USCCB - (CCC) - Catholic Radio Weekly 2009 Archives

Catholic Radio Weekly 2009 Archives

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#931 (July 26, 2009)

John Carr, executive director of the USCCB Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development discusses the key messages in Pope Benedict XVI’s new encyclical letter, Caritas in Veritate.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Cindy Wooden reports on some changes at the Vatican that have placed the Ecclesia Dei commission under the direction of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
Richard Doerflinger of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities comments on the National Institutes of Health’s recent actions regarding stem cell research.
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time in his “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice explains plenary indulgences and offers some ways that Catholics may earn them.
Laura Kuever of Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of Chicago discusses a program the organization has developed to help struggling families become self-sufficient.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth profiles two priests that are reaching out to their flocks through the use of digital media.
John Mulderig of the Bishops Office for Film and Broadcasting reviews the animated film “Coraline,” which is now available on DVD.”

#930 (July 19, 2009)

Laura Sheehan of Catholic Relief Services explains how the agency is helping refugees from Iraq who are suffering from psychological trauma.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on a statement of support for Fort Wayne-South Bend Bishop John D’Arcy that the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops membership released following their spring meeting last month.
Auxiliary Bishop Denis Madden of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and the Catholic co-chair of the Mid-Atlantic Catholic -Muslim Dialogue discusses the progress of the talks the group has participated in.
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses “minor orders,” a series of steps in the preparation for priesthood that are no longer observed.
Father Rick Hilgartner of the USCCB Secretariat of Divine Worship discusses some of the changes in the celebration of the Mass coming with the implementation of the new Roman Missal.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Cindy Wooden reports on the official unveiling of the restored private chapel in the Vatican Apostolic Palace named after the 16th-century Pope Paul III.
John Mulderig of the Bishops Office for Film and Broadcasting reviews the latest installment in the animated “Ice Age” series called “Dawn of the Dinosaurs.”

#929 (July 12, 2009)

Kathleen Dimmler of Catholic Charities in Brooklyn, New York, discusses a new financial empowerment center the agency has opened to provide one-on-one counseling for low and middle income families facing economic hardship and credit issues.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis reports on improving relations between Catholics and Muslims.
Theresa Notare of the Bishops Secretariat for Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth, comments on the terrible impact of pornography use and addiction on marriages.
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses an ancient book about saints called “The Golden Legend.”
Jeanne Hanline, editor of the “Official Catholic Directory,” discusses some of the more interesting facts and figures that appear in the annual publication that provides details on Catholic institutions, priests and religious located in the United States.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on the phenomenon of parish consolidations and closings in some parts of the U.S. in contrast with other areas of the country where new parishes are being built and expanded.
Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the film “My Sister’s Keeper,” which he says has some problematic content for Catholics.

#928 (July 5, 2009)

Millie Burns of East Bay Catholic Charities in Oakland, California, talks about a program the agency has developed to help victims and the community copes with the area’s high homicide rate.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis describes how Pope Benedict XVI reveals more of himself personally when he interacts with children.
Richard Doerflinger of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities comments on the recent murder of a doctor who performed abortions and how such actions are counter to message of those who truly embrace the pro-life movement’s belief in the sacredness of all life.
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time in his “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses what the term “Kingdom of God” means to Christians.
Mark Mastoianni discusses his idea to make the entire bible available on a USB drive.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on a college basketball scholarship awarded by the Christian Brothers Manhattan College to a young man who lost most of his left arm shortly after he was born.
John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews a new Eddie Murphy film, “Imagine That,” which he says is a “charming and timely fantasy.”

#927 (June 28, 2009)

Darren Hercyk with Catholic Relief Services in Pakistan discusses the increasing refugee problem in the country as residents leave their homes to escape Taliban fighting.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on the Vatican kick off for the “Year for Priests.”
Father David Toups of the USCCB Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations, discusses a special Web site the office has developed to provide resources for the “Year for Priests.”
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time in his “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses “nativist” movements in the U.S. that have seen discrimination against immigrants over the years because of their religion or other factors.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on the concerns of Latin America’s Catholic bishops about the impact of the global economic and climate crises on the region’s poorest residents.
Patrick Markey of the USCCB Office of National Collections discusses the Peter’s Pence collection and how it helps the Holy Father come to the aid of those in need around the world.
Monsignor Joseph Murphy of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph discusses a documentary program “Callings,” which he had a major role in developing, that will be seen on many NBC-TV affiliates this month,
Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the latest release in the “X-Men” series, “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.”

