• New monsignors to be announced soon in Chicago? (POSTED: 8/1/10) A number of Chicago-area priests apparently have been named "monsignor" by the pope -- an old-school honor that many local clerics do not look favorably upon.

    In an Aug. 1 column in the Catholic New World, Cardinal Francis George confirmed what ChicagoCatholicNews.com reported back in February: that he is behind efforts to resurrect a tradition that fell out of favor -- at least in the Archdiocese of Chicago -- after the Second Vatican Council.

    George pushed the issue despite the fact many of his priests (including some of those rumored to be recipients) are opposed to the designation -- in part because they see it as another clergy caste, somewhere between regular priests and bishops.

    "The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has recently named a number of archdiocesan priests as his chaplains," George wrote in the column. (Papal chaplains typically carry the monsignor title.)

    "When I wrote to the pope to request these honors at the beginning of the Year for Priests, I explained that a few of our priests hold positions that traditionally are held by priests who have been honored by the pope but that there are also the vast majority of priests who minister faithfully and dedicate themselves constantly to the Lord and his people."

    "I asked that a few of our priests be honored, most of them quite elderly, who would represent all their brothers. Some will not want to be honored because of their humility; but sometimes humility means accepting an honor that is not just for the individual but for everyone else as well."

    "A few in the archdiocese might object to anyone receiving papal honors because they want to distance this local church from the Holy See. But alienation is not a virtue."

    There's some irony in George's move -- that he wants to honor priests at a time of massive turmoil in the Church due to the priest sex abuse scandal. It's worth noting the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, or SNAP, is holding its national convention in Chicago this weekend.

    George did not return a phone call placed by a ChicagoCatholicNews.com reporter on Friday.

    Here's a list of existing Chicago monsignors:
    Robert Dempsey--previously worked at the Vatican, now pastor of St. Philip the Apostle in Northfield
    George Dobes--retired military chaplain, now works for Archdiocese of Washington tribunal
    Joseph Mroczkowski--retired, formerly involved in music at Quigley seminary and Holy Name Cathedral
    George Sarauskas--previously worked for Catholic bishops conference
    Robert Trisco--works at Catholic University of America
    Ken Velo--President of Big Shoulders Fund, former head of Catholic Church Extension Society
    Richard Zborowski--pastor of St. Theresa Church in Palatine who has raised money for seminaries in Poland


    By ChicagoCatholicNews.com
    Contact: info@chicagocatholicnews.com

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  • NEW COLUMN: The Working Catholic, by Bill Droel
    (POSTED: 7/29/10) I occasionally help an autoworker and his family with food donations and gas for his 2002 Chevy. He is battling cancer and his wife has a chronic illness. Over coffee the other morning I was surprised to learn that he borrowed $3,600 in order to pay medical expenses. The loan company requires monthly payments to a total of $4,200 and holds title to the home in case the autoworker defaults.

    I am angry. First, that the family made a mistake. Second, that all these months after the economic fiasco predators are still pulling the same stunts -- while I watch my retirement savings languish in under-performing mutual funds.

    From 1776 until 1978 most states in our country capped loan interest somewhere between 6 percent and 12 percent, with a few exceptions. The current predicament follows a 1978 Supreme Court decision by which a national bank can charter in either of two states without any cap and can thereafter operate without caps in all the states. Further, a 1980 congressional act dispenses savings banks and other financial companies from usury limits, specifically prohibiting states from regulating interest rates that involve real estate. The purpose of financial business thus changes. Instead of providing credit to homeowners, manufacturers and service companies, the purpose is making more money itself, regardless of tangible goods and real services. Legal payday loan stores, ballooning credit card rates, adjustable or balloon mortgages, tax return schemes and the like all mushroom through the 1980s and beyond.

    The current recession could have been avoided to the benefit of investors and the working poor, had people listened to some lonely crusaders some 30 years ago, writes Gary Rivlin in Broke USA: From Pawnshops to Poverty Inc. (Harper Collins, 2010).

    Kathleen Keest, working for a Boston consumer agency in 1985, began to sense a major problem as she assisted one credit-gouged family after another. William Brennan, an ex-seminarian and attorney for Atlanta Legal Aid, thought he was combating an isolated rotten apple when in 1991 he defended an 80-year-old woman against Fleet Bank. In the early 1990s Bruce Marks of Neighborhood Assistance Corporation in Boston began an often one-person protest outside banks and at stockholder meetings on behalf of defrauded families.

    Unfortunately, the prophets' voice was not heard.

    I should not have been so surprised that even after the near collapse of the world economy predators are still exploiting an autoworker with cancer and thousands of others. William Brennan was initially surprised that his landmark victory over Fleet Bank and the resulting 1994 Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act did not stop the predators. But Brennan and the others realized the battle continues.

    The Industrial Areas Foundation (637 S. Dearborn St. #100, Chicago, IL 60605; www.10percentisenough.org), a 70-year-old national network of community organizations, has launched a "Ten Percent Is Enough" anti-usury campaign. IAF's material, which refers to religious tradition, suggests that they understand legal victories and legislative changes are insufficient. A solution must include moral change.

    St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) says usury is unjust in itself because it pretends to sell what does not exist and evidently (at least to St. Thomas) leads to unacceptable inequality. While the Church gradually loosened total prohibition on charging interest, no legitimate authority exists to justify the rapacious and deceitful interest rates of today. Debts that last a lifetime transform people from creditors to indentured servants, stripping them of economic power and imperiling their sense of citizenship.

    By Bill Droel, an instructor and campus minister at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills. He edits a newsletter on faith and work for the National Center for the Laity (P.O. Box 291102, Chicago, IL 60629).

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  • Meatless Fridays making resurgence among some Catholics
    (POSTED: 7/26/10) Several years ago, after hearing her pastor talk on the subject, Catherine Baranke decided to abstain from eating meat on Fridays.

    "It's not a huge sacrifice, but at least it's something you can do to show your belief or your faith," said Baranke, a 34-year-old youth leader at Annunciation of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Parish in Homer Glen.

    Baranke isn't alone in newly embracing one of the Church's older traditions -- which waned considerably after the Second Vatican Council of the 1960s.

    A growing number of young adults appear to be going meatless on Fridays in Chicago and elsewhere, according to interviews with Church officials and regular members.

    And it seems -- at least in some instances -- to be tied to a larger resurgence of the more traditional aspects of the faith, such as the Latin mass, which also became less common after Vatican II modernized aspects of the Church. (Meatless Fridays actually were not done away with, but other forms of "penance" were allowed, except during Lent.)

    Young adults "don't have the same hang-ups [as the older generation] about the authority of the Church," said the Rev. Dennis Paul, parochial administrator of St. Isidore Parish in Bloomingdale. "They didn't have the Catechism force fed upon them."

    So they may look upon the traditions differently, with more enthusiasm or longing or seriousness.

    "Youth is a very brief part of one's life and we have such a youth-oriented culture," said the Rev. Richard Simon, pastor of St. Lambert Parish in Skokie and a host on the Catholic network Relevant Radio. "I think people are beginning to realize you're only young for so long and you have to deal with the ultimate questions."

    Skokie resident Corrina Gura, 27, gave up meat -- not just on Fridays, but every day -- five years ago after converting to Catholicism. She doesn't just eat fish -- the common substitute for meat in the old days -- but an array of items.

    For Gura, project coordinator at the Pro-Life Action League, "it's a good way of reminding ourselves that it's important to not always have everything that you want."

    Chicago native Matt McDonald, 36, recently returned to the Friday fast after giving up desserts for years instead. He gave up meat on Fridays again when he started dating his wife Julie 18 months ago.

    Although he moved to Napa, Calif., with Julie, Matt McDonald travels for business. He said sharing in the Catholic tradition with Julie, 35, connects them even when he is away.

    "It was just kind of a connection thing that we were both making that sacrifice," Matt McDonald said. "It made me think deeper about how during Lent all Catholics are not supposed to eat meat on Friday and that connection that we all have."

    Whatever the motivation for abstaining from meat -- a practice that dates back centuries -- the practice pleases the Rev. Thomas Loya of Annunciation of the Mother of God.

    But, "to abstain from meat on one day of the week is very, very minimal," Loya said. "So it's kind of very telling where we're at spiritually that something like this would be noteworthy."

    By Marisa Grigaliunas, for ChicagoCatholicNews.com
    Contact: info@chicagocatholicnews.com

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  • Church Reporter: Priest in business of "helping same-sex-oriented people calm their urges and live chaste lives"
    (UPDATED: 7/22/10) Speaking at the monthly Catholic Citizens of Illinois luncheon on July 9, Fr. Paul Check pressed one of the hottest social-climate buttons around, converting same-sex people to opposite-sexers -- in their behavior if not in their orientation.

    As recently installed national director of Courage, which performs chaplain services for 12-step programs in 100-plus U.S. dioceses, including Chicago and overseas, he's in the business of helping same-sex-oriented people calm their urges and live chaste lives according to Church teaching.

    Their work "is not directed toward the change in sexual orientation," he said in an interview. "That is the work of mental health professionals. We do work with them, but from the standpoint of the spiritual and moral helps of the Catholic Faith." The work of Courage, he said, is effecting "the change to interior chastity or chastity of the heart."

    As the Courage website has it, "By developing an interior life of chastity, which is the universal call to all Christians, one can move beyond the confines of the homosexual identity to a more complete one in Christ." It's a goal fraught with contradiction for some and vigorously challenged by others.

    In Oak Park, for instance, the normally quiet and near-universally welcomed gay and lesbian community rose as one to condemn a local coffee-shop proprietor for planning to host a speaker who had written a book on the subject. This was a Missionary Baptist preacher, Rev. Cornelius Williams, who was to talk up his book, Transition: From Homosexual to Preacher. They were successful in preventing his appearance.

    Father Check, a priest of the Bridgeport (Conn.) diocese based now in New York City, offered some basics in how to understand same-sex attraction. Don't use "homosexual" as a noun, for one thing, nor "gay" nor "lesbian." Be careful to distinguish a person from his actions. How you act is what matters, not your inclination. How you act ultimately determines what you are.

    Among risk factors for men (not determinants), he cited a high level of emotional sensitivity, a tendency to risk-avoidance, and lack of hand-eye coordination.

    Among precipitating causes the most common is "sexual trauma, for which the numbers are very high." He said, "One third of young men who self-identify as homosexual were abused. It's a way to raise the [distress] flag."

    Family environment has its own precipitating factors. For the boy, "the father may be emotionally unreceptive, disengaged," offering "no response or a severe response to the son's lack of interest in what he, the father likes." There's a lack of "shared delight" between father and son, as in the feeling, "We're doing this together. I like it and I see you like it too."

    All in all, "something intrudes on the [boy's] need for the father's affection."

    Another factor is that the mother is emotionally "overinvolved." Male clients of one veteran therapist, asked when they feel most masculine, were silent, unable to remember.

    But "always felt that way" from a client does not mean "born that way," he said. A genetic predisposition puts people at risk without deciding the matter.

    Indeed, the problem "can be caught early," he said. The boy in his teens may say he's homosexual, but it's "too early to know." It's important to give him a chance to avoid becoming a same-sex practitioner, among other reasons because as such he would be "a thousand times more likely to get AIDS."

    Same-sex-attracted women find themselves in a "more fluid" situation, in which the emotional need comes first, before the genital. A family-originated precipitating factor: "A mother's love is missing, and men are seen as dangerous."

    Asked about the missing-father syndrome common in the inner-city family, he noted that "homosexuality is deeply embedded in black and Hispanic communities because of this problem," adding something that also goes against prevailing activist wisdom: "Overall, [only] 2 to 3 percent of men and half as many women have the problem." Gay activists commonly claim 10 percent.

    Fr. Check spoke at the Catholic Citizens monthly luncheon at the Union League Club to 45 or so people. He was given his new job as Courage director by his bishop. He succeeds the Courage ministry's founder and long-time director, Fr. John Harvey.

    Courage was started in 1983 by New York City Cardinal Terence Cooke as a ministry to "modern-day lepers," as Cooke described men and women drawn to the same sex. The national Courage conference 2010 is set for July 29 to Aug. 1 at St. Mary of the Lake seminary in Mundelein. Deadline for registration is July 20. Call (212) 268-1010 or email NYCourage@aol.com for information.

    Fr. Check described the Courage ministry by recalling the Gospel account of the woman caught in adultery. To her Jesus said two things after none of the Pharisees condemned her: "Neither will I condemn you," followed by "Go and sin no more," thus encapsulating his "great [dual] message" -- the "call to compassion" and "the call to conversion."

    He recommended three web sites:

    * Courage, at CourageRC.net, with its interest-group online listing for "Encourage," the Alanon-like grouping of family members of the same-sex-attracted -- where Fr. Charlie Becker is named as the Chicago group priest.

    * Catholic Therapists -- CatholicTherapist.com;

    * The National Association for Research and Treatment of Homosexuality -- NARTH.com.

    By Jim Bowman

    He was religion editor for The Chicago Daily News, 1968 to its closing in 1978, and since then has written many books and articles, including his Bending the Rules: What American Priests Tell American Catholics (Crossroad, 1994). He blogs at www.blithe-spirit.com and elsewhere. www.jimbowman.com has the links.

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  • Mother Teresa's relics draw hundreds in Chicago, including Cardinal George
    (POSTED: 7/19/10) Becky Escolar used to pray for the chance to see a glimpse of Mother Teresa in person.

    Even though the nun died in 1997, Escolar felt she got a glimpse on Sunday as she stood before the nun's hair, blood and other possessions during their visit to Chicago over the weekend.

    "With these relics here, I feel her presence," Escolar, a 59-year-old Chicago resident, said. "It's like reminiscing of her when she was alive."

    The Missionaries of Charity, an order of nuns founded by Mother Teresa in 1950, organized a tour of the items -- which also included worn sandals and a rosary -- in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the nun's birth this August.

    In Chicago, it was an emotional experience for hundreds of people who venerated the relics at the Roman Catholic parishes of St. Procopius, 1641 S. Allport St., on Saturday and St. John Cantius, 825 N. Carpenter St., on Sunday.

    "I was very moved by the number of people who, as soon as they kissed them, burst into tears," said the Rev. Sean O'Sullivan, pastor of St. Procopius.

    Cardinal Francis George made a brief appearance at St. John Cantius Sunday afternoon, taking a look at the relics as visitors stood back and snapped photos.

    At the same parish, Anna Santillan, a 53-year-old Niles resident (pictured above), prayed before the relics on behalf a sick friend.

    "We came to ask her to see if she can help him," she said. "It's been breathtaking and incredible to come into contact with someone who did such good things and was here in Chicago from so far away."

    Mother Teresa -- a nun of Albanian descent who dedicated her life to helping the sick and poor of Calcutta, India -- was beatified in 2003 by Pope John Paul II and stands as a candidate for sainthood.

    Sunday evening Mother Teresa's relics were also on display at the sisters' house at 2325 W. 24th Pl., which is one of two convents she opened in the city.

    The relics are expected to move on to Minneapolis and Winnipeg, Canada, followed by potential stops in Memphis, Baton Rouge, Houston and Dallas, according to the Missionaries of Charity.

    By Katie Drews, for ChicagoCatholicNews.com
    Contact: info@chicagocatholicnews.com

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  • L’Osservatore Chicago: Reasons for staying in church
    (POSTED: 7/18/10) I couldn't believe I couldn't remember her name. I was in retrieval mode all day yesterday. In her day she may have been the best-known Sister in Chicago.

    The Chicago police loved her. It had always been a hard duty to find an abandoned baby. But when she ran St. Vincent's Orphanage, a policeman who found a newborn on a church step or under a park bench knew he could take the child to St. Vincent's in full knowledge that it would be cared for.

    I was reminded of this beloved Chicago nun when I read the story in The New York Times of the Sister at St. Benedict's Day Nursery in Harlem who was fatally struck by a fleeing minivan driven by a robbery suspect eluding the police.

    Like the Chicago nun, Sister Mary Celine Graham was famous for taking in children. For them she was teacher, director and surrogate grandmother. "She made everyone feel important," reporter Trymaine Lee quoted the head Sister at St. Benedict's as saying. "She was very gentle and caring, with a good sense of humor. But her big legacy was that she would take a child, take a true interest in them, and develop that child into who she knew they could be."

    The insightful Franciscan, Father Joseph Nangle, wrote in the current Sojourners magazine that he takes hope from people who retain the capacity to claim the Church as their own despite the disaster that envelops it.

    Knowing of Sister Mary Celine and the Chicago Vincentian nun, and the thousands of nuns -– and lay people like them -- is what makes it possible for all of us to maintain "Christ's peace at the core of [our] beings," in Father Nangle's words. "Their assessment of [the current] tragedy, abiding good will, and determination to remain Catholic inspire me to continue as a priest in our flawed institution."

    Ah, it comes to me. That wonderful, wonderful Chicago nun was Alice. Sister Mary Alice.

    Margery Frisbie, a graduate of Mundelein College, has raised lots of kids and written lots of columns. She is the author of several local histories, two graphic histories published in Europe, and An Alley in Chicago, the Life and Legacy of Monsignor John Egan.

    Contacts: margeryfrisbie@sbcglobal.net or info@chicagocatholicnews.com

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  • Mother Teresa's relics headed for Chicago this weekend
    (UPDATED: 7/14/10) Mother Teresa's relics -- including strands of hair, drops of blood and a rosary -- are expected to visit Chicago this weekend in honor of the 100th anniversary of the nun's birth.

    The Missionaries of Charity, an order of nuns founded by Mother Teresa in 1950, hastily organized a tour of the items across the Midwest after the relics finished a similar trip along the East Coast.

    The showcased objects, also including a tattered pair of sandals and a crucifix, "will bring Mother's presence very much to life," said one of the sisters. "She was a special gift from God for our time."

    Mother Teresa -– a nun of Albanian descent who for decades served the sick and poor of Calcutta, India -- was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her charitable work.

    In life, she visited Chicago several times.

    Mother Teresa was born in August 1910. Following her death in 1997 at age 87, she was beatified in 2003 by Pope John Paul II and is one step away from sainthood.

    In Chicago, her relics are expected to be on display for veneration at the Roman Catholic parishes of St. Procopius, 1641 S. Allport St., on July 17 and St. John Cantius, 825 N. Carpenter St., on July 18, according to the Missionaries of Charity, and priests at those parishes.

    Sunday evening they also will be presented at the sisters' house at 2325 W. 24th Pl., which is one of the two convents Mother Teresa opened in the city.

    (The relics also are expected to make a stop at a parish in Gary, Ind., this weekend.)

    Those who have already seen the relics have described it as "a really moving experience."

    "It was inspirational for many people to see these actual relics from a saint that we knew," said the Rev. Peter Lyons, pastor of St. Wenceslaus Church in Baltimore. "Some would touch them, some would press them to their heart, and some knelt in prayer."

    The Rev. Jack Ahern, pastor at Boston's Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, said the relics drew 1,500 to 2,000 visitors to the church, despite little publicity.

    "Most people found it very powerful," he said. "Much more powerful than I had imagined."

    The Rev. Brian Kolodiejchuk, director of the Mother Teresa Center in Mexico, said that people honor -- not worship -- Mother Teresa's relics "to remember her, look to her as an example . . . and ask her to intercede and pray on our behalf."

    Many Catholics also seem to like having the "close connection to the physical presence of a saintly person," said Timothy Matovina, director of the Cushwa Center for the Study of American Catholicism at the Univeristy of Notre Dame.

    Cardinal Francis George's press secretary declined to comment.

    By Katie Drews, for ChicagoCatholicNews.com
    Contact: info@chicagocatholicnews.com

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  • The X Files: Peacebuilding, and lessons from 50 high schoolers
    (POSTED: 7/12/10) While the U.S. Supreme Court was busy dismantling Chicago's handgun ban, Jon Burge was (finally!) being held to account for his record of torture, and the Vatican was trying to wiggle out of its responsibility for the abusive behavior of a former Chicago high school teacher and priest, in another corner of our city 50 Catholic teens quietly -- well maybe not so quietly, how quiet can a group of 50 teenagers be? -— committed themselves to the peacemaking mission of Jesus.

    Catholic Theological Union's Peacebuilders Initiative brought about 50 high school juniors and seniors together for a weeklong intensive program in the theology and ministry of peacemaking. After their summer immersion at CTU, the young Peacebuilders create "peace projects" which they implement with help from adult mentors in their own neighborhoods and schools. One teen from St. James Parish in Arlington Heights a few years back, for example, created a shared retreat experience for the elementary school kids of St. James School, and the children of their sharing parish on Chicago's West Side, St. Malachy. A young woman from Nazareth Academy created a Christmas prayer service and choral concert featuring the academy's student chorus and the women of St. Martin de Porres shelter choir, Harmony, Hope and Healing.

    I had the joy of being with the Peacebuilders for a morning on Catholic social teaching. Through the lens of the beloved Lukan parable, The Good Samaritan, we imagined together what it takes to create a community of Good Samaritans over time amid the complexities, inequalities and injustices of the real world. It is often said that Catholic social teaching is the Church's best-kept secret, but among these 50 students at least the only secret is the teaching part. They may never have heard of an encyclical, but they readily intuited the principles and values at the heart of the tradition. The dignity of the human person, and the call to solidarity rose quickly to the surface in their small group conversations. But I was especially impressed by their sensitivity to the principle of participation, their recognition that social justice cannot truly be achieved unless and until everyone has a seat at the decision-making table. Perhaps because they are so often dismissed or excluded themselves, these teens grasped immediately that charity of the Noblesse oblige variety isn't charity at all. Real love of neighbor must include removing barriers to participation in the economic and political life of the community. In fact, in the imaginative scenario we played out, they insisted that the victims of violence, the Samaritan, the leaders of Jericho and even the perpetrators of the violence must all be brought together to bring peace and justice to the city. Interestingly, I've noticed that adults working with this scenario usually don't even notice when someone's been excluded. Adults seem more comfortable with the coalescence of power in the hands of a few.

    Being with these students for a few hours was a great reminder of the message the revered historical theologian and premier documentarian of the Second Vatican Council, Rev. Joseph Komonchak, gave to us who graduated from CTU in May. Komonchak reminded us that despite the manner in which the depressing headlines and pervasive narrative of the day might depict it, the Church is not a franchise operation. The Church is the Body of Christ, flesh and bones human communities in specific places doing the work of Jesus. The Church is where we, flattering peacemakers with the fire of the Holy Spirit, are. The understanding of faith and justice articulated by the Peacebuilders of Hyde Park is self-implicating and prophetic. Participation is a non-negotiable.

    Claire Noonan is director of the St. Catherine of Siena Center at Dominican University in River Forest. She recently completed her doctorate in ministry from the Catholic Theological Union, and also is a graduate of the Jesuit School of Theology. She has nearly two decades of experience in university ministry, adult faith formation and social justice education. She writes from her home in Wicker Park.

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  • Guest Commentary: School vouchers, and tough choices for local families
    (POSTED: 7/6/10) When we were looking for our first home before our son was born, my wife and I wanted to be sure we moved to a place with an excellent school district. Although my son is now just 2 years old, I must confess we are already thinking about his future education. With that in mind, I took a special interest in the recent school voucher debate in Illinois.

    Proponents of the measure argued that parents should have a choice of where to send their kids to school and that a viable government voucher program would make that possible. Detractors cited evidence from a 10-year experiment in Milwaukee that showed no conclusive improvements with a sustained school voucher approach. Teacher unions vehemently opposed the idea, warning that under-privileged kids not able to afford private schools even with voucher subsidies will be left behind. The bill ultimately passed in the Illinois Senate, but did not find approval in the Illinois House.

    Helping some families who would benefit from subsidies and are able to come up with additional funds to cover tuition costs and transportation to school doesn't sound like a bad thing. However, the process has to be fair. Very legitimate questions remain about private and parochial schools' interest and ability to serve up to 30,000 additional students even if all were given the choice and could afford to attend.

    This controversial debate has given me a new perspective on what parents today are going through in choosing a school for their kids. Finances and logistics must certainly play a major role, but they can't be the only considerations. What about parents who want their kids to attend parochial schools not only for an excellent education, but also to receive spiritual formation that is important to their core values? Should parents simply agree to "go along with the program" if they approve of the quality of education their children are receiving and not consider equal access or religious values?

    I grew up in a small town and attended public schools, but considered attending a parochial high school in a neighboring city. A voucher subsidy would have made a difference for me at the time and I have often wondered how a more formal Catholic education might have informed my life. My family is now fortunate to live in an area with a solid public school system as well as excellent private and parochial school choices. We have our own choice to make in the near future. If this measure can find a good compromise it could provide excellent opportunities for both underprivileged kids and families who might not have considered a private or parochial school education.

    The debate over school vouchers is far from over as Illinois must first deal with its huge state budget issues. Our lawmakers need to find a way to make education a top priority. Private and parochial schools are not the answer for all kids, but parents should be able to carefully consider the benefits of different school approaches. Few issues are more important -- for our children, our state and for the future of our country.

    By Dan Pawlus, vice president of communications for Interfaith Youth Core and a regular contributor to The Faith Divide on the "On Faith" blog of the Washington Post. He is also co-host of "30 Good Minutes," a weekly interfaith television program on WTTW 11 (PBS) in Chicago. Dan is a parishioner and part of the music ministry at Old St. Patrick's Church in Chicago.

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  • From the Portico: Ailing kids meeting pope; a Chicago chaplain returns from war; and the "Faithful Departed"
    (POSTED: 7/5/10) An ailing northwest Indiana boy was in the news late last year for asking the Make-A-Wish Foundation to facilitate his wish: meeting the pope.

    An unusual request, we're told, with most kids wanting to hit a Disney theme park or something along those lines.

    But certainly not a unique request.

    "We have completed eight pope-related wishes since 1995; it's the earliest one we could find in our records," said Jessica Miller of Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois. "We did have a little girl meet the pope . . . the first week of June and we do have one pending that's on hold because . . . the child has been sick and the parent has been sick."

