News & Commentary

Rescuers paddle an inflatable boat as they search along a waterway in the aftermath of deadly flooding in Kerrville, Texas, July 6, 2025. At least 82 people are dead and at least 41 more are missing after devastating flash floods slammed the Texas Hill Country, with water rescues taking place along the Guadalupe River, which rose rapidly early July 4 to the height of a two-story building. Among the missing were almost a dozen from Camp Mystic in Kerr County, a children's summer camp, officials said July 6. (OSV News photo/Marco Bello, Reuters)

Catholics offer support as Texas flood’s catastrophic death toll rises

Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott declared Sunday, July 6 a day of prayer throughout the state, as the death toll from catastrophic flooding July 4 has now risen to at least 82 people as of July 7, including 28 children in ...
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Kobe Bryant relied on Catholic faith in tough times

As the world mourned the loss of basketball great Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others killed in a helicopter crash Jan. 26, many recalled how Bryant gave much credit to his Catholic faith for seeing him through ...
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Pope: Church’s preferential option for the poor is nonnegotiable

A missionary or church reality that is truly inspired by the Holy Spirit "manifests predilection for the poor and vulnerable as a sign and reflection of the Lord’s own preference for them," Pope Francis told the pontifical mission societies.
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Dozens gather virtually to sing psalms, hymns, songs

Notre Dame Preparatory High School's choir and alumni are bringing the world a little closer together, even when it remains far apart.
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Caution tops checklists for Catholic colleges to reopen in fall

Long before graduation ceremonies are over, college administrators usually have an eye on the upcoming fall semester. And this year, even with virtual commencement ceremonies, the look to the next academic year is inevitable.
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St. Peter’s Basilica reopens to the public

Almost 10 weeks after St. Peter's Basilica was closed to the public in cooperation with Italy's COVID-19 lockdown measures, the faithful and tourists were allowed back in May 18.
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Pope Declares Five New Saints

Saints are people who recognized their need for God's help, who took risks to discover God's will and to help others and who nurtured a habit of thanksgiving, Pope Francis said.
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