Catholic News Update

(USCCB News Archives can be accessed at www.usccb.org/news/)

November 6, 2026
USCCB and CRS Call on World Leaders to Protect Our Common Home
WASHINGTON — As world leaders gather for the 31st annual United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), the bishops who chair committees of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) that address climate policy were joined by the president and CEO of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to call on world leaders to decisively act to protect life on our common home.

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre, Bishop A. Elias Zaidan, and Mr. Sean Callahan’s statement follows:

“As leaders gather at COP31, we recognize the need for decisive action that will protect and promote human flourishing and our common home. The global Church continues to witness the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor. We accompany those most impacted by a changing climate and the resulting extreme weather, rising seas, and biodiversity loss. Young people in particular are leading this response, demanding climate justice for their generation and generations to come. Their witness is our hope: proof that our faith in action answers the hardest realities.

“Pope Leo XIV expressed in his message last year to COP 30 attendees that God’s creation is ‘crying out in floods, droughts, storms and relentless heat,’ and that while nations have made progress, it is not enough. He also reminded us that it is not the Paris Agreement that is failing, but our collective response to it — and that to overlook communities most exposed to climate change is to deny our shared humanity.

“We urge world leaders and institutions to deliver additional climate finance that prioritizes grants over loans so that poor countries can invest in resilience and adaptation without the weight of more debt. We implore negotiators to agree on how progress on adaptation will be measured within the Global Goal on Adaptation. We call on them to finalize a ‘just transition’ mechanism to accompany developing countries with expertise, cooperation, and funding as they move away from fossil fuels. This transition should center on protecting the dignity of every worker, family, and community affected.

 “Echoing the call of our Holy Father, we ask leaders to leave Antalya having matched the scale of their commitments to the scale of the need — and to remember, in every negotiating room, that behind every number is a family making difficult, daily decisions on survival amidst more extreme, erratic, and frequent climate shocks.”

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre is chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Bishop A. Elias Zaidan is chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace. As president and CEO of CRS, Mr. Callahan leads the international humanitarian agency of the Catholic Church in the United States. 

November 4, 2026
Catholics Invited to Support Anti-Poverty Efforts on World Day of the Poor
WASHINGTON — At Masses on the weekend of November 14-15 – the World Day of the Poor – Catholics in dioceses across the United States will be invited to give to the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD), the domestic anti-poverty program of the U.S. bishops.

“Created in the image of God, every person has inherent dignity and the capacity to contribute to the flourishing of their families and communities. Our faith calls us to stand in solidarity with people experiencing poverty, supporting their leadership as they work to address the root causes of poverty and build a better future,” said Bishop Timothy C. Senior of Harrisburg, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee on the Catholic Campaign for Human Development. “Through CCHD, the Church puts this commitment into action, accompanying communities as they work toward a future in which all people can flourish,” he continued.

The U.S. bishops launched CCHD in 1969 to help poor and marginalized people address the roots of poverty in their own neighborhoods. The grants CCHD provides support community and economic development, including worker-owned businesses and community-owned real-estate projects. Organizations that receive CCHD grants do not have to be Catholic, but they each receive approval from the local bishop and must adhere to Catholic moral and social teaching, including respect for human life from conception until natural death and a commitment to the dignity of people experiencing poverty.

This year, 88 grants totaling nearly $3.5 million are being used to strengthen marginalized communities, advocate for workers, improve access to affordable housing, create good jobs, defend the rights of immigrants, reform the criminal justice system and protect the environment. A quarter of all funds collected for CCHD at Mass will remain in that diocese for local anti-poverty initiatives.

“Every year, Catholics have an opportunity to put our faith into action through the CCHD collection,” Bishop Senior said. “Their generosity supports people working together to overcome poverty, strengthen their communities and build a future in which every person can live with dignity and flourish.”

Some dioceses take this collection on a different date. For those who cannot give at Mass, they can support CCHD’s national efforts online through #iGiveCatholic at https://www.igivecatholic.org/USCCB-CCHD.

For more information please visit: https://www.usccb.org/committees/catholic-campaign-human-development.