#926 (June 21, 2009)

In the Life Issues Forum, Deirdre McQuade of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities comments on the abortion rights group NARAL’s decision to drop the word “abortion” from its formal name.
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time in his “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses the preparation and use of Holy Oils in the sacraments of the Catholic Church.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on some women’s religious orders that are thriving at a time when interest in religious vocations in general has decreased.
Sister of Saint Benedict Michelle Sinkhorn explains why her congregation welcomes women to spend a week or a weekend with the sisters at their Ferdinand, Indiana monastery.
John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the new animated release sequel “Battle for Terra,” which he says is not an appropriate film for young children.

#925 (June 14, 2009)

Lydia Saad of the Gallup polling organization discusses results of a recent poll that indicates that Americans’ opinions on abortion are trending more pro-life.
Donna Grimes of the USCCB Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development discusses a new Web site the office has developed about Catholic teaching on the economy.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on the “Mercy Bridges” international literacy program.
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ in his “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses the many names that God is called by the different faiths of the world.
Sheila Garcia of the USCCB Secretariat of Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth discusses some ideas for fitting daily prayer time into our busy schedules.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on the excitement surrounding the release of documents about England’s King Henry VIII from the Vatican secret archives.
Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the new sequel “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian,” which he says is even better than the first film in the series.

#924 (June 7, 2009)

Executive Director Jim Kelly of Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of New Orleans discusses their “Helping Hands” project that continues to help people rebuild homes that were destroyed almost four years by Hurricane Katrina.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on an effort to restore funding for a scholarship program that provides funding for students to attend Catholic and other private schools in the District of Columbia, where public schools have been distressed for many years.
Hugh Aprile of Catholic Relief Services reports on the agency’s efforts to improve health care and other services for the underserved Mayan population in Guatemala.
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses the doctrine of the Holy Trinity.
Mercy Sister Mary Scullion, co-founder of Project HOME in Philadelphia, discusses her ministry and her recent selection to TIME magazine’s list of the world’s 100 most influential people.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on the Vatican Museums’ efforts to find the proper balance between preserving priceless artifacts and satisfying burgeoning public demand for their exhibit.
John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the film “Twilight,” which is now available on DVD.

#923 (May 31, 2009)

Candy Hill of Catholic Charities USA discusses are recent survey that shows the impact of the poor economy on U.S. families.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis reports on Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez’s call to eliminate economies of greed in the world.
In the Life Issues Forum, USCCB Pro Life Activities Director Tom Grenchik explains why allowing human embryos to be used for stem cell research is like issuing a death sentence to our unborn brothers and sisters.
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses a new translation of a legendary book on spirituality called “The Cloud of Unknowing.”
Colleen Marotta, Executive Director of the Holy Family Hospital Foundation, explains how the hospital serves women and children in the Holy Land thanks to the support of the Order of Malta.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Chaz Muth reports on commencement speakers at Catholic colleges and universities this spring and how they are chosen by the schools.
Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews “Star Trek,” a new “prequel” to the cult favorite television series that he says is a winner.

#922 (May 24, 2009)

Mercy Sister Mary Ann Walsh, Director of Media Relations for the USCCB, discusses a recent study on changes in religious affiliation from the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on Catholic efforts to promote organic farming methods among coffee growers in Central America that help preserve forests and produce a better product.
Ellen Peters and Arlene Oberle of St. Joseph’s Parish in Greensburgh, Kansas, discuss the community’s recovery and “green” rebuilding efforts two years following a massive tornado that destroyed most of the town.
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice provides background on a Catholic lay movement called “Communion and Liberation” that started among high school students in Italy.
Father Rick Hilgartner of the USCCB Secretary for Divine Worship shares some suggestions for couples planning to marry in the Catholic Church that will help to personalize their wedding ceremony and honor God’s central role in the sacrament of marriage.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on a new children’s book that looks at a day in the life of Pope Benedict from the perspective of a friendly sparrow named Max.
John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews “The Soloist,” a film based on a true story that he says features standout performances from actors Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey, Jr.