    "It takes about six to 12 months [usually for a request to be fulfilled] because the pope has certain times he meets with audiences, and you have to coordinate that with the child's health and any medical treatments they have."

    The turn-around for the northwest Indiana child -- Andrew Birlson, of St. John -- ended up pretty quick, with the request being approved in September by the non-profit's board, and the meeting with Pope Benedict XVI taking place in November.

    The Make-A-Wish chapter that includes Indiana also has another child in the pipeline wanting to meet the pontiff, an official said.

    Back from Afghanistan, for now

    The Rev. Matt Foley, formerly of St. Agnes of Bohemia Parish in Little Village and most recently an Army chaplain serving in Afghanistan, is back in the U.S., and was visiting town recently.

    But he expects to head back to the war zone at some point.

    "I'll be at the 82nd until October, then I go over to Special Forces," Foley said in a telephone conversation. "I'm sure I'll probably end up going [back over to Afghanistan], but I don't have any orders to be deployed at this point."

    "That's the hope; I'd like to get back there, it's good ministry, it's needed."

    For regular readers of ChicagoCatholicNews.com, you'll know that Foley has sent us dispatches over the past year that we've shared with you. We hope to resume that if and when he returns to Afghanistan.

    Some lessons for Chicago

    A book called The Faithful Departed: The Collapse of Boston's Catholic Culture came out in 2008 and is due for a paperback release this summer.

    It's about the sex scandals the rocked Boston's archdiocese, but it also may hold some lessons for Chicago.

    It's written by Phil Lawler, who studied for a time at the University of Chicago and now is the editor of Catholic World News.

    We chatted recently, and what follows is an edited Q and A:

    Q: Tell me about your book?
    A: It's looking at two different things: the decline of the public influence of the Catholic Church . . . in Boston -- but I mean for Boston to be a sort of object lesson. And it's also about the abuse crisis, my argument being that the scandal in Boston was not the cause of the public decline, it was more a symptom of a disease that has been in the Church for quite some time.

    That disease being that people were more concerned with the public appearance than with the reality of the faith, and they had built up the public appearance, the political clout, at the expense of the solidarity that gave them that clout to begin with.

    Q: More concerned with appearances than what's important?
    A: Right, I mean, I ask myself the question ... why would you do this, in terms of this scandal? Why would a bishop protect somebody preying on children, and think he was doing it for the good of the Church? . . . The simple answer is the bishop is just a moral monster, a horrible person. But they aren't.

    I know some of these bishops, I know some of them well, I knew Cardinal Law well, he was at ground zero here, it wasn't that he was bad, it's that he developed a strange idea of what is the good of the Church. I think an awful lot of bishops share that idea.

    Q: Why?
    A: Well, that's what I spend 211 pages on, how this developed, and I think it's a matter of leadership that has gone off course over a period of decades -- not months, years.

    Q: Why, because it's such a bureaucratized system?
    A: I think there are a lot of factors. There's always a temptation to pay more attention to the bricks and mortar because they're easily quantifiable. You can't readily tell which of your pastors is a saint, but you can tell which one is balancing the budget. So the ones who balance the budget tend to move up the ladder.

    And then I think part of it is the Church sort of coming of age. This is where the Boston example is so instructive. A century ago, the beginning of the 20th century, the Boston Catholics were still, I won't say an oppressed minority, but oppressed, fighting for a share, a fair share, and they fought that fight very effectively and won. Once they were in power -- this is not just bishops but the whole community --there's a temptation to consolidate, enjoy life and build and manage problems rather than solve them.

    Q: Do you see this as a problem in Chicago?
    A: Absolutely, I think it's a problem everywhere. I argue in the book that the Boston example is particularly striking because what happened in the century was like a rollercoaster in terms of prestige of the Church: from nowhere to running [things] to nowhere again.

    And I think part of it is that what the Church teaches these days is quite controversial on a lot of hot-button issues, and if you're trying to consolidate your position and . . . preserve your power . . . the temptation is to soft pedal those issues to avoid confrontation, and that doesn't work because everybody still knows what the Church teaches even if it's not being taught.

    And it looks as if the Church's leaders don't have the courage of their convictions, they don't have the sort of institutional cohesiveness that makes the Church a powerful force in society.

    Q: What's the end effect in Boston? Does this mean people are leaving the Church in droves?
    A: Yes, yeah, the Church is now a whipping boy. Politicians who identify themselves as Catholics compete over who can say nastier things about Church teachings, people are leaving churches in droves, and it's at a real low ebb.

    Q: Will it bounce back?
    A: Yes, the point I make at the end of the book is what the net result is likely to be is a replay of the last century. It will be a smaller church, but the people who are left will be, they'll have a stronger sense of identity. They will have made a choice, it's no longer something you stumble into, particularly the clergy. They're under fire now, if you're going into the priesthood now, you're not going in to be comfortable.

    I think in time the people who remain in Church will be more one in mind and there will be a lot more solidarity and that solidarity will breed social influence. But it will take time.

    Q: Do you have a thought on the "poor-me" attitude put on by some Church leaders in U.S., claiming anti-Catholicism?
    A: Absolutely, it's something I've said myself, the Boston Globe was instrumental in exposing this scandal and I think the Boston Globe has an anti-Catholic bias a mile wide . . . but motives aside the truth was the truth.

    And I did get tired of people saying this was all anti-Catholic. And the other argument you get is there is abuse in other denominations, which is true but doesn't make it relevant.

    Q: Anti-Catholic claims seem crazy in a city like Chicago, where the Catholic Church has incredible power . . .
    A: I'll grant you that it sounds crazy to have anti-Catholicism in that situation, but I think it can happen, because you've got a lot of people who identify themselves as Catholic who are hostile to the teachings of the Church.

    One point that I made in the book is everybody thinks Catholics constitute the largest voting bloc in Massachusetts. . . . I think the biggest voting bloc is ex- Catholics, and if you think about people who grew up Catholic and left the faith, obviously there's a reason they left. I'm not going to say they're anti-Catholic, but obviously they're not in sympathy with the Church, and I'm sure that's true in Chicago, to some extent at least.

    A full press

    Lawler also underscored the importance of what we do here at ChicagoCatholicNews.com, saying: "I think there's an urgent need for objective Catholic journalism -- that is, people writing about Catholic affairs who are not employed by the bishops, who don't answer to the diocese or archdiocese or whatever, so it's not just a house organ."

    "It's a necessity because the diocesan press doesn't have that kind of credibility."

    The Catholic New World is the Archdiocese of Chicago's official publication -- and they've been trying to hammer the point home in recent weeks that we're not them and they're not us. They've been running disclaimers online and in print.

    By all means there should be no confusion.

    ChicagoCatholicNews.com is an independent site not affiliated with the Church or the archdiocese.

    Our mission: cover news about the Church -- and of interest and importance to Chicago-area Catholics -- honestly, fairly and without bias.

    From the Portico is an occasional column -- written by ChicagoCatholicNews.com editor Robert Herguth -- that focuses on the people, policies and inner-workings of the Catholic Church in the Chicago region.

    Contact: info@chicagocatholicnews.com

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  • L’Osservatore Chicago: A "prophetic" priest who went against the tides
    (POSTED: 7/1/10) I love belonging to a quirky Church, one with the insouciance to say "sorry about that" to Galileo 400 years after the fact.

    It's almost a given in our Church that to be acknowledged a saint, or "right" in Galileo's case, you must first be condemned by some holy office. So it is hardly a surprise that the Brooklyn priest who may be the borough's first saint was condemned for his advanced views when he was alive.

    The story of Monsignor Bernard Quinn is small bore compared to the scandal about Galileo. But it is very much the story of our time.

    It is incredible that it should be so, but what Msgr. Quinn was championing during the Depression was some consideration for Brooklyn's blacks. For his pains, he "encountered sharp resistance from some fellow priests," according to a June story in The New York Times. What Quinn proposed was ministering to Brooklyn's growing population of blacks, many of them fleeing the Jim Crow South or migrating from the poor Caribbean countries.

    The Times quoted the 1929 newsletter of an outspoken antiblack pastor who thought that "negroes should be excluded from this Roman Catholic Church if they become numerous."

    Monsignor Quinn took issue. "It seems to me that no church can exclude anyone and still keep its Christian ideals." He went on to establish St. Peter Claver, the first church for black Catholics in Brooklyn and the diocese's first orphanage for black children.

    A lay theologian at the Catholic Theological Society meeting last month said a prophet hears and heeds "the laments of suffering people of God and the groans of a chaotic and damaged world."

    To my mind, a priest who championed racial equality at a time when discrimination against blacks was "ubiquitous, even in the Catholic Church," as the Times reporter wrote, was prophetic.

    And cause enough for calling up, in the Church's good time, the lovely title of saint.

    Margery Frisbie, a graduate of Mundelein College, has raised lots of kids and written lots of columns. She is the author of several local histories, two graphic histories published in Europe, and An Alley in Chicago, the Life and Legacy of Monsignor John Egan.

    Contacts: margeryfrisbie@sbcglobal.net or info@chicagocatholicnews.com

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  • Church From Below: Cardinal George's health care rebuke "must yield to a more nuanced approach"
    (POSTED: 6/28/10) At a recent meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in St. Petersburg, Fla., Cardinal George, USCCB president, reportedly aimed a particularly strong rebuke at the Catholic Health Assn. and Sr. Carol Keehan, its president and CEO. "Sr. Carol and her colleagues are to blame for the passage of the health care bill," he said, adding that it was the intervention of the health association "and other so-called Catholic groups" in the healthcare debate that "provided cover for those on the fence to support Obama and the administration."

    Before the vote, George and the USCCB lobbied strenuously for the defeat of the bill, claiming it was "fundamentally flawed" and would allow taxpayer funding for elective abortions. Yet on the eve of the vote, the Catholic Health Assn., with the support of dozens of women's religious orders, declared the bishops' analysis was wrong, that the bill would not permit taxpayer money for abortions and that it would, in fact, make historic new investments in support of pregnant women. The bill, they insisted, was clearly a "pro-life" document.

    Indignation over this repudiation of episcopal authority was still hot at the Florida meeting, with George claiming the CHA action weakened the moral voice of the bishops in the U.S. and "created the dangerous precedent of a parallel magisterium to the bishops." The accuracy of George's remarks, as quoted by the Catholic News Agency, were quickly challenged by a USCCB employee.

    A debate over who was right, who was wrong and what was or wasn't misquoted will likely go on for months, but the intensity of George's reaction suggests there is more here than a misunderstanding about the implications of a bill in the U.S. Senate. Ever since the latest priest abuse scandal erupted, there has been a continuing discussion about the institutional church's loss of its moral authority. It was not just the ongoing revelation of crimes by clergy that infuriated the public. It was the tardy reaction of bishops to take action, the cover-up of abusive incidents, the reluctance to report predator priests to civil authorities, the moving of guilty priests to new parishes, even new dioceses where they continued to have access to youth, the blaming of the scandal on the press and even the victims themselves, the apologies that were often not apologies and the fact that only one bishop resigned (and he, Cardinal Law) to take a high position in the Vatican. To be sure, the bishops conference established strict new regulations in 2002 to prevent such a deluge of betrayal ever again. But the bishops have done themselves no favors as they still battle in many dioceses to prevent records of priest abuse from becoming public, lest their catastrophic financial losses grow.

    How, many have been asking, can the bishops speak with authority about anything in the wake of the abuse scandal?

    The health bill disagreement and the clergy abuse scandal have no direct relationship; they concern very different matters. But you don't have to dig very deep to see the entangled roots. It is unthinkable that 10 years ago (or even five years) an established Catholic body (consisting overwhelmingly of professed women religious) would publicly contradict the united voice of the nation's Catholic bishops on a serious moral issue. It's not unthinkable any more. And Cardinal George's very public reaction suggests he realizes the potential long-range implications of this credibility drain. He sees the chickens coming home to roost. George's initial reaction -- to assert episcopal authority as supreme -- must yield to a more nuanced approach. Unraveling trust can't be won back by proclamation; this isn't our grandfathers' Church any more.

    Robert McClory is an associate professor emeritus at Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism, a longtime writer with the National Catholic Reporter and the author of seven books, including Faithful Dissenters: Men and Women Who Loved and Changed the Church.

    Contact: info@chicagocatholicnews.com

    Note to readers: The name of the column has changed from Elder Hostile to Church From Below.

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Welcome to Chicago Catholic News

ChicagoCatholicNews is a free online publication providing news and commentary of interest and importance to Chicago-area Catholics.

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Quick Hits -- updated daily

(JULY 31) Armenian "church" in Lake Bluff losing tax-exempt status.

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(JULY 31) Profile on GOP governor candidate Bill Brady: "They're a very strong Irish Catholic family, very strong in their faith, very proud of their heritage."

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(JULY 31) Archdiocese of Chicago sued again over predator-priest McCormack.

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(JULY 30) Support network for those molested by priests to hold convention in Chicago starting today.

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(JULY 30) SNAP urges Downstate bishop to "get busy protecting children."

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(JULY 30) Anti-abortion group refuses to meet with Lake Zurich police over protests.

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(JULY 30) Reward offered in crime spree at Naperville Catholic school.

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(JULY 30) Retreat center may be annexed into McHenry County community.

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(JULY 30) Burglaries plague Catholic school in Naperville.

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(JULY 30) Black clergy, including Chicago auxiliary bishop, gather. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(JULY 30) Missing Loyola University student found safe and sound.

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(JULY 30) University of Illinois rehires Catholic studies professor, who will be paid by the school instead of the Church.

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(JULY 29) Loyola University student from Skokie is reported missing.

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(JULY 29) Fired U of I Catholic studies professor will be allowed to teach again -- but some changes are in the works.

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(JULY 29) Northwestern student arrested while praying rosary outside Chicago Planned Parenthood.

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(JULY 29) Loyola University doesn't allow Karl Rove to speak, but lets Obama figure.

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(JULY 29) Chicago anti-abortion activist is "calling on all Catholic hospitals and institutions to recommit themselves to the values and principles they were founded on."

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(JULY 29) Convicted priest released from Illinois prison.

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(JULY 28) Long-time Catholic school teacher in area dies.

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(JULY 28) Hundreds gather in Chicago for National Catholic Conference on Peacemaking.

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(JULY 28) Chicago's Pro-Life Action League among the groups opposing sale of Catholic hospital network on East Coast.

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(JULY 28) Resurrection sells hospitals -- but keeps nursing school in western suburbs.

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(JULY 27) Nine people shot near St. Rita High School on South Side.

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(JULY 27) Cardinal dedicates new $80 million wing at Resurrection Medical Center on Northwest Side.

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(JULY 27) Loyola's Eugene Kennedy writes that the "hierarchical structures of the church are buckling under the lightning strikes of modern times."

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(JULY 27) Martin Marty delves into firing of University of Illinois Catholic studies instructor.

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(JULY 27) Wisconsin priest is suspended from ministry after being charged with possession of child pornography.

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(JULY 27) Cardinal visits Calumet City parish as it celebrates 85th anniversary.

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(JULY 27) Activist still pushing for the creation of specialty Illinois license plates that advocate adoption over abortion.

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(JULY 27) "Six months ago they were losing their school and were in despair. Now, a group of St. Joseph School parents and alumni look forward to a new school year."

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(JULY 26) Catholic school in Aurora planning an all-class reunion for September.

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(JULY 26) Pastor emeritus of Chicago's St. Constance Church dies.

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(JULY 26) Criticism follows Joliet Diocese's decision to buy home for new bishop, despite tight finances.

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(JULY 26) Chicago executive in the New York Times: "I know this sounds funny, but I met my future wife . . . in a convent."

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(JULY 25) Benet Academy graduate returns to area for big concert.

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(JULY 24) Carol Marin had lunch with six nuns, and they are "furious."

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(JULY 24) Long-time pastor at Melrose Park parish dies.

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(JULY 23) Police respond to suspicious item outside North Side abortion clinic.

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(JULY 23) Chicago's handgun ban, the U.S. Supreme Court and the Catholic Church's stance on controlling weapons.

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(JULY 23) Loyola University draws controversy for not letting Karl Rove speak on campus.

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(JULY 23) A "Catholics vs. Convicts" rematch is being hatched, with Notre Dame and Miami reportedly slated to play at Soldier Field.

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(JULY 23) Plans moving forward for new independent Catholic school in Joliet in the wake of closures ordered by bishop.

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(JULY 23) Nun Run has paid off for would-be Sister who's tried to erase debt before entering convent.

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(JULY 23) St. Sabina to host funeral for slain Chicago policeman.

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(JULY 23) Priest is among those arrested at union protest against Hyatt in Chicago.

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(JULY 22) Chicago-based SNAP tries to squelch concert at Catholic retreat center in Wisconsin because of abuse allegation against choir director.

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(JULY 22) Cardinal George expected to bless revamped Resurrection Medical Center.

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(JULY 22) Roughly $3.5 million was raised in Archdiocese of Chicago for earthquake relief in Haiti.

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(JULY 22) Book is released offering "a visual meditation on priesthood."

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(JULY 21) Former nun running for Illinois House: "God's parting the Red Sea for me."

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(JULY 21) Funeral for slain Chicago cop to be held at St. Sabina Church on South Side.

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(JULY 21) Fired U of I Catholic studies professor threatens to sue if he's not hired back.

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(JULY 21) Wisconsin justices uphold conviction of former Wilmette Jesuit.

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(JULY 20) Delegation that's meeting with former Guantánamo detainees includes two Catholics with Chicago connections.

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(JULY 20) Wisconsin court expected to rule on abuse case of former Chicago Jesuit Donald McGuire.

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(JULY 20) Fasting by South Chicago priests -- in support of immigration reform -- inspires march by supporters.

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(JULY 20) Firing of Catholic studies professor at U of I prompting debate about religious freedom -- and the teaching of religion at public schools.

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(JULY 20) Numerous parishes in Rockford Diocese hit fundraising goals.

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(JULY 19) Joliet Diocese buying house for new auxiliary bishop, despite tight financial times that are forcing school closures.

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(JULY 19) Graphic signs held by anti-abortion demonstrators: "I absolutely support . . . their First Amendment right to freely express their beliefs. But their methods? That's another matter."

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(JULY 19) After 64 years, west suburban couple renew their vows in Catholic ceremony.

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(JULY 19) Veteran newsman to take over helm of South Side's Leo High School.

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(JULY 19) Convicted of abuse, ex-priest will have to register as a sex offender when he's released from an Illinois prison this month.

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(JULY 19) Nun in Back of the Yards "tends to people's needs as well as their hunger."

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(JULY 19) Higher education magazine explores curious relationship between U of I and Catholic Church.

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(JULY 19) Member of the School Sisters of St. Francis dies. She had an "unquenchable zest for life."

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(JULY 18) Mother Teresa's relics visit parish in Gary, Ind., en route to Chicago.

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(JULY 18) A number of Notre Dame athletes are arrested at large party.

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(JULY 18) Hundreds show up to venerate Mother Teresa's relics as they visit Chicago.

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(JULY 18) Cardinal George writes about "immigration and the law."

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(JULY 17) Father Barron explains why he's praying for atheist author Christopher Hitchens.

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(JULY 17) Relationship between the U of I and the Catholic Church -- brought to light with recent firing of professor -- is causing a stir.

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(JULY 17) Students rally around fired Catholic studies professor at U of I, talk about boycotting courses from school's religion department.

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(JULY 17) St. Xavier's new president mentioned as someone Creighton University might try to lure.

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(JULY 16) Anti-abortion events cause stir in northwest suburbs.

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(JULY 16) Students protest firing of Catholic studies professor at University of Illinois.

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(JULY 16) Former Chicago bishop says illegal immigrants should learn English, "get in the back of the line."

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(JULY 16) Mass to be held at ballpark before Kane County Cougars play South Bend. Batavia priest to officiate.

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(JULY 16) Illinois priest formerly installed as bishop in Indiana.

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(JULY 16) Vatican issues new rules for handling abuse cases -- and states "that ordaining women as priests was as grave an offense as pedophilia."

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(JULY 16) Ex-priest convicted of abuse to be released from Downstate prison this month.

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(JULY 15) SNAP to hold national convention in Chicago, Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke to speak.

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(JULY 15) Chicago priest gives thoughts on ailing atheist Christopher Hitchens, and why Christians should pray for him.

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(JULY 15) Jailed former priest in Aurora and Geneva slated to be released from incarceration.

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(JULY 15) A new book on Chicago's late Saul Alinsky touches on his working relationship with Catholic clergy.

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(JULY 15) Higher ed publication takes in-depth look at firing of U of I Catholic studies professor.

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(JULY 15) Ditka to visit Rosary High School in Aurora for fundraiser, speech.

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(JULY 14) Faculty group to review firing of Catholic studies professor at the University of Illinois.

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(JULY 14) Editorial board says U of I acted too hastily on firing Catholic studies professor over gay remarks.

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(JULY 14) Activists to continue hunger strike for immigration reform, following Chicago cleric.

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(JULY 14) Priest who has been living in South Bend extradited to Ireland to face abuse charges.

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(JULY 14) Church musician who once served in Chicago area says "some parishes can be a magnet, attracting people because of the music, preaching or architecture, but parishes should also serve the needs of their immediate neighborhood."

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(JULY 14) Archdiocese of Chicago's Office for Hispanic Catholics hosting event to honor those in Latino ministry.

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(JULY 13) Aging Chicago priest reportedly extradited to Ireland to face charges for sex offenses.

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(JULY 13) As U of I fires Catholic studies professor, Diocese of Peoria releases him from job at Newman Center.

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(JULY 13) Chicago-based Playboy kills edition in Portugal after magazine portrays Christ with naken women, causing uproar among Catholics.

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(JULY 13) Another lawsuit filed against Archdiocese of Chicago in McCormack case.

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(JULY 13) DePaul releases basketball standout from national letter of intent.

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(JULY 12) Profile on academic standout at Brother Rice High School on Southwest Side.

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(JULY 12) Cardinal George to celebrate mass for 10th anniversary of racial justice office.

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(JULY 12) DePaul University alum -- who worked as a Merc trader -- killed in car wreck.

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(JULY 12) Born in Chicago area, Theology on Tap celebrating anniversary.

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(JULY 12) Missionary to El Salvador has ties to Loyola University Chicago.

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(JULY 12) Profile on new band director at Providence Catholic High School.

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(JULY 12) More on U of I professor fired for saying he agrees with Church on homosexuality.

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(JULY 11) St. Xavier president, student throw out first pitch at White Sox game.

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(JULY 11) U of I fires professor who taught courses on Catholicism "after a student accused the instructor of engaging in hate speech by saying he agrees with the church's teaching that homosexual sex is immoral."

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(JULY 11) Illinois priest about to become bishop of Indiana diocese.

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(JULY 10) Daley draws criticism for picking former head of Frances Xavier Warde Catholic School for a high-level Chicago Public Schools post.

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(JULY 10) Priest who served in Chicago for past year leaving scandal-tarred Legionaries of Christ for Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

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(JULY 10) Thomas More Society reaches deal with West Chicago over anti-abortion event.

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(JULY 10) Vatican posts financial loss, registering $5 million-plus loss for 2009.

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(JULY 9) Officials with the Leadership Conference of Women Religious were "questioned by Vatican officials" about support for the Obama health bill, which Cardinal George strongly opposed.

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(JULY 9) Lawsuit filed by alleged victim of predator-priest McCormack.

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(JULY 9) More on latest sex abuse lawsuit against Father McCormack.

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(JULY 9) Chicago bishop says: "The right to abortion is quietly spelling the decimation of the black community in our society."

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(JULY 9) Geneva parish celebrating 100th year.

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(JULY 8) Cuba releasing dozens of political prisoners, weeks after Cardinal George visits island nation.

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(JULY 8) Bikes paired with refugees in Chicago with help of Catholic Charities.

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(JULY 8) Archdiocesan agency involved in meal program for needy.

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(JULY 7) Parents persist on opening independent Catholic school in Joliet as diocese shutters St. Joseph's.

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(JULY 7) Officials with Chicago's St. Anthony Hospital "say business has grown in the year since cutting ties with Ascension Health."

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(JULY 7) Cardinal George asks in column, "Is the end near?"

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(JULY 7) Vatican poised to issue new rules in handling of sex-abuse cases.

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(JULY 7) South Bend diocese considers merging three schools.

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(JULY 6) Director of liturgy at Mundelein seminary on upcoming changes in mass: "The hope is the new text will better carry the meaning that has always been there."

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(JULY 6) Cardinal George addresses street violence, encourages parishes to step up.

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(JULY 6) Loyola University's Lakeshore Campus in for big changes.

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(JULY 6) Goodman Theatre holding play about 17th century nun -- "considered by many to be Latin America's first feminist."

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(JULY 5) Archdiocese of Chicago "has a program that monitors 11 elderly or infirm clerics" accused of abuse.

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(JULY 5) One accused priest opted out of clergy "after he consistently violated protocols" in monitoring program, according to official.

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(JULY 5) Catholic colleges must do more to help Catholic K-12 schools survive and flourish.

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(JULY 5) Orthodox Catholic sect with roots in northwest Indiana is stirring controversy across country.

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(JULY 5) Iraqi who studied in Chicago ordained into Chaldean Catholic priesthood.

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(JULY 4) More churches in Chicago area catering to the hearing impaired.

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(JULY 4) Dozens of Mother McAuley girls earn "President's Award."

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(JULY 3) Chicago family helps fund new complex at Notre Dame that will train future Catholic school teachers.

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(JULY 3) Graduate of Loyola University Medical School allegedly shoots wife, self.

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(JULY 3) Nun who taught at a number of schools, including a now-shuttered site in Chicago, dies.

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(JULY 2) Gary, Ind., bishop honored by national group for implementing codes that ensure Church organizations are "transparent and accountable."

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(JULY 2) DePaul University's president tapped by Obama administration on "community and interfaith projects."

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(JULY 2) Clapping during liturgy has become custom in one Chicago-area parish.

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(JULY 2) St. Anthony Hospital marks one year of "independence" -- and indicates its bottom line is improving.