November 2, 2026
2026 Retirement Fund for Religious Collection is Dec. 12-13
WASHINGTON — On the weekend of Dec. 12–13, Catholics across the United States will have the opportunity to support aging sisters, brothers and religious order priests through the Retirement Fund for Religious. For decades, women and men religious have served in Catholic schools, hospitals, parishes and other ministries, often for little to no pay. Their communities have been facing rising eldercare costs and limited retirement resources. Coordinated by the National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO), this annual collection in participating (arch)dioceses provides financial assistance to eligible religious institutes caring for their retired members. Some (arch)dioceses may hold the collection on a different date.

In 2026, only 6 percent of religious institutes providing data to the NRRO were adequately funded for retirement, and 69 percent had a median age of 70 or older. The 2025 appeal raised a record $37.1 million, and in June 2026, the NRRO distributed a record $40 million in Direct Care Assistance to 261 religious communities—the first time annual direct care distributions reached that level. “The generosity of Catholics across the country is a powerful expression of gratitude for a lifetime of faithful service,” said NRRO director John Knutsen. “The record response to last year’s appeal and this year’s historic distribution help religious communities provide care today while planning with greater confidence for the future.”

Since the collection began in 1988, more than $1.04 billion has been distributed or allocated in assistance — nearly $940 million for the day-to-day care of senior religious and an additional $103.9 million for self-help projects initiated by religious communities.

“Yet the need remains substantial,” Knutsen continued. “Many of our senior religious spent their lives serving others with little opportunity to build retirement savings. Your support helps their communities provide the care and dignity they deserve, and we are grateful for that generosity.”

In 2025, the average annual cost of care for a senior religious was approximately $62,000, with skilled nursing care averaging about $102,000. The average annual Social Security benefit for a religious was $9,390, compared with $24,856 for the average lay beneficiary. Annual costs to support senior women and men religious have exceeded $1.1 billion since 2009. Collection proceeds support immediate care, strengthen retirement resources and fund educational programs and planning assistance that help communities prepare for long-term needs.

For more information, please visit retiredreligious.org.

October 30, 2026
USCCB Statement on Pope Leo XIV Voting in Midterm Elections in USA
WASHINGTON — Earlier today, the Holy See Press Office announced that Pope Leo XIV had voted in the 2026 midterm elections with a mail-in ballot. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has offered the following statement from its spokesperson, Chieko Noguchi, executive director of public affairs:

“As Catholics and Americans, we are blessed to be able to participate in our nation’s political and public life. With the midterm elections approaching in the United States, the Conference has been encouraging Catholics to exercise their right to vote and to do so in a way that places our faith before our politics. In voting, our Holy Father sets the example that encourages each citizen to exercise their civic responsibility. The U.S. bishops have emphasized that is not “who” one is voting for, but rather on encouraging Catholics to inform their conscience as they prepare to vote and to uphold human dignity and the common good in doing so.” 

Learn more about Faith Before Politics: https://www.usccb.org/faithbeforepolitics

Videos* may be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOxtm6LARtEo

October 29, 2026
National Vocation Awareness Week November 1-7
WASHINGTON — The Catholic Church in the United States will observe National Vocation Awareness Week from November 1 to 7. Each year, national Catholic organizations, dioceses, schools, and parishes host events and provide resources that raise awareness of vocations and support those discerning God’s call, particularly to ordained ministry or consecrated life.

“As we draw near the busiest time of the year, a season marked by thanksgiving and joy, National Vocation Awareness Week reminds us of the beautiful witness of those who have responded to God’s call to serve in ordained ministry as priests and deacons, and men and women who serve in consecrated life,” said Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations. “This National Vocation Awareness Week, we thank God for all vocations and pray for a deepened spirit of joy in marriages, in the priesthood and diaconate, and in all forms of consecrated life. Your witness to a joy-filled vocation inspires young people to follow God’s call with courage.”

In his message for the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, Pope Leo XIV said, “God dwells in our hearts. A vocation entails an intimate dialogue with the One who calls and invites us to respond, despite the deafening noise of the world, with true joy and generosity.” He later continued, “Through the intimacy of his friendship, you will discover how to give of yourselves, whether through marriage, the priesthood, the permanent diaconate, or consecrated life. Every vocation is an immeasurable gift for the Church and for those who receive it with joy.”

Resources for National Vocation Awareness Week are available on the USCCB’s website in both English and Spanish.