#921 (May 17, 2009)

Dan Griffin of Catholic Relief Services reports on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has grown worse since more than a dozen international aid agencies were forced to leave the country in March.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on developments in Postville, Iowa, on the one year anniversary of a massive immigration raid in that community that left immigrant families in turmoil.
Susan Wills of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities comments on a recent Federal Drug Administration decision to allow 17-year-olds access to the emergency contraceptive known as “Plan B.”
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the Sixth Sunday of Easter in this week’s “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice provides a brief history of a Catholic lay movement known as the Community of Sant’Egidio.
USCCB Secretary for Communications Helen Osman discusses the annual collection for the Catholic Communication Campaign and some of the projects its proceeds make possible.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis reports on Pope Benedict’s apology to native Canadians for the suffering of Canadian aboriginal children that were abused in church-run residential schools.
Father Peter Malone discusses the first film festival award conferred by SIGNIS, the Vatican-recognized international organization for Catholic media.
Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews a documentary about the composing team that created many memorable musical scores for Disney films over the years titled “The Boys: The Sherman Brothers Story.”

#920 (May 10, 2009)

Father James Massa, executive director of the USCCB Secretariat of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, discusses Pope Benedict’s trip to the Holy Land and interreligious cooperation.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on some new information that a Vatican researcher has uncovered concerning the Shroud of Turin.
Patricia Hvidston, senior vice president of Catholic Charities USA, discusses the organization’s first Centennial Leadership Summit that was held in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis last month.
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the Fifth Sunday of Easter in this week’s “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses some of the heavenly bodies that have been named after saints.
Mary McClusky of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities discusses a popular doctor’s comments during a recent appearance on television’s “Oprah Winfrey” show that shattered some myths about adult stem cell research.
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on a recent medical mission trip some U.S. doctors took to treat disabled and underprivileged children in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the film “Hannah Montana: the Movie.”

#919 (May 3, 2009)

Bishop John Wester, chair of the USCCB Committee on Migration discusses pending legislation that will help migrant youth on the path to citizenship and explains why he believes that there is now real hope for meaningful immigration reform.
In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis previews Pope Benedict XVI’s upcoming trip to the Middle East.
Cardinal John Foley, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, which helps to sustain the charitable, cultural and social works and institutions of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land, discusses the extensive planning involved in preparing for Pope Benedict XVI’s trip to the region.
Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the Fourth Sunday of Easter in this week’s “Sunday Soundbite.”
In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice tells the story of one of the great popes in history who is now known as St. Gregory the Great.
Pat Engers, director of shipping for Catholic Relief Services, explains how the escalating problem of piracy off the African coast is impacting the organization’s efforts to deliver food and supplies to those in need on that continent.
Father James Steffes, executive director of the USCCB Secretariat of Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations, discusses some of the facts and figures about the “Class of 2009:” the men who will be ordained as Catholic priests this year in the United States. <
In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on a recently released government report that found a steep increase in the U.S. birth rate in 2007 and also revealed that 40% of the births in that year were to unwed mothers.
Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the film “State of Play,” which he says benefits from an excellent cast and a well-crafted script.