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(JULY 2) Priest from northern suburbs, who served in Peru, dies.

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(JULY 2) "Pay it forward" organ donations thrive at Loyola University's medical center.

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(JULY 2) Mother McAuley alumnus becomes minister: "I didn't leave the Catholic Church because I was angry. I left because I wanted a fuller way of ministering to people."

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(JULY 2) Episcopal priest on hunger strike over immigration reform hospitalized.

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(JULY 2) Chicago priest speaks in Iowa to group that wants to open Cristo Rey outlet in Des Moines.

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(JULY 1) Archdiocese of Chicago revamping training program for those interested in becoming deacons.

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(JULY 1) In a year or so, drivers on Route 45 in Lake County "will see a new church with two 115-foot-tall steeples where vacant farmland once was."

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(JULY 1) Catholic health system planning to build medical center in New Lenox.

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(JULY 1) Father Pfleger on Chicago's street violence: "We're in a very vulnerable and crazy time, and we're just beginning summer."

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(JUNE 30) Catholics Come Home campaign in Chicago also apparently spurred increase in confessions.

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(JUNE 30) Pastor emeritus at Alsip parish dies.

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(JUNE 30) Jesuit priest who once studied in Chicago opting out of chemotherapy treatment.

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(JUNE 30) Cardinal George celebrates mass during visit to Cuba.

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(JUNE 30) As U.S. Supreme Court declines to hear abuse case involving priest transferred to Chicago, attorney "scores biggest win in 25-year accountability campaign."

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(JUNE 30) Chicago attorney-turned-Dominican friar appointed to non-profit by Obama administration.

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(JUNE 30) Chicago native who entered the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary In Iowa, taught in schools across the country, dies.

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(JUNE 30) Catholic Charities Chicago official on new Obama anti-homelessness effort: "I think the plan was well-written and has the potential to be effective."

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(JUNE 30) Profile on Milwaukee nun who runs inner-city center, and used to teach in Chicago.

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(JUNE 29) Priest involved in fatal car crash in Mundelein as seminarian: "God did not cause this to happen. I did. But God has been part of rebuilding it since the time of the crash."

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(JUNE 29) Five new priests ordained in Diocese of Joliet by Bishop Sartain.

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(JUNE 29) Vatican says it will "prove it cannot be held legally responsible for a predatory priest" who was moved to Chicago.

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(JUNE 29) Milwaukee cleric criticizes U.S. bishops conference, headed by Cardinal George, over abuse audits, saying they aren't tough enough.

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(JUNE 29) Profile on Resurrection's CEO, who is pulling "ailing . . . hospital system from financial brink." (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(JUNE 29) A snapshot of what church-goers can expect from new missal. "We are looking at new words that have deeper meaning," says Naperville nun.

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(JUNE 29) Franciscan nun who once worked at South Side Catholic high school dies.

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(JUNE 28) Profile on new Indiana bishop, who hails from Illinois.

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(JUNE 28) U.S. Supreme Court allowing lawsuit to proceed against Vatican. Case involves accused priest transferred from city to city, including Chicago.

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(JUNE 28) Milwaukee's archbishop participating in "bonding" ritual with pope.

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(JUNE 28) Former pastor at St. Joachim and St. Terrence churches -- who taught religion at Mendel Catholic and Maria high schools -- dies.

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(JUNE 28) Mount Carmel graduate heading to world championship wrestling competition, hoping for Olympics.

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(JUNE 28) Profile on nun, an Edison Park native, who coaches fencing at Marian Catholic.

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(JUNE 28) Suburban priests discuss upcoming changes in mass. "The hope is the new text will better carry the meaning that has always been there."

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(JUNE 28) Chicago Episcopalian priest on hunger strike over immigration reform.

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(JUNE 27) Two workers critically injured in scaffold collapse at South Side building owned by Catholic Charities.

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(JUNE 27) Priest who was involved in alcohol-fueled fatal car wreck in suburbs while a seminarian now in parish out West.

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(JUNE 27) Chicago bishop to celebrate Tridentine mass as part of Latin liturgy convention in Detroit.

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(JUNE 26) Cardinal George says mass in Cuba.

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(JUNE 25) "In an architectural first for Chicago," materials from two shuttered churches to be used to build new parish in Lake County.

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(JUNE 25) "George's visit to see what remains of the Catholic Church in Cuba will have some influence on whether Cuba's overtures are taken the least bit seriously by . . . the Vatican."

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(JUNE 25) Cardinal George's Cuba trip "comes at a time when the Cuban government has shown a new willingness to listen to the voice of the Catholic hierarchy."

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(JUNE 25) DePaul University's president to be part of White House interfaith effort.

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(JUNE 25) Chicago-based Call to Action calls on parishioners to withhold giving money in collection.

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(JUNE 25) Reunion at North Shore Catholic school draws alumni from as far away as Singapore, and from Class of 1931.

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(JUNE 25) Chicago priest who also is a civil attorney among those celebrating anniversaries.

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(JUNE 24) Cardinal George arrives in Cuba for pastoral visit.

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(JUNE 24) Columnist says Cardinal George "has been a veritable Tower of Jello against rebellious and heretical factions within his own Archdiocese."

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(JUNE 24) Catholic Charities in Chicago expands summer lunch program.

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(JUNE 24) Letter from Cardinal George asks parishes to step up for inner-city congregations whose neighborhoods are plagued by violence.

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(JUNE 24) "Undaunted" by recent criticism from Cardinal George, Catholic Health Association reaffirms support for Obama health bill.

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(JUNE 23) Charity run by former Notre Dame football star is in "disarray."

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(JUNE 23) Catholic News Agency official challenges U.S. bishops conference to release recording of Cardinal George's talk that's at center of controversy.

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(JUNE 23) Chicago-area priest who "was highly regarded for promoting positive race relations during the civil rights movement" dies.

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(JUNE 23) Professor of bioethics at Loyola University Chicago weighs in on case of Arizona nun who authorized abortion at Catholic hospital.

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(JUNE 23) Chicago film critic Roger Ebert recalls his Catholic upbringing: "In my childhood the Church arched high above everything. I was awed by its ceremonies."

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(JUNE 23) Paprocki formally installed as bishop of Springfield in ceremony that drew Cardinal George.

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(JUNE 23) Wisconsin bishop facing resistance from parishioners over decision to staff church with "conservative priests."

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(JUNE 22) Numerous clergy to be on hand for installation of Paprocki as Springfield's bishop.

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(JUNE 22) St. Ignatius graduate getting a kick out of being in the ring.

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(JUNE 22) Brother Rice baseball coach resigns, but remains on faculty.

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(JUNE 22) Bishops conference challenges news report about Cardinal George.

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(JUNE 22) Secularists are "spreading the word, bus by bus" in Chicago area.

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(JUNE 21) St. Xavier University instructor wins White House award.

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(JUNE 21) On sale of two Chicago-area Catholic hospitals: "In order to save the whole of Resurrection, we had to evaluate . . . if we can get rid of the largest challenges, it can survive."

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(JUNE 21) Proposed parochial school in Joliet incorporated as a non-profit.

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(JUNE 21) Bishop sprinkles holy water into Lake Michigan, praying for "the good health of the Great Lakes and for all of the waters on Earth."

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(JUNE 21) Brother Rice graduate says he lives "by the motto that everything happens for a reason and I try to find the best in every situation."

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(JUNE 20) Naperville mom helping pregnant moms in need -- with help of St. Raphael Parish.

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(JUNE 20) Catholic Charities' refugee resettlement program participating in event at Loyola University this coming week.

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(JUNE 20) Cardinal George writes: "While both direct abortion and voluntary euthanasia are . . . always immoral, the calculation of what is appropriate treatment at the approach of natural death cannot be completely anticipated in a written set of directives."

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(JUNE 19) Big shakeup coming in assignments of priests in Archdiocese of Chicago.

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(JUNE 19) Mass attendance did rise during Catholics Come Home ad campaign, survey found.

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(JUNE 19) DePaul University and IBM team up on new "data analysis" center at school.

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(JUNE 18) On specific pieces of legislation, Florida bishop challenges authority of U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, led by Cardinal George.

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(JUNE 18) Cardinal George lashes out at Catholic Health Association, blames "Sister Carol and her colleagues" for passage of Obama's health care reform.

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(JUNE 18) Founder of Chicago's Cristo Rey speaks at graduation in California, tells students, "You have pioneered the Cristo Rey model in Sacramento. You are the school that works."

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(JUNE 17) Cardinal George blames Catholic Health Association for passage of Obama's controversial health care reform measure.

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(JUNE 17) As The Blues Brothers film turns 30, Vatican calls it a "Catholic classic."

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(JUNE 17) Accompanist at Plainfield parish wins composition contest, so her psalm was sung at parishes across diocese.

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(JUNE 17) Long-time president, CEO of Joliet Catholic to retire.

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(JUNE 17) St. Xavier University chef among those invited to White House for healthy eating kick-off.

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(JUNE 17) Notre Dame alumnus, about to be sentenced for union pension scam, reportedly led double life.

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(JUNE 16) Profile on Catholic Charities volunteer: "I'm not better than the people I serve. I could be in their shoes tomorrow."

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(JUNE 16) St. Rita baseball standout named "player of the year" in Southland.

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(JUNE 16) Special mass honors Brother Rice grads who recently died, including off-duty cop shot and killed last month.

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(JUNE 16) Pioneering rapper Chuck D speaks at Dominican University in River Forest.

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(JUNE 16) Freedom From Religion Foundation posts signs on CTA buses urging people to skip Sunday church.

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(JUNE 16) "The melting pot church is giving way to a multicultural model in which Hispanics will soon be the majority. Hispanic bishops are leading the move to embrace the multicultural paradigm."

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(JUNE 16) Priest who hailed from Italy, founded Fra Angelico Art Foundation dies.

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(JUNE 16) Athletic director at Aurora Central Catholic resigns, takes job with Rockford school district.

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(JUNE 15) As St. Rita grad grapples with future, Catholic League beats Public League in annual baseball match-up.

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(JUNE 15) Cuban bishop invites Cardinal George to visit Cuba; Chicago cleric expected to head there later in month.

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(JUNE 15) Special mass to be said in Evergreen Park for four Brother Rice alums who died in past year.

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(JUNE 15) Groundbreaking ceremony is held for new Catholic school in far west suburbs.

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(JUNE 14) Cardinal Francis George heading delegation to Cuba.

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(JUNE 14) Churches struggling to find enough Spanish-speaking priests in northwest Indiana.

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(JUNE 14) Nun who taught at Catholic Theological Union, Loyola University recognized with award.

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(JUNE 13) Mount Carmel losing basketball standout to Bishop Noll.

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(JUNE 13) Profile on former Pilsen resident, Aurora's "lady of perpetual help."

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(JUNE 13) Well-known election attorney to serve as board president at Brother Rice High School.

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(JUNE 12) Lisle priest, president of Benet Academy celebrating 50th anniversary in clergy.

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(JUNE 12) Marquette University reaches settlement with lesbian professor whose job offer was rescinded.

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(JUNE 12) "Notre Dame stakes its identity on Big Ten decision."

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(JUNE 11) DePaul, Notre Dame priest-presidents making half-million-dollar salaries -- that are donated to religious orders.

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(JUNE 11) South Side native named bishop of LaCrosse, Wisc. -- succeeding another Chicagoan.

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(JUNE 11) White House aide speaks at Loyola University commencement.

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(JUNE 11) Brother Rice dean tapped to serve as next school president.

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(JUNE 11) Hockey-playing Bishop Paprocki talks Blackhawks -- won't root for Blues even though his new assignment includes many St. Louis fans.

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(JUNE 11) Wilmette's St. Francis Xavier School celebrating 100th year with all-class reunion, mass with cardinal.

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(JUNE 11) Chicago-based Catholic group awards grant to Indian school with ties to murdered nun.

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(JUNE 10) Chicago columnist writes on gay parents sending kids to Catholic schools.

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(JUNE 10) Village of Addison on course to buy old Driscoll Catholic high school.

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(JUNE 10) Monk who heads Marmion Academy in Aurora to step down -- but he's not retiring.

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(JUNE 10) Marist hockey players, alums cheer on Blackhawks.

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(JUNE 10) Chicago cabbie who once planned to become priest tells of abuse, "redemption."

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(JUNE 10) DePaul University professor who is chairing mayor's LGBT council: "To build a women's and gender studies program at a Catholic university is a very specific form of activism."

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(JUNE 9) Clergy join labor activists to protest treatment of Hyatt employees.

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(JUNE 9) Chicago priest-evangelizer says "the sex abuse crisis has been the perfect storm, for it has undermined the work of the Church in almost every way."

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(JUNE 9) For-profit company gets state approval to buy two money-losing Chicago-area hospitals owned by Catholic health network.

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(JUNE 9) Calumet City priest praying for Blackhawks in their Stanley Cup quest.

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(JUNE 9) More than 200 priests are retired in Chicago archdiocese, including one turning 100 this year.

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(JUNE 9) Former principal of Batavia Catholic school launches line of religious-themed jewelry.

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(JUNE 8) State agency approves sale of two hospitals owned by Resurrection Health Care.

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(JUNE 8) Students at St. Martin de Porres in far north suburbs studying climate change through garden.

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(JUNE 8) Catholic school in Joliet participates in robot contest.

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(JUNE 8) Hammond parish, Gary diocese trying to meet needs of Spanish-speaking congregants.

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(JUNE 8) Irish community rallying around victims of Bucktown beating.

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(JUNE 8) Glendale Heights priest is put on leave from public ministry after allegations.

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(JUNE 8) Would-be owner of two struggling suburban Resurrection Health Care hospitals pledge to keep them open for at least three years.

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(JUNE 8) Snapshots from first mass said by new priest in Oak Lawn.

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(JUNE 8) Northlake nun keeps working at age 85: "I ask God to give me 10 more years. Every 10 years, I ask again."

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(JUNE 8) Cardinal George touches on abuse scandal, Year for Priests in latest column.

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(JUNE 8) DePaul University lands heir to Gwendolyn Brooks' legacy.

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(JUNE 8) DePaul students "immediately bonded over the shared experience of living with a chronic illness."

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(JUNE 7) Rockford bishop to preside over groundbreaking event for new Catholic school in St. Charles.

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(JUNE 7) DePaul University professor puts life on hold to try to free brother from Rwandan prison.

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(JUNE 7) Milwaukee's archbishop, a Chicago native, makes first official visit to a Kenosha parish.

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(JUNE 7) Columnist takes on Chicago writer/former priest Eugene Kennedy, a biographer of late cardinal.

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(JUNE 7) Grandfather from Chicago area becomes priest, "will minister from a unique perspective of having raised a family."

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(JUNE 7) Marian Catholic High School mourns death of student in auto accident.

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(JUNE 7) Catholic Charities helps the homeless become artists of sorts.

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(JUNE 7) More than 50 bishops expected at installation ceremony for new Springfield bishop.

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(JUNE 7) New golf course located on land owned by Archdiocese of Chicago getting rave reviews.

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(JUNE 7) New Jesuit priest in New York is graduate of Loyola University Chicago.

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(JUNE 7) "Hispanics are better represented among the nation's permanent deacons than in the U.S. priesthood, although neither group is as diverse as the U.S. Catholic population."

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(JUNE 6) "During a time when people increasingly treat pets as family members, animal advocates are gaining ground in religious circles."

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(JUNE 6) Kids at St. John Fisher on Southwest Side reach for the heavens -- with rockets.

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(JUNE 5) With economic woes hitting public school districts, more parents opting for parochial schools.

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(JUNE 5) Catholic cemetery in Elburn, dating back to 1882, planning to expand.

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(JUNE 5) Joliet Catholic school closes, ending "with time capsule, Mass and memories."

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(JUNE 5) According to survey, "Christians might reject church but many retain faith."

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(JUNE 5) "Interfaith marriages are rising fast, but they're failing fast too."

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(JUNE 4) Superintendent of archdiocesan schools muses on the "myth of summer."

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(JUNE 4) For soon-to-be-ordained man -- who would be first Latino priest in Diocese of Green Bay -- visit to Chicago was turning point.

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(JUNE 4) Professor at the University of St. Francis chronicles European soccer, as viewed by patrons at a Chicago bar.

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(JUNE 4) Researchers delve into history of Catholic schools in a number of metro areas, including Chicago.

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(JUNE 4) DePaul University professor focusing on freeing brother from Rwandan jail.

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(JUNE 4) New book delves into 1921 murder of priest in Alabama, a case that revolved around woman who later moved to Chicago.

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(JUNE 4) Student at Dominican University allegedly makes bomb threat after receiving bad grade.

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(JUNE 4) The Chicago-based Catholic Church Extension Society gives grant to school on Indian reservation.

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(JUNE 4) Father Pfleger on CPS anti-violence program: "It's been a little slow in rolling out, but I'd rather be slow and have it be right than have people getting grants that aren't doing anything."

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(JUNE 3) Nun, priest from Philly praying for Flyers victory, Blackhawks loss.

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(JUNE 3) Cardinal George's homily at the ordination ceremony for 14 new priests.

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(JUNE 3) Politician moves into Merrillville rectory, which now is losing tax-exempt status.

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(JUNE 3) Catholic school in Dyer, Ind., closing after 100 years.

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(JUNE 3) Augustus Tolton Scholarship Board, which prepares "black Catholic men and women for leadership in the Archdiocese of Chicago," goes on Downstate tour, pilgrimage.

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(JUNE 3) Illinois group says "probably the majority of abortions in the United States are unwanted or coerced in one way or another."

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(JUNE 3) At event at Gurnee parish, Catholic Charities will recognize single parents who have made "educational and employment achievements."

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(JUNE 3) Arrest made after threat at Dominican University, which closed one of its campuses temporarily.

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(JUNE 3) Threat made at Dominican University, forcing relocation of classes.

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(JUNE 2) Catholic school in northwestern Illinois closes after 150 years.

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(JUNE 2) Music director at Joliet's Cathedral of St. Raymond meets president at Memorial Day event.

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(JUNE 2) Catholic school student who drowned is remembered at mass in northwest Indiana.

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(JUNE 2) Wheaton's St. Francis High School breaks ground on $7 million building expansion.

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(JUNE 2) Sen. Meeks says he'll resurrect school voucher legislation -- which the Archdiocese of Chicago supports -- this fall.

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(JUNE 2) Dominican University bringing in Public Enemy rapper Chuch D for symposium.

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(JUNE 2) Chicago-based U.S. Catholic magazine marks 75th anniversary.

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(JUNE 2) Nun who once was president of Resurrection Health Care dies at age 91.

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(JUNE 1) Deacon ordained in New York State is studying at Mundelein seminary, serving as chaplain at Fort Sheridan.

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(JUNE 1) "End of an era" at Joliet's St. Joseph School, which is closing this week after 114 years.

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(JUNE 1) Seventh grader at northwest Indiana Catholic school dies in apparent drowning.

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(JUNE 1) Loyola's medical center sees 21 people sign up to be kidney donors.

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(JUNE 1) Wood Dale's Holy Ghost school to remain open next year with or without a merger.

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(JUNE 1) Woman who taught kindergarten for 43 years at St. John Fisher School on Far Southwest Side dies.

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(JUNE 1) Those trying to join the seminary these days face an array of awkward questions as Church tries to weed out pedophiles -- and to some extent gays.

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(JUNE 1) Most permanent deacons in U.S. are 60 or older -- and aren't paid for their ministry.

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(MAY 31) In recorded message played at Sunday masses, Cardinal George addresses sex abuse.

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(MAY 31) The future pope refused to defrock an Illinois priest "who confessed to molesting numerous children and even served prison time for it."

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(MAY 31) Springfield nun celebrates 80 years in service. Nobody else in order has reached that milestone.

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(MAY 31) Catholic and Protestant hold "public dialogue" in Chicago about conflict in Northern Ireland.

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(MAY 30) Veteran teachers at St. Agnes in Chicago Heights retiring.

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(MAY 30) Students from Palatine Catholic school interviewed by BBC.

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(MAY 30) Widower deacon in Archdiocese of Chicago ordained a priest in Louisville Diocese.

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(MAY 30) Catholic chapel in southeast Wisconsin to close as archdiocese sells site.

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(MAY 29) Four Kenosha Catholic schools to talk about consolidating.

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(MAY 29) Two priests removed from ministry amid allegations that they abused a student at Joliet Catholic, Providence decades ago.

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(MAY 29) Chicago's "Holy Goalie" -- Bishop Paprocki -- predicts Blackhawks victory in five games.

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(MAY 29) Resurrection high school's 170 graduates reap $5.1 million in college scholarships.

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(MAY 29) Elderly Jesuit priest among those arrested during immigration protest in Chicago.

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(MAY 28) Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests rips into Joliet bishop over handling of two accused clerics.

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(MAY 28) Suburban newspaper columnist writes "smart-ass" piece about Church, gets "decent, humane, intelligent letter" in response from Cardinal George.

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(MAY 28) Organizers of new parochial school in Joliet prepare for "second round" of tours at possible site.

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(MAY 28) Chicago-area atheist-activist threatens lawsuit over state grant to restore Downstate cross.

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(MAY 28) Loyola University's foray into McHenry County should be welcome news to neighbors, who bristled at previous development plans for site.

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(MAY 28) Mother McAuley honors alum, local bishop as money is raised for tuition help.

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(MAY 28) Jesuit from Chicago to oversee Rome's Pontifical Oriental Institute, which studies Eastern Christianity.

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(MAY 28) A number of teachers losing jobs because of Catholic school merger in Kenosha.

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(MAY 28) Lake County, Ind., commissioner moves into local rectory with wife.

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(MAY 28) Female Air Force pilot from Elk Grove Village "recognized her calling" while taking class at Loyola University.

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(MAY 28) Profile of St. Rita High School president, who says "the best part of my job is walking the halls and seeing the kids."

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(MAY 28) Missouri man about to be ordained a priest had ministered to Chicago juvenile detention center.

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(MAY 28) Funeral for boy who drowned in Chicago River held at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church on North Side.

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(MAY 28) Ray LaHood, transportation secretary and former Illinois congressman, to get honorary degree from Loras College. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(MAY 27) Bishop Perry recounts discrimination against first black priest in America.

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(MAY 27) Alumni of St. Viator, Providence Catholic among the members of U.S. Men's National Team.

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(MAY 27) Attorney who has taken on Catholic Church over sex abuse now picking up new cause.

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(MAY 27) Catholic Church partners with scientific firm over stem cell research.

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(MAY 26) Cardinal George ordains 15 permanent deacons.

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(MAY 26) Pastor emeritus of Wauconda parish, who grew up at St. Priscilla's, dies.

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(MAY 26) At Elgin's St. Edward high school, 99 of 100 graduates are headed to college.

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(MAY 26) The story of one of the Archdiocese of Chicago's new priests, as told by a friend.

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(MAY 26) Catholic schools post "best standardized test scores in years."

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(MAY 26) Catholic hospitals in northwest Indiana lay off dozens of workers.

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(MAY 26) Naperville parish will be home to new Metra, Pace Park-n-Ride. "It totally ties in with Catholic teaching on taking care of the environment," church official says.

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(MAY 26) Antioch parish to get new church -- with help of old church on Chicago's South Side.

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(MAY 26) A 57-year-old father of five is ordained a priest in Illinois.

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(MAY 26) DePaul University law school dean, a former judge, now becoming an accomplished poet.

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(MAY 26) Thirty arrested during immigration reform protest in Loop.

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(MAY 26) Chicago priest who served as Civil Air Patrol chaplain dies.

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(MAY 26) Marquette University faculty members up in arms over administration rescinding job offer to lesbian professor.

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(MAY 26) Media coverage of ex-communicated woman "priest" suffers from "a lack of understanding of the structures and procedures of the Catholic Church."

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(MAY 26) In U.S. Supreme Court brief, Obama administration backs "Vatican's claim of immunity from a lawsuit brought against an alleged pedophile priest."

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(MAY 25) Union blasts proposed sale of two Chicago-area Catholic hospitals to for-profit company.

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(MAY 25) Loyola University buys McHenry County retreat center, which now will be used for students.

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(MAY 25) Battle brewing between Chicago-based bishop and Texas parish that's part of Eastern Catholic Church from India.

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(MAY 25) Exhibit on cathedrals being held at Lake County Discovery Museum.

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(MAY 25) DePaul University kicks off multi-million-dollar fundraising campaign that will pay for major campus overhaul.

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(MAY 25) Little boy who drowned to have funeral at North Side parish.

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(MAY 25) Bishops say Catholic backers of health care reform package "wounded Catholic unity."

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(MAY 25) Gay rights protest at Holy Name Cathedral turns out to be "not a terribly impressive achievement, nor even a propaganda victory."

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(MAY 25) Canon lawyer from Loyola Chicago opines on case of ex-communicated nun: "In order to have an excommunication be valid . . . there has to be malice involved."

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(MAY 25) Two representatives of Council on American-Islamic Relations visit St. Ignatius College Prep "to give students a firsthand look into Islam."

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(MAY 24) Mass at Marist High School, visit by cardinal the brainchild of student from Evergreen Park.

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(MAY 24) Rockford Diocese, which includes Kane and McHenry counties, establishes new parish boundaries after more than a decade of study.

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(MAY 24) Chicago rector: "This is the aim of our Seminary: to preserve all that is good, holy and worthy from the Polish culture and to root it in the American culture."

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(MAY 24) Immigration march from St. Mary's Church to McHenry County Jail; one arrest reported -- of counter-demonstrator.

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(MAY 24) Graduation held at Lombard's Montini Catholic High School.

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(MAY 24) Students at Wheaton's St. Francis pack meals for needy in Haiti.

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(MAY 23) Immigration marchers stop at Catholic churches along route, from city to far northwest suburbs.

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(MAY 23) Donovan McNabb comes home again -- visiting alma mater Mount Carmel.

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(MAY 23) Plans inching forward for new parochial school in Joliet.

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(MAY 23) Suburban priest on becoming bishop of Indiana diocese: "In a broad sense, you remain a pastor but with a wider responsibility."

