News

Ordained to be a Minister of Joy

It is good to remind ourselves, as priests, that making small promises regarding gestures of understanding and kindness, especially to those who offend us, intentionally or not, support, in a concrete fashion, the promise we make to imitate the Lord in all things.

Read the Special Digital Issue of the Florida Catholic - Palm Beach on Bishop Barbarito!

Pray with the Pope: For children with incurable diseases, February 2026 - “Teach us to recognize your face in every suffering child”

Looking back on his nearly 15 years as superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Palm Beach, Gary Gelo recalled a meeting in which he reminded school administrators that they are superheroes for the work they do.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, joined by other priests and laypeople, including students from Saint John Paul II Academy and Cardinal Newman High School, prayed the rosary Jan. 23, 2026, in solidarity with the March for Life in Washington.

A morning Mass Jan. 22, 2026, at St. Bernadette in Port St. Lucie honored the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children.

Thank you Bishop Barbarito for your unfailing support of marriage, family life, faith formation & youth ministry in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

Drawing on the wisdom of St. Francis de Sales, the gentle patron of love and evangelization whose patronal feast was being celebrated Jan. 24, the day of the 25th annual Men’s Rally, the event’s keynote speaker urged those in attendance to practice the virtue of humility.

In Corona, Queens, where parking spots are as scarce as miracles, Our Lady of Sorrows Church has transformed a daily challenge into a unique ministry.

This feast day celebrates both the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple and the Purification of Mary, which was required by the Mosaic Law 40 days after the birth of a child.

United in Faith and Community

United in Faith and Community is the theme for this year’s Catholic Schools Week. It reminds us that Catholic schools are a place of learning, but it’s always in the context of our faith and in communion with one another.

With a gleaming new ceiling overhead composed of panels showing nine stars each in recollection of Christ’s “ninth hour” in the Gospel of Matthew, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito blessed the holy water Jan. 10 during St. Juliana’s 75th diamond jubilee celebration.

The faithful are invited to be prayerful witnesses at the ordination of Deacon Jedidiah Preble to the diocesan priesthood Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail in Palm Beach Gardens.

As Bishop-designate Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez contemplates moving in February to his new episcopacy in the Diocese of Palm Beach, he’ll carry two recently received items: a zucchetto (skull cap) and a pectoral cross.

St. Helen School in Vero Beach — as in all Catholic schools — strives to provide an excellent education that incorporates faith, academics, service and leadership, encouraging children to incorporate their faith into their everyday activities as a witness of Christ’s love.

With tens of thousands of pro-life Americans gathering for the 53rd annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., on Friday, Jan. 23, EWTN will provide live coverage of the event.

 Kathy and Paul Leone are set to be honored with others at the 16th annual Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala for Catholic Charities Thursday, Jan. 29, at The Breakers in Palm Beach. They won’t have far to travel because Paul is the CEO of the beachfront resort.

A beloved Queens pastor is packing his bags, preparing to leave the diocese he’s long called home — as he gets ready to lead a new flock as the Bishop of Palm Beach.

The 25th annual Men’s Rally, sponsored by Catholic Men for Jesus Christ, is set for Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius. The keynote speaker will be Msgr. James Patrick Shea, president of the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, who may be known to some through his appearances at the National Eucharistic Congress in 2024 and last year’s National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C.

Catholics across the country are encouraged to observe a nationwide prayer vigil from Thursday, January 22 to Friday, January 23, 2026, to pray for an end to abortion and a greater respect for all human life.

The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage is back for 2026 with a special route that will travel the East Coast from St. Augustine, Florida, to Portland, Maine, ending in Philadelphia, organizers announced Jan. 8.

This coastal town in Indian River County once known for baseball spring training is also a retirement mecca for Catholic business leaders and working entrepreneurs eager to meet like-minded Catholics.

The Baptism of the Lord, February 11, 2026.

Pope Leo XIV gathered cardinals present for the extraordinary consistory this week for an early morning Mass Jan. 8 in St. Peter's Basilica, telling them they're together not to promote "agendas," but to take part in a "discernment" that "comes from the Lord."

On Dec. 19, Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito and appointed Bishop-Elect Rodríguez, a priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York, and a native of the Dominican Republic, as the new leader of the five-county diocese.

Catholic Women (PBDCCW) is again pleased to offer the Fr. Clem Hammerschmitt One Thousand Dollar ($1,000.00) Catholic High School Scholarship Award for the academic year 2026-2027.

Officially closing the Holy Year dedicated to hope, Pope Leo XIV criticized the way "a distorted economy" has tried to exploit and profit from everything, including the human desire for joy and true fulfillment. God offers those gifts freely to everyone, he said, during Mass on the feast of the Epiphany.

After a jubilee year not seen for centuries -- with one pope opening the Holy Door and another closing it -- Pope Leo XIV ended the Jubilee Year of Hope at St. Peter's Basilica Jan. 6 telling the world to love and seek peace, protect what is holy, and flee from modern efficiency.

The Dicastery for Communication and the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network announce the “Pray with the Pope” project, a new initiative at the service of the Holy Father’s mission.

Pope Leo XIV celebrated Christmas Mass during the Night in St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday. The Mass was attended by an estimated 6,000 people inside the basilica, while around 5,000 people gathered outside in St. Peter's Square, according to the Vatican.

Just as St. Joseph, the carpenter, was quiet and humble, the goal of the new St. Joseph Mission Ministry of Holy Family Parish in Port St. Lucie is to provide relief and aid with hands-on service and unabashed humility to the parish community and beyond.

The Serra Club of South Palm Beach County hosted its annual Christmas dinner Dec. 11, 2025, honoring men studying for the priesthood.

The Ryan Center for Young Children, a ministry of Holy Family Parish in Port St. Lucie, was gifted a large crucifix by parishioner and local police officer Ben Gaspar two years ago.

The faithful of Holy Redeemer Parish in Palm City gathered Dec. 12, 2025, to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and honoring the Virgin Mary with Mass, a procession, traditional music and delicious food.

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Reverend Monsignor Peter Dai Bui, as Auxiliary Bishop of Phoenix. Monsignor Bui is a priest of the Diocese of Phoenix and currently serves as the diocese’s Vicar for Clergy.

Bishop-elect Manuel de Jesus Rodríguez, right, a priest of the Brooklyn Diocese and a native of the Dominican Republic, joins Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito in celebrating Mass in the chapel of the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola Dec. 19, 2025.

I am grateful to our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV for his prayerful discernment in appointing a new Shepherd for the Diocese of Palm Beach in Bishop-elect Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez, a priest ordained for the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo in 2004, who has ministered as an incardinated priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn since 2012, his current assignment being the pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows, Corona, Queens.

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, currently pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Corona (Queens), New York, as the sixth Bishop of Palm Beach. The bishop-elect succeeds Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, who has served the diocese since 2003.

Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, 75, from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Palm Beach, and has appointed Reverend Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez, as Bishop-elect of Palm Beach.

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, currently pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Corona (Queens), New York, as the sixth Bishop of Palm Beach. The bishop-elect succeeds Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, who has served the diocese since 2003.

Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of His Eminence Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, 75, from the pastoral governance of the Archdiocese of New York, and has appointed Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks, currently Bishop of Joliet, as the Metropolitan Archbishop of New York.

A first-class relic of St. John Paul II was installed during the Saturday vigil Mass Dec. 6, 2025, at St. Peter Parish in Jupiter after it was carried several thousand miles from Poland by the leader of an order of women religious who serve in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito presided Dec. 5, 2025, at a Mass and luncheon with a group of Catholic Realtors at St. Jude Parish in Boca Raton.

The Palm Beach Diocesan Council of Catholic Women held its annual “Take a Sister to Brunch” event Dec. 6, 2025, hosted by Mary Immaculate Parish in West Palm Beach.

Students from St. Joan of Arc School in Boca Raton visited the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Palm Beach Gardens Dec. 4, 2025.

In 1531, the Blessed Mother appeared four times to St. Juan Diego asking for a church to be built in her honor. The last time she appeared to him, on December 12, 1531, she arranged roses in his tilma, which he then took to the bishop. When he opened his cloak, the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe was miraculously present on the tilma.

On a cold, wintery day, with the congregation gathered around Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis and Auxiliary Bishops Kevin T. Kenney and Michael Izen outside the main doors of Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, the rite of reparation began Dec. 6 that restored the space for worship.

While teaching an ethics and culture course, Heidi Bollich-Erne was looking for a journal featuring the work of Catholic women for her students to read. After being told that it simply didn’t exist, she decided to create one herself.

On Dec. 8 the Catholic Church celebrates the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception — a paramount feast in the Church’s liturgical calendar and one that indirectly touches on a regularly misunderstood but important piece of Church dogma.

Cecilia Torrisi, Respect Life director at St. Rita Parish in Wellington, was recognized in October with the 2025 Respect Life Ministry Award for the Diocese of Palm Beach at the Florida Culture of Life Conference in Miami for her unwavering commitment, creativity and tireless leadership in promoting the dignity and sanctity of life from conception to natural death.

The future is so bright at Cardinal Newman High School that a new project aims to add a bit of shade.

In a spirit of compassion and unity, St. Lucy Parish in Highland Beach brought together members of the local community who may be alone and in need of companionship for a free Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 27, 2025.

December Vocations Events throughout the USA.

December prayer intention of Pope Leo XIV: For Christians in areas of war or conflict

Advent begins this year on Sunday, Nov. 30. Most Catholics — even those who don’t often go to Mass — know that Advent involves a wreath with candles, possibly a “calendar” of hidden chocolates, and untangling strings of Christmas lights. But Advent is much more than that. Here’s an explainer of what Advent is really about.

Ahead of his first foreign trip as pope, Pope Leo XIV released an apostolic letter on the Creed, commemorating the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and its enduring importance for all Christians.

Pope Leo XIV said the U.S. bishops' special pastoral message on immigration is "a very important statement. I would invite especially all Catholics, but people of goodwill, to listen carefully to what they said."

Nearly 60 ministry leaders in faith formation and youth ministry, their catechist and core team leaders, and permanent deacons, representing 30 parishes and schools, gathered Oct. 29 in the Family Life Center of the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola for a professional development day offered by the Diocese of Palm Beach’s Office of Marriage, Family Life, Faith Formation and Youth Ministry.

