Religion

National

Why some doctors have started asking patients about their spiritual lives

Ben Thorp

Indiana University Hospital system is pairing patients with local faith groups to ease feelings of loneliness and isolation. The unique new program comes as more doctors are seeing a need to care for patients' spiritual as well as physical health.
International

Five things we learn about Pope Francis from his new memoir

Daniel Burke

In Pope Francis' autobiography Hope he reiterates themes of his papacy like hatred of war and unchecked capitalism, and a desire for the Catholic Church to be seen as a field hospital, not a fortress.
National

Southern California wildfires destroy or damage many houses of worship

Jason DeRose

Sarah Ventre

Faith communities in Los Angeles are trying to protect their homes and houses of worship from deadly wildfires. They are also trying to provide spiritual support for their traumatized congregations.
Politics

Biden awards Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction

Juliana Kim

The White House commended Pope Francis for his commitment to serving the poor, as well as advocating for peace and protecting the planet.
Politics

Pope names like-minded ally Cardinal McElroy as Washington archbishop

Nicole Winfield

Cardinal Robert McElroy has been bishop of San Diego since 2015.
Education

Low enrollment, lack of funding puts Catholic school in danger of closing

Katie Anastas

The Catholic Diocese of San Diego has helped cover the school’s deficits in the past, but now that it’s declared bankruptcy, it no longer can.
National

Under a 'grandma moon,' Native Americans honor their sacred pact with salmon

Anna King

Native American New Year was celebrated on the solstice under a canopy of winter stars. Near a crackling bonfire, the Nisqually tribe shared their culture and renewed their sacred pact with the salmon.
Opinion: Prayers are messages for our own hearts

Scott Simon

Hanukkah began on Christmas this year. A reflection on celebrating both holidays in a multi-faith family.
International

Pope urges 'all people of all nations' to silence arms in Christmas address

The Associated Press

Pope Francis in his traditional Christmas message urged "all people of all nations" to find courage "to silence the sounds of arms and overcome divisions" plaguing the world, from the Middle East to Ukraine, Africa to Asia.
The fun — and confusion — of celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah on the same date

Chloe Veltman

Christmas and Hanukkah rarely fall on the same date, but this year they do. One mixed-faith family in Oakland, Calif., doubles down for double whammy holiday.