October 27, 2026
Pregnancy Help Centers Offer Life-Affirming Support to Women in Need
WASHINGTON — Across the United States, approximately 2,750 pregnancy help centers offer life-affirming support to pregnant and parenting women in need. In celebrating their witness to life, and in observance of Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week, November 9-13, Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued the following statement:

“During Pregnancy Help Appreciation Week, we express our sincere gratitude for all those who work to provide necessary resources to women, babies, and families during pregnancy and beyond.

“Pregnancy help organizations, maternity homes, medical and resource help centers, and adoption agencies provide heroic services every day to anyone in need. Many pregnancy care centers offer free medical services, including ultrasounds, prenatal and postnatal care, and referrals for free or low-cost childbirth. They also provide resources such as baby clothes and diapers, childcare, career services, referrals for housing, and much more.

“We also recognize the life-changing help being provided by the countless volunteers in our parishes that accompany vulnerable women and families through our nationwide Walking with Moms in Need initiative.

“May all those who serve and protect life be encouraged by our prayers, our good works and our financial support to build a culture of life.”

October 23, 2026
Archbishop Gomez to be Recognized for Leadership in Hispanic/Latino Ministry
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Subcommittee on Hispanic/Latino Affairs has named Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles as the recipient of the Encuentros Award. This prestigious distinction recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Hispanic/Latino ministry in the Catholic Church in the United States. The announcement was made by Bishop Oscar Cantú, chairman of the USCCB’s Subcommittee on Hispanic/Latino Affairs during the annual conference for the National Catholic Association of Diocesan Directors for Hispanic Ministry this week.

"Archbishop Gomez has advocated for the Hispanic community for decades. He has been a tireless champion for the Catholic Church, and, specifically, for Hispanic Catholics, highlighting the gifts that they bring to the Church in the United States,” said Bishop Cantú. “With the Encuentros Award, we wish recognize his work and express our heartfelt appreciation for all he has done across many years.”

Archbishop Gomez served as president of the USCCB from 2019-2022. Read his full biography.

Established in 2023, the Encuentros Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the development, leadership, and accompaniment of Hispanic and Latino ministry in the Catholic Church in the United States. Previous recipients include: His Eminence Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, OFM Cap.; Most Rev. Gerald R. Barnes; Sister Norma Pimentel, MJ; Sister Ana Maria Pineda, RSM; Carmen Aguinaco; and Ken Johnson-Mondragón.

Bishop Cantú will present the Encuentros Award to Archbishop Gomez at a reception during the U.S. bishops’ annual plenary assembly in Baltimore.

The bishop chairmen called attention to the need for human dignity to remain the central criteria for promoting religious freedom in the context of rapid technological change:

"Throughout the world, millions of people continue to suffer violations of the basic human right to religious freedom, and rapidly developing technological tools, such as artificial intelligence, have the potential to expand such abuses, increasing the scope of surveillance and persecution of religious groups. Pope Leo XIV reminds us, in Magnifica humanitas, that the right to religious freedom is rooted in human dignity, providing ‘decisive criteria’ for protecting individuals and societies. As brother bishops, we affirm that, in the age of AI, human dignity remains at the heart of defending religious freedom.

"The USCCB Committee on International Justice and Peace actively collaborates with the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom on addressing religious freedom violations around the world. This partnership is a testament to the power of joint efforts by government and faith leaders to protect this most cherished right. In this era of technological change, all of society – including the private sector – is called to work together to ensure that technological tools are not used to facilitate new and intensified forms of religious discrimination.

"As Catholics, the Spirit of Truth, who dwells in human hearts, compels us to build a digital culture that respects the innate human search for truth and freedom. In this 250th year commemorating American independence, may the Sacred Heart of Jesus, burning with love for all of humanity, make us beacons of hope for our brothers and sisters throughout the world by defending religious freedom in the digital age.”

Throughout the week they are together, the bishops will have multiple opportunities to spend time in prayer and fraternal dialogue with one another. The public portion of the assembly will begin with an address by Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the USCCB. The bishops will also hear from Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, the Papal Nuncio to the United States.

Among the first items of business for the bishops during the plenary will be to vote for a Conference secretary. The position is up for election as Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend was elected last November to complete the term left vacant when Archbishop Coakley was elected Conference president. The bishops will also elect chairmen of six USCCB committees; the bishops elected will serve for one year as chairman-elect before beginning a three-year term at the conclusion of the 2027 Fall Plenary Assembly. The bishops will also elect a new general secretary for the USCCB.