Three houses of worship next door to each other in Jupiter are set to continue an annual tradition of neighborly engagement and “sweet” harmony that began in 1996 during their formative days.

A White Mass, dedicated to those working in health care, was celebrated Nov. 15, 2025, at St. Vincent Ferrer Church in Delray Beach, with the pastor, Father Dennis Gonzales, who was trained and worked as a nurse, presiding.

Sparked by the Jubilee Year of Hope and the desire to bring young adults closer to God by receiving the jubilee pilgrim indulgence, a group journeyed by foot Nov. 15, 2025, from St. Ann in West Palm Beach to the Basilica of St. Edward on Palm Beach.

The encounter will take place Friday, November 21, 2025, at 10:15 am ET | 7:15 am PT

“No one comes to the world alone, but many go out alone.” With those words, Father Gabriel Ghanoum explained the need for the No One Buried Alone ministry as he gave a dignified burial Nov. 8 to 252 souls at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach.

Many members of Sacred Heart Parish participated in a Marian music concert Oct. 17 at the Lake Worth Beach church and performed exceptionally well, according to Salomé Mondelus, director of faith formation and youth ministry. With a profound love for Mary, she said the concert is close to her heart.

Pope Leo XIV urged parishes to invest in liturgical formation, especially for lectors, while also encouraging people to pray the Liturgy of the Hours and calling for attention to be paid to popular piety.

Officers of the Palm Beach Diocesan Council of Catholic Women gathered Nov. 5, 2025, for their annual Remembrance Tree ceremony at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach to honor their deceased members, family and friends.

Today marks the beginning of a Novena for Religious Freedom, culminating on the Feast of Christ the King. Christ’s kingdom belongs to the poor and humble who embrace the cross.

Discover Catholic Schools Week (DCSW), November 16–22, 2025, is the companion to Celebrate Catholic Schools Week (CSW), January 25–31, 2025.

On the eve of the Feast of Saint Frances Cabrini, the Bishops of the United States, during our annual fall meeting in Baltimore, issued a Special Message regarding the present situation needing attention and reform.

A group of teens will speak with the Holy Father during a digital encounter at the upcoming National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in Indianapolis.

Our deacons; Servants of the Lord. Watch the new video featuring deacons of the Diocese of Palm Beach and learn more about this beautiful role within the Church.

John Carroll High School marked a milestone Oct. 23, 2025, with the grand opening of its new athletic fieldhouse, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony. A highlight of the evening was the dedication of the building in honor of former coach and mentor Dave Vercillo, who attended with many family members and friends.

After more than a decade of dedicated service, Gary Gelo, superintendent of schools, will retire in February 2026. He has led Catholic education in the diocese with vision, integrity and unwavering faith.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) will gather for the 2025 Fall Plenary Assembly, November 10-13. Public sessions of the plenary on November 11 and 12 will be livestreamed.

Let us pray that those who are struggling with suicidal thoughts might find the support, care and love they need in their community, and be open to the beauty of life.

St. Helen Parish’s Respect Life ministry sponsors a butterfly release every year in remembrance of unborn babies.

Catholic Days at the Capitol 2026: Tuesday, February 10th to Thursday, February 12th

The lives of St. John Henry Newman and of all the saints teach Christians that "it is possible to live passionately amidst the complexity of the present without neglecting the apostolic mandate to 'shine like stars in the world,'" Pope Leo XIV said.

Father Frank D’Amato, parochial vicar at Holy Family Parish in Port St. Lucie, is one of the featured interviewees in the 30-minute EWTN documentary, “Crushed by the Woman.”

When Father Gabriel Ghanoum conducts a memorial service as part of the No One Buried Alone ministry, he kisses each container of cremated remains of those who died with no known family or friends, whispering “I love you” to each. It’s a moving moment in which he expresses gratitude to each person for the life they lived, the struggles they endured and hopefully the love that they spread.

The local Knights of Columbus, a 6,000-member service organization in the Diocese of Palm Beach, hosted a pilgrimage Oct. 18, 2025, to the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola in celebration of the church’s 2025 Jubilee of Hope.

Amy Acierno, who has co-chaired the annual Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach in recent years, said her involvement is a way to support the local Catholic Church and the essential work that is accomplished for all who are in need.

We join in fervent prayer for all those so adversely affected by the catastrophic hurricane, Melissa, in the Caribbean, which includes Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti... Financial assistance can be made directly to Catholic Relief Services.

As Hurricane Melissa continued its devastating course through the Caribbean, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, urged Catholics to pray for and support the people and communities impacted by one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes on record.

Students at Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of Palm Beach joined a worldwide drive to pray the rosary Oct. 7, the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, and at other times during October, the month of the rosary.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito recently blessed the new athletic field at Saint John Paul II Academy, capping the first phase of capital improvements to sports facilities on the Boca Raton campus.

At their upcoming annual fall meeting, the nation's Catholic bishops have a full agenda of both temporal and spiritual matters -- including votes for key leadership roles as well as discussions on migration, health care directives, artificial intelligence, Eucharistic devotion and liturgical texts.

The Communications and Development Offices of the Diocese of Palm Beach recently received statewide recognition for excellence in public relations, marketing and communications.

Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul-Minneapolis delivered letters from victims of the Annunciation School shooting to Pope Leo XIV during a recent visit to Rome.

The Holy Father Leo Leo XIV recently sent a message to Bishop Bruno Feillet of Séez, France, for Oct. 18, 2025 in celebration of the tenth Anniversary of the Canonization of the parents of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Sts. Louis and Zélie Martin.

Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics to support missionaries on World Mission Day, which will be celebrated on Oct. 19.

Celebrate Respect Life Month! Join THOUSANDS of Catholics in prayer Wednesday, October 22 - Thursday, October 30.

More than a thousand Catholic groups including schools and various parish ministries across the country are expected to start their yearly push to collect toys and school supplies for impoverished children around the world.

It was a joyous occasion as the Palm Beach Diocesan Council of Catholic Women celebrated its fourth Golden Rose Award ceremony Oct. 4, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola. Twenty-one young women in the diocese were honored for their exemplary leadership and service in their parishes.

Scenes of joy, relief and tearful welcomes flooded media across the world Oct. 13 as the remaining Israeli hostages were freed from Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip as part of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado was awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize on Friday in recognition of “her tireless work in promoting the democratic rights of the Venezuelan people and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy,” according to the Nobel Committee.

The series of 2025 Jubilee deanery pilgrimages to the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, sponsored by the Diocese of Palm Beach’s Office of Hispanic Ministry, continued Oct. 4 with about 1,100 parishioners from the Central Deanery praying the rosary and celebrating Mass in Spanish.

There were multiple reasons to celebrate Oct. 4, 2025, at St. Therese de Lisieux Parish in Wellington. As the community was marking its 25th anniversary as a parish, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito was in attendance to install Father Peter Truong as pastor, just three days after the feast of St. Therese, their patroness.

The entire Church in the United States is especially encouraged to pray this Nationwide Novena in solidarity with Catholics across the country from October 10 to October 18 each year, beginning on World Mental Health Day (Oct 10) and concluding on the feast of Saint Luke the Physician (Oct 18), the patron of health care.

The Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on October 7. On this day, we celebrate the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in the Battle of Lepanto on October 7, 1571. Even though the Turkish forces were very powerful, the Christians won due to the intercession of Mary and the prayer of the Most Holy Rosary.

Pope Leo XIV on Oct. 4 signed the first apostolic exhortation of his pontificate, the text of which is expected to be released next week.

The commemoration of Jubilee 2025 by the Diocese of Palm Beach’s Office of Hispanic Ministry continued Sept. 13 with parishioners from the South Deanery making a pilgrimage to the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola.

During the annual Steps for Life Mass Sept. 27, 2025, at Emmanuel Church in Delray Beach, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito reflected on the devastating scourge of violent crime as a sign that the world is far from achieving respect for human life at all stages. At the foundation of that disrespect is the issue of abortion.

Speaking Sept. 25, 2025, at St. Bernadette Parish in Port St. Lucie, Amelia “Mia” Akins, a campus formation coordinator with Students for Life of America, detailed the scope of her national organization.

October is Respect Life Month with Sunday, October 5, as Respect Life Sunday. As we continue to celebrate this Jubilee Year of Hope, the 2025 respect life theme is Life: Our Sign of Hope.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito prayed Sept. 24, 2025, at the start of the 40 Days for Life vigil outside the abortion center on Northpoint Parkway near 45th Street in West Palm Beach.

As the weather begins to shift, and the world turns to rich autumn colors (well—more so up north than here in South Florida!), October invites us to embrace the beauty of the season—yes, including all things pumpkin spice! It’s also a time when many of our parishes come alive with fall festivals, parish picnics, and the ever-popular holiday craft bazaars.

OCTOBER | For collaboration between different religious traditions

After the pro-abortion Amendment 4 failed to garner at least 60 percent of yes votes from Florida voters in November 2024, there might be a tendency for pro-lifers to sit back, congratulate themselves and become complacent. But the message from Sara Johnson, who helped lead the Vote No on 4 campaign, is “We won the war. Let’s win the peace.

Pope Leo XIV announced he will proclaim St. John Henry Newman a doctor of the church Nov. 1 during the Jubilee of the World of Education.

Soon after his election, Pope Leo confirmed all the heads of Vatican dicasteries. But he still needed to fill the position he had held before becoming pope.

Priesthood Sunday is a special day set aside to honor priesthood in the United States. It is a day to reflect upon and affirm the role of the priesthood in the life of the Church as a central one.

The 16th Haitian Charismatic Renewal Convention for the Diocese of Palm Beach Sept. 19-21, 2025, drew an estimated 400 Creole-speaking people to the Notre Dame Mission in Fort Pierce.

Under the banner of “Live the Light of Christ,” the 2025-26 Lumen Christi Schools Appeal has begun in support of the Diocese of Palm Beach’s 18 Catholic elementary and secondary schools.

“This Jubilee Year we are challenged to be agents of hope to those whose hearts are burdened by trial, difficulty, or suffering, offering them the hope that comes from Christ Jesus alone,” Bishop Thomas said.