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(MAY 23) Nun who ran Resurrection health care system for years dies.

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(MAY 22) Court ruling on Aurora Planned Parenthood clinic "pleases all involved."

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(MAY 22) "If the Catholic Church had refused a funeral to a Catholic priest, that would be a legitimate news story. But Janine Denomme was not a Catholic priest."

[More]

 

(MAY 22) New Lake County Catholic school names first principal.

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(MAY 22) Immigration march stopping at Catholic churches in city, suburbs.

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(MAY 22) Snapshot of the 14 men being ordained priests this weekend.

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(MAY 22) African bishop visits Chicago to ask Cardinal George for his support on "mineral bill."

[More]

 

(MAY 21) Writer takes issue with "morality" claim made by priest at immigration reform rally in Chicago.

[More]

 

(MAY 21) New Catholic grammar school about to break ground in Kane County.

[More]

 

(MAY 21) Report of gunfire inside Lake County parish turns out to be unfounded.

[More]

 

(MAY 21) Students at Kenosha's St. Joseph High School protesting teacher cuts.

[More]

 

(MAY 21) South suburbs about to get four new priests, including Marist grad whose brother already is in priesthood.

[More]

 

(MAY 21) Mother McAuley girls send aid to Haiti, including a processor that makes biodiesel fuel.

[More]

 

(MAY 21) Brother Rice now has seen four alums killed under violent circumstances in less than a year.

[More]

 

(MAY 21) Slain Chicago police officer attended Brother Rice.

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Fenwick, Dominican in talks over vacant parcel in Forest Park.

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Cardinal George slated to ordain 14 men -- seven of whom are from U.S. -- this weekend at Holy Name Cathedral.

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Marquette previously offered dean job to another scholar on gay issues who had been teaching at Loyola University Chicago.

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Bloomingdale pastor removed from church after allegations, celibacy violations.

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Chicago Bears co-owner gives award to football team at Grand Rapids Catholic high school -- for performance on and off field.

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Dominican University graduate who volunteers with at-risk kids named a "rising star."

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Woman priest denied funeral at Catholic parish, but "many of St. Gertrude's parishioners, perhaps even its priests, are expected to attend" off-site service.

[More]

 

(MAY 20) Students up in arms at Marquette University over president's decision to rescind job offer to lesbian professor.

[More]

 

(MAY 19) Three St. Xavier University graduates commit to "faith-based community service" for a year.

[More]

 

(MAY 19) Edgewater woman -- ordained a priest in ceremony not recognized by Catholic Church -- dies, is denied burial in archdiocesan cemetery.

[More]

 

(MAY 19) Looking for a "Catholic connection" on your iPhone? Now sermons can be downloaded.

[More]

 

(MAY 19) Chicago dad "says he'll go to court if that's what it takes to get his son baptized in the Roman Catholic Church."

[More]

 

(MAY 19) One of longest-serving teachers in Archdiocese of Chicago retiring from St. Monica's.

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(MAY 19) Leo High School alumnus marries Muhammad Ali's daughter in ceremony officiated by the Rev. George Clements.

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(MAY 19) Northwest suburban man will officiate first mass -- at same time little brother gets first communion.

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(MAY 19) North Side school served by group of nuns for past 100 years.

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(MAY 18) Another case "of a Chicago custody dispute involving a Jewish mother and a Hispanic Catholic."

[More]

 

(MAY 18) Priest accompanies grieving family at banks of river where boy is presumed drowned.

[More]

 

(MAY 18) Immigration "pilgrimage" to start at Catholic church in Chicago, stretch to parish in Woodstock.

[More]

 

(MAY 18) Notre Dame did try to join Big Ten years ago, but was spurned largely because of anti-Catholicism, author says.

[More]

 

(MAY 18) Woman "priest" dies at Edgewater home, is denied Catholic funeral.

[More]

 

(MAY 18) Article recalls the Franciscan friars of Kenosha and northern Illinois.

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(MAY 18) Former Catholic priest from Nigeria now lives in Chicago area after being granted asylum for being gay.

[More]

 

(MAY 18) So is the University of Notre Dame joining the Big Ten or not?

[More]

 

(MAY 18) New York Times examines how former Milwaukee archbishop Dolan handled sex abuse scandal.

[More]

 

(MAY 17) DePaul University launches $250 million capital campaign. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

[More]

 

(MAY 17) Man who was "saved by a saint" speaks at fundraiser for St. Joseph's Home for the Elderly in Palatine.

[More]

 

(MAY 17) Student at St. Edward high school has perfect K-12 attendance.

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(MAY 17) NBC anchor Brian Williams gives keynote at University of Notre Dame commencement ceremony.

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(MAY 17) Gay rights group plans to interrupt Pentecost service at Holy Name Cathedral.

[More]

 

(MAY 17) South suburban Irish dance troupe places second in world competition.

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(MAY 16) Planned merger of Catholic schools in DuPage County may be scrapped.

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(MAY 16) "An immigration story, and a love story."

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(MAY 15) American Idol's DeWyze visits St. James Catholic School, hugs first-grade teacher.

[More]

 

(MAY 15) Cancer-stricken woman who was "ordained" priest will be denied funeral at Edgewater parish.

[More]

 

(MAY 15) Gay group plans to confront Cardinal George during mass at Holy Name Cathedral.

[More]

 

(MAY 15) American Idol star makes stop at Catholic school in Arlington Heights.

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(MAY 14) Christian Brother who serves as senior administrator at Bethlehem University among those being honored at Lewis University's commencement.

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(MAY 14) University of Iowa professor being tapped for Catholic Studies post at UIC.

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(MAY 14) Teacher at St. Turibius on Southwest Side: "I truly believe in a Catholic school education."

[More]

 

(MAY 14) Marian Central Catholic alumnus to be ordained a priest this weekend.

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(MAY 14) Former priest in northwest Indiana facing more allegations of sexual misconduct.

[More]

 

(MAY 14) Libertyville parish hosting workshop entitled "How the Church Should Respond to Domestic Violence."

[More]

 

(MAY 14) University of Notre Dame may play old rival Miami at Soldier Field.

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(MAY 14) DePaul University student inspires "an interreligious group of entrepreneurs to recently launch ChurchRater."

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(MAY 13) Sun-Times editorial calls pope's latest admission "as to the church's guilt in the long-running saga of sex abuse" a "first step."

[More]

 

(MAY 13) At Holy Name Cathedral news conference, religious leaders decry Arizona immigration crackdown.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) Bishop Paprocki explains his controversial remarks on sex abuse cases, saying, "Far from being 'extremist,' in fact I was calling for a middle ground."

[More]

 

(MAY 13) Co-host of WTTW show on faith writes how "this news cycle has also reminded me of how predictable the coverage of the Church has become."

[More]

 

(MAY 13) St. Xavier University alumnus named to top FEMA post in Midwest.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) Fenwick High School, Dominican University might have interest in large parcel for sale in Forest Park.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) New Indiana bishop, who has been ministering in far northwest suburbs, is "humbled" by appointment.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) Milwaukee's archbishop raised concerns about Marquette University hiring lesbian -- whose job offer then was rescinded.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) Conference planned in south suburbs by Fishers of Men, "a Catholic lay apostolate that helps men to build their faith to influence families."

[More]

 

(MAY 13) West suburban parish "is fighting poverty one step at a time."

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(MAY 13) Former federal prosecutor a driven soul since his days at Lisle Catholic school.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) Teachers at Providence St. Mel in Chicago, Wheaton's St. Francis win prestigious awards.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) During protest at Holy Name Cathedral, "Rabbis, imams and pastors joined Catholic priests, sisters and brothers to condemn Arizona's new illegal immigration law."

[More]

 

(MAY 13) DePaul University law student robbed on Red Line L.

[More]

 

(MAY 13) Benet Academy baseball player shows resilience despite bad break.

[More]

 

(MAY 12) Just-named Indiana bishop has been serving as pastor of Gilberts, Dundee parishes.

[More]

 

(MAY 12) Burr Ridge order of priests sued over alleged abuse by priest at Wisconsin school.

[More]

 

(MAY 12) Diocese of Gary sued by Florida man who claims he was abused in East Chicago as a teen.

[More]

 

(MAY 12) After Marquette University rescinded offer to lesbian professor, question raised about "stained glass ceiling" for gays at Catholic colleges.

[More]

 

(MAY 12) "No other school interested in making the move to the Big Ten can bring the sort of value Notre Dame can, and no other scenario can revive the Fighting Irish quite like the Big Ten."

[More]

 

(MAY 12) Loyola University's libraries receive $1 million -- plus rare Mark Twain first editions.

[More]

 

(MAY 12) Catholic League's Donohue, who's also involved with Catholic Citizens of Illinois, "a buffoonish bully, a carnival barker posing as a defender of the faith."

[More]

 

(MAY 12) Priest from Rockford Diocese named bishop of Lafayette, Ind., diocese.

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(MAY 12) Teacher from St. Francis in Wheaton wins Golden Apple award.

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(MAY 11) Cardinal George to escort Paprocki to "bishop's chair" during Springfield ceremony next month.

[More]

 

(MAY 11) Man hands over working AK-47 assault rifle at St. Sabina gun turn-in. (Note: after visiting link, scroll down to read item.)

[More]

 

(MAY 11) U.S. Supreme Court nominee, a former Chicagoan, once advocated against late-term abortions.

[More]

 

(MAY 11) Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke: "There are bishops -- who are bishops and cardinals today -- who were well aware of those transfers, and they were well aware that it was wrong."

[More]

 

(MAY 11) University of Chicago's Martin Marty on the prospect of U.S. Supreme Court not having any Protestants: "a big yawn."

[More]

 

(MAY 11) Catholic Families for America rips Obama: "By nominating Miss Kagan to the Supreme Court, the president continues to demonstrate a brass-knuckles, Chicago-mobster mentality toward unifying our nation."

[More]

 

(MAY 11) Former priest from Chicago says the Church "has often times been very supportive of gay men. . . . But now that has shifted."

[More]

 

(MAY 10) University of Notre Dame gets first black valedictorian -- a native of Gary, Ind.

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(MAY 10) St. Rita's senior class president "intent on giving back."

[More]

 

(MAY 10) PBS focuses on Chicago pastor, who ministers to a flock that's not always in agreement with Church teachings.

[More]

 

(MAY 10) Statue dedicated at St. Sabina's to highlight the street violence claiming young lives.

[More]

 

(MAY 10) Cardinal George presides over Mother's Day service honoring moms-to-be.

[More]

 

(MAY 9) Park Ridge parishioner delves into the point "where profession meets faith."

[More]

 

(MAY 9) Archdiocese has new monsignor, Palatine priest who helped with Polish seminary.

[More]

 

(MAY 9) Cardinal George officiating mass for expectant mothers at Holy Name Cathedral today.

[More]

 

(MAY 8) Legal troubles not over yet for Catholic dad who had been battling Jewish mom over child custody issues.

[More]

 

(MAY 8) Ailing northwest Indiana boy whose Make-A-Wish request was to meet pope will be getting new liver.

[More]

 

(MAY 8) Packers draft pick working out at alma mater, McHenry County Catholic school.

[More]

 

(MAY 8) Marian Central Catholic High School embarks on construction plan, with 25,000-square-foot addition planned.

[More]

 

(MAY 8) St. Viator High School senior composes original score -- about founder of Clerics of St. Viator.

[More]

 

(MAY 8) "Victims' rights advocates in Wisconsin have charged that lobbyists for the Catholic Church threatened that a state senator would be denied Communion if he supported a bill to extend the statute of limitations for sex-abuse cases."

[More]

 

(MAY 7) Chicagoan Anne Burke, who served on National Review Board, backs laicizing predator-priests "as a matter of justice."

[More]

 

(MAY 7) Milwaukee's Marquette University rescinds offer to lesbian sociologist, who had been asked to serve as arts and sciences dean.

[More]

 

(MAY 7) Awards being given by Archdiocese of Chicago for "outstanding contributions to catechesis and youth ministry in Catholic parishes across Cook and Lake counties."

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(MAY 7) Cardinal George officiating mass for expectant mothers at Holy Name Cathedral on Mother's Day.

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(MAY 7) Female neurosurgeon at Provena St. Joe's a "trailblazer" for profession.

[More]

 

(MAY 7) Marian Catholic High School girls a "hit" at St. Mary's of Notre Dame, batting 1-2-3 on softball team.

[More]

 

(MAY 7) Bishop Paprocki clarifies remarks, in which he said that clerical abuse lawsuits are the work of the devil.

[More]

 

(MAY 7) Catholics Come Home launching new site to recognize and encourage priests.

[More]

 

(MAY 7) Latest clergy abuse scandal in Europe not impacting American Church as much as the 2002 crisis, according to poll.

[More]

 

(MAY 6) Several Chicago connections in upcoming ordinations in St. Louis.

[More]

 

(MAY 6) Long-ago Chicago meeting helps paint picture of controversial Vatican official.

[More]

 

(MAY 6) More on defeated voucher legislation, that Catholic Church was backing.

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(MAY 6) School voucher legislation goes "down in flames" in Illinois House.

[More]

 

(MAY 6) Second alleged victim of former Loyola Academy president speaks to TV reporter; prosecutors are notified of case.

[More]

 

(MAY 6) Regular mass-goers "unfazed" by ongoing Church scandal, according to poll, which also found the pope's popularity increasing.

[More]

 

(MAY 6) Oak Park pastor "stunned" when Jesuit admitted to "inappropriate relationship" with male Loyola Academy student.

[More]

 

(MAY 6) Film on Lourdes opening soon at Chicago's Music Box Theatre.

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(MAY 6) Catholics Come Home television ads reach Poland, via Chicago.

[More]

 

(MAY 5) Vatican approves American version of Roman missal. As head of Catholic bishops conference, Cardinal George will be involved in implementation.

[More]

 

(MAY 5) Tinley Park program, which is run by nuns and helps hundreds of developmentally disabled people, "thrown a lifeline."

[More]

 

(MAY 5) Sun-Times editorial board favors school voucher plan, asks, "What if it were your kid?"

[More]

 

(MAY 5) A former Loyola Academy student steps forward and alleges abuse by Father Reuter, Wilmette school's ex-president.

[More]

 

(MAY 5) Chicago-based Catholic Extension names fund in honor of murdered nun "to support the work of women religious and the ministries they have created and inspired."

[More]

 

(MAY 5) Accused Jesuit priest "assigned to internal ministry with and for Jesuits only in a monitored setting."

[More]

 

(MAY 5) Abortions are "becoming more common among poor women, racial minorities" in the United States.

[More]

 

(MAY 4) School voucher legislation making its way through the General Assembly "would be . . . the largest voucher program in the nation."

[More]

 

(MAY 4) Scandal-tarred former Chicago Sun-Times owner on Church's troubles: "Behind the breathless predictions of the collapse of the Church is the incomprehension of its nature."

[More]

 

(MAY 4) Roselle priest accused of stealing more than $300,000 from parish now facing potentially stiffer punishment.

[More]

 

(MAY 4) Profile on sibling geniuses -- one of whom enrolled at Loyola University at age 9.

[More]

 

(MAY 4) Catholic churches in Downstate Streator need nearly $6 million "in improvements if the facilities are to be kept open."

[More]

 

(MAY 4) Joliet Catholic school sues over web postings, including one that asked, "Cathedral of St. Raymond -- school for children or killers."

[More]

 

(MAY 4) Loyola University students team up with Juarez high school kids to develop bilingual newspaper covering Pilsen.

[More]

 

(MAY 4) St. Boniface land swap moving forward, helping South Loop high school with its construction plans.

[More]

 

(MAY 4) Victim advocate group says of Loyola priest, "Church and school officials almost certainly knew of Reuter's misdeeds yet hid them from students, staff, parents and the public."

[More]

 

(MAY 4) More on ex-Loyola Academy president accused of misconduct.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Former Loyola Academy president -- a Jesuit also affiliated with Loyola University -- reportedly admits to "inappropriate relationship" with student.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Father Pfleger weighs in on controversy over who is the first black priest in U.S.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) More parents considering Catholic schools, with the thought that they haven't been hit as hard by the state's financial crisis.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Alexian Brothers fundraiser involves dining "among dinosaurs and prehistoric baby mammoths."

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Jesuit priest, a former pastor of St. Ignatius Parish who was involved with Loyola University, dies.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Member of School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King in Lemont -- who taught at Mt. Assisi Academy for 33 years -- dies.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Newspaper names St. Rita tailback greatest athlete of all times at South Side school.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Mother McAuley student competes in statewide choir competition.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Dominican University president reshaping school's "identity, mission." (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

[More]

 

(MAY 3) Study finds one in five "primary care physicians working in religiously affiliated health care organizations has experienced a conflict over faith-based patient care policies."

[More]

 

(MAY 3) School voucher measure -- which would benefit Catholic schools -- headed for vote in Illinois House this week.

[More]

 

(MAY 3) NIU instructor to participate in forum entitled "A Catholic Professor Teaching About Family & Politics at a Secular University."

[More]

 

(MAY 2) Priests gather around woman who was beaten in Bucktown bat attack.

[More]

 

(MAY 2) Large immigration reform rallies held in Chicago, suburbs.

[More]

 

(MAY 2) "More than a year after some African-Americans scrutinized the blackness of the nation's first black president, America's Catholics are now wrestling with the same questions to determine who was the nation's first black priest."

[More]

 

(MAY 2) Jesus statue vandalized -- again -- outside Tinley Park store that sells religious items.

[More]

 

(MAY 2) Catholic Charities veteran who was "a mother of sorts to thousands" dies.

[More]

 

(MAY 1) Principal at St. Margaret of Scotland on Far Southwest Side disciplined for Facebook postings that complained about students.

[More]

 

(MAY 1) Catholic high school graduation rates much better than those at public schools.

[More]

 

(MAY 1) Predator-priest McCormack facing more sexual misconduct allegations.

[More]

 

(MAY 1) Joliet-area priest pleads not guilty to charges as victim advocate indicates she recently met with cardinal.

[More]

 

(MAY 1) Missing man, last seen in Rogers Park, is known to frequent Catholic churches.

[More]

 

(MAY 1) New book on Al Capone, whose gravestone reads, "My Jesus, Mercy," referring to a Catholic prayer "for souls suffering in purgatory."

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) South Chicago resident -- who rose money for St. Theresa Orphanage in Croatia, co-founded Croatian Catholic Union Lodge #55 -- dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Parents of differing faiths can "build a happy family," despite recent Catholic-Jewish custody fight in Chicago.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Bolingbrook parish, Benedictine University and Joliet Diocese among those sponsoring "Day of the Immigrant" event.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) School voucher bill could be voted on by full Illinois House today.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Broadcaster Greg Gumbel talks about the beauty of sports to kids at Wheaton's St. Francis High School.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) A "miracle at St. Mary's" in Plano, when man finds strength to walk again.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Principal of St. Hubert's in Hoffman Estates visits Africa with other Catholic schools officials.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Elgin's Catholic schools benefit from Knights of Columbus fundraiser.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Voucher legislation, which would benefit Catholic schools, advancing to entire Illinois House.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Roughly 100 people turn out at Old St. Pat's for prayer vigil for young women brutally beaten.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Vigil for victims of Bucktown bat attack held at Old St. Pat's Church.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Congressional Democrats kick-start immigration reform process.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) More on immigration reform protest that included many clergy members, and ended in arrests in Broadview.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) Lawsuit targets Jesuits for alleged breach of conduct in case of former Loyola University figure.

[More]

 

(APRIL 30) New lawsuit targeting Jesuit priest when he was chaplain at Loyola University Chicago.

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Big Ten basketball player considering a transfer to Loyola or DePaul to be closer to sister, who is being treated at Chicago hospital for cancer.

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) On St. Joseph Ukrainian Catholic Church: "Even though it is surrounded by MidCentury houses and flats, their conservative style does nothing to prepare you for this rocketship of a building."

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Profile on Minnesota's Cristo Rey -- Jesuit high school model established in Chicago.

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Franciscan with Chicago ties who recently was tapped by Obama for bioethics commission "has been active . . . in the debate on physician-assisted suicide."

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) More than a century after his death, Father Tolton continues to inspire -- particulary blacks in the Church.

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Cardinal George, writing in the Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano, praises the pope's "efforts to combat clerical sexual abuse and his efforts to reach out to victims."

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Naperville parish involved in immigration reform rally.

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Priest at Anglican Catholic church in Chicago has this to say about immigration reform and Obama: "If there is no legalization, there will be no reelection."

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Cardinal George reflects on the pope's fifth anniversary.

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Big crowd turns out in Oak Park over Resurrection Health Care's plan to sell hospital.

[More]

 

(APRIL 29) Loyola medical school dean re-appointed as editor of trade journal.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Loyola Academy girls basketball standout sticking with maroon and gold. She commits to Loyola University Chicago.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Immigration rights march planned for Aurora on May Day.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Two nuns among those to participate in huge "organ swap" at Chicago hospital.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Man dying from lung cancer brings anti-cigarette message to Waukegan's St. Martin de Porres High School.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Plans inching forward to open school "in the tradition" of Joliet's St. Joseph Catholic School, which is being closed by diocese.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Doctor suing Resurrection Health Care after being attacked at St. Joseph Hospital by knife-wielding man.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Christ the King principal heading to St. Rita of Cascia.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Lutheran high school appears to be staying open after all, despite financial troubles.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Suburban perspective on the sexual abuse crisis.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) World's Roman Catholic population growing, according to just-released Vatican yearbook.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Anti-poverty "summit" scheduled by Catholic Charities in Chicago.

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) New vision for St. Benedict's on North Side, the "only Preschool through Grade 12 Catholic co-ed school in the Archdiocese of Chicago."

[More]

 

(APRIL 28) Dominican University student "accosted by a male driver with dreadlocks." (Note: after visiting link, scroll down for item.)

[More]

 

(APRIL 27) Pilsen priest tells demonstrators at immigration reform rally: "Here we are and we're not going."

[More]

 

(APRIL 27) Says Broadview police chief following immigration protest, "I know they're good people. I never wanted to arrest a priest."

[More]

 

(APRIL 27) New chief financial officer named at Resurrection Health Care.

[More]

 

(APRIL 27) Cardinal George attends annual "cardinals' dinner," which raised $1 million for scholarship fund.

[More]

 

(APRIL 27) Former head of Catholic Charities maternity-adoption department in Chicago dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 27) Judge doesn't rule on contempt charge against Catholic dad who took daughter to mass.

[More]

 

(APRIL 27) Mass held in Niles in honor of Polish plane crash victims.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) Benedictine University professor recognized for civil rights work.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) Former Kansas City Chiefs center named greatest athlete ever at St. Laurence High School.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) Chicago's Polish community crowds into St. Hyacinth Basilica to recall Katyn massacre.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) "Crooked" former police chief of Melrose Park, who once "muscled" a Catholic church into hiring his security firm, still collects pension.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) New seminary planned for St. Joseph students on property bought from Loyola University in Rogers Park.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) Organist at Antioch parish also plays organ for Milwaukee Brewers.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) Bishop Paprocki to celebrate mass at Illinois Catholic Prayer Breakfast.

[More]

 

(APRIL 26) Vatican says Wisconsin lawsuit is "completely without merit."

[More]

 

(APRIL 25) Chicago's Catholic Charities owed millions by state government. Says Father Boland, "We are struggling to serve our clients and pay our bills."

[More]

 

(APRIL 25) Wilmette nun celebrates 80 years in religious life.

[More]

 

(APRIL 25) Marmion Academy rifles to top of drill competition.

[More]

 

(APRIL 25) Aurora woman hopes Lottery will help her afford Church wedding ceremony.

[More]

 

(APRIL 24) Lesson at St. Michael School in Orland Park has kids soaring.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Aurora woman, 94, once named Catholic Woman of the Year, dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Profile on new schools superintendent in Joliet Diocese, an Arlington Heights native taking the helm July 1.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) For Lisle nun, "Life is not a set of problems . . . Life is just a wonderful tapestry of challenges."

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Apparent deal reached in busing flap between public school district in northwest suburbs, Catholic school parents.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Benet Academy grad awaits word on whether he'll be chosen by an NFL team.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Former Marian Central Catholic football standout picked by Green Bay Packers.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke on the sex abuse scandal: "The real world has finally come to the Vatican."

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Alleged victim of late Wisconsin priest sues Vatican, pope in bid to open files.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Chicago priest says Catholics will know sex abuse crisis is over when bishops thank the media for revealing "the slime and filth lurking inside the presbyterate."

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) School voucher plan -- backed by Archdiocese of Chicago -- advances in Legislature.

[More]

 

(APRIL 23) Joliet bishop urges caution for priests in dealing with those "representing various alleged apparitions of the Blessed Virgin."

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Mentioning Chicago bishop and other clerics, Richard Roeper says, in effect, "Stop blaming the devil for all the world's ills."

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Springfield newspaper pens editorial on arrival of Chicago Bishop Paprocki, describing him as an "enthusiastic leader for local Catholics."

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Annual St. Catherine of Siena lecture slated for Dominican University later this month.

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Joliet bishop to celebrate mass at which notable women in the diocese will be honored.

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Mount Carmel to get first lay principal in its 110-year history.

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Former Joliet Catholic baseball and football standout -- nephew of Notre Dame's famed "Rudy" -- having a ball at Arizona State.

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Bishop Paprocki tries to clarify "devil" remark about sex abuse lawsuits.

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) As Resurrection Health Care sheds two struggling hospitals, it's poised to take a huge financial hit.

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Archdiocese of Chicago hosted "faith and practice survey" earlier this month.

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Joliet Diocese priest charged with molesting one child "is now accused of attempting to abuse the boy's older brother."

[More]

 

(APRIL 22) Bloomberg report finds that "Catholic donors keep cash flowing while priests abuse children."