The plenary agenda has not yet been finalized and is therefore subject to change, but the agenda is expected to include: an update from the chairman of the USCCB’s newly created Task Force on Preserving Human Dignity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence; one year since issuing their Special Message on Immigration, the bishops will receive an update from the chairman of the Committee on Migration; and the chairman of the Committee for Cultural Diversity in the Church will update the bishops on the Guadalupan Novena. There will also be a panel presentation on recent signs of new life in the Church, as indicated by a marked increase in the number of people entering the Church, and surveys indicating that young people are showing renewed interest in religion. 

Votes are expected on a number of action items: 

• a canonical consultation on causes of beatification and canonization of Maria Middleton and Thomas Stephen Vander Woude;
• an update to the USCCB’s Diocesan Financial Reporting Guidelines;
• an update to the USCCB’s Socially Responsible Investment Guidelines; 
• new edition of the Lectionary for Mass and Book of the Gospels;
• annual observance of a Day of Prayer for Racial Justice;
• approval from the body of bishops to review and begin updating the pastoral plan for the Secretariat on Pro-Life Activities;
• the USCCB budget for 2027.

October 16, 2026
Members and Consultants for U.S. Bishops’ Task Force on Artificial Intelligence Announced
WASHINGTON — The Administrative Committee of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) recently established the bishops’ Task Force on Preserving Human Dignity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. Bishop Oscar Cantù of San José was appointed as its chairman who is joined by seven bishop members and three consultants. 

Bishop Members of the Task Force: 

• Most Reverend Oscar Cantú, Chairman, Bishop of San José
• His Eminence Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago
• Most Reverend Paul D. Etienne, Archbishop of Seattle
• Most Reverend Shelton J. Fabre, Archbishop of Louisville
• Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout, Bishop of Richmond
• Most Reverend James Massa, Auxiliary Bishop of Brooklyn
• Most Reverend Michael F. Olson, Bishop of Fort Worth
• Most Reverend Slawomir Szkredka, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles

Consultants to the Task Force:

• Charles Camosy, Ph.D., The Catholic University of America; Associate Professor of Moral Theology/Ethics
• Kim Daniels, J.D., Georgetown University; Director, Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life
• Meghan Sullivan, Ph.D., University of Notre Dame; Wilsey Family College Professor of Philosophy; Director, Institute for Ethics and the Common Good and Ethics Initiative

Drawing on the emerging Catholic engagement with AI, both domestically and internationally, the task force will emphasize that AI must serve human dignity and the common good. The task force will maintain constructive and ongoing dialogues with the frontier labs, research organizations, academic centers and other stakeholders across the United States. The task force will also assist the Catholic Church in the United States in responding faithfully, prudently, and effectively to the opportunities and challenges presented by AI related emerging technologies. Special attention will be given to helping Church leaders understand both the opportunities and risks posed by AI in areas such as education, communications, employment, healthcare, evangelization, governance, and the protection of children and vulnerable persons.

October 11, 2026
Archbishop Coakley Offers Prayers for Pope Leo XIV on His Upcoming Surgery
WASHINGTON — Pope Leo XIV announced to those gathered for the Sunday Angelus this morning that he would soon undergo surgery to remove a localized nodule in his lung. Upon hearing the news, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, offered his prayers for the Holy Father and to those caring for him:

“This morning, the Holy Father announced he will undergo surgery for a lung nodule in the coming days. The bishops of the United States join with the faithful and all people of good will in praying for his good health. May the hand of Pope Leo’s surgeons be guided by the divine physician Jesus Christ. Please find a moment today, as I will, to offer a prayer for Pope Leo and his care team.”

October 9, 2026
USCCB President Condemns Plans for Livestream of Fort Hood Shooter's Execution
WASHINGTON — Yesterday, the U.S. Department of War announced that the firing squad execution of Nidal Hasan, the man convicted of killing 13 people and injuring 32 at Fort Hood, Texas in 2009, would be publicly livestreamed. Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued the following statement sharply condemning the decision of the U.S. government:

“It is with shock and great sorrow that I have learned of the Department of War’s decision to publicly livestream the execution of Nidal Hassan. Our God is the God of life. In no way can Hassan’s actions be condoned but this decision is a barbaric promotion of a culture of death and must be reconsidered. The word of God exhorts us: ‘do not repay anyone evil for evil' (Romans 12:17). The public execution even of one who has done grave harm will only further undermine the moral fabric of our nation and be a blight on the conscience of its people.