Pope Leo XIV has continued, and amplified, the Vatican's discussion of the promise and potential pitfalls of artificial intelligence.

The family's irreplaceable role in the church and society deserves support from both, Pope Leo XIV told a group in Rome for a reflection on "the future of life and the family" in Latin America.

As artificial intelligence evolves at lightning speed, the University of Notre Dame has convened a summit to bring Catholic and Christian values to bear on AI technology.

The Catholic Church in the United States will observe National Migration Week from September 22 to 28. This year, as the Universal Church marks its jubilee year, the World Day of Migrants and Refugees will be observed on October 4–5, coinciding with the Jubilee of Migrants.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito celebrated with Holy Cross Parish Sept. 14, 2025, as it marked 65 years of putting Jesus Christ at the center of its life and mission.

As the United States marked Patriot Day, which recalls the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, the students at St. Ann School in West Palm Beach received a living history lesson from one of the people who assisted recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site in New York City.

Pope Leo XIV on Saturday morning received Brian Burch, the new U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, in the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace for the formal presentation of his letters of credence.

In what some are calling “the Charlie Kirk effect,” people across the nation, including many college students who are not ordinarily churchgoers, have decided to go to church since the assassination last week of the conservative Christian political activist Charlie Kirk.

It was historic for the Catholic faithful around the world, especially the youth, as Pope Leo XIV proclaimed Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati as canonized saints Sept. 7, 2025, at St. Peter’s Square in Rome. It was the Holy Father’s first canonization of saints.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito prayed Sept. 6, 2025, at the start of the ordination Mass for six permanent deacons for the Diocese of Palm Beach that God, who “taught the ministers of your church to seek not to be served but to serve their brothers and sisters,” would support the men, “whom you graciously choose today for the office of deacon,” so they “may be effective in action, gentle in ministry and constant in prayer.”

Erika Kirk, the widow of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, vowed to continue her husband’s work Friday night during an impassioned and deeply personal televised address that focused on the importance of faith and family life.

The Exaltation of the Cross honors Christ’s Cross, an instrument made sacred by the Lord’s offering of Himself upon it for our salvation. It is celebrated in both Catholicism and Orthodoxy on September 14.

The White House has launched an initiative calling for prayers for the nation as part of the celebration of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

The new Subcommittee for the Promotion of Racial Justice and Reconciliation will fall under the Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development.

Charlie Kirk — founder of the conservative campus activist organization Turning Point USA and outspoken evangelical Christian — was shot dead in an apparent assassination during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 10.

Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square Sept. 7 for the highly anticipated canonization of two modern saints. Visit OSV News to see the Mass recording.

Mostly flying under the radar and with little fanfare, the St. Vincent de Paul Society helps anyone in need of life’s essentials, said Kate Devine, president of the society’s Diocese of Palm Beach district, which comprises parishes in Palm Beach County.

A presentation by Florida Voters Against Extremism on efforts to increase abortions nationwide is set for Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola’s Family Life Center, 9999 N. Military Trail in Palm Beach Gardens. The event is part of a full schedule of pro-life events planned the next month in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

Only three birthdays are celebrated on the Church’s liturgical calendar, the Nativity of Our Lord (December 25), the Nativity of His Forerunner, John the Baptist (June 24), and the Nativity of His Mother on September 8. Thus, the Church uniquely honors the three principal figures connected to the Incarnation and the Redemption.

The second Sunday of September is designated as Grandparents Day by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Although it is a secular “holiday,” the occasion provides the opportunity to honor grandparents much like we do mothers and fathers in the spring.

Catholic Charities has been alerted to fraudulent activity where scammers are falsely claiming to represent our organization.

Pope Leo XIV turns 70 on Sept. 14, and OSV News is celebrating by gathering a host of prayers into a very special “spiritual birthday bouquet” for the Holy Father. The best part? Everyone can participate.

The Diocese of Palm Beach announces an upcoming leadership transition in the Office of Catholic Schools. After more than a decade of dedicated service, Superintendent of Schools Gary Gelo will retire in February 2026. Mr. Gelo has led Catholic education in the diocese with vision, integrity and unwavering faith.

Members of St. Mary Parish in Pahokee gathered Sept. 8, 2025, to honor and celebrate the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the birthday of their patroness, with joy, love and thanksgiving.

During the summer break, many Catholic families get away for a vacation of fun and relaxation. For school administrators, especially ones whose campus is undergoing significant renovations, time away can be hard to come by.

The largest turnout ever of women throughout the diocese and beyond attended this year’s 2025 Called by Name Women’s Encounter Aug. 23 at St. Lucie Parish in Port St. Lucie.

34 couples gathered Aug. 23-24, 2025, for a Marriage Tune-Up weekend at Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center in North Palm Beach.

Several Catholic schools in the Diocese of Palm Beach tackled major projects of varying degrees over the summer.

Please join with us in prayer for the victims, families and all involved in this tragedy.”

LIVE UPDATES: Shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis MN.

On Aug. 27, one day before the feast of her son St. Augustine, the Catholic Church honors St. Monica, whose holy example and fervent intercession led to one of the most dramatic conversions in Church history.

President Donald Trump’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) warned states and American territories that they must remove references to “gender ideology” from K–12 education materials or they will lose federal funding.

Holy Cross Catholic Preschool and Center in West Palm Beach hosted professional development training Aug. 6, 2025, for more than 40 pre-K teachers from across our diocese who use the Frog Street curriculum.

Lincoln, Nebraska, Bishop James Conley this week said a proposed federal immigrant detention facility in the state must allow Catholic ministers to provide sacramental and pastoral care.

The six married men who will be ordained to the permanent diaconate Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola come to their vocation from different paths, with four of them born in other countries. But they all report a desire to serve the church and further the kingdom of God.

In union with our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, we continue to pray for the families affected by the violence in the Gaza Strip: both for the families of the hostages who have yet to be released, and for the families struggling to feed their children.

The Catholic Church annually celebrates the feast of the Queenship of Mary on Aug. 22.

Pope Leo XIV asked Catholics to observe Aug. 22 as a day of prayer and fasting for peace and justice, particularly in Ukraine and in the Holy Land.

It’s fortunate for Catholics in the Diocese of Palm Beach that Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery is here to meet their ultimate needs on 53 acres along Southern Boulevard just west of State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach.

For 30 years, community members of Notre Dame Catholic mission celebrate ‘there’s no place like home’

President Donald Trump has vowed to do “everything [he] can” to “save” imprisoned Catholic activist Jimmy Lai, promising to “see what we can do” to help the longtime human rights advocate who has languished in jail for years.

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Palm Beach opened for the 2025-26 term Aug. 11. At three local Catholic preschools, 14 elementaries and three high schools, more than 7,200 students are being educated in how to “Live the Light of Christ” today and for the rest of their lives.

As the Israeli-Hamas conflict continues, three more children arrived in Italy on a military transport plane late Aug. 13 for treatment at the Vatican-owned Bambino Gesù pediatric hospital.

As Pope Leo XIV approaches the 100th day of his ministry as pope, a look at what he has done so far and what people can expect in the days to come.

12 Things to Know and Share The Assumption of Mary

The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul, is an eloquent sign of how not only the “soul” but also the “body” is included in the biblical observation that “God found it very good” (Gn 1:31)...

In union with our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, we continue to pray for the families affected by the violence in the Gaza Strip: both for the families of the hostages who have yet to be released, and for the families struggling to feed their children.

A group of 23 teenagers and seven chaperones from Sacred Heart Parish attended a Steubenville Youth Conference in Atlanta July 11-13.

The first of four special events commemorating the Jubilee 2025 Year of Hope was held Aug. 2 at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola. About 700 parishioners from the North Deanery arrived by car, truck and bus for an opportunity to walk through the cathedral’s holy doors and celebrate the Eucharist.

The Diocese of Palm Beach Office of Catholic Schools closely monitors any tropical disturbances and inclement weather. During this hurricane season, and as always, the safety of our Diocese of Palm Beach school faculty, staff and students is a top priority.

With the motto of “Serve the Lord with Love and Kindness,” the Holy Family Council of Catholic Women tackles a summer service project in Port St. Lucie, collecting back-to-school supplies such as backpacks and canned food for children in need attending community schools.

What if with a click you could find when the next Mass closest to your location will be? That’s what Argentine computer science graduate Pablo Licheri envisioned.

The School of Christian Formation began in the 1990s as an outreach in the Diocese of Palm Beach as a way to deepen one's faith.

The Feast of the Transfiguration originated as early as the end of the 5th century, after the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14) came to be celebrated. 6 August, the date set for the Feast, is 40 days prior to the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, manifesting its close connection with it.

Pope Leo paves the way for St John Henry Newman to be formally declared a “Doctor of the Church”.

It’s hard to miss the mandate from Jesus to visit the imprisoned. It’s in the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 25, along with his urging to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, welcome the stranger, care for the ill and clothe the naked. Wrapped up in those clear directives from the Lord is the mission of Catholic Charities, and one of the cornerstones of that mission is prison ministry.

It was fitting to install a pastor July 27, 2025, when in the day’s Gospel reading Jesus’ disciples were asked, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Teaching and praying are two of the main responsibilities of a priest and pastor.

Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday participated in the Mass celebrated in St. Peter’s Basilica on the occasion of the Jubilee of Digital Missionaries and Catholic Influencers, encouraging them to create encounters “between hearts” regardless of the number of followers they have.

More than two dozen Planned Parenthood facilities across the country in recent months have announced plans to shut down amid funding concerns caused by new federal rules that prevent the abortion giant from receiving Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements.

The USCCB has endorsed the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) (S 1748). In a letter from Bishop William D. Byrne, chairman of USCCB’s Committee on Communications and Bishop Robert Barron, chairman of the USCCB's Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth.

When Blessed Carlo Acutis formally becomes St. Carlo during a canonization Mass with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican Sunday, Sept. 7, a teacher and students at a local school will be closely watching.

 During the pope’s general audiences on Wednesdays at the Vatican, he greets thousands of visitors, but it is rare to have a personal encounter with him. A family from Port St. Lucie, recently visiting Rome, received an extraordinary gift of a blessing from Pope Leo XIV.