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Paprocki's official statement on leaving the Chicago archdiocese and becoming the Springfield bishop.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Local Jesuits react to priest sex abuse scandal rippling across the globe.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Additional criminal charges filed against Joliet priest already accused of abusing St. Charles boy.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Loyola University graduate vying for Miss Africa USA title.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Father Marquette memorial at Gary, Ind., park to be restored.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Loyola University medical, nursing and law schools hosting forum together on health care reform.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Former parish complex on South Side among the state's "most endangered historic places."

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Police aren't getting involved in case of accused northwest Indiana priest because alleged victim is remaining anonymous.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Archdiocese of Baltimore teacher who hails from Chicago honored for excellence.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Chicago religion scholar Martin Marty on the prospect of a U.S. Supreme Court with no Protestants.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) Chicago Bishop Paprocki previously was mentioned as a candidate for St. Louis archbishop.

[More]

 

(APRIL 21) New Springfield bishop, now an auxiliary bishop in Chicago, "once blamed the devil for sexual abuse lawsuits against the Roman Catholic Church."

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Marian Central Catholic alumnus "is exactly the kind of offensive lineman the Bears need."

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Nun who started outreach program for needy in Barrington area dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Berwyn event raises $22,500 for Catholic Charities, helping homeless families in west suburbs.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) "Ten students at DePaul University in Chicago took living simply a step further."

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Fate of northwest Indiana priest accused of misconduct may not be decided for months.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Chicago auxiliary bishop Paprocki appointed to head Springfield diocese.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) More on Chicago bishop taking over helm of Springfield diocese.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Survey of seminarians being ordained this year in U.S. found nearly a third were born outside America.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Mourners pay respects to late NAACP chief, who attended DePaul University.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Father Pfleger denounces "ignorant haters" who seized on his latest comments about female, married priests.

[More]

 

(APRIL 20) Marian Catholic hosts musicians from a number of grammar schools.

[More]

 

(APRIL 19) Chicago's Catholic Theological Union to honor U.S. ambassador to Vatican at event later this month.

[More]

 

(APRIL 19) Loyola University's new women's basketball coach attended Sacred Heart Schools down the street as a kid -- but was DePaul fan.

[More]

 

(APRIL 19) Second City comedy troupe poking fun at Church. Says one member: "It looks like we're getting ex-communicated again."

[More]

 

(APRIL 19) Misconduct allegation leveled against Michigan City priest.

[More]

 

(APRIL 19) Chicago's Polish community pays tribute to those killed in plane crash, with mass at Holy Name Cathedral.

[More]

 

(APRIL 19) DePaul University alumnus, son of state Senate president cited with DUI -- in a state vehicle.

[More]

 

(APRIL 19) En route to Chicago, attorney Jeff Anderson tells reporter the fight against sex abuse and the Church is inching closer to pope.

[More]

 

(APRIL 18) "What do we, the Catholic faithful, ask during this time of questioning and trial? We want fairness and accuracy from the media."

[More]

 

(APRIL 18) More on Chicago church memorials to Polish victims of plane crash.

[More]

 

(APRIL 18) Bookkeeper for Little Sisters of the Poor accused of stealing from nuns.

[More]

 

(APRIL 18) Another Catholic-Jewish legal battle brewing over child in Chicago area.

[More]

 

(APRIL 17) Mass being held at Holy Name Cathedral in memory of Polish plane crash victims.

[More]

 

(APRIL 17) Misericordia's "Sister Rosemary doesn't feel like a saint. She does consider herself very blessed."

[More]

 

(APRIL 17) Veteran Chicago priest who worked at Catholic Charities for decades dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) "The use of social media -- popular Web sites such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and others -- has led some faiths to push for their own portals into the realm of Web 2.0."

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) Shuttered Driscoll Catholic to get "legacy hall" in Addison.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) "Late Nite Catechism" raising funds for norhwest Indiana parish, school.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) Former NAACP chief -- who graduated from law school at DePaul University -- dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) Deal to save, redevelop Chicago's historic St. Boniface inching along.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) Former Spanish teacher at St. Joseph's in Westchester dies after five-year battle with cancer.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) Mount Greenwood native who wrote "Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?" to speak at St. Xavier University.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) SNAP appeals to Cardinal George to pressure pope on the transfer of pedophile priests.

[More]

 

(APRIL 16) Carmel High School hires alum to coach girls basketball.

[More]

 

(APRIL 15) Cardinal George on blogger Tom Roeser: "I'm not trying to silence anyone."

[More]

 

(APRIL 15) Special mass to be held at Holy Name Cathedral in English and Polish for plane crash victims.

[More]

 

(APRIL 15) Jesuit who studied at Loyola University Chicago, had "astonishing gift in languages," dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 15) University of Notre Dame adopts "institutional pro-life statement."

[More]

 

(APRIL 15) Dominican University students rally against sexual assault, domestic violence.

[More]

 

(APRIL 14) Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills hosting event to benefit homeless and Catholic Charities.

[More]

 

(APRIL 14) Resurrection Health Care shedding two money-losing hospitals.

[More]

 

(APRIL 14) Parochial school parents up in arms in northwest suburbs over plans by public school district to cut transportation.

[More]

 

(APRIL 14) Catholic dad from Chicago wins "holy war."

[More]

 

(APRIL 14) Judge says Chicago man can take young daughter -- who is subject of bitter custody battle, and whose mother is Jewish -- to mass.

[More]

 

(APRIL 13) Aurora church-goers get cars towed -- during Easter mass, at request of priest.

[More]

 

(APRIL 13) Carmelite priest who once served at Darien parish dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 13) Catholic cemetery in Des Plaines becoming more "green."

[More]

 

(APRIL 13) More on Franciscan friar who teaches at University of Chicago and was appointed to Obama's bioethics panel.

[More]

 

(APRIL 13) Chicago's St. Hyacinth, among other parishes, holds special mass to pray for victims of plane crash.

[More]

 

(APRIL 13) Cardinal George among those to sign condolence book at Chicago's Polish consulate for Poland's president.

[More]

 

(APRIL 13) "Catholic schools have a wider latitude in dealing with financial shortcomings than public schools."

[More]

 

(APRIL 12) Aurora Central Catholic High School graduate says "Scouting played an important role in his choice to become a seminarian in the Diocese of Rockford."

[More]

 

(APRIL 12) Hometown parish "is hoping to expand its pantry with a basic but necessary component."

[More]

 

(APRIL 12) For Brother Rice student, who plays in reggae band, "music is my passion."

[More]

 

(APRIL 12) Chicago-area churches a refuge for Polish-Americans in wake of plane crash that killed Poland's president.

[More]

 

(APRIL 12) Mourners gather at St. Hyacinth Basilica to honor Poles killed in plane crash.

[More]

 

(APRIL 12) Park Forest parish gets new pastor.

[More]

 

(APRIL 11) Archdiocese of Chicago hosting "vocation parish training session" later this month.

[More]

 

(APRIL 11) At churches and in homes, local Poles grieve death of president of Poland.

[More]

 

(APRIL 11) With Jewish-Catholic custody battle as a backdrop, story explores religion "used as weapon in divorce."

[More]

 

(APRIL 11) Architect of Christ the King school building in Austin "does a lot with a little."

[More]

 

(APRIL 11) Atheists, agnostics and "free thinkers" thriving on college campuses.

[More]

 

(APRIL 11) Long-time teacher at Marist High School on Far Southwest Side, member of Marist order dies at 95.

[More]

 

(APRIL 11) Chicago's Polish community mourns death of leaders in plane crash.

[More]

 

(APRIL 10) Medicine a family affair at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park.

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) Opposition brewing to the sale of Resurrection Health Care hospitals.

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) Neil Steinberg on the Church scandal: "Miraculously, Catholics keep the faith."

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) "About two thirds of Cristo Rey graduates will finish college -- that's about a ten fold increase in life opportunity with built in bias for community service."

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) Gary, Ind., native to "make history next month as the first black valedictorian at the University of Notre Dame."

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) Chicago-area poised to get third female Roman Catholic priest -- although she won't be formally recognized by Church.

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) Chicago bishop says, "Considering efforts made to heal the wounds caused by clergy misconduct, the Catholic Church is probably one of the safest places for children at this point in history."

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) Little boy killed in Joliet apartment fire attended Catholic Charities Head Start program in building.

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) "On race, abortion, guns, immigration, and 'community organizing,' Catholic Church officials in the Windy City have forged unholy alliances with radical left-wingers," says Michelle Malkin.

[More]

 

(APRIL 9) Franciscan friar -- a University of Chicago professor, and a physician -- appointed to presidential commission to study bioethics.

[More]

 

(APRIL 8) Richard Roeper wonders whether Catholic League's Donohue "is a double agent, working for a secret, anti-Catholic organization. He's just so graceless and abrasive."

[More]

 

(APRIL 8) Some "Catholics are puzzled by the decision of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago to honor Pfleger tonight with a Lifetime Achievement Award from its Office for Racial Justice."

[More]

 

(APRIL 8) Oak Park resident "started composing music for Roman Catholic liturgy when he was in fifth or sixth grade at Holy Angels School in Bronzeville."

[More]

 

(APRIL 8) Fire strikes building that reportedly houses Joliet Diocese day care center.

[More]

 

(APRIL 8) Kaneland basketball standout in holding pattern after Holy Cross College coach is fired.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Loyola's health system receiving $3 million grant from McCormick Foundation to help with emergency care.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Chicago nun kicks up controversy in remarks about President Obama and abortion.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Female priest to be ordained this weekend in Chicago, in ceremony that will not be recognized by the Roman Catholic hierarchy.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) U.S. Bank pledges a whopping $4 million for Christ the King Jesuit College Prep in Austin neighborhood.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Cardinal George personally signed off on racial justice award for controversial priest Pfleger, with whom he's butted heads often over the years.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Betty Loren-Maltese, scandal-tarred former Cicero town president, set to speak to DePaul University journalism class.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Funeral for south suburban firefighter held at Evergreen Park parish.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Carol Marin profiles SNAP's Barbara Blaine. Her "workload is only increasing."

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Priest, once co-director of National Shrine of St. Jude in Chicago, dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Ex-Milwaukee archbishop was the one who halted trial of "notorious priest."

[More]

 

(APRIL 7) Eucharistic minister, lector at St. Jane de Chantal Church, dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 6) Wisconsin nun who was director of Angels Outreach in Chicago dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 6) Police standoff forces temporary evacuation of Aurora parish during Easter services.

[More]

 

(APRIL 6) DePaul reportedly hires away Clemson coach for men's basketball program.

[More]

 

(APRIL 6) Four members of Class of 1995 at St. Bernadette's in Evergreen Park now dead, latest a firefighter.

[More]

 

(APRIL 6) High School Musical actress a St. Viator High School graduate who also attended Loyola University.

[More]

 

(APRIL 6) At Naperville parish, "people lingering more after Mass to study the church's recently installed stations of the cross."

[More]

 

(APRIL 6) Former president of Chicago Theological Seminary on sex abuse response: "Circling the wagons, blaming the media and looking everywhere but at what is really broken -- that is unconscionable."

[More]

 

(APRIL 5) DePaul University professor running for Cook County board president.

[More]

 

(APRIL 5) St. Rita High School principal leaving to be drill sergeant? Nah, but satirical student newspaper has fun with notion.

[More]

 

(APRIL 5) South Side priest says damage from scandal has been done: "Twenty years ago, a priest would walk down the street of any major city and people would say, 'good afternoon, father.' . . . They hardly ever do that any more."

[More]

 

(APRIL 5) Cardinal George on scandal: "Catholics should try to figure out what is behind a lot of the reporting as they're gathered from all parts of the world in order to create a single story line when, in fact, there isn't a single story line."

[More]

 

(APRIL 5) Monsignor who was born in Chicago, served as freedom fighter in Poland, dies.

[More]

 

(APRIL 5) Photo gallery of Easter services at Holy Name Cathedral.

[More]

 

(APRIL 5) Nun from Carmel High School receives award from Archdiocese of Chicago.

[More]

 

(APRIL 4) High turnout expected on Easter at Holy Name Cathedral.

[More]

 

(APRIL 4) In radio interview, Cardinal George defends pope.

[More]

 

(APRIL 4) Grayslake parochial school celebrating 65th anniversary, holding all-class reunion.

[More]

 

(APRIL 4) Catholics Come Home ad campaign "rang a bell with me," says Batavia resident.

[More]

 

(APRIL 4) Chicago connection to case of Wisconsin priest accused of stealing.

[More]

 

(APRIL 4) Notre Dame football recruit dies in balcony fall, reportedly had alcohol in system.

[More]

 

(APRIL 4) Cardinal George blesses Easter baskets at Polish mission in Willow Springs.

[More]

 

(APRIL 3) Passion play in northwest suburbs "not for squeamish."

[More]

 

(APRIL 3) Images from Pilsen's "Way of the Cross."

[More]

 

(APRIL 3) Girl not shy about asking Cardinal George for his blessing at Good Friday service in Waukegan.

[More]

 

(APRIL 3) Sacred Heart Parish in Winnetka and its mission to help Haiti.

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) Chicago columnist asks, "On Good Friday, should the Vatican repent?"

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) Conservative Catholic commentator manages to "rile" Cardinal George, who now is trying to "silence" him.

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) For several weeks "in the Catholic Southland, pepper and egg sandwiches and battered fish reign supreme, popping up on restaurant menus and signs all over the place."

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) Arkansas teen converting to Catholicism, wants to be priest, but faces resistance from dad, a Pentecostal pastor in Chicago.

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) Former Chicago bishop, now in Tucson, defends Vatican's handling of laicization of two priests.

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) DePaul University prepares to move O'Hare-area campus from Des Plaines to Northwest Side.

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) Loyola donates scanner for Brookfield Zoo animals.

[More]

 

(APRIL 2) Philanthropist killed in plane crash has daughter at Loyola University's medical school.

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) The "jury is still out" on whether the health care reform package "will actually improve the bottom line for Catholic hospitals."

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) "Prayer trail" installed in northwest Indiana, Gary bishop to pray Stations of the Cross along path on Good Friday.

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Anti-abortion protest scheduled for Good Friday at Aurora clinic.

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Blogger/columnist who's active in Catholic Citizens of Illinois says Cardinal George is trying to silence him.

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Firefighter killed in south suburbs "was your typical redheaded South Side Irish-Catholic kid who wanted to be a fireman."

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Memorial service scheduled this month for nun, professor at Catholic Theological Union who died following battle with brain tumor.

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Former Chicago Bull, now Timberwolves assistant, interviewing for DePaul University's head coaching job.

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) West Chicago parish has had tough stretch: abuse allegations, announcement that grade school is closing -- now former deacon accused of theft.

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Out of Milwaukee, "The story of a 40-year cover-up."

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Chicago columnist writes, "In addition to the survivors, it is important to remember that many good, holy priests are suffering considerably."

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke, in talk at St. Xavier University, "lambasts those church officials who continue to betray the gospel by their untruthfulness in the clergy sex abuse scandals."

[More]

 

(APRIL 1) Milwaukee's new archbishop, who hails from Chicago, indicates that his predecessors, "not Rome," are to blame for Murphy scandal.

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Former business manager of West Chicago parish accused of stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from coffers.

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Carol Marin on abuse scandal: "As Catholics, we are taught that first there is confession and then contrition."

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Aurora's Good Friday passion walk, a tradition for more than two decades, put on hold this year.

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Four Good Samaritans donate kidneys at Loyola's hospital -- to anyone who needs them.

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Catholics not alone in struggling to fund schools: Luther North in danger of closing.

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Head of Catholic health system Provena throws support behind health care vote of Congressman Bill Foster.

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Milwaukee priest seeks to clarify facts in case of Father Murphy, whose canonical trial allegedly was halted by the pope.

[More]

 

(MARCH 31) Retired secretary at Chicago's St. John de la Salle Parish dies.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Loyola University Medical Center hosting rare kidney swap.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Illinois Justice Anne Burke said not even Chicago's political scene prepared her for the "medieval . . . Byzantine machinations" she saw while on National Review Board.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Cardinal George, other U.S. Catholic leaders voice "concern for victims of clergy sexual abuse while offering praise for Pope Benedict XVI's long-standing leadership in dealing with abuse cases."

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Dominican University hosting lecture on Christians in Iraq.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Haitian priest visits parish in Huntley. Despite devastation from earthquake, "our people have great faith in God and great hope," he says.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Marmion Academy's rifle drill team wins meet at Purdue.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Convert to Catholicism "leading the converts" as pastoral minister, RCIA director at North Side parish.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Cardinal George, as well as auxiliary bishops, make "public-service announcements to support participation in the census."

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Catholics in archdiocese donate nearly $3 million to Haiti relief effort.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Cook County judge calls abortion notification law "an unfortunate piece of legislation" as he lifts order that had blocked enforcement.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Former Marquette basketball star, who led team to national championship in '70s, among those being laid off from Chicago Public Schools.

[More]

 

(MARCH 30) Local man who had been missing in action since Korean War buried at Catholic cemetery in northwest suburbs.

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) Professor at Chicago's Catholic Theological Union: "The Vatican has to understand that the new challenge is to move from moral authority to moral leadership."

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) Dominican University alumnus chosen as principal of new Catholic school network in Downstate Ottawa.

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) In weekly column, Cardinal George addresses sex abuse crisis, saying: "The effects of abuse are long lasting, and sexual abuse is far more extensive than many of us once thought."

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) Illinois Supreme Court justice -- a former member of Church review board on clergy sex abuse -- said news about pope's alleged handling of cases "disheartening."

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) Mother McAuley student raises enough money to "adopt" six needy families.

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) At group for refugees, "only Christians need apply."

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) Judge expected to rule today on abortion notification law for Illinois.

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, a Weber High alum, references his Catholic school days for having to sit on stool during a recent game.

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) Attorney who handles numerous sex abuse cases involving priests in Chicago says daughter was abused by ex-cleric as a child.

[More]

 

(MARCH 29) One Palm Sunday parishioner in Chicago reacts to sex abuse scandal, saying "this is just a real low point for the Church."

[More]

 

(MARCH 28) Cardinal George comes to pope's defense, saying: "I know that this concern for what [Pope Benedict] called 'the filth' in the Church is deep in his heart."

[More]

 

(MARCH 28) With abuse scandal brewing, will Catholics "still flock to church on Palm Sunday?"

[More]

 

(MARCH 28) Abuse scandal on minds of faithful as Holy Week commences. In Chicago, cardinal expected to say mass at Holy Name Cathedral.

[More]

 

(MARCH 28) Catholics Come Home ad campaign "led to a confirmed 10.5 percent increase in Mass attendance in the Rockford and northern Illinois region."

[More]

 

(MARCH 28) Former nun who studied at Loyola University Chicago helping the poor of Appalachia.

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) Settlement reached in Aurora over Planned Parenthood protests.

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) "Catholicism is a blood type," says veteran priest, long connected with Old St. Pat's. "There was a cultural comfort growing up in the Catholic neighborhood, and my earliest heroes were the parish priests."

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) Kass on Congressman Dan Lipinski: "As a Roman Catholic against abortion, he's formally a pariah among most Democratic elites."

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) Many children who were victimized by Milwaukee priest at home for deaf boys hailed from Chicago area.

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) Archdiocese of Chicago sues contractors over Holy Name Cathedral fire.

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) St. Rita wins state hockey title, beating Loyola Academy at United Center.

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) St. Laurence becomes a "rock 'n' roll high school" after hours.

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) Chicago priest reported alleged abuse by Wisconsin cleric years ago, but it went unheeded.

[More]

 

(MARCH 27) Allegedly abusive priest was moved from Ireland to Chicago to Oregon.

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Catholic Charities of Chicago involved in federal anti-homelessness program.

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) School voucher plan -- backed by Catholic Church -- passes Illinois Senate, moves to House.

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Church official says: "This voucher legislation targets those most in need, and we know our Catholic schools can help."

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Church-goer at St. Paul Catholic Parish in Chicago Heights murdered by someone wielding chunk of concrete.

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Junior high kids at Waukegan Catholic school get visit from former student -- now soldier on leave following third tour in Iraq.

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Judge rules that taking little girl to mass on Easter Sunday "or any other day would violate the law."

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Says SNAP official detained during Rome protest: "We've spent more time in police custody than most of these pedophile priests have."

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Expert on corporate accountability "asks why Church leaders have not been forced to accept their own responsibility for mishandling sex-abuse charges."

[More]

 

(MARCH 26) Profile on historic New York Catholic hospital describes eight hospitals run by Chicago's Resurrection Health Care as "in a pinch."

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Members of Chicago-based SNAP detained by police during Vatican protest.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Catholic health system is strong enough to pay millions in property taxes following Illinois Supreme Court ruling on charity care.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Sex abuse scandal cost Catholic Church more than $100 million in 2009.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Wisconsin priest accused of preying on numerous kids was allegedly shielded by Vatican.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Cook County judge tells dad involved in bitter custody battle that he can't bring daughter to Easter mass.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Retired Chicago firefighter pushing for Our Lady of the Angels fire museum.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Remains of Korean War soldier identified, buried at Catholic cemetery in northwest suburbs.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Marian Catholic principal to receive racial justice award.

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) "Catholics greet health care reform with regret, enthusiasm."

[More]

 

(MARCH 25) Jesuit speaking at National Catholic Educational Association Convention studied at Loyola University Chicago.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) Chicago's St. Gregory the Great High School pinning hopes on new technology-based educational model.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) St. Gregory's fundraising drive called "lattes for learning."

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) After health care reform passes, Cardinal George "lauded and lamented" the measure.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) After health care reform passage, Cardinal George "did not back down on the hierarchy's opposition, even though the passage was a stinging defeat for the bishops."

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) Profile on Chicago lawyer who's been involved in Catholic Charities, St. Mary of the Lake seminary.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) DePaul University's northwest suburban campus moving to "make way" for new casino in Des Plaines.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) Decline in priest-sex abuse cases in U.S. "a sign of the progress we have made" since the latest scandal broke in 2002, Cardinal George said.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) First black priest in America -- who Archdiocese of Chicago is recommending for sainthood -- has similarities with Barack Obama.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) State-appointed panel is close to "pulling together a landmark plan for cutting the state's poverty rate in half by 2015."

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) DePaul University alumnus a key figure in Hawaii's Army National Guard.

[More]

 

(MARCH 24) Well-regarded cleric in Erie, Pa., who attended Loyola University Chicago, dies.

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(MARCH 23) As scandal mounts in Europe over priestly sex abuse, the number of cases in U.S. seems to be "tapering off."

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(MARCH 23) Congressman Lipinski was the Illinois Democrats' lone holdout on health care reform. "I've always been staunchly pro-life," said the St. Ignatius alum.

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(MARCH 23) Michigan representative who had been slated as keynote speaker for Illinois Catholics Prayer Breakfast "disinvited" after backing Obama health plan.

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(MARCH 23) Western Illinois community mourns impending loss of Catholic school, which opened in 1866.

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(MARCH 23) Gordon Tech alumnus holds key "reader" job for Congress.

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(MARCH 23) Archdiocese of Chicago hosting informational events this spring about the annulment process.

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(MARCH 23) Loyola University senior presents award to brother of late Bears running back Walter Payton.

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(MARCH 23) Wheeling nun, who served as a nurse at Addolorata Villa.

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(MARCH 22) With health care reform all but a done deal, "Neither side of the abortion debate is happy today."

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(MARCH 22) New Catholic church planned for Sugar Grove, but still needs $1 million to break ground.

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(MARCH 22) Congressman Lipinski -- who opposes abortion -- only Illinois Democrat to vote against health care bill.

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(MARCH 22) Catholic Citizens of Illinois to host lecture on the "waning Catholic identity of the University of Notre Dame."

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(MARCH 22) Profile of an "obsessed" golfer: a former Lombard resident who attended Loyola University, and now hits links even in winter.

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(MARCH 22) Alumnus of University of Notre Dame -- who taught at Notre Dame High School in Niles -- "making strides" in Chicago theater scene.

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(MARCH 22) St. Sabina Catholic Church puts up $5,000 reward to help catch gunman who killed man on South Side.

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(MARCH 22) Activists ramp up pressure on Obama to address immigration reform.

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(MARCH 22) Amid tumult over abortion funding, U.S. House passes health care reform measure.

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(MARCH 22) A leader of Chicago-based SNAP is traveling to Europe to address latest priest-sex abuse crisis. "We're hoping to spread the word that the bishops shouldn't be investigating themselves."

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(MARCH 22) Illinois Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke to speak at St. Xavier University about being a "public servant/private Catholic."

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(MARCH 21) Gutierrez on health care reform: "I will not vote for the bill unless the White House begins to address the immigration issues both within the context of the bill and outside of the context in the bill."

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(MARCH 21) Gary, Ind., bishop tells marchers that while "governments have a right to set standards and rules for acquiring citizenship, those should not prevent religious people from showing compassion for those individuals."

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(MARCH 21) Illegal immigrant's dreams of attending Loyola University are dashed.

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(MARCH 21) Omaha nun, who studied in Chicago, reaches 100-year milestone.

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(MARCH 20) Pope apologizes over priest sex-abuse scandal.

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(MARCH 20) Two Catholic congressmen from Chicago -- one anti-abortion, one pro-abortion rights -- are holdouts on health care reform.

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(MARCH 20) Veteran Chicago-area business executive -- a trustee at University of Notre Dame, Fenwick High School -- dies.

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(MARCH 20) The Society of St. Vincent de Paul to benefit from run/walk in far north suburbs.

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(MARCH 20) Violence breaks out after anti-gun rally, leading activist-priest to say: "My God, what's going on?"

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(MARCH 20) Cardinal George did not misrepresent Catholic Health Association's statements on health care reform, according to letter writer.

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(MARCH 19) Ads targeting anti-abortion Democrats in Congress, such as Dan Lipinski.

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(MARCH 19) "Sadly, often lost in the wash of green beer in mid-March is St. Joseph's Day, which is today, and which is celebrated by Italians."

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(MARCH 19) Regional Transportation Authority doesn't want "risque" advertisements -- or those pertaining to politics or religion.

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(MARCH 19) Reaction "mixed" to Marist High School possibly instituting mandatory drug testing for all students.