“I pray for the intercession of Our Lady of Good Counsel that we as a nation may always choose life even in the most trying times and circumstances.”

October 5, 2026
Pope Leo XIV Accepts Resignation of Auxiliary Bishop Peter Byrne
WASHINGTON — Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of the Most Reverend Peter J. Byrne, 75, from the Office of Auxiliary Bishop of New York. The resignation was publicized in Washington, D.C. on October 5, 2026, by Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, apostolic nuncio to the United States. The Archdiocese of New York is comprised of 4,683 square miles in the State of New York.

September 29, 2026
Bishop Thomas Requests Prayer and Action on the Abortion Pill
WASHINGTON — Each October since 1973, the Catholic Church in the United States observes Respect Life Month and focuses on reflecting more deeply on the dignity and gift of human life. This year, the theme chosen is Mary, Mother of Life. “Our Blessed Mother is our model for upholding the sanctity of all human life in every stage and circumstance. We entrust all our efforts to protect mothers and babies to her motherly care, which we greatly need at this time,” said Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, in a statement inviting the faithful into prayer, deeper reflection, and action during the month of October.

“Today, with easier access to abortion pills, the abortion rate is tragically climbing, along with increased health risks,” said Bishop Thomas. “This means that more women, many of whom have been misinformed about the nature and risks of the abortion pill, will have an abortion alone at home, without any medical supervision. It also sets up additional opportunities for exploitation by violent partners or human traffickers. These affronts to human dignity demand our response.”

Through a focused effort of prayer and action to stop the spread of the abortion pill, the Committee on Pro-Life Activities has encouraged the faithful to learn about the dangers of the abortion pill and take action by sending messages to pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies. “I thank the many thousands of Catholics across the country who have embraced the nationwide invitation to prayer and action on abortion pills, and I ask that we continue our prayers and advocacy throughout the month of October. Please join us at Respect Life Prayer and Action,” Bishop Thomas said.

Read Bishop Thomas’ full statement: English | Spanish.

September 17, 2026
Pope Leo XIV Appoints Most Reverend Brendan Cahill as Bishop of Joliet
WASHINGTON — Pope Leo XIV has appointed Most Reverend Brendan J. Cahill, currently Bishop of Victoria in Texas, as the Bishop of Joliet.

The appointment was publicized in Washington, D.C. on September 17, 2026, by Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, apostolic nuncio to the United States.

Bishop Cahill’s biography may be found here. The Diocese of Joliet is comprised of 4,218 square miles in the State of Illinois.

September 16, 2026
U.S. Bishops’ Administrative Committee Establishes Task Force on AI
WASHINGTON — Responding to the appeal that Pope Leo XIV made in his encyclical, Magnifica humanitas to ‘build forms of cooperation’ and cultivate a culture of shared responsibility, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Administrative Committee met today with representatives from a variety of tech firms and specialists in the area of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The following statement was issued through the Conference spokesperson, Chieko Noguchi, executive director of public affairs:

“The dialogue focused on ways to keep any system of Artificial Intelligence at the service of humanity and the urgent need to address the real and present dangers such technology present. Recent events have only emphasized the great need for action by everyone involved. The bishops expressed hope that such conversations will help to identify ways the Church can contribute to the moral foundation of AI models and steps the companies can take to protect against misuse of their inventions and to guarantee human oversight of the technology. The discussion also focused on how the Church and industry can work together toward the goal of ensuring that technology is used in ways that keep it human-centered, respecting the dignity of each person, and benefiting all — poor and rich alike.” 

Two immediate steps were taken by the Administrative Committee. First is the creation of a Bishops’ Task Force on Preserving Human Dignity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence with Bishop Oscar Cantù of San Jose as its chairman. The membership of the task force has not yet been determined, but the group will focus on promoting policies and practices that protect human dignity, religious liberty, democratic institutions, workers, families, and vulnerable populations. Second is that at the conclusion of the Administrative Committee, over a dozen of the bishops went to Capitol Hill to meet with members of Congress urging for the enactment of meaningful safety guardrails on Artificial Intelligence and to support legislation to protect children online.