Father John Mericantante, pastor emeritus of St. Mary Parish in Pahokee, marked his 50th anniversary of priestly ordination June 6, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish in Lantana. Many friends were in attendance at a Mass and dinner in the parish hall.

On July 26 the Roman Catholic Church commemorates the parents of the Virgin Mary, Saints Joachim and Anne.

This week the White House released its plan for artificial intelligence (AI) in the United States, which aims “to achieve global dominance in AI” and promote “human flourishing, economic competitiveness, and national security for the American people.”

The Diocese of Palm Beach’s Office of Hispanic Ministry invites local faithful to pilgrimage to the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola to celebrate Jubilee 2025.

Pope Leo XIV on Sunday prayed by name for the victims of a deadly Israeli strike on the only Catholic parish in Gaza, decrying the “barbarism of the war” as he renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire.

A federal court on July 18 temporarily blocked a new law in Washington state requiring clergy to report child abuse or neglect without exceptions for clergy-penitent privilege.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is asking a federal district court to block the government from enforcing any portion of an abortion “accommodation” rule against them while they appeal a court order that provided only partial relief from the rule.

From Detroit to California to Florida, Catholic clergy are rallying to show support and solidarity for immigrants facing deportations.

After a deadly strike on the Holy Family Church in Gaza, Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire and expressed his hopes for dialogue and reconciliation.

The church was sheltering 500 civilians, and the attack left at least three dead and multiple people injured, including its parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli.

The bishops of the United States have long been advocates of reforms to our broken immigration system. Thoughtful observers of the challenges faced by our country cannot help but recognize that serious reforms are necessary to preserve safety and the integrity of our borders, as well as to accommodate needs...

In response to the recent interpretation of the Johnson Amendment publicized by the Internal Revenue Service, the USCCB offered a statement from its spokesperson.

A day of inspiration, connection and worship is planned for women at the Called By Name 2025 Women’s Encounter Saturday, Aug. 23, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Lucie Parish, 290 N.W. Prima Vista Blvd. in Port St. Lucie.

The first pro-life memorial Mass honoring aborted babies and deceased pro-life activists took place June 28, the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, at Holy Family Church in Port St. Lucie, hosted by the parish’s Respect Life ministry.

Proceeds from the fundraising campaign are allocated to support and enhance the education of the more than 7,200 students enrolled in local Catholic schools, thanks to the generosity of many benefactors.

The General Secretariat of the Synod releases “Pathways for the Implementation of the Synod”, which provides “an interpretive key for understanding the implementation phase of the Synod on Synodality.”

Bishop Robert Barron on July 4 urged a federal court to strike down a Washington state law that would force priests to violate the seal of confession, telling the court that the law is “manifestly” disrespectful of the ancient and vital Church practice.

Beneath a canopy of Roman pines, Americans in Rome celebrated the Fourth of July this year with something more than barbecue and fireworks: the historic election of the first pope born and raised in the United States.

Following the Angelus on Sunday, Pope Leo expresses “sincere condolences” to all those who lost loved ones in devastating flash floods in Texas.

Catholics are responding with prayers and aid after record-breaking flash floods in central Texas devastated communities along the area’s rivers and killed at least 27 people.

In a unanimous vote at a special board meeting held on July 1, the village council of Dolton, Illinois, voted to purchase the childhood home of the first U.S.-born pope, Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV.

Wisconsin’s Catholic bishops said that state’s top court issued a “tragic ruling” by striking down an abortion ban Wisconsin had in place since 1849. The 4-3 ruling, issued July 2, held that the past 50 years of “comprehensive legislation” on abortion regulation had implicitly repealed the law.

Staff and volunteers with the Catholic Charities Disaster Recovery program are specially trained to assist people in the five-county Diocese of Palm Beach who are impacted by violent storms and their effects. The initial period of assistance, disaster relief, includes meeting immediate needs for food, water and shelter, said Carol Rodriguez, Catholic Charities’ program development and quality director.

More than 800 years ago, St. Francis of Assisi founded the Secular Franciscan Order, now officially known as the Order of Franciscan Seculars, a lay order within the Catholic Church. It was established canonically in 1221 for the purpose of bringing the Gospel to everyday life.

On June 29, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul to honor the two great apostles Peter and Paul. St. Peter, one of the Twelve and the chief of the Apostles, the Rock upon which Christ built His Church, and St. Paul “called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God” (Romans 1:1) and Apostle to the Gentiles.

Mary’s Immaculate Heart points us to her profound interior life, where she experienced both joys and sorrows, yet remained faithful, as we, too, are called to do. In 2025, we celebrate the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary on June 28.

St. John Paul II, a great devotee of the Sacred Heart, said, “This feast reminds us of the mystery of the love of God for the people of all times.” In 2025, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 27.

The Christ Child Society of Boca Raton has established its first Little Library outside Place of Hope in Boca Raton.

The new Eucharistic adoration chapel at St. Clare Parish, using space that had been a reconciliation room in the church building, was “funded on prayer,” said Father Nick Zrallack, pastor.

June 24th the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, and on 29 August, we will celebrate the memorial of his martyrdom.

This Weekend June 21st and 22nd 2025 we celebrate Corpus Christi, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. To commemorate this holy day please join one of the many Eucharistic Processions in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, together with Gary Gelo, superintendent of schools, have announced the appointment of Laurie Suarez Wilt as the next principal of Sacred Heart School in Lake Worth Beach, which became effective April 28.

Saint John Paul II Academy announced May 22 that Edward Bernot, current school principal, would assume the role of president, effective immediately.

The diocesan School of Christian Formation celebrated the end of another year of classes June 5, 2025, with a Mass at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola and dinner of appreciation for its teachers.

This Weekend June 21st and 22nd 2025 we celebrate Corpus Christi, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. To commemorate this holy day please join one of the many Eucharistic Processions in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

Pope Leo XIV presided over the solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity in St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday and invited Catholics to enter the “dynamism of God’s inner life” and be open to encounter with others.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori-based religious formation program for children starting at age 3 that is offered at five parishes in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

This year celebrate your Father’s Day with a little Catholic pizzazz…

The Vatican announced Friday that Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, two young Catholics beloved for their vibrant faith and witness to holiness, will be canonized together on Sept. 7.

As Congress considers legislation to cut Medicaid funding, Catholic social teaching calls us to advocate for access to health care for those who are poor and vulnerable.

A U.S.-based biotech company has announced the launch of Nucleus Embryo, a company that screens human embryos for desired genetic profiles, a practice the Catholic Church teaches violates human dignity and contributes to a eugenic mentality.

During a subsequent sabbatical, Bottaro had an idea: therapy inspired by Christ’s “model of accompaniment.” It wouldn’t be a week-to-week check-in, where Bottaro said clients often forgot the problems they meant to ask about, or run up against the session time constraints.

Pope Leo XIV on Saturday said the Catholic Church is open to establishing a common date of Easter among all Christian churches, echoing one of the aims of the Council of Nicaea that met 1,700 years ago.

In 2025, the memorial of Mary, Mother of the Church is celebrated on June 9. The theological roots of this title go back to the early Church. The Fathers of the Church, holy and studious bishops of the first centuries, often spoke of Mary as the New Eve...

The Diocese of Palm Beach honors its Catholic high school graduates, particularly the valedictorians and salutatorians, with senior spotlights. In the last of three articles shining a light on excellence in Catholic education, the Florida Catholic spoke with the top seniors at Saint John Paul II Academy.

Pope Leo XIV on Saturday urged Catholics to embrace the Holy Spirit as a source of freedom and grace, addressing a crowd of tens of thousands during his first Pentecost as pope and calling on the faithful to adopt “the way of the Beatitudes” to spread the Gospel message.

Due to inclement weather, this year’s May crowning at Lourdes Noreen McKeen Residences was moved indoors May 12 to the Skaff Family Chapel. While it rained outside, the chapel was filled with light...

William Cone, reporter and photographer for the Diocese of Palm Beach and the Florida Catholic, was interviewed recently by radio host Carolyn Dean on WDMC, Divine Mercy Radio, 920 AM, on her “Living Catholic” talk show.

Seasons change, but the wisdom of the church never does: “Keep God at the center of your marriage.” That was the message given to engaged couples by Deacon Louis Romero, diocesan marriage ministry coordinator during a May 10 marriage preparation program

Pope Leo XIV, along with representatives of the Romanian church and the country's Jewish community, paid tribute to the martyred bishop June 2 during an evening ceremony in the Sistine Chapel.

Concluding the Jubilee of Families, Children, Grandparents and the Elderly in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the role of marriage, family unity and God's love in building peace and harmony in the world.

Looking back, Will Ochoa and Capri Crespo, the two top graduates at John Carroll High School, say they found a successful balance while maintaining high standards in their schoolwork. Both were pleased to be named “summa cum laude” graduates and co-valedictorians by their Fort Pierce school.

St. Paul VI established the World Communications Day tradition in 1967. Early papal messages were dedicated to television, cinema, video and even audio cassettes.

More than 850 participants, representing numerous parishes in the diocese with Hispanic communities, gathered May 25 at Cardinal Newman High School for the 37th diocesan Encuentro, a day of formation, communion and mission.

The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women gathered to celebrate 40 years of faithful service within their parishes and diocese at their 39th annual convention May 23-24 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens.

This Novena begins on the day after the Solemnity of the Ascension, Friday of the 6th Week of Easter, even if the Solemnity of the Ascension is transferred to the 7th Sunday. The novena in honor of the Holy Spirit is the oldest of all novenas since it was first made at the direction of Our Lord Himself when He sent His apostles back to Jerusalem to await the coming of the Holy Spirit on the first Pentecost.

The Archdiocese of Chicago has scheduled a Mass and a special program June 14 to celebrate the election and inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, and participants will get a video message from the native son of the Windy City.

The team will travel with the Blessed Sacrament through parts of the Midwest before heading to Texas and along the states of the Southwestern United States. This year's pilgrimage route will include numerous opportunities to encounter Jesus, including daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Eucharistic Processions, witness talks, and fellowship meals with the Perpetual Pilgrims.

The Holy See’s official website Vatican.va has a new, modern design, presenting papal teaching to the world in a more accessible format, according to the Dicastery for Communication.