#918 (April 24, 2009)
- Anastasia Brown of the USCCB Department of Migration and Refugee Services explains why her office is urging Congress to implement the new Trafficking Victims Protection Act.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on a Gallup poll that found minimal differences in opinions among Catholics and non-Catholics on some important moral issues.
- In the life issues commentary from Susan Wills of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities, we hear some facts uncovered by researchers about AIDS and condom use that people who criticized Pope Benedict’s recent statement about preventing AIDS in Africa may not be aware of.
- Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the Third Sunday of Easter in this week’s “Sunday Soundbite.”
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice reveals some of the legends and traditions surrounding the martyrdom of Saint Peter.
- Frank Morock reports on how Catholic Charities of Raleigh is coping with a sharp increase in requests for food and other assistance in an area hit particularly hard by the recession.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on Pope Benedict XVI’s message for the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the new animated adventure film “Monsters vs. Aliens. “
#917 (April 19, 2009)
- Dan Misleh of the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change explains a new initiative the organization is launching to coincide with the thirty-ninth annual celebration of Earth Day.
- Laura Sheehan of Catholic Relief Services discusses the growing concern in Egypt over an increasing number of bird flu cases and describes what CRS is doing to confront the problem.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis looks at the first four years of Pope Benedict XVI’s papacy.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice looks at the origins of the term “Catholic” and how it became the name of the Church founded by Saint Peter.
- Kevin Appleby of the USCCB Department of Migration and Refugee Services explains why USCCB has asked President Obama to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians working in the United States.
- Nell Lawrence of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Tyler, Texas, explains how the organization was formed in response to the need that arose following the devastating hurricanes of 2005.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey profiles Trappist monk Father Luke Kot as marked his 97th birthday at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Monastery in Conyers, Georgia.
- Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews a new HBO film based on the landmark 1973 documentary “Grey Gardens” and starring Jessica Lange and Drew Barrymore.
#916 (April 12, 2009)
- Monsignor Harry Schlitt of the Archdiocese of San Francisco offers an Easter reflection.
- Cardinal John Foley, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, the Vatican entity that protects, fosters and provides support to Catholic communities and Christian sites in the Holy Land, discusses Pope Benedict XVI’s first trip to the region as pope later this month.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz tells the story of a recently ordained priest who converted to Catholicism after serving 24 years as an Episcopal priest and three years as a bishop in New Mexico.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice looks at the origins and ministry of the Focolare movement.
- Doctor Karen Ristau, president of the National Catholic Educational Association, previews the group’s annual convention which will be held this coming week in Anaheim.
- Father Ernest Hardesty, pastor of St. Leo the Great Catholic University Parish on the campus of Arkansas Tech University, discusses his ministry which has earned him recognition as the Catholic Extension Society’s “Hidden Hero of the Month.”
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on a recent talk given by architect and liturgical design consultant Robert Habiger on designing accessible worship spaces for persons with disabilities.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the film “Duplicity,” which he says succeeds because of good performances from lead actors Julia Roberts and Clive Owen.
#915 (April 5, 2009)
- USCCB spokesperson Mercy Sister Mary Ann Walsh discusses an Obama administration plan to repeal conscience protection rights for health care workers and a Web site where Catholics can register their comments on the proposal.
- Teresa Kettelkamp, executive director of the Bishops’ Secretariat of Child and Youth Protection, discusses the results of recent audits that indicate that an overwhelming majority of U.S. Catholic dioceses are in compliance with articles of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People adopted by the bishops in 2002.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on the airborne ministry of a priest in the Diocese of Anchorage who brings the sacraments to Catholics in remote areas of Alaska.
- Archbishop Donald Wuerl of Washington reflects on the Gospel for Palm Sunday in an excerpt from his Lenten Radio Retreat.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Cindy Wooden reports on Pope Benedict’s plans for Palm Sunday, the day on which World Youth Day is observed in Italy and many other countries across the globe.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice looks at the origins and history of Catholic Charities, USA.
- In the “Life Issues Forum” from the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities, we hear how the miracle of life and the practice of natural family planning led a Virginia couple to convert to Catholicism.
- Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews “Race to Witch Mountain.”
#914 (March 29, 2009)
- Kathy Toepel of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Stockton discusses the impact of the state budget crisis in California on her organization.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis reports on Vatican concerns that the global economic crisis will have a devastating impact on children throughout the world who are already living in poverty.