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(MARCH 19) Snapshot of salaries at the Archdiocese of Chicago.

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(MARCH 19) Fetus found in laundry that came from Chicago's St. Mary of Nazareth Hospital "does not appear to have been a viable birth," coroner says.

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(MARCH 19) Loyola Press launches web site that "encourages people to interact with others online as they describe where they have found God in their day and where they need to."

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(MARCH 19) Nun -- a biblical scholar long affiliated with Chicago's Catholic Theological Union -- dies.

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(MARCH 19) Court ruling against Catholic hospital could mean non-profit health systems in Illinois start paying property taxes. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(MARCH 19) Hispanics comprise 32 percent of U.S. Catholic population.

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(MARCH 19) Mayor Daley names DePaul University professor chairperson of Advisory Council on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues.

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(MARCH 19) Chicago Auxiliary Bishop Perry to oversee archdiocesan effort seeking canonization of first black priest in U.S.

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(MARCH 19) Howard University students visit St. Sabina on South Side to hear about street violence.

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(MARCH 19) Another group of nuns speaks up on health care reform, backs position articulated by Cardinal George.

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(MARCH 19) Cardinal George's assertion about Catholic Health Association's take on health care reform "was flatly not true."

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(MARCH 19) When it comes to health care reform: "Even bishops can make mistakes. But this is a matter about which we can't afford to be careless."

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(MARCH 19) Illinois Supreme Court ruling on Catholic hospital puts nonprofit health systems "on notice that they must provide an adequate amount of charity care . . . or risk losing significant tax exemptions."

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(MARCH 18) Judge refuses to lower bond for priest accused of abusing St. Charles boy.

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(MARCH 18) Nuns differ with U.S. bishops conference, led by Cardinal George, over what's acceptable health care reform.

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(MARCH 18) Long-time Catholic schools educator, administrator dies.

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(MARCH 18) Illinois court rules against Provena; potentially big implications for other Catholic hospitals. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(MARCH 18) New book on religion and labor "will be a vital resource for seminaries, congregational study groups, social justice committees, labor unions, and beyond."

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(MARCH 18) John Moulder's "life mission is to soothe souls" as a priest -- he works at North Side parish -- and "an acclaimed Jazz guitarist."

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(MARCH 18) Cardinal George among the high-ranking clerics to attend "Cardinals Dinner" in Atlanta.

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(MARCH 18) U.S. bishops urge prayer as health care reform debate comes to a head.

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(MARCH 18) Illinois Supreme Court could rule today on how much charity care non-profit, tax-exempt hospitals must provide -- something of importance to Catholic health systems.

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(MARCH 18) Faithful embrace needy on St. Joseph's Day.

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(MARCH 18) Columbia, Mo., mayoral candidate a former Jesuit seminarian who attended Loyola University in Chicago, lived in Oak Park.

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(MARCH 18) A snapshot of Casa Salama, Maryville Academy's home in Bartlett for girls with intellectual disabilities and mental illnesses.

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(MARCH 18) U.S. Catholic population rises by about one million; Mormons are fourth-largest religious group.

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(MARCH 18) Despite opposition from Cardinal George and U.S. bishops conference, dozens of nun congregations are backing health care reform bill.

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(MARCH 18) Archbishop Vlazny recalls his days as a "rookie bishop" in Chicago.

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(MARCH 18) Loyola University among the places testing new experimental breast cancer drugs.

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(MARCH 18) Fetal remains discovered in towels that came from St. Mary Hospital in Chicago.

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(MARCH 18) Cardinal George appoints commission to "assemble facts" about first black priest's "heroic virtues" and "introduce his cause for sainthood to Rome."

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(MARCH 17) Accused priest from Joliet Diocese collapses in court during hearing.

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(MARCH 17) DePaul University moving its O'Hare Campus. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(MARCH 17) Delegation from Chicago's Office of Catholic Schools -- including teachers and principals -- visiting Nigeria on "educational journey."

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(MARCH 17) Started in a Carpentersville parish, food pantry approaching 40th anniversary.

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(MARCH 17) Joliet Diocese "is forming new medical and construction mission teams" to visit Kenya in September.

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(MARCH 17) Carol Marin on latest Church scandals: "St. Patrick must be weeping."

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(MARCH 17) With some Catholic schools in trouble in Joliet, one wants the public to know it's not going anywhere.

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(MARCH 17) Water main break forces temporary closure of Catholic high school in Merrillville.

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(MARCH 17) Group affiliated with Southeast Side parish drops lawsuit against ethnic grocer accused of treating workers unfairly.

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(MARCH 17) Jesuit urges that St. Patrick be embraced on St. Patrick's Day, not just green beer.

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(MARCH 17) With Joliet's St. Joseph School closing, a group of parents is trying to open an "independent, faith-based" institution in its place.

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(MARCH 17) Chicago archdiocese embarks on canonization crusade for first black priest.

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(MARCH 16) Chicago's Bishop Perry tells Nation of Islam publication that "allegations of racial inequality" in abuse settlements "are untrue, but acknowledges that possible perception."

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(MARCH 16) Unusual for Catholic bishops to "name names when they take a position contrary to another visible Catholic organization, but Cardinal George did so today."

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(MARCH 16) Plans still in works for Chicago's Cristo Rey Network to open school in Philly.

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(MARCH 16) St. Xavier women's basketball coach has proteges at Marian Catholic, Mother McAuley, St. Laurence.

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(MARCH 16) Tulsa monsignor recalls learning Gaelic while growing up in Chicago.

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(MARCH 16) Catholic hospital in Joliet opening new emergency room, just for kids.

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(MARCH 16) Judge to rule later this month on whether to allow implementation of Illinois law that requires parental notification when underage girls seek an abortion.

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(MARCH 16) Catholic Health Association not on same page as Catholic bishops when it comes to proceeding with health care reform.

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(MARCH 16) Cardinal George on health care reform bill: It "forces all of us to become involved in an act that profoundly violates the conscience of many."

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(MARCH 16) "Are 68.1 million Americans connected with a Communist front movement? Yes, if they are Roman Catholic. Are another 20 million citizens listening to 'coded' Nazi messages? Yes, if they are mainline Protestant."

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(MARCH 16) Former Loyola University Chicago librarian named to top post at College of the Holy Cross.

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(MARCH 15) St. John of God has been closed since 1992, but "the archdiocese still owns the 92-year-old building and keeps the exterior in pretty good shape," architecture buff says.

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(MARCH 15) Oral arguments expected today in controversial case: enforcement of law that requires parents be notified when underage girls seek abortions.

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(MARCH 15) Profile on De La Salle junior who is ranked No. 1 in class.

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(MARCH 15) With census count rolling, Latinos "loom large" in Chicago region.

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(MARCH 15) Irish Catholic power persists in Chicago politics, business and labor. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(MARCH 15) Resurrection Health Care involved in nurse wage-fixing case.

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(MARCH 15) Chicago-born priest who helped found the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force dies.

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(MARCH 15) South Side Irish festivities return to more family roots.

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(MARCH 15) Profile on Avondale neighborhood, where two Polish Catholic churches are still considered anchors of community.

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(MARCH 15) Lost Chicago landmarks include St. Basil Catholic Church -- an "architectural gem" that's long "gone and much lamented."

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(MARCH 15) Remembering a special visitor to Downstate Bloomington in early 20th century: Irish nationalist Eamon de Valera.

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(MARCH 15) Chicago musician-priest launches jazz festival to raise money for Catholic Charities, other groups.

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(MARCH 15) As priest abuse scandal grows in Germany, SNAP leaflets German consulate in Chicago.

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(MARCH 15) Chicago priest on Pope Pius XII and the Holocaust: He "did some things that were good, but they tended to come rather late, they were mostly behind the scenes and were relatively minor gestures."

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(MARCH 15) Referring to Glenn Beck, Roger Ebert writes: "I was on the brink of picking up the phone and asking Francis Cardinal George if he was down on this whole social justice thing."

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(MARCH 15) Kansas City-area restaurateur, who attended seminary in Chicago, dies.

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(MARCH 14) Out of 265 seniors at St. Viator High School, 77 applied to Marquette University.

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(MARCH 14) St. Patrick's Day, celebrated Chicago style.

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(MARCH 14) Lobbyists swarming Washington "like locusts" as health care reform comes to a head, Obama aide says, predicting it will pass.

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(MARCH 14) A decade after the women's basketball program started at St. Xavier University, "a perfect storm has formed."

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(MARCH 13) Chicago's Bishop Perry on abortion: it's "a topic essentially kept hush-hush in the black community."

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(MARCH 13) Irish prime minister visits Chicago for St. Patrick's Day event; Cardinal George gives attendees special dispensation to eat steak even though it was a Friday in Lent.

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(MARCH 13) Military service all in family for Gordon Tech alumnus.

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(MARCH 12) Some Chicago-area Catholics indeed are "coming home," although there still are critics of Church ad campaign.

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(MARCH 12) Lake County sheriff comes out in favor of immigration reform, says his Catholic faith led to re-thinking his views.

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(MARCH 12) McKinley Park parishes "still hallmarks of the community."

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(MARCH 12) Parishioners from several northwest suburban churches protest outside Arlington Heights clinic where they believe abortions are performed.

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(MARCH 12) Remembering an old Catholic boarding school that once stood in LaGrange Park.

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(MARCH 12) Immigration reform: "Is it possible that citizenship can be addressed in a spirit of bipartisanship?"

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(MARCH 12) Quiet times for bars along the old St. Patrick's Day parade route on South Side. "Perhaps more important is the sense of loss felt by residents, many of whom have Irish roots."

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(MARCH 12) Abortion provision to stay in House version of health care bill.

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(MARCH 12) Archdiocese of Chicago spends big on sex abuse cases -- more than $20 million last fiscal year alone.

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(MARCH 12) Back of the Yards priest talks about reaching out to troubled youths.

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(MARCH 12) Accused priest wants out of jail so he can go to treatment center in Maryland.

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(MARCH 12) Chef at Mundelein's Cardinal Stritch Retreat Center dies of cancer.

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(MARCH 12) U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops clarifies stance on health care reform.

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(MARCH 12) Cardinal George urges defeat of Illinois Freedom of Choice Act.

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(MARCH 11) Loyola University alumnus -- whose family owns the Boston Blackie's chain -- among those hit with bank fraud allegations.

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(MARCH 11) Court hearing for priest -- accused of molesting St. Charles boy -- is delayed because judge wasn't there.

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(MARCH 11) Alumnus of St. Ignatius, Loyola University gets injured during Iditarod.

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(MARCH 11) "Father Barney" pleads guilty in Indiana to bilking developers, churches out of nearly $3 million while passing himself off as priest.

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(MARCH 11) Dominican University student, who hails from Hinsdale, finds spotlight behind the scenes.

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(MARCH 11) St. Pat's high school senior builds benches at St. Pascal's as Eagle Scout project.

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(MARCH 11) Cardinal George among those interviewed for documentary -- "We Believe" -- on Chicago Cubs.

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(MARCH 11) St. Patrick's Day commemorated at Naperville parish with "Irish mass."

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(MARCH 11) De La Salle Institute students work with charter school kids to fix bicycles.

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(MARCH 11) Cardinal George on state budget crisis: "we do come out against cutting social services," although "addressing the common debt is a moral issue."

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(MARCH 11) Current, former Milwaukee archbishops don't favor denying communion to politicians who favor abortion.

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(MARCH 11) Choir member and soloist at Lake Forest parish, son of Major Leaguer dies.

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(MARCH 11) Chicago priest involved with Howard University "alternative spring break" program to help kids, needy.

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(MARCH 11) Illinois Supreme Court justice to speak at St. Xavier University.

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(MARCH 10) St. Xavier University hosting job fair later this month.

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(MARCH 10) Guerin High sells four acres to Archdiocese of Chicago for nearly $4 million.

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(MARCH 10) Newsstand outside Near North Side abortion clinic disappears -- did it have to do with anti-abortion advertisement?

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(MARCH 10) Parochial school parent running three marathons in three months to benefit interfaith food pantry in northwest suburbs.

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(MARCH 10) St. Patrick's Day Parade queen chosen, hails from Wheaton.

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(MARCH 10) Mundelein seminary professor talks about apparitions of Virgin Mary, and how Church handles such reports.

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(MARCH 10) Chicago native honored by Baltimore archdiocese for helping homeless.

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(MARCH 10) Elgin filmmaker's documentary shows "the extravagant love of God . . . reaches even to where evil thrives."

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(MARCH 10) Catholic conference for men held in Rosemont later in the month.

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(MARCH 10) Planned Parenthood official on GOP candidate for governor Brady, who opposes abortion: "I literally shuddered at the notion of him in the governor's office."

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(MARCH 10) Milwaukee's archbishop on meeting with Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests: "I'm not too sure that . . . the issues that are brought forth by SNAP are concerned with healing."

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(MARCH 9) Maria High School donates several carloads of goods to agency that helps abused women and kids.

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(MARCH 9) Father Pfleger, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Minister Louis Farrakhan to be recognized as "living legends." Archdiocese of Chicago has no comment.

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(MARCH 9) With Jewish-Catholic custody battle raging in Cook County courts, writer asks, "Who picks their kid's religion?"

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(MARCH 9) Former Chicago bishop Wilton Gregory kicks off lecture series, says: "When bishops and priests are in right relationships, the people of God are better attended and more faithfully served."

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(MARCH 9) "Doctrinally, Catholics and Mormons do not share a great deal of common ground, but they have been meeting each other quite often on the same side of the cultural divide."

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(MARCH 9) Nicaraguan bishop -- who hails from East Chicago, Ind. -- talks about serving the poor.

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(MARCH 9) An interview with a Chicago priest who practices transcendental meditation.

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(MARCH 9) De La Salle alumnus, whose grandfather once was mayor's liaison to black clergy, gunned down on Far South Side.

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(MARCH 9) Head of Catholic Charities in Chicago to give speech at Minnesota college.

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(MARCH 8) Catholic Charities launches food drive to replenish pantries.

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(MARCH 8) Writer raises abortion question related to recent Chicago case: "How do we define murder — specifically of a baby?"

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(MARCH 8) Catholics Come Home has officially wrapped up, but in a way, it "keeps going and going."

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(MARCH 8) Funeral scheduled at Darien Catholic church for murdered family.

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(MARCH 8) Church choirs come together in northwest Indiana. "This is what heaven must sound like."

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(MARCH 8) Priest who was ordained in Joliet in 1956, and who once served in Aurora, dies.

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(MARCH 8) Appreciating the "sound of silence" during this Lenten season.

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(MARCH 8) Elmhurst city council considers opening meetings with prayer -- and not everyone likes the idea.

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(MARCH 8) Milwaukee archbishop, a Chicago native, to speak at press club.

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(MARCH 7) "The anguish and efficacy of Catholic school closings."

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(MARCH 7) New movement afoot to deny Catholic pro-abortion politicians communion.

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(MARCH 6) In health care reform arena, Catholics and evangelicals "play key role."

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(MARCH 6) Notre Dame's undergraduate business school named tops in country, while DePaul was No. 40.

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(MARCH 6) Interfaith chapel, modeled after ones at O'Hare and Midway, in the works for Milwaukee's Mitchell Airport.

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(MARCH 6) Cuts in northwest suburban school district could hit Catholic school families hard as they grapple with transportation.

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(MARCH 5) For some in Chicago area, including Arlington Heights parishioner, "iconography adds new dimension to faith."

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(MARCH 5) One of the anti-abortion activists arrested at University of Notre Dame dies from cancer.

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(MARCH 5) Jesuit priest, Chicago native who stood for gay rights, dies.

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(MARCH 5) News conference held at St. Sabina Catholic Church as cops search for murder suspect.

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(MARCH 5) Old-time wrestler, former DePaul University athlete, dies.

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(MARCH 5) Indiana agency sued over its handling of Catholic home schooling group.

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(MARCH 5) Keynote at National Catholic Education Association event is Garrison Keillor, described as "proponent of abortion . . . and same-sex marriage."

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(MARCH 4) Marquette University president, a Jesuit who hails from Chicago and attended Loyola, set to retire.

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(MARCH 4) Archdiocese of Chicago to give awards to bishop, controversial priest for work toward racial justice.

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(MARCH 4) Joliet parents upset with closing of Catholic school exploring opening their own.

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(MARCH 4) Teens from LaGrange Park parish fast to raise money for Haiti earthquake victims.

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(MARCH 4) Student from St. Mary's Catholic School in Mokena credited with helping save 5-year-old from drowning.

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(MARCH 4) University of Notre Dame student newspaper declines to run column backing Church teaching about homosexuality.

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(MARCH 4) Irish-Americans up in arms over Denny's ad that makes light of potato famine.

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(MARCH 4) Chicago-area Catholics go to Springfield to lobby politicians on parochial school funding.

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(MARCH 4) Profile on Jesuit brother who studied, taught at Loyola University Chicago -- and now is curator of the Vatican meteorite collection.

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(MARCH 4) More on Father Augustus Tolton, first black priest in America who the Archdiocese of Chicago is seeking canonization for.

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(MARCH 3) Archdiocesan vicar for religious involved in training those making site visits as part of Vatican investigation of nuns.

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(MARCH 3) Cardinal George initiates canonization cause for first black American priest.

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(MARCH 3) Members of Chicago Symphony Orchestra to perform in benefit for Northside Catholic Academy.

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(MARCH 3) Father Pfleger to highlight case of murdered teen, with arrest warrant now issued.

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(MARCH 3) Quakers opening up school on North Side.

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(MARCH 3) Vigil held at California Catholic church for missing teen who used to live in Chicago area.

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(MARCH 3) Chicago's Thomas More Society sues over proposed regulation of Catholic home schooling group in Indiana.

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(MARCH 3) Chicago writer finds, "You won't find anything in Scripture that says, 'Don't eat meat on Fridays.'"

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(MARCH 3) Chicago-area nun "dedicated to helping seniors and their pets."

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(MARCH 3) "Freedom of Choice" measure resurrected in Legislature, as Illinois Catholic Conference urges "Catholics and all people of good will . . . to ensure the defeat of this bill."

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(MARCH 3) Addison municipal government considers buying now-shuttered Driscoll Catholic high school complex.

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(MARCH 2) Cardinal George says he's praying for victims of Chile earthquake.

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(MARCH 2) Our Lady of the Underpass -- on stage in Berwyn.

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(MARCH 2) Providence high school band program wins prestigious award.

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(MARCH 2) School voucher plan supported by Archdiocese of Chicago clears first hurdle.

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(MARCH 2) Bishop Noll students lose hair to show solidarity in fight against cancer.

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(MARCH 2) Obituary on religious brother who taught at Marist for 35 years. "He didn't see what he did as a job. He saw it as a calling."

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(MARCH 2) New study finds female students "at American Catholic colleges are more sexually promiscuous than their counterparts at secular schools."

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(MARCH 2) Retired deacon who ministered in Chicago, Downers Grove dies.

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(MARCH 1) Chicago-area college students attend mass celebrated by Cardinal George.

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(MARCH 1) DePaul University makes PNC its bank of choice for students, staff.

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(MARCH 1) Chicago native -- who taught religion and philosophy while in the priesthood and after leaving -- dies.

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(MARCH 1) Head of Catholic Cemeteries in Chicago to be part of new oversight board regulating graveyards in Illinois.

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(MARCH 1) Religious brother who worked for 35 years at Marist High School dies.

[More]

 

(MARCH 1) Archdiocese releases financial report for 2009.

[More]

 

(MARCH 1) Are Western bishops who recruit priests from overseas "perhaps with the best of intentions, plundering the resources of the global church"?

[More]

 

(MARCH 1) Marian Catholic High School student wins national video contest.

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(MARCH 1) Archdiocesan school board gives out awards.

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(MARCH 1) Hundreds gather at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel for wake for SeaWorld trainer.

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(FEB. 28) Visitation at South Side shrine for SeaWorld trainer killed by whale.

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(FEB. 28) Chicago group helps support Ukrainian Catholic college in homeland.

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(FEB. 27) Libertville man accused of "fleecing" investors was on board of Carmel High School in Mundelein.

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(FEB. 27) Obama spars over abortion and health care reform.

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(FEB. 27) Notre Dame grad from Chicago among those tapped for posts by Obama administration.

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(FEB. 27) Respected priest in Ohio -- who hails from Chicago -- dies at age 80.

[More]

 

(FEB. 27) Described as a "devout Catholic," mother of murdered McHenry County teen died before charges could be brought against alleged killer.

[More]

 

(FEB. 27) More parishes are getting their own nurses.

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(FEB. 27) "The case for, and against, the canonization of Pope Pius XII."

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(FEB. 26) Catholic young adults overwhelmingly believe adultery, abortion are immoral, according to new survey.

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(FEB. 26) Can a court decide a child's religion? A Catholic man from Chicago is about to find out.

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(FEB. 26) Profile on Chicago-area priest active in anti-abortion ministry.

[More]

 

(FEB. 26) A look back at America's first black priest, with deep ties to Illinois.

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(FEB. 26) Chicago woman talks about custody battle -- should child be raised Catholic or Jewish?

[More]

 

(FEB. 26) U.S. bishops urge lawmakers to "commit themselves to enacting genuine health care reform that will protect the life, dignity, consciences and health of all."

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(FEB. 26) Nearly 12,000 hear Cardinal George speak at Brigham Young University.

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(FEB. 26) Profile on SeaWorld trainer who attended Catholic school in Merrillville and was killed this week by a whale.

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(FEB. 26) Some thoughts on Cardinal George asking the pope to "make" new monsignors.

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(FEB. 26) "For many Catholics experiencing mental illness and their families, the church can be both a place of welcome and alienation."

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(FEB. 25) Chicago mother involved in Jewish-Catholic custody case speaks to ABC News' 20/20.

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(FEB. 25) Annunciata School teacher honored by Archdiocese of Chicago.

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(FEB. 25) Veteran teacher, Hall of Fame coach at Providence Catholic set to retire after 37 years.

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(FEB. 25) Joliet mayor fails to sway bishop on school closure -- but gets assurance that church will stay open.

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(FEB. 25) Pope among those "voicing concern about new airport scanners" like those destined for O'Hare Airport.

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(FEB. 25) Alleged victim of sex abuse at Mother McAuley says "it's slowly ruined my life. I've lost my self-worth and everything."

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(FEB. 25) Loyola University student -- who volunteers at YMACA -- charged in hate crime at L stop.

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(FEB. 25) Notre Dame out of picture as Big Ten expands? (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(FEB. 25) Anti-abortion Democrats -- including two from Illinois -- could "torpedo" Obama health care legislation.

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(FEB. 25) Some faiths object to full-body scanners, which are coming to O'Hare Airport.

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(FEB. 25) Human bones found on Near North Side likely from 1800s Irish Catholic cemetery.

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(FEB. 25) Community banker -- who helped Providence St. Mel's while it was "struggling to stay alive" in the 1970s -- dies.

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(FEB. 25) SeaWorld trainer killed by whale attended Catholic school in northwest Indiana.

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(FEB. 24) Sex abuse lawsuit being filed against former Mother McAuley camp employee.

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(FEB. 24) Bones unearthed on Near North Side likely came from long-ago Catholic cemetery.

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(FEB. 24) "Catholic Yoga: Those are two words you don't usually hear together. But one day a week, Catholics roll up their yoga mats and head to Holy Name Cathedral."

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(FEB. 24) Homer Glen nun once taught art to female inmates.

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(FEB. 24) Old Catholic high school embracing new(ish) fad: Twitter.

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(FEB. 24) Cardinal George speaks at Brigham Young, calls Catholics and Mormons "trustworthy partners in defense of shared moral principles."

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(FEB. 24) Composer, former music director at Holy Name Cathedral dies.

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(FEB. 24) Polish Roman Catholic Union reportedly pulling back support on Polish-American museum, which could close.

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(FEB. 24) More on death of Mundelein seminary student from Kenya.

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(FEB. 23) From Olympic "prodigy" to Chicago art student to Catholic nun.

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(FEB. 23) Former priest, accused of abusing boy at St. Rita in '90s, resigns from job with Berwyn.

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(FEB. 23) Monsignor from Gary, Ind., involved in effort to resettle Cubans after island falls to Castro, dies at 90.

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(FEB. 23) Nun who hails from Chicago was art teacher, then nurse. She died in Michigan at 66.

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(FEB. 23) One gay rights demonstrator outside Holy Name Cathedral reportedly yelled at 3-year-old girl walking into mass.

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(FEB. 23) Number of Roman Catholics in world climbs to 1.166 billion.

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(FEB. 23) Canadian nun who earned her PhD in Chicago dies at age 95.

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(FEB. 23) Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests wants answers on accused cleric who had been on Berwyn municipal government payroll.

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(FEB. 22) Ex-music director at Glen Ellyn parish -- arrested on child pornography charges -- sees bond reduced, expected to leave jail.

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(FEB. 22) Chicago native who became priest later in life dies.

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(FEB. 22) More on Marist high school considering drug testing for all students.

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(FEB. 22) President Obama's spiritual life, once on full display, takes a "more private turn."

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(FEB. 22) DePaul University among the schools to study giant prehistoric fish.

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(FEB. 22) St. Gertrude Parish in Edgewater donated a truckload of winter clothes for Iraqi refugees.

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(FEB. 21) Marist high school on South Side might start drug-testing all students.

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(FEB. 21) Archdiocese of Chicago, Notre Dame partnering to expand Latino enrollment in Chicago's Catholic schools.

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(FEB. 21) St. Cletus Parish members honor memory of LaGrange teenager who died just before Christmas.

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(FEB. 21) Bishop Gorman to officiate funeral for priest who recently died.

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(FEB. 20) Bishop agrees to meet with Joliet mayor over proposed school closing.

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(FEB. 20) Parents aren't giving up the fight to keep open Joliet Catholic school.

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(FEB. 20) Seminarian collapses during class, dies. He was 37 and hailed from Kenya.

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(FEB. 20) Retired priest -- affiliated with Orland Park parish, and a former Air Force chaplain -- dies.