At his inaugural Mass in 1978, Pope John Paul II laid out what would become the central message of his long and fruitful pontificate: “Be not afraid.” For Ashlie O’Brien, who has adopted St. John Paul II as her most powerful intercessor, his words are a driving force as she prepares for a major change in her life.

Speaking with Dillon Schneider and Sam Almazan Jr., the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, at Cardinal Newman High School, they easily call to mind the special teachers who have left positive impressions on them.

Dominican Sister Elizabeth Dunn, director at Hope Rural School in Indiantown, was recognized by the Diocese of Palm Beach’s Office of Catholic Schools at an administrators meeting.

On May 14, Father Duván Bermúdez, director of the School of Christian Formation, reminded the 85 graduates of the program that the celebration was not the culmination of their mission but the beginning.

St. John Paul II Academy, in the Diocese of Palm Beach, is pleased to announce that Mr. Edward Bernot, current school principal, will assume the role of president, effective immediately.

As we face the beginning of the hurricane season, we pray that we will be blessed with no major storms in our area.

The Gospel parable of the "wasteful sower" who casts seeds on fertile soil as well as on a rocky path "is an image of the way God loves us," Pope Leo XIV told visitors and pilgrims at his first weekly general audience.

The Knights of Columbus sponsored an April 23, 2025, gathering, “Refreshments, Socializing & Truth: A Catholic Perspective on Infertility,” to discuss in vitro fertilization and faith-aligned fertility solutions in the Mercy Center at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Boca Raton.

The 2025 National Eucharistic Pilgrimage kicked off Sunday, May 18, with an opening Mass in downtown Indianapolis where an estimated 1,000 people, including many young families, joined Archbishop Charles C. Thompson to officially launch this year’s pilgrimage.

U.S. President Donald Trump has tapped San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone to serve on an advisory board for the country’s newly established Religious Liberty Commission, according to an announcement from the archdiocese.

Launching his papacy with a call for reconciliation and communion, Pope Leo XIV formally began his ministry as the successor of St. Peter by calling for “a united church, a sign of unity and communion, which becomes a leaven for a reconciled world.”

Sixteen educators in Catholic schools gathered in April for two days of training in how to establish and sustain learning environments that embrace STREAM education, which stands for science, technology, religion, engineering, arts and math.

Pope Leo XIV delivered the following homily at the Mass for the Initiation of the Petrine Ministry in St. Peter's Square on Sunday, May 18, after being elected the 266th successor of St. Peter on May 8.

The 2025 International Marian Festival May 4 at Emmanuel Parish in Delray Beach honored the Mother of God with a colorful display of cultural diversity.

Pope Leo XIV will formally begin his ministry as bishop of Rome with a liturgy steeped in tradition and rich in symbolism May 18.

Pope Leo XIV, elected on Thursday, is the first pope from the Order of St. Augustine (OSA), also known as the Augustinians, an ancient religious order with thousands of members worldwide.

Catholic News Service recorded an interview with then Fr. Robert Prevost, OSA in 2012 that they have reposted on YouTube. The interview is wide-ranging and includes his thoughts on critical thinking in terms of fake news and the internet, vocations, etc

During a special Mass April 30 at Saint John Paul II Academy, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito welcomed 25 students and one teacher into full communion with the Catholic Church.

The celebration of Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27, at St. Andrew Church in Stuart was marked by deep reverence, with the faithful participating in Eucharistic adoration, singing the rosary and Divine Mercy chaplet, receiving the sacrament of reconciliation and joining in the Mass.

Since arriving in the United States and entering the seminary for the Diocese of Palm Beach in 2021, Father Jude Ogochukwu Okeke has made a lot of friends, and many of them were in attendance May 3, 2025, as he was ordained a priest for the diocese at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola.

Priest appointments made by Most Reverend Gerald M. Barbarito, Bishop of Palm Beach

Pope Leo XIV, in his first Mass as pope, said Christians must offer witness in a world that prefers power, pleasure and success to faith.

"Peace be with all of you!" - the first words of Pope Leo XIV. The Conclave has elected Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome. The new pope was announced to the waiting crowds by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti.

“Thanks be to God for calling Pope Leo XIV to lead the Church of our time. It is thrilling to see an American named pope. We promise our prayers that the Lord will guide and support the Holy Father throughout his pontificate. God bless and sustain Pope Leo XIV and, through his service, the whole Church and the world.”

For Christians in the Middle East, this moment carries particular significance. These ancient communities, rooted in lands marked by instability and loss, have not seen a pope from their region since the seventh century. And yet their presence endures — reduced in number but not in faith; marginalized politically, yet vital to the universal Church.

Several famous and well-visited locations within Vatican City have been transformed for the conclave. Here’s a map of the key locations within Vatican City you should know about as the conclave begins.

A new law in the U.S. state of Washington which requires “members of the clergy” to report cases of child abuse or neglect learned in the confessional to police is being looked at by the U.S. Justice Department to see if it violates the First Amendment of the United States.

A panel of scholars at The Catholic University of America (CUA) addressed what they believe the cardinals may be looking for when electing the next pope.

On May 7, an expected 133 cardinal electors will enter the Sistine Chapel to elect the new Roman pontiff, the successor to Pope Francis, who shied away from giving red hats to the traditional archdioceses but opted to give the honor to far-flung places, many of which had never had a cardinal before.

While people around the world are praying for the cardinals who will enter the conclave May 7 to elect the next pope, Vatican workers were busy with hammers, saws and wrenches preparing the Sistine Chapel as the cardinals' polling place.

The following is a snapshot of the papacies of the 11 popes that preceded Pope Francis, from Pope Benedict XVI to Blessed Pope Pius IX.

As the Catholic Church continues through a period of interregnum between the reign of popes, Chinese authorities have made moves to assert the Church in China’s autonomy from Rome by unilaterally “electing” two bishops — including in a diocese already led by a Vatican-appointed bishop.

The conclave to elect a new pope, scheduled to begin May 7, is governed by two texts: a rule book and a prayer book.

The cardinals who enter the Sistine Chapel May 7 to elect a new pope use smoke signals to communicate with the outside world.

The Catholic Church dedicates the entire month of May to the Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of God and spiritual mother of all.

The College of Cardinals has requested that all Catholics pray for them, so that they may listen the Holy Spirit as they discern whom to choose as the next Pope.

St. Joseph, the beloved spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary and earthly father of Jesus, is celebrated twice by the Catholic Church every year — first on March 19 for the feast of St. Joseph, Husband of Mary, and again on May 1 for the feast of St. Joseph the Worker.

The conclave to elect the 267th Pope will begin on May 7th, following the conclusion of the Novemdiales Masses to pray for the eternal repose of the late Pope Francis. The date was set on Monday morning by the approximately 180 cardinals present (just over a hundred of whom are electors) gathered for the fifth General Congregation in the Vatican

Ahead of the May 7 start of the papal conclave, the Pontifical Missions Societies USA is inviting faithful to pray -- not only for the assembly as a whole, but for a specific cardinal elector who will help to choose the next successor of St. Peter.

The conclave that begins May 7 is expected to be the largest in history, with a wide geographical mix of cardinal-electors.

Thousands gathered for a massive Mass outside the Metropolitan Cathedral in Buenos Aires to remember the life and legacy of Pope Francis, whose ministry as archbishop in the Argentine capital of taking the church to the peripheries and prioritizing the poor became a template for his pontificate.

During the mourning period for Pope Francis parishes throughout the Diocese of Palm Beach are celebrating Masses of Remembrance and Prayer.

Monday, April 28, 2025, 7:00 pm

The College of Cardinals announced Monday that the conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor will begin on May 7, as the Church enters the final preparatory phase for choosing its 267th pope.

At the Easter Vigil April 19, 2025, after completing a period of formation in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, 25 catechumens and candidates (nine unbaptized, 16 baptized) entered into full communion with the Catholic Church at Holy Family parish.

At the annual chrism Mass April 15 at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito prepared and blessed the holy oils that will be used for sacramental purposes for the next 12 months throughout the five-county diocese.

This year Divine Mercy Sunday falls on April 27, 2025. Find out the basics from TheDivineMercy.org.

When most people learn that Deacon Jude Okeke has been studying for the priesthood for 20 years they think he’s kidding. But it’s no joke. In native Nigeria, it’s normal for boys to enter the seminary early and prepare for about 18 years.

A Mass marking the Catholic Church’s worldwide Jubilee of People with Disabilities is planned for 10:30 a.m. Sunday, April 27, at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola. All are invited to make a pilgrimage to the cathedral for this important celebration.

Join EWTN for prayer, devotions, and the funeral Mass live from the Vatican

This novena has been prepared to help pray for the Pope during the time of mourning. The daily novena – lasting for the novendiales period from April 26 to May 4, 2025 – consists of a short reading from Scripture or some other ecclesiastical text and some brief prayers, including orations drawn from the Roman Missal and the Order of Christian Funerals.

The start of a papal interregnum brings many terms that may not be familiar to many people, including many Catholics. Here are some of the key words and phrases that will be used throughout the interregnum, especially the conclave to elect the new pope.

The first General Congregation of the College of Cardinals takes place in the Vatican, marking the beginning of a period of prayer, reflection, and preparation following the death of Pope Francis.

Funeral of Pope Francis to be held Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m.: Follow along on this live blog

Upon the news from the Holy See announcing the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, issued the following statement in remembrance...

The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops joins with many others around the world in mourning the death of Pope Francis and reflecting on his life and ministry.

265th Successor to St. Peter

“We would not be able to serve our diverse flocks, which reflect the rich tapestry of our society overall, without the faithful men and women who come to serve through the Religious Worker Visa Program,” said Archbishop Broglio and Bishop Seitz in a letter to Congress this week.

With Holy Week underway, Pope Francis' presence at the Vatican's Holy Week and Easter liturgies is still uncertain.

The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Clergy issued a decree updating the Church’s norms governing Mass intentions and stipends, emphasizing both proper spiritual understanding and practical solutions for modern pastoral challenges.

The 19th annual Bernard and Betty Egan Memorial Golf Classic to benefit the Samaritan Center shelter for homeless families is set for Friday, May 30, at the Indian River Club, 800 Carolina Circle S.W. in Vero Beach. Check-in will begin at 11:30 a.m., with a shotgun start at 1 p.m.

