Aaron Weldon, Assistant Director for Religious Liberty at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Washington, talks with George Matysek about ongoing challenges to religious freedom and what will happen during Religious Freedom Week.

Joy, excitement and pride permeated the air during the long-awaited priestly ordination of five men during a June 21 Mass at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland.

In celebration of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s 50th anniversary of canonization this year, the four-day pilgrimage was organized to trace the steps of the first American-born saint’s journey from Baltimore to Emmitsburg in the 19th century.

This year marks the 160th anniversary of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the last Confederate state that continued to uphold the practice of slavery two years after it was abolished in the country — an event marked by Juneteenth, a federal holiday since 2021.

Deacon Thomas P. O’Donnell started attending daily Mass more often, going to confession and eucharistic adoration and reading more about the faith. All this led to a deepening of his life.

Renovation work is well underway at St. Joseph Church in Fullerton, where a sweeping interior transformation of its more than 50-year-old sanctuary began in early June. Pews have been removed, carpeting torn up and construction crews are preparing the space for an upgrade parish leaders say reflects both practical needs and a renewed spiritual focus.

Deacon Mwebaze, along with five other deacons, will be ordained as priests June 21 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland, marking the culmination of his journey to priesthood.

The Knights of Columbus announced a novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus for the intention of Pope Leo XIV. The novena will begin June 19, the anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s ordination to the priesthood, and end June 27, the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart. 

Deacon Shiadrik Mokum says all his life “community” has been his major focus.
The Cameroon native sees his journey to the priesthood, which he will complete with his ordination in June at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland, as a natural progression of his devotion to community life.

In the eyes of the world, Deacon James “Jamie” Lancelotta is the unlikeliest candidate for the priesthood.