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(FEB. 20) Pastor emeritus at Buffalo Grove parish dies.

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(FEB. 20) Father Pfleger gets involved in CTA crisis, calls on unions to give back raises in order to save jobs.

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(FEB. 19) With help from archdiocesan official, U.S. bishops conference launches Spanish web site on marriage.

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(FEB. 19) As more people drift away from the Catholic Church and other mainline denominations, might the Mormons be the beneficiaries?

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(FEB. 19) What once was the largest Catholic school west of Chicago is closing its doors.

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(FEB. 19) Priest accused of molesting boy assigned to yet another judge.

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(FEB. 19) Well-known Chicago divorce attorney says dad in tug-of-war with mom over child's religion should convert back to Catholicism to strengthen case.

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(FEB. 19) Cardinal George to speak at Brigham Young about "Catholics and Latter-day Saints: Partners in the Defense of Religious Freedom."

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(FEB. 19) Mundelein Catholic school adding early childhood program.

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(FEB. 19) "Bandapalooza" being hosted by Marian Catholic high school.

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(FEB. 19) How Hispanics are "reshaping" the Chicago region.

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(FEB. 19) SNAP urges Indiana bishop to "seek out any local victims of a South Bend priest charged with abusing a child in his native Ireland."

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(FEB. 19) St. Emily's in Mount Prospect celebrates 50 years.

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(FEB. 19) Illinois man allegedly posed as priest online to solicit sex.

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(FEB. 19) Holy Name parishioners said gay rights protest went too far, and they question why the cops didn't do more.

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(FEB. 19) Chicago priest part of effort to get pope to slow down sainthood process for World War II-era pontiff.

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(FEB. 19) Battle over child's religion continues in Cook County courts.

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(FEB. 19) Profile on Franciscan nun who once taught in Chicago.

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(FEB. 18) Graves are starting to be moved from cemetery in path of O'Hare expansion.

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(FEB. 18) Catholic dad, Jewish mom do battle over faith of their child in Cook County courts.

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(FEB. 18) Young adults today "may be less religious, but they're not necessarily more secular," according to new study.

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(FEB. 18) Ash Wednesday services in McHenry County "were marked by calls to faithfulness and introspection."

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(FEB. 18) Images from Ash Wednesday in Chicago's suburbs.

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(FEB. 18) "Despite Latinos being 40 percent of the Archdiocese of Chicago's membership, only about 1 percent of the school-age Latinos in Cook and Lake counties attend Catholic schools."

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(FEB. 18) Deacons come together to tackle violence in Chicago neighborhoods.

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(FEB. 18) Thousands sign petition in support of Mother Theresa postage stamp.

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(FEB. 17) Obama adviser on faith "has a record of making anti-Catholic statements."

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(FEB. 17) A snapshot -- literally -- of Chicago's future priests.

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(FEB. 17) Radio personality Steve Dahl says "nothing in my truncated West Coast upbringing could have prepared me for my first Ash Wednesday in Chicago."

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(FEB. 17) Merrillville pastor "will use this Lenten season as an opportunity to educate people about the Catholic ritual."

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(FEB. 17) McHenry County priest says of Ash Wednesday: More "Catholics probably go to church that day than any other."

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(FEB. 17) Joliet mayor plans to seek meeting with bishop over plans to close local parish school.

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(FEB. 17) Nursing students at University of St. Francis get their hands blessed before they start clinical work.

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(FEB. 17) Chicago-based Catholic Church Extension Society gives $270,000 to Salt Lake diocese to help Latino leadership.

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(FEB. 17) Chicago law student faces possible contempt charge for taking daughter to mass.

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(FEB. 17) In newspaper op-ed, Milwaukee archbishop "urges victims to report abuse to civil authorities."

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(FEB. 16) Loyola student reportedly arrested for theft of clothes from Macy's.

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(FEB. 16) Jazz festival organized by priest-musician to benefit Chicago's Catholic Charities.

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(FEB. 16) DePaul University student involved in new IMAX documentary about Saudi Arabia.

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(FEB. 16) Paczki Day, with roots in Lent, "has become really big in Chicago."

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(FEB. 16) Hundreds mourn the death of former Driscoll Catholic student killed in car wreck.

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(FEB. 16) St. Viator High School's cheerleading team places well in competitions.

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(FEB. 16) "Catholics Come Home" founder to speak next month in downtown Chicago.

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(FEB. 16) Loyola University Health System in talks to partner in Ireland hospital deal.

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(FEB. 16) Gay-friendly group, recently criticized by cardinal, said if the Catholic bishops conference "had concerns about our ministry, why didn't they contact us before a judgment was made?"

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(FEB. 16) Ohio physician who got medical degree from Loyola University Chicago, delivered 25,000-plus babies during career, dies.

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(FEB. 16) Cardinal George named "envoy of the year" by institute.

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(FEB. 16) "Extraordinary Rite Preparation" will be offered to seminarians at St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, "welcome news for supporters of the Latin Mass."

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(FEB. 16) Assistant principal at Catholic school with campuses in South Holland, Cal City recognized by archdiocese.

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(FEB. 15) Champion speed skater with ties to Chicago's Art Institute finds higher calling, as Franciscan nun.

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(FEB. 15) Regarding a school voucher system, writer asks: "Wouldn't it be great for this juggernaut of an Archdiocesan Catholic School system?"

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(FEB. 15) DePaul reportedly recruits future college basketball player from grade school.

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(FEB. 15) University of Notre Dame tuition rising, to nearly $40,000 a year.

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(FEB. 15) East Chicago parish part of new partnership between blacks, Latinos on immigration reform.

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(FEB 15) Queen of Peace graduate was standout runner -- and became inspiration for well-known song.

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(FEB. 15) St. Laurence High School students rock -- at after-school Rock & Roll Club.

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(FEB. 15) New Joliet auxiliary bishop recalls the pain of his Catholic high school closing in 1980.

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(FEB. 15) Atheist blogger attends mass at Holy Name Cathedral, says he "surprisingly . . . didn't find the experience too excruciating."

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(FEB. 15) Hundreds of high school musicians to descend on Marian Catholic for band competition.

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(FEB. 15) Supporters of Joliet parochial school march, show opposition to diocese plans to close building.

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(FEB. 15) Priest who ministered to victims of Flight 191 crash near O'Hare dies.

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(FEB. 15) Gay rights demonstrators descend on Holy Name Cathedral.

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(FEB. 14) On Valentine's Day, a profile on a Valentine -- Father Val, who once served in Chicago, Joliet.

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(FEB. 14) New Catholic school building planned for South Loop.

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(FEB. 13) Retired priest, former Chicago Fire Department chaplain, dies.

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(FEB. 13) DePaul University recruiting eighth grader for hoops?

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(FEB. 13) Villa Park Catholic school to stay open after all.

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(FEB. 13) Writer recalls Cardinal George approaching pope on "one strike" policy for abusive priests.

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(FEB. 13) New legislation would "strip key powers from local school councils," and provide vouchers for public school kids wanting to go parochial.

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(FEB. 13) New way to shop online for food made in monasteries by nuns and monks.

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(FEB. 13) Catholic writer rips into Chicago Tribune religion reporter for coverage.

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(FEB. 13) Once church rectory, now home to black Chicago-based publishing house Third World Press.

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(FEB. 12) PETA urges U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to go vegan for Lent.

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(FEB. 12) Belfast writer singles out Chicago's Leo High School as successful model.

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(FEB. 12) Arrest warrant issued in hit-and-run that killed former DePaul University student.

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(FEB. 12) White House adviser, who used to work at Catholic Charities in Chicago, says Obama administration "remains committed to passing health care and immigration legislation."

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(FEB. 12) Joliet Diocese school shake-up not sitting well with all parents.

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(FEB. 12) Catholic school in Crete wins $100,000 from U.S. Cellular.

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(FEB. 12) Catholics Come Home ad campaign is over, and some are returning to pews in Chicago area.

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(FEB. 12) Services scheduled for former Driscoll Catholic student killed in car wreck.

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(FEB. 12) Stations of the cross sculptures to be dedicated this weekend at Naperville parish.

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(FEB. 12) Sioux City nun with Chicago connections among five sisters celebrating noteworthy anniversaries.

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(FEB. 12) "The Catholic Web has been buzzing this week because of what seems to be a unprovoked attack by Cardinal Francis George . . . against Maryland-based New Ways Ministry."

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(FEB. 12) Arlington Heights nuns hold fundraiser to benefit immigrants, Native Americans and homeless.

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(FEB. 11) Catholic Conference of Illinois is "highly enthusiastic" about plan to offer school vouchers.

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(FEB. 11) Benedictine University students help senior citizens, low-income families with preparing tax returns.

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(FEB. 11) Wheaton municipal leaders keep invocations -- but will do them before the gavel strikes at public meetings.

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(FEB. 11) St. Rita baseball coach hit with IHSA rules violation.

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(FEB. 11) Faced with shrinking enrollment and rising costs, two Catholic schools in south suburbs to merge.

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(FEB. 11) Some Chicago public schools see big enrollment jumps, likely as bad economy forces families to leave parochial schools and tuition.

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(FEB. 11) Grassroots effort to get accurate Census count includes reaching out to priests and parishes.

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(FEB. 11) Priest-physician with ties to Chicago, Loyola University to speak at event.

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(FEB. 11) Pioneering Niles resident, who worked for the Archdiocese of Chicago for roughly 50 years, dies.

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(FEB. 11) New documentary focuses on an "American Radical," controversial DePaul University professor.

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(FEB. 11) Rockford government leaders reconsider proposed "bubble zone" ordinance that would restrict protests at abortion clinics.

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(FEB. 11) U.S. Department of Homeland Security "improperly" gathered intelligence on pro- and anti-abortion groups in Wisconsin.

[More]

 

(FEB. 11) Gay Liberation Network calling for informational picket at Holy Name Cathedral on Valentine's Day.

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(FEB. 10) A deacon's thoughts on how sexual abuse is treated in Catholic settings vs. public schools.

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(FEB. 10) Profile on Des Plaines volunteer in Catholic Charities "clothing room."

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(FEB. 10) Little-known aspect of immigration reform would cover same-sex binational couples. "It's like pouring gasoline on a roaring fire," says one Church official.

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(FEB. 10) Joliet Diocese priest accused of molestation appears in court.

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(FEB. 10) Provena St. Joseph Hospital chief executive moving on.

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(FEB. 10) Wheaton municipal government adopting rules for religious invocations, addressing church-state concerns.

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(FEB. 10) Stranded St. Hubert students land back in Chicago.

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(FEB. 10) List of snow-related closings, including area Catholic schools.

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(FEB. 10) Families of closing West Chicago school say they feel betrayed by pastor.

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(FEB. 10) Mercy Home student rises from tough streets of Chicago to college, where he'll play Division I football.

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(FEB. 10) American release of Roman missal ultimately up to Cardinal George.

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(FEB. 10) Chicago's Catholics Come Home ads having impact in Poland?

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(FEB. 10) Deacons part of a "growing force" in Church.

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(FEB. 10) Recalling grim anniversary -- poisoning at banquet for then-Archbishop Mundelein.

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(FEB. 10) Parishes not only want flock to return, they want to know their gripes.

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(FEB. 9) Cardinal George makes clear that ministry group that works with gays has "no approval or recognition from the Catholic Church."

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(FEB. 9) Little Company of Mary Hospital celebrates 80th year, gives award to Chris Kennedy. (Note: after visiting link, scroll down for story.)

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(FEB. 9) After long fight by religious groups, City of Chicago officially purchases cemetery to enable further runway expansion.

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(FEB. 9) Chicago anti-abortion columnist: dismantle U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

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(FEB. 9) Stranded St. Hubert students have escape plan from Washington, D.C.

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(FEB. 9) Pope condemns clergy who abuse kids, but Chicago-based SNAP says it's "more meaningless and self-serving words from the Vatican."

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(FEB. 9) Michigan order of nuns that's young and growing to be featured on Oprah this week.

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(FEB. 9) Did "higher power" help Saints' coach -- Chicago-area native named after Irish "Miracle Priest" -- win Super Bowl?

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(FEB. 9) "When religious institutions want to reach out and connect with their believers, they are increasingly tapping into the Internet's enviable connective capabilities."

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(FEB. 9) U.S. bishops changing rules on feeding tubes, and people in "persistent vegetative state."

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(FEB. 8) Super Bowl Sunday a special event at northwest Indiana parish, for more than 20 years.

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(FEB. 8) Eighth graders at Hoffman Estates Catholic school stranded by snow in Washington, D.C.

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(FEB. 8) Active member of Catholic Charities, anti-abortion movement, dies.

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(FEB. 8) Wisconsin police chief questions truthfulness of new Milwaukee archbishop when it comes to reporting abuse.

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(FEB. 7) Multiple events held for Catholic Schools Week in suburbs.

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(FEB. 7) Not everyone "coming home" after Catholic ad campaign wraps up.

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(FEB. 7) Marian Catholic student, 18, writes book about racing.

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(FEB. 6) East Chicago pastor visits Haiti. "I conducted mass in the remains of a church; the walls had literally collapsed. Yet the people were eager to attend services."

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(FEB. 6) Funeral to be held at Carpentersville parish for Barrington High School student who died following kidney transplant.

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(FEB. 6) Loyola University outlines $5 million renovation plan for Cuneo estate.

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(FEB. 6) Former teacher at St. Benedict's in Chicago given $250,000 bail for allegedly assaulting teenaged student.

[More]

 

(FEB. 6) Former President George W. Bush and Cardinal George honored in California for anti-abortion stances.

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(FEB. 6) Two children's choirs from suburbs to sing during mass celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI in Rome.

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(FEB. 6) Cardinal George raises questions about Maryland ministry group.

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(FEB. 5) Archdiocese of Chicago sponsoring therapy group sessions for adult survivors of sexual abuse.

[More]

 

(FEB. 5) Male teacher at St. Ben's on North Side accused of assaulting female student.

[More]

 

(FEB. 5) Members of Schererville parish visit New Orleans to help the poor who still haven't recovered from Katrina.

[More]

 

(FEB. 5) University of St. Francis hosts art show for dozens of local high schoolers.

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(FEB. 5) Planned march over closing Joliet Catholic grammar school called off.

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(FEB. 5) Marian Central Catholic High School students, and kids from McHenry County's seven Catholic grammar schools, gather for annual mass.

[More]

 

(FEB. 5) Tinley Park to embrace Irish saint with parade, but mayor vows it will not be a "drunken bash."

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(FEB. 5) Former Driscoll Catholic student dies from car wreck.

[More]

 

(FEB. 5) Orland Hills parish participating in program that provides funeral palls for unclaimed bodies in Haiti.

[More]

 

(FEB. 5) Mass held at Holy Name Cathedral for students, in conjunction with Black History Month.

[More]

 

(FEB. 5) Vatican newspaper praises Cardinal George's new book.

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(FEB. 5) Marian Catholic band director honored by Archdiocese of Chicago.

[More]

 

(FEB. 4) Students at Lake Forest grammar school do research "on the saint of their choice."

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(FEB. 4) Campus reels as Loyola University sees fifth student die this academic year. Latest passing involved law student poised to graduate.

[More]

 

(FEB. 4) Chicago-based encyclopedia publisher sorry for indicating that Irish Civil War was "between the Catholic south and Protestant north."

[More]

 

(FEB. 4) Chicago's Sister Kenny "has 17-6 record for picking Super Bowl winners." She's now favoring Colts.

[More]

 

(FEB. 4) New study: "Catholic students who attend Catholic colleges . . . in the U.S. are more likely to move away from the faith than to deepen their commitment."

[More]

 

(FEB. 4) Reflections on Chicago's controversial Catholic Worker: Dorothy Day.

[More]

 

(FEB. 4) Grandson of cigarette company founder R.J. Reynolds to speak at Evanston's St. Francis Hospital -- against tobacco.

[More]

 

(FEB. 4) St. Mary's College, Notre Dame's sister school, touts Planned Parenthood on "career options and resources" pages.

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) DePaul University student commutes to campus -- from Tennessee.

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) Does death of Notre Dame professor who was popular writer mark "the end of an era in U.S. Catholic intellectual and literary culture"?

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) Irish-American rock singer from Chicago talks about career, faith and how his wife is preparing to enter Catholic Church.

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) St. Hubert, St. Theresa schools mourn the death of northwest suburban teacher, 41, who died of cancer.

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) Columnist asks, "Are we moving into an era of TV ads as sermons?"

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) Priest who hailed from Chicago, served for decades in Wisconsin, dies.

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) Sister Jean, Chicago nun and sports handicapper, picks Colts in Super Bowl.

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) Catholic Church in region tries new things -- even a block party, shortening mass times -- to bring people back to the pews.

[More]

 

(FEB. 3) Speaking at college, Cardinal George indicates there always will be "tension between the Catholic Church and any government."

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) Villa Park Catholic school slated for closing wins a reprieve from Joliet Diocese.

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) "A Catholic priest claims the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests and their attorneys destroyed his reputation by falsely accusing him of being a pedophile."

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) Profile on new Catholic middle school in Lake County.

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) St. Patrick's grammar school in Joliet dodges bullet this year, but must make "sufficient progress" to ensure long-term future.

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) Milwaukee's new archbishop, who hails from Chicago, visits Kenosha Catholic schoolchildren.

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) Gay Liberation Network planning picket outside Holy Name Cathedral on Valentine's Day over Church "opposition to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality."

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) Dominican University hosting symposium on "Understanding Pope Benedict's Vision for the Global Economy."

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) Author who wrote the Father Dowling mystery series dies of cancer in Indiana.

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) President Obama's Notre Dame appearance inspires "online abortion game show."

[More]

 

(FEB. 2) Loyola University professor involved in Shakespeare plays explored through disabilities.

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Catholic, Episcopal churches in far north suburbs may have saved 336 lives -- through blood drives.

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Spelling bee kicks off Catholic Schools Week at Hoffman Estates parochial school.

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Mount Prospect's St. Raymond School celebrates "Blue Ribbon" designation.

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Principal of St. Mary's school in West Chicago, slated for closure, says from pulpit: "I am deeply saddened and hurt by the decision process used by the Diocese."

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Twin brothers from St. Laurence High School have singular interest: volunteering.

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Catholics Come Home TV ad campaign responsible for uptick in church attendance at some parishes.

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Cardinal George on deacons: "Most of the pastors I've talked to are happy to have deacons. If they don't have one, they're asking for one more and more."

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Catholic Schools Week kicks off with "appeal" to faithful.

[More]

 

(FEB. 1) Father Pfleger attends screening at Columbia College for documentary on his life and work.

[More]

 

(JAN. 31) Mass held in Orland Hills for unemployed. Pastor says: "I do know that God enters the situation of despair and pushes against that demon."

[More]

 

(JAN. 31) Catholic schools in disadvantaged areas will benefit from Annual Catholic Appeal.

[More]

 

(JAN. 31) Two priests speak on behalf of ex-Niles mayor as he's sentenced in federal court on corruption charges.

[More]

 

(JAN. 31) Loyola University alum, age 101, dies, and goes to extra lengths to donate body to Loyola's medical school.

[More]

 

(JAN. 31) Priest sues accusers; his lawyer says it's not about greed, but about clearing name.

[More]

 

(JAN. 30) More press on "The Providence Effect," film about inner-city Catholic high school in Chicago.

[More]

 

(JAN. 30) Mundelein College grad, who also taught there, now running women's school out West, and is being honored by Church.

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(JAN. 30) Joliet's Bishop Sartain indicates "there is no wiggle room when it comes to being Catholic and holding pro-life values."

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(JAN. 30) Boxer who hails from Chicago area is fighting in big bout, coached by father, former Catholic Youth Organization champ.

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(JAN. 30) Students, parents mourning over planned closure of their Catholic school in Joliet.

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(JAN. 30) Haiti crisis should lead Church, others to revisit the handling of orphans.

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(JAN. 30) Priest shortage causing worries at hospitals, where patients need annointing.

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(JAN. 30) Priest accused of abusing altar boy sues for slander.

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(JAN. 30) Archdiocese criticized for handling of more sex abuse cases.

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(JAN. 29) Benedictine University to induct top sports performers in Hall of Fame.

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(JAN. 29) Facebook movement could produce big "send-off" for South Side St. Patrick's Day parade.

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(JAN. 29) West Chicago's St. Mary School slated for closing at year's end.

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(JAN. 29) The "the hottest young playwright in America," with a show launching at Steppenwolf, is a DePaul graduate.

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(JAN. 29) Leo High School's "mission shouldn't change just because the makeup of the neighborhood changed from Irish, Italian and Polish immigrants to blacks."

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(JAN. 29) As demographics shift and enrollment declines, big changes in store for Catholic schools in Joliet Diocese.

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(JAN. 29) Loyola University graduate describes "her road to Reiki as the classic healer's journey."

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(JAN. 29) Wisconsin nuns scammed out of hundreds of thousands of dollars by couple with ties to Chicago.

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(JAN. 29) Loyola Academy gala honors Jesuits, draws 700 to Hilton Chicago.

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(JAN. 28) New Catholic school building slated for South Loop -- on land owned by clout-heavy restaurateur. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(JAN. 28) Profile on long-time Marian Catholic dean, who "keeps order in the halls."

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(JAN. 28) New superior general of Oregon nuns once served in National Religious Vocation Office in Chicago.

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(JAN. 28) University of St. Francis men's basketball coach, athletic chairman retiring after decades with the Joliet school.

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(JAN. 28) Dominican University student studies in River Forest, but heart is in Haiti.

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(JAN. 28) Parents in suburbs debate merits of Catholic school education vs. public schools.

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(JAN. 28) Brother Rice, Marist to renew "Pulaski Road Super Bowl" in 2011.

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(JAN. 28) Attorney who works at St. Savier University running for state House seat.

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(JAN. 28) U.S. bishops urge Congress: "Don't abandon health care."

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(JAN. 28) Christ the King hosting "gala" to raise funds for West Side Jesuit school.

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(JAN. 28) Loyola, DePaul among local colleges to pursue construction projects, despite harsh economy.

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(JAN. 28) "Philanthropy is playing a growing role in financing Catholic K-12 schools as donors step up in a harsh economic environment to preserve the Catholic education model."

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(JAN. 28) Rockford proposes "bubble" law around abortion clinics similar to controversial Chicago ordinance.

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(JAN. 28) Evanston couple help their adopted Haitian children keep "their spiritual heritage."

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(JAN. 28) New head of Missouri Catholic school system a Loyola University alum.

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(JAN. 28) Skokie Catholic school teacher recognized by Archdiocese of Chicago.

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(JAN. 27) Misericordia's Sister Rosemary Connelly "is a reminder -- and a rebuke to Gov. Quinn -- that you can be a good person and still make things happen."

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(JAN. 27) Former Kane County Cougars standout "at peace" with decision to leave baseball, become priest.

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(JAN. 27) Philadelphia considers joining Chicago's Cristo Rey school network. (Note: after visiting link, scroll down for story.)

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(JAN. 27) Students at Merrillville's Andrean High School donate $5,000 to Haitian orphanage.

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(JAN. 27) Report recommends new Catholic schools in Homer Glen, Frankfort, while closing or consolidating in Joliet proper.

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(JAN. 27) McAuley girls develop biodiesel processor with aim of helping Haiti.

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(JAN. 27) Some Catholic grade schools could be combined or closed in Joliet.

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(JAN. 27) Schools in Diocese of Joliet participate in event with bishop to kick off Catholic Schools Week.

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(JAN. 27) Anti-abortion groups holding conference in suburbs this weekend.

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(JAN. 27) "More than 30 Jesuits and fellow concelebrants reminded us of our place in history this day, 450 years after the first Jesuit school opened in Italy."

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(JAN. 27) Loyola University alum makes inroads into Chicago's Mexican-American community with drink sales.

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(JAN. 26) Catholic League plans to expand.

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(JAN. 26) A snapshot of Leo High School, and the big names that came out of it.

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(JAN. 26) Letter from Cardinal George to Haitians: "The church in the United States stands with you."

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(JAN. 26) Downstate priest accused of shoplifting butter, sofa cover from Wal-Mart.

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(JAN. 25) Students at Park Ridge's St. Paul of the Cross win "future city" competition.

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(JAN. 25) With Catholics Come Home wrapping up, parishes are offering special times for Reconciliation.

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(JAN. 25) Former athlete at Merrillville's Andrean Catholic high school now working the sidelines of Colts games -- administering oxygen to players.

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(JAN. 25) Catholic candidates for Illinois governor not all in step with Church teachings.

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(JAN. 25) Villa Park Catholic school, which could be shuttered by diocese, "continues fundraising efforts to stay open."

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(JAN. 25) Northwest Indiana parish ships emergency supplies to Haiti.

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(JAN. 25) Expert testimony from Chicago exorcist-priest cited in Ohio murder case.

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(JAN. 25) Pope encourages priests to use digital media to spread gospel, and "he stressed that competence in using it should be part of a seminarian's formation."

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(JAN. 25) University of Chicago study shows clergy have highest job satisfaction.

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(JAN. 25) Dominican University grad helping special-needs kids as lawyer. (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

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(JAN. 25) Profile on women priest movement, with reference to Chicago-based Call to Action.

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(JAN. 24) The Sisters of Poor Clares of Joliet plan expansion of Minooka-area monastery.

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(JAN. 24) Lewis University, Catholic college based in Romeoville, to open new campus in Albuquerque.

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(JAN. 24) Joliet native to receive special recognition from University of St. Francis.

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(JAN. 24) Music teacher at Barat College, DePaul University dies.

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(JAN. 23) Kane County Cougars standout gives up baseball -- for priesthood.

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(JAN. 23) "The Catholic League will not be all Catholic any more." Lake Forest Academy to join.

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(JAN. 23) Cardinal George asks Archbishop Dolan to be emissary to Haiti.

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(JAN. 23) Indiana priest convicted of assaulting boys.

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(JAN. 22) How average Catholics can "put their faith to work."