EWTN offers recourses and information to understand and enter into Holy Week.

The 30 high school students who gathered April 4, 2025, at the Duncan Conference Center in Delray Beach were part of a new retreat experience by the diocesan Office of Vocations and Seminarians.

The Catholic bishops of Florida honored four people at the annual Catholic Days at the Capitol breakfast March 19, 2025, in Tallahassee.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach is having a baby shower, and you’re invited to give gifts to help expectant mothers and families in need. Items are being collected during April throughout the diocese as part of the agency’s Walking with Moms in Need campaign.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a Montessori-based religious formation program for children, beginning at the age of three. It seeks to create and facilitate a sacred, “hands-on” environment for children called an atrium.

The Southern Deanery of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women held its spring general meeting and installation of officers March 22, 2025, at St. Lucy Parish in Highland Beach.

The No One Buried Alone ministry honored the lives of 101 souls March 29 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach, providing a dignified burial to those who would otherwise be forgotten.

The Way of the Cross is one of the most personal, meditative and graphic of any Catholic devotion.

Presiding at the ordination of 14 transitional deacons March 29, 2025, Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami said it was “a blessed day for the church here in Florida.”

The first Spanish-language Marriage Tune-Up by the Diocese of Palm Beach’s Marriage Ministry was presented March 22-23 at Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center in North Palm Beach. The program covers the foundational issues that ensure a happy marriage, such as making sure God and prayer are at the center and that both spouses are effectively communicating.

Since becoming president of the National Catholic Educational Association in August 2024, Steven Cheeseman has made it his mission to familiarize himself with dioceses and schools throughout the nation. As part of that effort, he visited schools in the Diocese of Palm Beach March 13.

The Vatican has published the official calendar of liturgical celebrations planned for Holy Week, but it has not clarified whether Pope Francis will preside.

The Cathedral will offer 24 Hours of Eucharistic Exposition on Friday March 28, 2025 starting at 9 a.m., in conjunction with the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Amid plans for a blasphemous “black mass” at the Kansas Capitol building set to take place on March 28, Catholics in the state and elsewhere are urging a prayerful, peaceful response, the centerpiece of which will be adoration and Mass at a Catholic church directly opposite the Capitol.

The Shroud of Turin, one of Catholicism’s most valued devotional items, will be digitally showcased during the Holy Year 2025, allowing visitors to engage with the revered relic like never before.

Nearly one year after Florida’s Supreme Court cleared the way for the Heartbeat Protection Act to take effect, 64% of Florida voters support the law, according to a new poll by Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy.

At the request of the Holy See, Catholic dioceses worldwide have designated local cathedrals, other churches and shrines as local pilgrimage sites during the 2025 Jubilee Year. While none outside of Rome have designated Holy Doors — as cathedrals did for the 2015 Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy — these sites are still special places for prayer and a place where pilgrims may receive an indulgence if they meet certain requirements.

On March 20, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities” designed to eventually eliminate the U.S. Department of Education. The U.S. Conference of Bishops (USCCB) responded to the new order.

For the 19th time, members of St. Anastasia Parish and San Juan Diego Hispanic Pastoral Center are preparing to stage their popular Passion play that has grown to embody a ministry with more than 100 in the cast and crew.

Today we celebrate the solemnity of the Annunciation. It’s typically celebrated on March 25, unless it falls during Holy Week, by which it is superseded.

In his homily at a March 15, 2025, healing Mass at St. Vincent Ferrer Church in Delray Beach, where he is the pastor, Father Gonzales urged those in attendance, many of whom are Catholic health care professionals, to adhere to the teachings of Jesus from the day’s Gospel reading: “be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

Women from across the Diocese of Palm Beach participated in the 14th annual Catholic Women of Faith, Women of Action conference March 15, 2025, at Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Church in Royal Palm Beach.

All are invited to the 11 a.m. Saturday, March 29, diaconate ordination Mass for Diocese of Palm Beach seminarian Jedidiah Preble at St. Joan of Arc Church, 370 S.W. Third St. in Boca Raton.

At the request of the Holy See, Catholic dioceses worldwide have designated local cathedrals, other churches and shrines as local pilgrimage sites during the 2025 Jubilee Year. While none outside of Rome have designated Holy Doors -- as cathedrals did for the 2015 Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy -- these sites are still special places for prayer and a place where pilgrims may receive an indulgence if they meet certain requirements.

The Vatican announced on Saturday its latest plans for the Synod on Synodality’s ongoing implementation — a multiyear “accompaniment and evaluation process” leading to a Church-wide assembly at the Vatican in October 2028.

Dioceses, parishes, schools, Catholic groups and individual continue to come to Rome as Jubilee pilgrims. They are missing the pope while he is in the hospital, but the pilgrimage experience is still strong.

Joseph placed himself at the service of God’s plan of salvation. He cared for the Holy Family that God had entrusted to him. He became an attentive servant from the moment of the Annunciation, a provident servant in caring for Mary and the Child she carried in her womb.

Microsoft's Minecraft Education and the Vatican launch "Peter is Here: AI for Cultural Heritage," an interactive game where students can explore and restore St. Peter’s Basilica. Featuring simulated AI tools and historical figures, the game offers an educational journey to discover art, history and faith.

Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated every year on March 17, marking the feast day of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This day is observed by Catholics and other Christians worldwide, especially in Ireland, where it is both a religious and cultural celebration.

Like his favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, onions and bacon), Tom Monaghan served up nuggets of wisdom for students in fourth through eighth grade at Rosarian Academy.

On first Saturdays at St. John the Evangelist in Boca Raton, there is a Women of Grace spiritual study program for women, Morning of Grace. The two-hour mini-retreat promotes life-changing spiritual growth with an increasing desire to strive to always live a virtuous life.

CRS, the official international relief and development agency of the U.S. Catholic community, is marking the 50th anniversary of its Rice Bowl program, which has raised more than $350 million to support domestic and overseas poverty relief efforts.

Amid reports that a Kansas “Satanist” group is planning to hold a so-called “black mass” at the Kansas Capitol later this month, the Catholic bishops of the state are urging prayer and exploring their legal options.

The Act, which already passed the House in January, would prevent federally funded sports programs under Title IX from permitting male students to participate in athletic programs designated for women and girls.

The annual celebration of Catholic Sisters Week is observed March 8–14 to honor the women who have taken religious vows, acknowledge their tireless work, and encourage more women to explore religious life.

The Vatican elevates St. Edward Church as a minor basilica

The USCCB has composed this novena to be prayed yearly on March 10-18, the nine days that precede the Solemnity of Saint Joseph on March 19

The Guild of Catholic Lawyers of the Diocese of Palm Beach hosted a continuing-education session in Palm Beach Gardens Feb. 27, 2025, around the theme of “In the Church and in the Court.”

The Catholic Church has a series of practices and traditions that mark the liturgical calendar and guide the spiritual life of its faithful. Among these are fasting and abstinence during Lent, the 40-day period of preparation for Easter.

In a prerecorded message, Pope Francis thanked those gathered for the rosary prayer service in St. Peter’s Square on Thursday night.

“As pastors, we see the suffering of so many couples experiencing infertility and know their deep desire to have children is both good and admirable; yet the Administration’s push for IVF, which ends countless human lives and treats persons like property, cannot be the answer."

“Made of ashes and earth, we experience fragility through illness, poverty, and the hardships that can suddenly befall us and our families,” the pope said in his homily prepared for Ash Wednesday read by Cardinal Angelo De Donatis.

The Archdiocese of Indianapolis is currently investigating a possible Eucharistic miracle.

Thirteen students from St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary participated Feb. 22, 2025, in a day of spiritual renewal for adults with physical disabilities sponsored by AIM, an outreach ministry of St. Joan of Arc Parish in Boca Raton.

Ash Wednesday begins the holy season of Lent, which is structured to spiritually prepare to walk with the Lord through his passion and celebrate his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Here are 10 important things to know about Ash Wednesday and its significance.

Workshops on setting and maintaining healthy boundaries, discussing current issues and encouraging discussion were recently held for priests in the Diocese of Palm Beach. The Office of Safe Environments arranged the meetings from Feb. 3-6, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola in Palm Beach Gardens, St. Bernadette in Port St. Lucie and St. Jude in Boca Raton.  

As Lent begins on March 5, we are reminded of the opportunity to grow in faith as we journey in the desert with Jesus for 40 days. Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving are the three areas in which we are called to focus throughout the Lenten season as we prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Christ on Easter.

March is here, bringing with it the first signs of spring - longer days, new growth, and the promise of renewal. Just as nature awakens, we are invited to open our hearts to God's presence in our lives. As the season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on March 5, let us be reminded to pause, reflect, and draw closer to Him. This is a time to fast, pray, and give alms. This month, let's embrace His guidance, seek His wisdom, and trust that He is leading us toward new life in Christ's Resurrection.

The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women is pleased to offer the Fr. Clem Hammerschmitt Catholic High School Scholarship Award again this year.

The Trump administration "immediately terminated" its contract with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for refugee resettlement, effective Feb. 27, according to letters issued by the U.S. State Department a day earlier.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance led attendees at the 2025 National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in a prayer for Pope Francis’ health after speaking about his own conversion to the Catholic faith and the goals of President Donald Trump’s administration.

Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, LC, president of the Governorate of Vatican City State and president of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, celebrated his 80th birthday on Saturday, March 1, marking his departure from these crucial Vatican positions.

As we approach the beginning of Lent on Wednesday March 5, 2025 now is an excellent time to reflect on how you can draw closer to Christ and bring others with you. Here are 6 ways to evangelize this lent from the USCCB.

At the start of the 35th annual Black Cultural Awareness Mass Feb. 22, 2025, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito expressed gratitude for Black History Month and St. Francis of Assisi Parish’s celebration. “We give thanks to God, and we ask God to continue to pour out his blessings upon us, we who are one family. No matter what our background is, no matter where we come from, no matter what we do, no matter what our age is, we are one family made in the image and likeness of God,” he said.