The Administrative Committee is led by the president of the Conference and is comprised of the USCCB’s officers, chairmen of the Conference’s standing committees, as well as a representative from each episcopal region of the United States. The committee operates as the board of directors of the Conference.

September 16, 2026
National Migration Week to Focus on Presence of Christ within Each Migrant Child
WASHINGTON — The Catholic Church in the United States will observe National Migration Week beginning September 21 and culminating with the 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees on September 27.

For over 45 years, the U.S. Catholic Church has celebrated National Migration Week (NMW) by reflecting on its history as an immigrant Church and the ways in which the country has been enriched by generations of immigrants, including the many Catholics who have adopted this land as their own. Its connection to the World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WDMR)—which traces its origins to 1914 when Pope Saint Pius X called on all Christians to pray for the growing number of migrants at the time — demonstrates the U.S. Church’s solidarity with the Bishop of Rome and the Universal Church. Pope Leo XIV has chosen “Even just one of these children” as the theme for this year’s WDMR, which will also be the theme for NMW.

In his message for this year’s WDMR, reflecting on Matthew’s Gospel, the Holy Father observed how even one child calls each of us “to open our eyes and heart to a profound listening to his or her story, fears and dreams, overcoming that detachment which reduces the human person to a statistic that does not directly concern us.” At the same time, he underscored the need to safeguard their fundamental rights, among them the rights to life and full development.

Ahead of NMW, Bishop Brendan J. Cahill, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration, stated:

“Our Church in this country and beyond has a long, inspiring history of caring for migrant and refugee children—from the days of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini and her sisters sheltering many orphaned immigrant children when few others looked their way to today’s diocesan charities providing them and their families with vital support. We owe much gratitude to the law enforcement officers, social workers, pastoral staff, and caregivers who dedicate themselves to their safety and well-being. As we see protections for this population being undermined in various ways, including prolonged stays in detention and decreased access to legal representation, we urge governments and communities to ensure a high level of care rooted in their God-given human dignity. This requires promoting family unity and reunification whenever possible.”

Amid heightened social tensions regarding immigration, Catholics across the country are invited to reflect on how our faith is calling us to respond to this most vulnerable group within the context of migration. Catholic dioceses, parishes, schools, and organizations nationwide are encouraged to mark this observance with prayer, educational programs, pastoral outreach, and support for migration-related ministries.

More information and resources, including details about an upcoming WDMR-themed webinar on September 23, can be found at usccb.org/nmw.

September 15, 2026
Pope Leo XIV Accepts Resignation of Bishop Francis Malone of Shreveport;
Appoints Bishop Robert Marshall as Apostolic Administrator
WASHINGTON — Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of the Most Reverend Francis I. Malone, 76, from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Shreveport. At the same time, he has appointed Most Reverend Robert W. Marshall of Alexandria, as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Shreveport to serve until the appointment and installation of the new bishop.

The resignation and appointment were publicized in Washington, D.C. on September 15, 2026, by Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, apostolic nuncio to the United States. 

September 15, 2026
Pope Leo XIV Appoints Most Reverend Michael Saporito as Bishop of Metuchen
WASHINGTON — Pope Leo XIV has appointed Most Reverend Michael A. Saporito, currently Auxiliary Bishop of Newark, as the Bishop of Metuchen. The appointment was publicized in Washington, D.C. on September 15, 2026, by Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, apostolic nuncio to the United States.

Bishop Saporito’s biography may be found here.

The Diocese of Metuchen is comprised of 1,425 square miles in the State of New Jersey.

September 9, 2026 
Marking September 11 Anniversary, Archbishop Coakley Offers Prayers
WASHINGTON — “As conflicts intensify around the world, let us renew our commitment to be Christ’s instruments of peace in an increasingly fractured and divided world,” said Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, in a statement marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. 

Archbishop Coakley’s statement follows:  

“As we prayerfully remember the tragedy of September 11, 2001, I invite all Catholics to join me in prayer for the victims taken from us in acts of unjustifiable violence 25 years ago at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in rural Pennsylvania. In a special way, we lovingly embrace in prayer the victims’ families and friends, who still mourn the irretrievable loss of their loved ones on that day. We also remember the first responders and emergency workers, so many who gave their lives in selfless acts of courage. 

“Amid that terrible day and the dark hours of fear and uncertainty that followed, we must also remember that our faith lifted us up and sustained us. As a nation, we found ourselves turning to God in prayer and looking to our faith with a new intensity and a sense of unity. 

