheets, blankets, and other supplies for local veterinarians, animal hospitals, shelters, rescue organizations, and others who care for animals in need. The family of St. Gerard Majella rose to the occasion, again. The blessing was celebrated bilingually, with Msgr. George Hundt, pastor of St. Gerrard’s, and Father Sebastian Muñoz, the parish’s newly appointed parochial vicar. Seminarian Jairo Jaramillo assisted with the blessing. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Youth Ministry leaders Mike Stracco and Kathleen Lockard, along with a few parents, collected donations after every Sunday Mass and continued after the blessing. What started as a simple request for a towel, blanket, or sheet quickly became something much bigger. Parishioners’ generosity was incredible. Donations came in, and before long, the Youth Ministry realized it had a lot to sort. “Our love at the parish extends not only for the people of our parish, but to our animal friends as well,” said Msgr. Hundt, summing up the effort. That love was certainly evident. After everything was collected and sorted, the Youth Ministry prepared and delivered 15 40-gallon bags of towels, sheets, blankets, and other supplies to local veterinarians and animal hospitals. Those bags represent parishioners who saw a need and decided to help. They represent young people who didn’t just talk about service but actually rolled up their sleeves and did something. They represent the truth that sometimes a small act of kindness can make a very real difference. That spirit of service is at the heart of the St. Gerard Majella Youth Ministry. Its guiding theme reflects the parish’s newly developed motto: “One Family in Christ, Growing in Faith, Rejoicing in Hope, and Changing the World with Love.” Sometimes, it starts with a towel. The Youth Ministry has become very active since its inception. Over the next several months, the young people will gather for a gratitude-filled Friendsgiving, share a prayerful reflection on the Christmas story, conduct their annual Souper Bowl collection, and, in the spring, host a “Senior” Prom designed to bring some joy, laughter, and fellowship to the senior members of our community. The young people of St. Gerard’s are learning that being a disciple isn’t simply about coming to church. It is about believing, gathering, growing, loving, and leading — and then taking what we have received and sharing it with others. Perhaps that is the best lesson from the pet supply drive.  
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Paterson youth change world one pet at a time #Catholic – The Youth Ministry of St. Gerard Majella Parish in Paterson, N.J., turned this year’s annual Blessing of the Animals into an opportunity to do a little more than bless the beloved pets. Held in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the parish’s annual Blessing of the Animals became the starting point for a pet supply donation drive. Parishioners were invited to bring gently used towels, sheets, blankets, and other supplies for local veterinarians, animal hospitals, shelters, rescue organizations, and others who care for animals in need. The family of St. Gerard Majella rose to the occasion, again. The blessing was celebrated bilingually, with Msgr. George Hundt, pastor of St. Gerrard’s, and Father Sebastian Muñoz, the parish’s newly appointed parochial vicar. Seminarian Jairo Jaramillo assisted with the blessing. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Youth Ministry leaders Mike Stracco and Kathleen Lockard, along with a few parents, collected donations after every Sunday Mass and continued after the blessing. What started as a simple request for a towel, blanket, or sheet quickly became something much bigger. Parishioners’ generosity was incredible. Donations came in, and before long, the Youth Ministry realized it had a lot to sort. “Our love at the parish extends not only for the people of our parish, but to our animal friends as well,” said Msgr. Hundt, summing up the effort. That love was certainly evident. After everything was collected and sorted, the Youth Ministry prepared and delivered 15 40-gallon bags of towels, sheets, blankets, and other supplies to local veterinarians and animal hospitals. Those bags represent parishioners who saw a need and decided to help. They represent young people who didn’t just talk about service but actually rolled up their sleeves and did something. They represent the truth that sometimes a small act of kindness can make a very real difference. That spirit of service is at the heart of the St. Gerard Majella Youth Ministry. Its guiding theme reflects the parish’s newly developed motto: “One Family in Christ, Growing in Faith, Rejoicing in Hope, and Changing the World with Love.” Sometimes, it starts with a towel. The Youth Ministry has become very active since its inception. Over the next several months, the young people will gather for a gratitude-filled Friendsgiving, share a prayerful reflection on the Christmas story, conduct their annual Souper Bowl collection, and, in the spring, host a “Senior” Prom designed to bring some joy, laughter, and fellowship to the senior members of our community. The young people of St. Gerard’s are learning that being a disciple isn’t simply about coming to church. It is about believing, gathering, growing, loving, and leading — and then taking what we have received and sharing it with others. Perhaps that is the best lesson from the pet supply drive.  

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Paterson youth change world one pet at a time #Catholic –

The Youth Ministry of St. Gerard Majella Parish in Paterson, N.J., turned this year’s annual Blessing of the Animals into an opportunity to do a little more than bless the beloved pets.

Held in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the parish’s annual Blessing of the Animals became the starting point for a pet supply donation drive. Parishioners were invited to bring gently used towels, sheets, blankets, and other supplies for local veterinarians, animal hospitals, shelters, rescue organizations, and others who care for animals in need.

The family of St. Gerard Majella rose to the occasion, again.

The blessing was celebrated bilingually, with Msgr. George Hundt, pastor of St. Gerrard’s, and Father Sebastian Muñoz, the parish’s newly appointed parochial vicar. Seminarian Jairo Jaramillo assisted with the blessing.

Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

Youth Ministry leaders Mike Stracco and Kathleen Lockard, along with a few parents, collected donations after every Sunday Mass and continued after the blessing.

What started as a simple request for a towel, blanket, or sheet quickly became something much bigger. Parishioners’ generosity was incredible. Donations came in, and before long, the Youth Ministry realized it had a lot to sort.

“Our love at the parish extends not only for the people of our parish, but to our animal friends as well,” said Msgr. Hundt, summing up the effort.

That love was certainly evident.

After everything was collected and sorted, the Youth Ministry prepared and delivered 15 40-gallon bags of towels, sheets, blankets, and other supplies to local veterinarians and animal hospitals.

Those bags represent parishioners who saw a need and decided to help. They represent young people who didn’t just talk about service but actually rolled up their sleeves and did something. They represent the truth that sometimes a small act of kindness can make a very real difference.

That spirit of service is at the heart of the St. Gerard Majella Youth Ministry. Its guiding theme reflects the parish’s newly developed motto: “One Family in Christ, Growing in Faith, Rejoicing in Hope, and Changing the World with Love.”

Sometimes, it starts with a towel.

The Youth Ministry has become very active since its inception. Over the next several months, the young people will gather for a gratitude-filled Friendsgiving, share a prayerful reflection on the Christmas story, conduct their annual Souper Bowl collection, and, in the spring, host a “Senior” Prom designed to bring some joy, laughter, and fellowship to the senior members of our community.

The young people of St. Gerard’s are learning that being a disciple isn’t simply about coming to church. It is about believing, gathering, growing, loving, and leading — and then taking what we have received and sharing it with others. Perhaps that is the best lesson from the pet supply drive.

 

– The Youth Ministry of St. Gerard Majella Parish in Paterson, N.J., turned this year’s annual Blessing of the Animals into an opportunity to do a little more than bless the beloved pets. Held in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, the parish’s annual Blessing of the Animals became the starting point for a pet supply donation drive. Parishioners were invited to bring gently used towels, sheets, blankets, and other supplies for local veterinarians, animal hospitals, shelters, rescue organizations, and others who care for animals in need. The family of St. Gerard Majella rose to the occasion, again. The blessing was

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