- Richard Doerflinger of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities discusses President Obama’s decision to overturn President Bush’s ban on the use of federal tax dollars to pay for embryonic stem cell research.
- Bishop Joseph Galante of Camden reflects on the Gospel for the fifth Sunday of Lent.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice looks at a group of Europeans that split from the Roman Church in the 1870’s over the doctrine of papal infallibility to form what became known as the “Old Catholic Church.”
- Mark Franken of the Catholic Legal Immigration Network explains the work of the organization that receives some of its funding from the annual parish collection for Catholic Relief Services.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on the proceedings at a recent summit on Catholic volunteerism.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews “The Jonas Brothers: The 3-D Concert Experience,” which he says is finding favor with the many fans of the popular musical group.
#913 (March 22, 2009)
- Deirdre McQuade of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities discusses an Obama administration proposal that calls for rescinding the federal regulation protecting the conscience rights of health care workers.
- Antonio Cube of the USCCB Department of Migration and Refugee Services provides an update on the bishops’ “Justice for Immigrants” campaign.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on rising concerns among Latin American bishops over an increase in drug trafficking violence in the region.
- Cardinal William Keeler, retired archbishop of Baltimore, reflects on the Gospel for the fourth Sunday of Lent in an excerpt from his Lenten Radio Retreat.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice looks at the origins of the tradition of praying the rosary.
- Patrick Markey, Executive Director of the USCCB Office of National Collections, discusses the many ministries and programs made possible through the Catholic Relief Services Collection.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz comments on a new book by papal household theologian Dominican Father Wojciech Giertych which says that men and women experience sin differently.
- Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews “The Story of David,” a miniseries that first aired on ABC thirty-four years ago that is now available on DVD.
#912 (March 15, 2009)
- Photojournalist Dave Snyder discusses the status of Iraqi refugees in Lebanon that he recently met at the Caritas Lebanon Migration Center while on assignment for Catholic Relief Services.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on Pope Benedict XVI’s view of the Vatican’s role as a promoter of world peace, expressed in a speech he made to participants in a congress marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vatican City State.
- Bishop Gerald Barnes of San Bernardino reflects on the Gospel for the third Sunday of Lent in an excerpt from his Lenten Radio Retreat.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice offers some advice for individuals preparing to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, especially for those who do not regularly go to Confession.
- Pat Tam, the Adult Faith Formation Director in the western Region of the Diocese of Fairbanks, explains the ministry work that has earned him honors as the Catholic Extension Society’s “Hidden Hero” of the month.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey shares insights from an interview with Franciscan Sister Mary Anton Ebo, who reminisces about her participation in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march for black voters’ rights.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the new thriller “The International.”
#911 (March 8, 2009)
- Steve Colecchi, director of the USCCB office of International Justice and Peace, discusses a new joint project of his office and Catholic Relief Services to help build awareness of the problem of global poverty.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis previews Pope Benedict XVI’s upcoming trip to the African continent, scheduled to begin next week.
- Mary McClusky of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities comments the recent news-making octuplet birth to a single woman through in vitro fertilization and the risks and consequences of viewing human life as a commodity instead of a gift from God.
- Bishop Blase Cupich of Rapid City reflects on the Gospel for the second Sunday of Lent in an excerpt from his Lenten Radio Retreat.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey shares ideas and tips from two Catholic mothers on preparing and sharing family meals for the meatless Fridays of Lent.
- Annette Shumate of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, West Virginia, discusses a very successful adult education project supported by her organization that has helped more than 2,000 adults become literate.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice explains what the term “apophenia” means in relation to supposed appearances of holy images in everyday objects.
- Harry Forbes of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the film version of “Confessions of a Shopaholic,” a supposed comedy that he says falls flat in light of the country’s current economic crisis.
#910 (March 1, 2009)
- Paul Martodam of Catholic Charities in Phoenix, Arizona, discusses a successful program his agency has launched that helps people escape from the cycle of poverty.
- In Catholic News Service’s Rome Report, John Thavis reports on the election of a new patriarch for the Russian Orthodox Church and what it means for Catholic-Orthodox relations.
- Father Francis Tiso, Associate Director for Interreligious Relations at the USCCB Secretariat for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, discusses the progress of the Catholic-Ch’an Zen Buddhist dialogue.