“As conflicts intensify around the world, let us renew our commitment to be Christ’s instruments of peace in an increasingly fractured and divided world. The building of peace in our country and around the world — a mission that enables us to be called children of God[1] -- is the great challenge of our time. Our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, tells us that peace is more than just a goal, it is a presence and a journey.[2] He says that even in places where only rubble remains, and despair seems inevitable, we still find people who have not forgotten peace.

“As we pray for our nation’s continued healing, for the souls of all those lost on that day and the comfort of their families, let us implore the Holy Spirit to conform us, increasingly, into the image of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, and together build a civilization of love and universal fraternity.”

September 5, 2026
“Three Nations, One Church, One People Walking in Communion”
WASHINGTON — A delegation of bishops representing the episcopal conferences of Mexico, Canada, and the United States met this week with a spirit of fraternity, prayer and dialogue. Bishop Daniel E. Flores, vice president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and Bishop Oscar Cantú, chairman of the USCCB’s Subcommittee for Latin American Affairs were in attendance as delegates. 

The joint communique released after their meeting stated, “During these days, the social, political, economic and ecclesial realities of their respective countries were shared, and some of the main issues that today challenge the Church in the region of North America were addressed: in a particular way, human mobility and the question of migration, the dignity of the human person in the age of artificial intelligence, evangelization, and the possibilities of pastoral collaboration among the Churches in Mexico, in the United States and in Canada.” 

Read the full communique available in English, Spanish, and French.

August 18, 2026
U.S. Bishops’ Initiative to Inform Communities on the Danger of Abortion Pills
WASHINGTON — The U.S Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities is inviting Catholics to join a focused effort of prayer and action to stop the spread of abortion pills. The initiative will take place August 18 through October 31, which includes the month-long commemoration of Respect Life Month observed each October by the Catholic Church in the United States. 

“Every abortion involves the death of a child and harm to the mother,” said Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the USCCB, and Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, in a joint invitation announcing the initiative. “Now with easier access to abortion pills, the abortion rate is tragically climbing, along with increased health risks.”

In addition to invoking the intercession of St. Joseph, Defender of Life (English/en español), participants can learn about the danger of abortion pills which have become accessible through telehealth appointments and at pharmacies, leading to increased risks to women, and the abortion rate tragically climbing. Participants of the initiative are encouraged to share information about the dangers of abortion pills, and sign up to send messages to pharmacies, distributors, and pharmaceutical companies at Respect Life Prayer and Action. 

The report is based on the audit findings of StoneBridge Business Partners, a consulting firm which provides forensic, internal, and compliance audit services. A survey regarding allegations of abuse of minors and costs that is annually conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) at Georgetown University is also included as a part of the report.  

This is the twenty-third such report since 2002 when the U.S. bishops established and adopted the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, a comprehensive framework of procedures to address allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy and establish protocols to protect children and young people. 

The 2025 report covers July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. During that period, 1,070 allegations were reported by 973 victims-survivors of child sexual abuse by clergy throughout 194 Catholic dioceses and eparchies that reported information. This is an increase of 168 allegations reported in the previous audit year. Allegations received as a result of lawsuits, compensation programs, and bankruptcies, make up approximately 60% of allegations during 2025. Out of the 1,070 allegations, a total of 727, or 68%, were brought to the attention of the diocesan/eparchial representatives through an attorney, making this the principal reporting method during the 2025 audit period. Allegations made by spouses, relatives, or other representatives such as other dioceses/eparchies, religious orders, clergy members, or law enforcement officials on behalf of the victim-survivor were additional methods of reporting, totaling 112 allegations. The remaining 231 allegations were made by self-disclosure. 

During the current audit period, dioceses/eparchies provided outreach and support services to 150 victim-survivors and their families who reported during this audit period. Continued support was provided to 1,331 victim-survivors and their families who reported abuse in prior audit periods. The report notes the ongoing work of the Catholic Church in continuing the call to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults. In 2025, the Church conducted 2,320,143 background checks on clergy, employees, and volunteers. Additionally, in 2025, there were 2,328,545 adults and 2,803,250 children and youth trained in how to identify the warning signs of abuse and how to report those signs. 