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(JAN. 22) Priest accused of abusing St. Charles boy could face deportation if convicted.

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(JAN. 22) Naperville's Catholic schools "do not need to do any type of recruitment as they are just about full to capacity, with some requiring waiting lists."

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(JAN. 22) St. Francis building swimming program, seeing success.

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(JAN. 22) Loyola University plans massive overhaul to Rogers Park campus.

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(JAN. 22) Driscoll Catholic High School exhibit to open in spring.

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(JAN. 22) Shorewood priest, accused of abusing boy, had "a close relationship" with child's family.

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(JAN. 21) St. Francis Xavier School in Wilmette celebrates century milestone.

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(JAN. 21) Bond set at $200,000 for parish music director arrested on child porn charges.

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(JAN. 21) Parishioner from Naperville's St. Thomas the Apostle headed to Haiti on "mission of love."

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(JAN. 21) Christ the King high school celebrates new West Side building, MLK's legacy.

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(JAN. 21) Shorewood priest formally charged with sex abuse.

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(JAN. 21) Panel being convened on "new Catholic hospital organizing rules" for workers.

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(JAN. 21) Marquette University's law school lists Planned Parenthood as agency students may want to connect with "as a volunteer."

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(JAN. 20) Priest who allegedly tried to kill himself is charged with abusing a child.

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(JAN. 20) Gov. Quinn announces grant to help Chicago charter school buy building owned by archdiocese.

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(JAN. 20) Music director at Glen Ellyn parish, roommate accused of possessing child pornography.

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(JAN. 20) Congressman Lipinski authors measure that recognizes contributions of Catholic schools.

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(JAN. 20) Former President Bush slated to talk at same event as Cardinal George, recognized for "anti-abortion efforts."

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(JAN. 20) Detroit TV to air documentary on revival of Chicago's St. John Cantius Parish.

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(JAN. 20) Failed Chicago-area banker, who helped fund Christ the King high school on West Side, portrayed as "hero."

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(JAN. 20) Park Forest native who grew up rooting for Fighting Irish gets key Notre Dame coaching job.

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(JAN. 20) Carmel high school students get lesson in tolerance from arts troupe.

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(JAN. 20) Predator-priest McCormack declared "sexually violent," keeping him incarcerated.

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(JAN. 20) SIU men's basketball coach reportedly top choice for DePaul University.

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(JAN. 19) Rescuer talks about saving nun from railroad tracks in far south suburbs.

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(JAN. 19) Protest held at Joliet church over firings of warehouse workers who joined union.

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(JAN. 19) Waukegan's St. Martin de Porres gets $100,000 grant from McCormick Foundation.

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(JAN. 19) Hearing today for predator-priest McCormack, on whether he should be released.

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(JAN. 19) Ceremony held for new Catholic high school campus on the West Side, Christ the King.

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(JAN. 19) New auxiliary bishop for Joliet Diocese to be ordained today. He'll be one of youngest Catholic bishops in country.

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(JAN. 19) Amtrak train hits car driven by Lemont nun, who was not seriously hurt.

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(JAN. 19) Father defies judge in unusual custody case, brings child to Catholic church.

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(JAN. 19) "The Catholic Church needs its fellow Catholics just as much as those individuals need the church."

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(JAN. 19) Funeral to be held at St. John Cantius for CLTV political reporter who died from cancer.

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(JAN. 18) Archdiocese of Chicago's pro-life office scheduling events to coincide with Roe v. Wade anniversary.

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(JAN. 18) Profile on outstanding Brother Rice student, who volunteers at Orland Park parish.

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(JAN. 18) Group from Glenview area that had been on humanitarian mission in Haiti when earthquake hit to hold news conference at north suburban parish.

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(JAN. 18) Catholic school in Dyer slated to close. "With an enrollment of 129 . . . and a present budget deficit of $165,000, St. Joseph Parish is unable to support St. Joseph School any longer."

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(JAN. 18) Those of "faith are likely to double-down, attend more than one church," according to study.

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(JAN. 18) Local newspaper names former volleyball player "greatest" athlete ever at Mother McAuley high school.

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(JAN. 18) Priest to speak at event on "Serving Christ in the poor on Chicago's West Side."

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(JAN. 18) Two University of Notre Dame workers who were in Haiti when quake hit flying into Chicago.

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(JAN. 18) Just three nuns remain as teachers in Ohio county; one, a Franciscan, hails from Joliet.

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(JAN. 18) Church-goers in Naperville share "anguish" over victims of Haiti earthquake.

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(JAN. 18) Priest who served at parishes in Aurora, Harvard dies.

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(JAN. 18) Event held at Chicago's St. Thomas the Apostle to honor legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

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(JAN. 18) CLTV reporter, who attended DePaul University and Quigley North, dies after bout with cancer.

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(JAN. 17) Haiti man with ties to Winnetka's Sacred Heart Parish survives quake, sees devastation.

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(JAN. 17) Rep. Gutierrez calls out Catholic Church over immigration reform: "My Church is a Church that should watch every action of unfairness and injustice . . . and not just one or two that they decide to choose."

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(JAN. 17) St. Boniface has a future beyond the wrecking ball.

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(JAN. 17) Chicago-area priests and nuns pray, push for immigration reform.

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(JAN. 17) Annual Catholic Appeal raises $13.8 million as of Dec. 23 -- and estate gifts more than doubled.

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(JAN. 16) University of Notre Dame student newspaper apologizes for cartoon that "made a joke about violence against gays."

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(JAN. 16) Cardinal George asks White House "to designate the country of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status."

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(JAN. 16) Berwyn employee -- a former cleric -- suspended while cops investigate allegations of past abuse.

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(JAN. 16) Notre Dame High School teacher is among those to win the 2010 Chicago Archdiocese Distinguised Service Award.

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(JAN. 16) Even "the divine isn't immune to cold and flu season.

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(JAN. 16) Parishes in Joliet Diocese to hold special collection this weekend for Haiti relief effort.

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(JAN. 15) Prayer vigil held in Villa Park to help "save" Catholic grade school that could be shuttered by diocese because of enrollment.

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(JAN. 15) The 10th annual "Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Chicago Ecumenical Prayer Service" will be held later this month in Wilmette.

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(JAN. 15) North suburban churches, schools help with Haiti relief effort.

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(JAN. 15) Viatorian priest staying in Arlington Heights recounts devastation of retreat center in Haiti.

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(JAN. 15) Petition asks Notre Dame's president to drop charges against anti-abortion demonstrators.

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(JAN. 15) Nun who once taught in Illinois now co-hosts radio show with brother, a Chicago-based Franciscan.

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(JAN. 15) Isiah Thomas's mother -- who "worked in the kitchen and gymnasium at Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica to cover her children's tuition" -- dies.

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(JAN. 15) Is man once accused of abusing boy at St. Rita High School now working for suburban government?

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(JAN. 15) Ceremony held for new pastor of Orland Park parish.

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(JAN. 15) Profile on DuPage County Jail ministry, started by Diocese of Joliet.

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(JAN. 15) Write-up on Knights of Columbus and how members "support community."

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(JAN. 14) Prayers of Faithful to be offered this weekend for the people of Haiti.

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(JAN. 14) Glee actress Jane Lynch described as "an Irish Catholic raised in a tough Chicago suburb" in profile.

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(JAN. 14) Parish in far west suburbs to hold prayer service for those in Haiti following devastating earthquake.

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(JAN. 14) Naperville priest, who hails from Haiti, fears many people he knows are dead from quake. "Still now I feel confused. . . . Disaster over disaster over disaster."

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(JAN. 14) Aurora's Marmion Academy honors former student decades after he dropped out.

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(JAN. 14) Orland Hills parish holds service to pray for the unemployed.

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(JAN. 14) Rivals Brother Rice, Marist hold first outdoor hockey game in new South Side "classic."

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(JAN. 14) Cardinal George, Archbishop Dolan ask churches across country to take up special collection for Haiti following earthquake.

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(JAN. 14) Milwaukee's new archbishop warns legislators that extending statute of limitations on child abuse lawsuits could push local dioceses into bankruptcy.

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(JAN. 14) North Side parish collecting materials for victims of Haiti earthquake.

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(JAN. 14) GOP candidate Jim Ryan says in debate: "if you're pro-life, you should be concerned about the poor and the disabled."

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(JAN. 14) Ex-Milwaukee archbishop, Weakland, "defends his handling of sex-abuse cases."

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(JAN. 13) Joliet Catholic grad survives Haiti earthquake, relays the horrific aftermath.

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(JAN. 13) Not everyone happy over "crude" play being held at DePaul University.

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(JAN. 13) Tinley Park coach accused of stealing thousands of dollars from South Side Catholic League fund meant for referees.

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(JAN. 13) Writer ponders a "vanishing" parish in Chicago area.

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(JAN. 13) Are Oak Park's parishes engaging in "branding exercise?"

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(JAN. 13) Prosecutors working to "solidify statements" in case of Shorewood priest accused of abusing boy, then trying to kill himself.

[More]

 

(JAN. 13) More on judge handling case of demonstrators arrested at Notre Dame.

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(JAN. 12) Notre Dame wide receiver cited for underage drinking.

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(JAN. 12) Benet Academy's long-time boys soccer coach -- who led team to back-to-back state championships -- steps down.

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(JAN. 12) Priest who tried to kill self allegedly abused St. Charles boy.

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(JAN. 12) Cardinal George scheduled to speak at same event as former President George W. Bush.

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(JAN. 12) Judge in case involving Notre Dame demonstrators recuses self.

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(JAN. 12) Once a powerhouse, DePaul University basketball now a "stifling mediocrity."

[More]

 

(JAN. 12) Arrest made in case of murdered Wisconsin nun.

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(JAN. 11) Gov. Schwarzenegger appoints St. Ignatius College Prep alumnus to judgeship in California.

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(JAN. 11) New review on Cardinal George's book: He might "consider that individualism's roots lie not only in philosophy and theology but in the lived experience of those who suffered at the hands of both church and state."

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(JAN. 11) Shorewood parish where accused priest worked is receiving phone, email messages "supportive and vile."

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(JAN. 11) Profile of standout De La Salle Institute student.

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(JAN. 11) Milwaukee's new archbishop, a Chicago native and Bears fan, dons cheesehead hat.

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(JAN. 10) Brady, candidate for governor, cites Catholic faith in opposition to abortion.

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(JAN. 10) Chicagoans recall new Milwaukee archbishop, a South Side native, as "renaissance man."

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(JAN. 9) Chicago lawyer, affiliated with Catholic Theological Union's Bernardin Center, named head of largest Muslim group in U.S.

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(JAN. 9) Pro-immigration reform rally held at Holy Name Cathedral.

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(JAN. 9) Actress talks about growing up Irish-Catholic in Dolton, where "the main pastimes were 'beer, whiskey and storytelling.'"

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(JAN. 9) "The American public, including the Catholic and other faith communities, want a humane and comprehensive solution to the problems which beset our immigration system."

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(JAN. 8) Student at Merrillville Catholic high school chosen to serve as page in Congress.

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(JAN. 8) Archdiocesan priest, described as "the most significant catechist in the American Catholic Church," dies at 91.

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(JAN. 8) Baby Jesus, manger stolen from Crest Hill parish, replaced by beer bottles.

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(JAN. 8) Entrance exam for Catholic high schools to be held tomorrow.

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(JAN. 8) Officials in Joliet Diocese hopeful that new evangelization ad blitz will work at bringing back fallen away Catholics.

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(JAN. 8) Retired Milwaukee archbishop, who failed to report sex abuse to authorities when he was in charge, is criticized for speaking engagement, bronze image.

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(JAN. 8) Minnesota priest who once studied at Loyola University Chicago dies.

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(JAN. 8) Joliet bishop apologizes to boy and family who contend a priest in diocese abused the child.

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(JAN. 8) South Bend bishop's installation ceremony to be held this month.

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(JAN. 7) More details on far south suburban priest who allegedly tried to kill himself after sex abuse allegations emerged.

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(JAN. 7) Diocese of Joliet offering first spiritual retreat geared toward Boy Scouts.

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(JAN. 7) DePaul University student by day, harness driver by night.

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(JAN. 7) Priests, nuns and other religious to hold press conference and prayer service to push for "comprehensive immigration reform."

[More]

 

(JAN. 7) Indiana seminary seeing enrollment influx.

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(JAN. 7) Priest accused of sex offense reportedly tries to kill self in Joliet church.

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(JAN. 7) New campus opens for Jesuit high school on Far West Side.

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(JAN. 7) Supreme Court ruling on sex abuse case of ex-Jesuit McQuire could impact other appeals, according to prosecutor.

[More]

 

(JAN. 6) Criticism over bronze image of retired Milwaukee Archbishop Weakland, whose handling of clergy sex abuse cases has been slammed.

[More]

 

(JAN. 6) University of St. Francis receiving award from chamber of commerce in Joliet area.

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(JAN. 6) Benefit being held for ailing St. Xavier professor.

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(JAN. 6) Loyola University posted internship information for Planned Parenthood.

[More]

 

(JAN. 6) Christ the King -- Jesuit high school on Far West Side -- opens new building.

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(JAN. 6) Mourners remember former Oak Park priest, who just died, as someone with a "wide and generous heart."

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(JAN. 6) Wisconsin justices "skeptical" of Chicago Jesuit's appeal.

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(JAN. 6) New University of Notre Dame football coach: "I grew up as a South Side of Chicago Irish Catholic and Notre Dame football and basketball was my life growing up."

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(JAN. 6) Recession is pushing more families from private schools to public schools.

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(JAN. 6) Lansing resident, past recipient of archdiocesan Christifideles Award, turns 100, remains active in her parish.

[More]

 

(JAN. 6) Rockford Diocese among those to embrace "CatholicTV."

[More]

 

(JAN. 5) Holy Cross Hospital chief on health care reform: "I'm thrilled to see something happening out of Washington." (Note: registration might be required to view story.)

[More]

 

(JAN. 5) Lewis University's Women Studies Department lists Planned Parenthood as a potential employer for students interested in health care.

[More]

 

(JAN. 5) Chicago-raised archbishop says: "Adherence to the Church's teaching is not always easy. However, one must sacrifice for the truth."

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(JAN. 4) Listecki formally installed as Milwaukee archbishop; Cardinal George among those at ceremony for native Chicagoan.

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(JAN. 4) Test scores lauded at Hampshire Catholic grade school.

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(JAN. 4) Interfaith event in Naperville marks World Peace Day.

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(JAN. 4) Not all U.S. Senate candidates on same page when it comes to abortion rights.

[More]

 

(JAN. 4) Story of a "closet Christian." The concept of an "eternal community brings me comfort."

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(JAN. 4) As Catholics Come Home rolls along, fallen members are "finding their way back home."

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(JAN. 4) To writer from Wilmette, new archbishop still is "Father Jerry."

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(JAN. 4) Annual placement test for Catholic high schools in region to be held in coming days.

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(JAN. 3) Providence high school band comes back from Outback Bowl with a number of trophies.

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(JAN. 3) Chief of Catholic Charities in Joliet Diocese to retire.

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(JAN. 3) Priest, a Chicago native, dies at age 72 in New Orleans area.

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(JAN. 2) Installation ceremony for new Milwaukee archbishop, a South Side Chicago native, to draw four cardinals and dozens of other bishops.

[More]

 

(JAN. 2) Carmel sophomore defends the high school's uniform policy, which fosters "unity."

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(JAN. 2) Gibsons restaurant employees serve lush New Year's Day meal to Catholic Charities clients, including homeless.

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(JAN. 2) Marian Catholic band blooms at Rose Bowl parade.

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(JAN. 2) Snapshot of Chicago's Thomas More Society.

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(JAN. 2) Abortions at 10-year high in Illinois; Church official attributes jump in part to new Aurora clinic.

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(JAN. 1) Chicago sisters help Springfield Catholic schools raise money for Darfur.

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(JAN. 1) One-time Chicagoan, and author of "I am a Priest, and I Want to Marry," dies.

[More]

 

(JAN. 1) Long-time Oak Park priest dies.

[More]

 

(JAN. 1) Jesuit priest to be speaker at Downstate Martin Luther King Jr. event.

[More]

 

(JAN. 1) Profile of Lockport pastor. He grew up in Beverly, wanted to be priest ever since he was a boy.

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(JAN. 1) Hawaii's "Yoda" of politics, a DePaul University grad, dies at 90.

[More]

 

(JAN. 1) Chicago's St. Joseph Hospital reports one of first births of New Year.

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(DEC. 31) Orland Park boy, 7, organizes gift collection for Su Casa Catholic Worker Community in Chicago.

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(DEC. 31) Noteworthy events of 2009 include the death of the first black ordained priest in the archdiocese.

[More]

 

(DEC. 30) Holy Cross brother once based in Chicago still teaching at age 95, at out-of-state college.

[More]

 

(DEC. 30) New Lenox parish celebrates 75th anniversary. Joliet bishop presides over special mass.

[More]

 

(DEC. 30) Long-time Michigan nativity display subject of court case.

[More]

 

(DEC. 30) While on Illinois' death row, now-exonerated man said he struggled to keep faith. Priests told him: "Never abandon God."

[More]

 

(DEC. 30) Families "move on" following closure of Catholic school in Aurora.

[More]

 

(DEC. 30) Catholics and other religious groups gathering in Naperville for interfaith prayer service that's focusing on world peace.

[More]

 

(DEC. 29) What constitutes a "fake" Catholic? Health care reform debate raises question.

[More]

 

(DEC. 29) Orland Park boy, 7, donates truckloads of toys and food to Su Casa Catholic Worker homeless shelter in Chicago.

[More]

 

(DEC. 29) St. Xavier University gets $1.25 million from federal government to upgrade campuses in Chicago, Orland Park.

[More]

 

(DEC. 29) Encouraging signs from Catholic Church on the next battleground: immigration reform.

[More]

 

(DEC. 29) Priest who was born in Chicago, taught in Philadelphia, dies.

[More]

 

(DEC. 29) Reward offered to help crack hit-and-run case involving former DePaul University student.

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(DEC. 29) New bishop of South Bend to be formally installed next month.

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(DEC. 29) Cardinal George talks about Muslim-Christian relations, and abortion, which he describes as "the singly most important issue in front of us."

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(DEC. 29) Editorial on Catholics Come Home ad campaign: "'The Prodigal Son' meets cable. We'll see if it's enough to get people to return to the flock."

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(DEC. 29) Downstate bicycle ride benefits Catholic Charities of Chicago, other causes.

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(DEC. 29) Candidates for Illinois governor give positions on evolution, creation.

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(DEC. 29) Origin of Cuneo estate donation to Loyola University.

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(DEC. 29) Reports of "split" between Catholic hospitals, U.S. bishops conference over health care reform are premature.

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(DEC. 28) Cardinal George celebrates mass for predominantly Filipino congregation, ushering in Christmas and marking last day of novena.

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(DEC. 28) Providence Catholic band to perform at halftime at Outback Bowl.

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(DEC. 28) Loyola University professor pens book on Playboy magazine.

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(DEC. 28) Candidates for Illinois governor stake ground on abortion, social issues.

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(DEC. 28) College launching master's program "to train lay persons to become parish administrators."

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(DEC. 28) South Side native tapped to help coach Notre Dame football.

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(DEC. 28) Soup kitchens are going mobile, as "some one-time donors now become patrons," according to Catholic Charities official.

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(DEC. 27) Archdiocese of Chicago putting greater focus on recruiting Hispanics into Catholic schools.

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(DEC. 27) Too many "people wanting to come to Mass is a good problem to have."

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(DEC. 27) Chicago Latinos react to Mexico City's legalization of same-sex marriage.

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(DEC. 26) Marian Catholic marching band headed to Pasadena for Tournament of Roses Parade.

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(DEC. 26) DePaul gets $4.7 million from government to expand human rights work in Iraq.

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(DEC. 26) Standing room-only crowd attends midnight mass at Holy Name Cathedral.

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(DEC. 26) Local Catholics react to attack on pope.

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(DEC. 26) Des Plaines family from St. Zachary Church given the Archdiocese of Chicago's Christifideles Award.

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(DEC. 26) Apparent split between Catholic bishops, hospitals over health care bill.

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(DEC. 25) Little Company of Mary volunteer turns 100, celebrates nearly 30 years of charitable work.

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(DEC. 25) Notable Catholics who died in 2009 include pioneering black priest in Chicago area.

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(DEC. 25) Priest prays over sisters injured in Little Village fire.

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(DEC. 24) New $2.2 million sanctuary debuting at Plano parish today.

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(DEC. 24) Downstate priest on bishop who's enforcing edict on kneeling during Eucharist: He "makes issues out of things that in and of themselves are not that important."

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(DEC. 24) DePaul University names six new members to board of trustees.

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(DEC. 24) Cardinal George urges American Catholics "to work and pray for peace."

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(DEC. 24) Dominican University hosting lecture on neurotheology, described as "a new science that explores how the brain and nervous system together might create, correlate with, or inform our understanding of religious experience."

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(DEC. 23) Aurora retirement community run by order of nuns won't allow manger display for Christmas -- out of respect for other religious traditions.

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(DEC. 23) Vincentian priest originally from Chicago dies in California at age 90. (Note: after visiting link, scroll down to read story.)

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(DEC. 23) Montini Catholic High School graduate, now attending College of DuPage is reported missing.

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(DEC. 23) Barrington-area activist who once was part of the Catholic Worker Movement dies.

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(DEC. 23) Catholic church in Colorado starting to offer food for hungry -- with former Chicago chef providing the chow.

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(DEC. 23) Roughly 100 parish nurses attend to needs of church-goers in Chicago region.

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(DEC. 23) Southland pastors want to step up donations to a group helping the homeless.

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(DEC. 23) South Side St. Patrick's Day parade to be replaced by 10-day festival.

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(DEC. 22) Downstate bishop getting heat for asking parishes to have those in pews kneel during Eucharistic Prayer.

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(DEC. 22) Tinley Park official to lead international Knights Templar group.

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(DEC. 22) For Brother Rice student with cerebral palsy, nothing "gets this young man down."

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(DEC. 22) Because of down economy, Christmas being celebrated differently this year for many in Indiana town.

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(DEC. 22) Former nun with Illinois ties talks about falling in love, marrying.

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(DEC. 21) Priest, who hails from Illinois, still protesting nuclear weapons -- and willing to go to jail for the cause.

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(DEC. 21) Loyola University's medical school donates thousands of X-rays and other images to museum for exhibit.

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(DEC. 21) New church in North Carolina got altars from old Chicago parish.

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(DEC. 21) Incoming Milwaukee archbishop's ties to late Chicago "swindler" resurrected.

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(DEC. 20) Wheaton parish welcomes refugees by giving them Christmas trees.

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(DEC. 20) Cardinal George offers words as Springfield cathedral is dedicated following renovations.

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(DEC. 20) New "Catholics Come Home" ad blitz "touts unified version of splintered church."

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(DEC. 20) Orthodox archbishop who just died was raised a Catholic in Chicago, attended St. Rita high school.

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(DEC. 20) St. Xavier University on Far South Side finds success in academics -- and athletics.

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(DEC. 19) Vatican declares the late popes Pius XII and John Paul II "venerable," inching them closer to sainthood.

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(DEC. 19) Orthodox archbishop for Chicago dies unexpectedly.

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(DEC. 19) Gordon Tech football player "raised in shelters, growing up on a gridiron."

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(DEC. 19) Catholic Campaign for Immigration Reform organizes symbolic march in west suburbs.

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(DEC. 19) Chicago businessman donates $1 million to John Carroll University.

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(DEC. 19) Clergy "ethical ratings" at 32-year low.

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(DEC. 18) "Sunday Suppers" draw increasing numbers of volunteers, diners at Park Ridge parish.

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(DEC. 18) More on the McCormack predator-priest commitment case, which is moving forward.

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(DEC. 18) Profile on Mount Assisi Academy in Lemont.

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(DEC. 18) Former community organizer for Catholic Charities in Chicago dies.

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(DEC. 18) Former Anglican priest recounts joining the Catholic Church. It "was the best thing I have ever done."

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(DEC. 18) Exhibition focusing on pilgrimages in the Christian, Muslim and Buddhist faith communities coming to Loyola University.

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(DEC. 18) Basketball programs at Catholic colleges such as Loyola University far from heydays.

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(DEC. 18) Lawmakers, Catholic activists push forward on immigration reform legislation.

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(DEC. 18) Milwaukee's incoming archbishop condemns "Young Catholics for Choice."

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(DEC. 18) As Ireland grapples with a sex abuse scandal, Cardinal George is held up as example of "impressive" clerics in America.

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(DEC. 17) Predator-priest McCormack dealt setback in court case.

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(DEC. 17) Lake Forest resident who helped raise big money for Holy Family Church, Catholic Theological Union dies.

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(DEC. 17) Off-duty Chicago cop accused of pulling gun on anti-abortion activist at Aurora Planned Parenthood clinic.

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(DEC. 17) The "Very Reverend Father Barney?" Fake priest indicted on 24 counts.

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(DEC. 17) Does God want you to buy baseball tickets?

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(DEC. 17) St. Xavier student wins award because of "her hard work, campus-related activities and overall enthusiasm."

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(DEC. 16) Doctor who served at local Catholic hospitals, delivering 3,000-plus babies in career, dies.

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(DEC. 16) Cardinal George to host Christmas concert Dec. 20 at Holy Family Church.

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(DEC. 16) "Catholics Come Home" ad campaign kicking off today.

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(DEC. 16) National director of religious education program dies.

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(DEC. 16) Crystal Lake parish hosting "mobile food pantry" for needy.

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(DEC. 16) Catholic Campaign for Immigration Reform among those to hold "pilgrimage" starting at Broadview Detention Center.

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(DEC. 16) Basketball programs at some Catholic colleges not what they used to be; there's talk of forming a new conference for those in Midwest.

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(DEC. 16) "Father Barney" indicted for allegedly defrauding "would-be developers" from South Bend office.

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(DEC. 16) Ramping up recruitment of Latinos in Catholic schools.

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