- Archbishop Daniel Pilarczyk of Cincinnati reflects on the Gospel for the first Sunday of Lent in an excerpt from his Lenten Radio Retreat
- Tom Grenchik, executive director of the USCCB Secretariats of Pro Life Activities, discusses a postcard campaign the secretariat is co-sponsoring that is directed to members of Congress and explains why Catholics and others oppose federal funding and promotion of abortion, including the so-called “Freedom of Choice Act.”
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on some new information regarding Catholic Church teaching on the definition of brain death and the U.S. government’s view on how the condition is determined.
- In his “Fact of Faith,” Paulist Father Larry Rice dispels some old rumors about the existence of a Vatican-owned “time machine.”
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Film and Broadcasting office reviews the 3-D animated film “Coraline,” which he says is entrancing, but too edgy for young children.
#909 (February 22, 2009)
- Joan Rosenhauer, associate director of education and outreach for the USCCB Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development previews the 2009 Catholic Social Ministry Gathering, taking place this weekend in Washington, D.C.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on Pope Benedict XVI's message for Lent 2009.
- Jesuit Father James McCann, director of the Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern, explains the types of projects that benefit from the collection that is held on Ash Wednesdays in most U.S. parishes.
- Franciscan Father Greg Friedman reflects on the readings for the Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time in this week's "Sunday Soundbite."
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice discusses one of the more controversial popes in history, Boniface VIII.
- Matt Davis, Catholic Relief Services' regional representative in the Middle East, discusses the agency's relief efforts in the Gaza region of Palestine in the face of continuing violence.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on how the deteriorating economy is impacting fund-raising efforts for U.S. Catholic colleges and universities
- USCCB Film and Broadcasting director Harry Forbes reviews a new two-part public television adaptation of the Dickens classic "Oliver Twist."
#908 (February 15, 2009)
- Diane Knight, the new chair of the Bishops' National Review Board that advises the USCCB Committee on the Protection of Children and Young People explains how the board and the committee work together.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on a new initiative of the Catholic Coalition for Climate Change to make Catholics more aware of the issue of global warming and how they can help stop it.
- Deirdre McQuade of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities comments on a recent opinion survey that indicates that most Americans do not favor the pro-abortion policies that the proposed Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) would implement.
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice tells explains what "territorial abbeys" are and where they are located.
- Laura Sheahen of Catholic Relief Services discusses the agency's integrated health and sanitation effort that is targeting communities in rural Egypt.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on the Vatican's foray into social media with its new channel on You Tube.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting announces the office's picks for the ten family films on 2008.
#907 (February 8, 2009)
- Deirdre McQuade of the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities discusses President Obama's Executive Order to overturn the "Mexico City Policy" which had prohibited U.S. funding of organizations that perform and promote abortions in developing nations.
- Virginia Farris of the USCCB Office for International Justice and Peace explains why the U.S. Bishops are encouraged by President Obama's decision to shut down the U.S. Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where suspected terrorists are imprisoned.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, John Thavis reports on the Vatican's hopes for a cooperative and productive relationship with new U.S. President Barack Obama.
- In the Life Issues Forum, the USCCB's Susan Wills comments on the American Civil Liberties Union's efforts to overturn guidelines put into that protect the conscience rights of healthcare workers.
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice tells explains the history of one of Rome's four major basilicas and why it was re-named.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on the concerns of Catholic organizations about the declining health care situation and life expectancy in Zimbabwe.
- Jennifer Swope of Catholic Relief Services explains the history behind the organization's Lenten fund-raising campaign known as "Operation Rice Bowl."
- Harry Forbes of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting announces the office's picks for the ten best films on 2008.
#906 (February 1, 2009)
- Karen Clifton of the Catholic Mobilizing Network discusses the Catholic Campaign to End the Use of the Death Penalty, a new coalition that will give Catholic organizations involved in the campaign to end capital punishment a stronger voice on the issue.
- Cardinal Roger Mahony, Archbishop of Los Angeles, discusses his call for President Obama to move quickly to address the issue of immigration reform that he explained in a teleconference sponsored by the National Immigration Forum.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on a group of Catholic medical students at Vanderbilt University who have formed a group to help them integrate their faith and their medical careers.
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice introduces us to the Catholic Order of Foresters, a fraternal group that uses proceeds from life insurance sales for charitable work.