The Vatican recently designated the church of St. Edward in Palm Beach as a minor basilica, making it one of 94 in the United States, one of seven in Florida, one of two in South Florida — and the only basilica in Palm Beach County

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito reflected on lasting love at the second of two diocesan wedding anniversary celebrations Feb. 15, 2025, at St. Jude Church in Boca Raton.

The Knights and Dames of the Southeast Florida area of the Order of Malta sponsored its annual Mass of anointing Feb. 11, 2025, the World Day of the Sick and feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.

In his message for Lent 2025, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of living one’s life as a constant journey of conversion, choosing to walk in peace and hope aside one’s fellow humans.

Catholic Charities celebrated its 15th annual Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala Jan. 30, 2025, with an unforgettable evening at the historic Breakers Hotel. It marked the gala’s Crystal Jubilee in support of essential outreach programs that are transforming lives within our communities.

During this special year, Catholics have the opportunity to gain indulgences by making pilgrimages, prayerfully visiting specific churches, or practicing works of mercy. Can’t make it all the way to Rome but still want to participate as a pilgrim? The good news is that according to the Vatican, pilgrims anywhere in the world who undertake “a pious pilgrimage to any sacred jubilee site” and devoutly participate in holy Mass can obtain the indulgence.

The latest news of Pope Francis from Vatican News and the Catholic News Agency

Follow here for the latest news on Pope Francis’ health and hospitalization:

Today’s feast places the Chair or “Cathedra” of Saint Peter at the center of our attention – or rather the specific mission Jesus entrusted to Peter.

Are you a Florida Catholic who wants to put your faith into action? The Florida Catholic Advocacy Network (FLCAN) provides opportunities to stay informed and use your voice to advocate for the protection of human life and dignity in our state’s law and public policies.

Organizers on Tuesday announced the full route for the next iteration of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, which will see Christ in the Eucharist carried some 3,300 miles from Indianapolis to Los Angeles beginning in May.

For decades, the USCCB has partnered with the U.S. government and locally based Catholic partners to help nearly a million individuals find safety and build their lives in the United States. The unilateral and unexplained decision of the government to suspend this program will have devastating impacts on refugees, making it harder for them to establish themselves in their new home.

A great honor was bestowed upon Saint Edward Church in Palm Beach on Dec. 13, 2024, when the church was elevated to the status of a minor basilica.

"The Pope spent a restful night, woke up and had breakfast," the Holy See Press Office shared in a note to journalists on Wednesday morning, following the Press Office's statement Tuesday evening that the Pope has double pneumonia.

Pope Francis remains in the hospital; the Vatican has not given an idea of how long he will be there. This story has been updated after the Vatican's evening medical bulletin.

Pope Francis writes to U.S. Bishops affirming their work on behalf of migrants and they respond.

Starting in 2006, Students for Life of America has become a formidable force in the pro-life movement, with 1,506 groups on college, high school and graduate campuses nationwide and more than 213,000 advocates trained to counter pro-abortion arguments.

Pope Francis, who was hospitalized in Rome Friday, is improving and asks people to continue their prayers for him.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito spent part of Feb. 2, 2025, the World Day for Consecrated Life, with many of the women and men who live that life of prayerful service to God’s people in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

The first Vatican Summit on Longevity will take place on March 24, bringing together experts and world leaders to explore the most advanced scientific discoveries and reflect on the fundamental ethical values ​​that guide research in this field.

Love was in the air at St. Lucie Church for the 2025 diocesan wedding anniversary Mass Feb. 8, 2025. There were many smiling faces as the anniversary couples married 25 to 70-plus years were eager to renew their commitment and dedication to each other.

The Vatican Wednesday Feb. 5, 2025 announced that Pope Francis had appointed three new bishops to dioceses in the United States.

Since 1974, Catholic Schools Week has been an annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. Catholic schools have an irreplaceable role in the church’s evangelizing mission.

Despite the rain at St. Bernadette Parish in Port St. Lucie Jan. 22, 2025, the 52nd anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Roe vs. Wade ruling, the pro-life commitment to honor the sanctity of all human life was not dampened.

“In today’s world, relationships are often viewed as disposable. The commitment to fidelity and love that marriage entails is a source of hope for all generations,” said Bishop Robert Barron...

An array of pro-life speakers appeared Feb. 1, 2025, for the Treasure Coast’s 15th annual March for Life rally at the Birthline/Lifeline pregnancy care center in Fort Pierce, with the theme of “Working Together for Life.”

Jesus Thirsts: The Miracle of the Eucharist is available as of February 4th to own or rent (U.S. & Canada)! Find it on Amazon, iTunes, Google and Vudu. This is the perfect movie to lead us through Eucharistic Revival and the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025.

Today’s liturgical memorial recalls the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Lourdes which began on 11 February 1858. The protagonist of this series of events was a girl named Bernadette Soubirous, today numbered among the host of Saints.

Catholic Charities, on January 30, 2025, celebrated its 15th Annual Caritas Dei Bishops Gala. This was an unforgettable evening at the historic Breakers Hotel that celebrated the Caritas Dei Bishops Gals Crystal Jubilee in support of essential outreach programs that are transforming lives within our community.

The observances of National Marriage Week (February 7-14) and World Marriage Day (Sunday, February 9) are an opportunity to focus on building a culture of life and love that begins with supporting and promoting marriage and the family. Our theme for 2025 is “Marriage: Source of Hope, Spring of Renewal. Pursue a Lasting Love!”

Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami, a member of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) committee that oversees migration and refugee services, spoke with EWTN’s Raymond Arroyo on “The World Over”

Jubilee volunteers, in lime green jackets and vest, have become a mainstay outside the Vatican.

More than 10,000 pilgrims from 138 countries joined the Jubilee of the World of Communications in Rome. Events included a meeting and Mass with Pope Francis, conferences and breakout sessions with others working in media, and a pilgrimage to the Holy Door in St. Peter's Basilica as part of a spiritual journey to renew one's faith and vocation in media.

At St. Anastasia Parish Jan. 16, 2024, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito congratulated parishioners and remarked on the beautiful works of art “which depict our faith and the deepness that we have in our faith” during a celebration to consecrate its renovated church in Fort Pierce.

Born in Brooklyn, New York on January 4, 1950, Bishop Barbarito was ordained to the presbyterate by Brooklyn Bishop Francis J. Mugavero of St. Francis of Assisi, Astoria, on January 31, 1976.

The warm temperatures Jan. 18, 2025, fit the “It’s a Sailabration” theme perfectly at the Palm Beach Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s 30th annual Inspirations fashion show and luncheon fundraiser at The Club at Admirals Cove near the Intracoastal Waterway.

Florida legislators gathered in Tallahassee on Monday, January 27, 2025, to convene for a special session called by Governor DeSantis to address a range of topics, including immigration.

Parishioners in the Diocese of Palm Beach may make a Jubilee 2025 pilgrimage to the holy doors at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola!

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued the following statement on its long-time partnership with the federal government to serve refugees...

It is customary at this time of year to share with you the results of the Administrative Offices of our Diocese of Palm Beach for the fiscal year ended June 30.  It is also a perfect time to give thanks to God and to reflect upon the many blessings He has bestowed upon us, and in particular, we are especially thankful having recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of the establishment of our Diocese.

Pueri Cantores, the national student choral organization of the Catholic Church, invites all parish and school treble and mixed voice choirs (grades 4-12) in the region to participate in a Festival & Mass Saturday March 8, 2025

Get ready to mark your calendars for an unforgettable Catholic Schools Week experience! Our Diocese of Catholic Schools has an incredible lineup of daily activities and themes that will leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated. With our theme of "United in Faith and Community," you'll witness firsthand how we foster not only academic excellence but also spiritual and moral growth in our students. Come join us on this journey with the Lord, and discover the magic that happens when faith and education blend seamlessly together. Stay tuned for an unforgettable week ahead!

The vigil concludes at 8:00 AM on Friday, January 24 with the Closing Mass celebrated by Bishop Robert J. Brennan of Brooklyn.

“Our prayer is one of hope that, as a Nation blessed with many gifts, our actions demonstrate a genuine care for our most vulnerable sisters and brothers, including the unborn, the poor, the elderly and infirm, and migrants and refugees. The just Judge expects nothing less.”

Join us in Prayer January 22, 2025 for the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

The USCCB offered the following statement in anticipation of the Executive Orders expected to be signed today by President Trump ...

Pope Francis marked the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump with a message and prayers for wisdom and efforts to promote peace and reconciliation.

Join fellow Catholics from around the state as they gather in Tallahassee to participate in Catholic Days at the Capitol 2025. Participants attend a legislative briefing on issues prior to scheduled meetings with their elected officials.

“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. challenged all to live out the principle of solidarity and human dignity. As we commemorate what would have been his 96th birthday, Dr. King’s message continues to have an impact on our lives today..."

Parishioners are urged to sign up now for Catholic Days at the Capitol, which is an opportunity to travel to Tallahassee, view the legislative process in action, advocate for policies that promote human life and dignity, and pray for and with Florida’s bishops and elected leaders.

The men who attended the annual rally presented by Catholic Men for Jesus Christ didn’t have to look far to find many golden nuggets of knowledge and inspiration.

It was smooth sailing as more than 1,350 Catholic men packed the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola on Jan. 11 to hear popular Catholic speaker Father Mike Schmitz at the 24th annual Men’s Rally in the Diocese of Palm Beach.

As the United States commemorates Religious Freedom Day on January 16, the Committee for Religious Liberty of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued its annual report on the state of religious freedom in the United States.

The Vatican City State’s first decree regulating the use of artificial intelligence quietly came into effect this month prohibiting discriminatory uses of AI and establishing a special commission to oversee “experimentation” with the new technology at the Vatican.

As fast-moving wildfires, fueled by high winds, continue to engulf neighborhoods in the Los Angeles area, Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA), the official domestic relief agency of the Catholic Church in the U.S., has launched a dedicated disaster relief donation campaign.

The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops' Released a statement on the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. Join in prayer and action this month by hearing from the FCCB and Praying the Pro-Life Novena starting Thursday January 16, 2025.

Dolan, the archbishop of New York, announced he would take part in the inaugural ceremonies during an interview with the local news channel WPIX on Dec. 24. Dolan also said the opening prayer during Trump’s 2017 inauguration following his 2016 presidential victory.

As Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito pointed out in his Dec. 20 “Living the Truth in Love” column in the Florida Catholic, Charlie Brown had a difficult time learning the true meaning of Christmas. For youngsters in Catholic schools of the Diocese of Palm Beach, that meaning is crystal clear...

This day commemorates the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by St. John the Baptist. On this occasion, Jesus entered into His ministry and acquired His first disciples.

No One Buried Alone program honored the lives of 150 souls on Dec. 21 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach.

The 2025 Diocesan Services Appeal kicks off this month to support the numerous essential programs and ministries in the Diocese of Palm Beach. Many parishes will host presentations at Masses on the importance of funding the DSA in the coming weeks.

We are right around the corner from our next Come & See Weekend 2025 taking place at the St. Vincent DePaul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, from January 31 – February 2, 2025.

Join Bishop Barbarito, Cardinal Newman, and Respect Life Ministries to pray a rosary for the unborn on Friday January 17, 2025 at 11am.

Bishops worldwide celebrated the opening of the 2025 Holy Year Dec. 29 with Masses in their cathedrals and co-cathedrals to mark the jubilee, which is themed “Pilgrims of Hope.”

Click to download the prayer sheet.

The Mission of the Family is a dynamic new video series that proclaims the truth and beauty of the Catholic vision of marriage and family life in the modern world.

Traditionally on the feast of Epiphany, Catholics bless their homes by writing the letters C, M, and B and the numbers of the year on either side — this year it would look like “20+C+M+B+25.”

Natalia is a sixth-grader at St. Martha Catholic School in Sarasota and was one of two grand prize winners amongst 17 finalists, chosen from thousands of entries from elementary school age children across the country.

Marking the feast of Mary, Mother of God, and the start of the new year, Pope Francis renewed his appeal for a "firm commitment" to respect all human life worldwide.

Pope Francis called on Catholics to become “pilgrims of hope” in a BBC podcast on Friday, emphasizing that “hope and kindness touch the very heart of the Gospel.”

While most of our liturgical celebrations throughout the year focus on biblical events or the lives of the saints, on Jan. 3 is honored the name of Jesus, observed as an optional memorial

In the quiet of Christmas Eve, Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica, launching what he called a "Jubilee of Hope."

The Palm Beach Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (PBDCCW) is again pleased to offer the Fr. Clem Hammerschmitt One Thousand Dollar ($1,000.00) Catholic High School Scholarship Award for the academic year 2025-2026.

Catholics, and all people of good will, are being asked to join a Jubilee 2025 campaign to secure debt relief for the world's poorest nations, following the biblical call for a jubilee year as a time of forgiveness -- both of sins and of debt -- and restoring right relationships with God, with other people and with the earth.

Mary is the Mother of God because she is the Mother of Jesus, true God and true Man. Because of this, she more than anyone else can lead us to her Son, for no other like her knows who Jesus is, and no one knows how to relate with Him as well as she does.

Pope Francis and outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden will meet at the Vatican next month to discuss global peace efforts. The two leaders also spoke on the phone Dec. 19. Biden thanked the pope "for his continued advocacy to alleviate global suffering, including his work to advance human rights and protect religious freedoms."

A Feast that seeks to portray the Holy Family of Nazareth as the “true model of life” (cf. Opening Prayer) from which our families can draw inspiration and know where to find help and comfort.

Pope Francis has appointed Rev. Timothy O’Malley, Very Rev. Lawrence J. Sullivan, Rev. José Maria Garcia Maldonado, Rev. Robert Fedek, and Rev. John S. Siemianowski, as auxiliary bishops of Chicago.

A diverse group of faithful from local parishes came together to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Dec. 12 at Holy Family Parish in Port St. Lucie and honor Mary, who always leads us to her son, Jesus.

The annual Thanksgiving turkey distribution, held Nov. 25 by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach, provided 300 local families with holiday meals just in time for the season of gratitude.

When the Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala for Catholic Charities occurs in Palm Beach Thursday, Jan. 30, it will be thanks to a dedicated group of local women that the event goes off without a hitch.

Christmas is one of the most important days of the Church year, second only to Easter itself. Celebrating the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, it is the culmination of the mystery of the incarnation, the feast of God becoming flesh (the Latin "in carne" means "enfleshment")

After thanking people participating in a living Nativity scene, Pope Francis also reminded them there was still time before Christmas to go to confession where they could personally experience God's tenderness.

The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so urgently desire; that is why I have chosen as the motto of the Jubilee, Pilgrims of Hope. ~ Pope Francis

As we celebrate Christmas and the coming Jubilee Year of Hope, may we know the joy of true hope which does not disappoint.

In late November, during a brief audience with people involved in the sport of motorcycle racing, Pope Francis asked for prayers, joking that "my work is very accelerated, and my bike has aged and doesn't work properly!"

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito presided over the blessing of the Rendina Family Chapel inside Cardinal Newman High School’s newly completed Rocco A. Marcello Family Academic Building Nov. 7. The chapel was named in honor of the Rendina family’s generous contribution to the Shaping the Future campaign.

Cardinal Newman High School hosted a ribbon-cutting reception Nov. 7, 2024, for its new Rocco A. Marcello Family academic building.

A student choir from St. Luke School in Palm Springs spread Christmas cheer at the Diocese of Palm Beach’s Pastoral Center in Palm Beach Gardens Dec. 5, 2024.

The purpose of the Palm Beach Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s annual “Take a Sister to Brunch” event is for the members to show their appreciation, recognition and gratitude to the consecrated women for their selfless service.

At its Nov. 19, 2024, dinner meeting, the Jupiter-Palm Beach chapter of Legatus featured Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America, speaking on “Explicitly Pro-Life: Apologetics in a Post-Roe America.”

The number of cardinal electors is the most critical data point to emerge from this weekend’s consistory. Of the 140 cardinal electors, 110 have been created by Pope Francis, 24 by Benedict XVI, and six by St. John Paul II.

The Vatican launched a "dashboard" for the College of Cardinals Dec. 5, allowing users of the web page to see a comprehensive list of the church's cardinals and sort them by age, rank, country of origin, electoral status and religious order.

Florida's new homelessness law, Statute 1365, effective October 3, 2024, makes it illegal to sleep or camp on public property. The law requires local governments to provide temporary housing and treatment services for those in need. Read how Catholic Charities is involved.

The Office of Safe Environments oversees the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults. Recognizing that each individual is created by God, the Diocese of Palm Beach is committed to the safety and well-being of its children and vulnerable adults and implements procedures to minimize risk and barriers and to build and foster a culture of safe environment.

While numerous events are planned in Rome and at the Vatican to mark the Jubilee 2025, this Holy Year is for the whole church. Here are some ways to celebrate without traveling farther than your local cathedral.

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception of the invites the dioceses of the United States to join in pealing their cathedral and shrine bells at 2 PM ET on Saturday, December 7.

It was with some excitement that organizers of the 24th Men’s Rally in the Diocese of Palm Beach recently announced that Father Schmitz would be the main presenter at the next event Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025.

St. Joseph School in Stuart recently announced the opening of the Bongino Family Innovation Lab, made possible by a donation from the Bongino family and the support of many other families.

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is moved to Monday December 9, 2024.

Five Italians have been chosen by Pope Francis to become cardinals at the Dec. 7 consistory, four of whom are under 80 years old and therefore have voting rights to elect a new pope at the next conclave.

As we prepare for the birth of Christ during Advent, it can be easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. But as calendars get filled up and preparations are made, here are four resources to help you get ready to enter into the deeper meaning of Christmas.

Beginning the Church's liturgical year, Advent (from, "ad-venire" in Latin or "to come to") is the season encompassing the four Sundays (and weekdays) leading up to the celebration of Christmas.

American Catholic bishops are asking the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reject a proposed “gender identity” rule that could make faithful Catholic entities ineligible for contracts with the department.

The faithful are invited to observe a nationwide prayer vigil from Thursday, January 23 to Friday, January 24, 2025, and encouraged to pray for an end to abortion and a greater respect for all human life in post-Roe America.

On the last Sunday of each liturgical year, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, or Christ the King.

During a recent Sunday Mass at Holy Family Parish in Port St. Lucie, 20 people were publicly introduced to the parish community, asking the faithful to pray for them on their spiritual journey of discernment toward the Catholic Church.

The Communications and Development Offices of the Diocese of Palm Beach recently received statewide recognition for excellence in public relations, marketing and communications.

The Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple recalls – according to the apocryphal gospels, the day on which Mary, while still a child, was brought to the temple in Jerusalem to be offered to God.

On the last Sunday of each liturgical year, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, or Christ the King.

We are grateful for each and every one of our generous Lumen Christi Schools Appeal Sponsors, thank you!

Time is running out for parishioners to contribute to the 2024 Diocesan Services Appeal, which funds local ministries that protect the most vulnerable in our communities. Dec. 31, 2024, will be the final day to make a difference this year in your parish and Diocese of Palm Beach.

Join us in praying for our Veterans

The final fall 40 Days for Life event Nov. 2 featured a Mass at Miracle House with Father Daniel Donohue of St. Juliana Parish

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito presided and prayed for the faithful departed on All Souls’ Day, Nov. 2, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach.

...The name of this Papal Basilica is the Basilica of the Most Holy Savior and of Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist in the Lateran. Christians consider the Basilica to be the mother church of all churches in the world.

In the spirit of the Gospel reading — in which Jesus says the second most important commandment is “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” — Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito visited a beloved neighbor Nov. 3, 2024, to bless a new Marian icon at St. Nicholas Melkite Catholic Church in Delray Beach.

The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women honored 31 young women Oct. 26 at a Golden Rose Mass presided by Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito and followed by a luncheon at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola.

Catholics in Indian River County rejoiced Oct. 23, 2024, along with clients and supporters of A Caring Center for Women in Vero Beach as the pregnancy resource center officially embarked on its latest initiative, offering free medical services to women, most of whom are uninsured.

Dec. 8 is typically a holy day of obligation celebrating the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, but this year the feast day lands on a Sunday in Advent. As a result, the USCCB transferred it to Monday, Dec. 9...

The Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops has released the following statement on the defeat of Amendment 4 on Florida’s General Election ballot.