- Maureen Day of "Heaven Born" discusses her project to help women heal after suffering a miscarriage.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on the how the Vatican Museums, the Vatican Observatory and other Vatican offices will be marking this "International Year of Astronomy."
- Monsignor Paul Tighe, secretary of the Vatican's Pontifical Council for Social Communications, discusses the "iBreviary," a software program that delivers the book of daily prayers used by priests directly to a person's iPhone.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting reviews the animated feature film "The Tale of Despereaux."
#905 (January 25, 2009)
- Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, vice president of the USCCB, Stephen Colecchi of the USCCB Office of International Justice and Peace, and Matt Davis of Catholic Relief Services speak from the Holy Land about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Gaza.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, John Thavis reviews the history of United States-Vatican diplomatic relations.
- Deirdre McQuade from the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities reports on the results of a recent survey on Americans' views on abortion.
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice explains how a spiritual director can help individuals deepen their faith.
- Msgr. Carlos Quintana Puente of the USCCB's Office of National Collections explains how the upcoming annual collection for the Church in Latin America helps fulfill many basic needs of parishes throughout Central and South America.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on a study that looked at the impact of violent media on teens.
- Harry Forbes of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting reviews "The Curios Case of Benjamin Button," the film based on an unusual story by F. Scott Fitzgerald that is nominated for 13 Academy Awards.
#904 (January 18, 2009)
- Candy Hill, senior vice president of Catholic Charities USA, talks about the presidential transition and some hopeful meetings she has participated in with members of President-elect Obama's team regarding the role of faith-based organizations in the new administration.
- Mary McClusky from the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities previews some of the activities the Catholic Church will sponsor as part of the observance of the anniversary of the Supreme Court's Roe vs. Wade decision this week in Washington, D.C.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on how Catholic dioceses in the United States are coping with budget and donation reductions brought about by the economic recession.
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice explains what "scrupulosity" is and how spiritual and psychological counseling can help people who suffer from the disorder, and have distorted consciences or unrealistic views of morality.
- Auxiliary Bishop Gabino Zavala of Los Angeles discusses a new campaign urging the United Nations to meet its moral obligation by taking on the issue of climate change that is outlined in a statement titled, "A Call for Climate Justice" that he and 91 other bishops and cardinals signed last month.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, John Thavis reports on the ongoing work of the Vatican's archeologists who have recently located the tomb of St. Paul.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting reviews the recently released DVD "The Express" which tells the story of Ernie Davis, the first African American to win college football's Heisman trophy.
#903 (January 11, 2009)
- Catholic Relief Services President Ken Hackett discusses the impact of the global economic crisis on international aid organizations.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on some new guidelines regarding the use of vaccines derived through abortions in the Vatican document "Dignitas Personae."
- Richard Doerflinger from the USCCB Secretariat of Pro Life Activities provides details on a postcard campaign aimed at preventing passage of the proposed federal Freedom of Choice Act.
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice explains what the Catholic Church teaches about gambling.
- Father James Steffes, Executive Director of the USCCB Secretariat for Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations, discusses plans for observing National Vocation Awareness Week.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on how the closing of a major tourist attraction is wreaking havoc on the Hawaiian island of Molokai, where the local Catholic community is overwhelmed with requests for assistance from laid-off workers.
- Harry Forbes, director of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting reviews the movie "Marley & Me," which he says is "a heartwarming adaptation of John Grogan's best-seller," that while is ostensibly about the title dog, is really a very positive story about marriage and family.
#902 (January 4, 2009)
- Kevin Appleby, director of the USCCB Office of Migration and Refugee Policy, discusses the prospects for immigration reform in the Obama Administration.
- In the Catholic News Service Spotlight, Regina Linskey reports on the problems that are resulting in Latin America from a lack of resources to deal with an aging population.
- Paul Miller of Catholic Relief Services discusses the outbreak of cholera in Zimbabwe that is adding to the political strife in the country.
- In his "Fact of Faith," Paulist Father Larry Rice provides some background on the origins and use of stained glass windows in Catholic churches.
- In Catholic News Service's Rome Report, Carol Glatz reports on Pope Benedict XVI's message for the 2009 World Day of Peace which focuses on fighting global poverty.
- Jesuit Father John Foley discusses his work in creating affordable college prep high schools for inner city youth that recently earned him a Presidential citizen's medal.
- John Mulderig of the USCCB Office for Film and Broadcasting reviews the movie adaptation of the first in a series of popular vampire romance novels from author Stephanie Meyer, called "Twilight."
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