For the 2024 audit year, 194 of 196 dioceses/eparchies fully participated in the 2025 data collection process and two dioceses did not participate. StoneBridge physically visited 36 dioceses/eparchies and utilized remote technologies to perform 25 additional remote visits to dioceses and eparchies, for a total of 61on-site audit visits and collected data from an additional 133 others. Of the 61 dioceses/eparchies that participated in the on-site audits that took place between March and December 2025, there was one finding of non-compliance with certain aspects of the Charter involving one location. Compliance with the Charter was determined based on implementation efforts from the date of the last audit visit through 2025. 

CARA completed their data collection for the 2025 annual survey in January 2026. All but five of the 196 dioceses and eparchies of the USCCB completed the survey, for a response rate of 97%. The findings indicate that among 89 alleged perpetrators that were classified, nine-tenths of the alleged offenders identified between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, are deceased, already removed from ministry, already laicized, or missing (89%). Another 10 priests or deacons identified during fiscal year 2025 were permanently removed from ministry during that time (11%). There were no offenders that were temporarily removed from ministry pending investigation of the allegations. Nor were there any alleged offenders that remained in active ministry during that fiscal year pending the investigation. 

For the 2025 audit period, there was one finding of non-compliance with certain articles of the Charter involving one diocese: The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux was found to be non-compliant with Article 2 due to the Diocesan Review Board not meeting since October 17, 2023. Subsequent to the audit period, the Diocese convened a meeting of the Diocesan Review Board, bringing the Diocese into compliance with Article 2 of the Charter. The following dioceses/eparchies did not participate in either the on-site audit or data collection process, thus no information on these locations could be included in this report: Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Parma of the Ruthenians (OH) and Our Lady of Deliverance Syriac Catholic Eparchy in the USA. 

The USCCB’s Committee on the Protection of Children and Young People and the National Review Board continue to emphasize that the audit and continued application of zero-tolerance policies are two important tools in the Catholic Church’s broader commitment to create a culture of protection and healing that exceeds the requirements of the Charter.  

This most recent annual report, and all previously published annual reports, may be found on the USCCB website: https://www.usccb.org/offices/child-and-youth-protection/audits. Additional information on diocesan requirements for the protection of children and young people may be found here.

May 25, 2026
Archbishop Coakley Welcomes Pope Leo XIV’s Encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas
WASHINGTON — Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), issued a statement today welcoming Pope Leo XIV’ new encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence.

Archbishop Coakley’s statement follows:

“The Church in the United States welcomes the publication of Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical letter, Magnifica Humanitas, with gratitude and praise. It is a powerful reminder that no technology can replace a child of God, and all technology should be placed at the service of helping humanity thrive.

“As his predecessor Pope Leo XIII addressed the challenges of the Industrial Revolution in Rerum Novarum one hundred thirty-five years ago, our Holy Father shines the light of the Gospel and the tradition of the Church on the new opportunities and challenges posed by the rise of Artificial Intelligence. The Pope calls us to never lose sight of the inherent dignity of all human life and the moral imperative for technology to support peace and the common good rather than the limited interest of a few.

“Recognizing the importance of this issue to the Holy Father and to us all, the Administrative Committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops tasked the USCCB Committee on Doctrine to lead and coordinate our work regarding Artificial Intelligence.  It reflects the Catholic belief that the dignity of the human person is inviolable. 

“My brother bishops and I look forward to prayerfully reading the encyclical more deeply over the next few days. We encourage all people of good will to reflect on this rich papal teaching and to seek ways in which to apply it in their lives.”

March 7, 2026
Archbishop Coakley Welcomes Appointment of Archbishop Caccia as Apostolic Nuncio to U.S.
WASHINGTON – Pope Leo XIV has appointed Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, Titular Archbishop of Sepino, as the new Apostolic Nuncio to the United States. Archbishop Caccia, 68, has served as Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations since 2019, and succeeds Cardinal Christophe Pierre, 80, who has held the post since 2016. 

Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, welcomed the March 7 appointment: 

“It is with joy that I welcome the news that our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has appointed as his personal representative and nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Caccia. On behalf of my brother bishops, I wish to extend our warmest welcome and our prayerful support to him as he carries out his responsibilities across the United States, and we look forward to working with him. 

“At the same time, I wish to express my sincere and prayerful appreciation to Cardinal Pierre, who has served as nuncio to the United States for nearly a decade. I have had many opportunities to work with Cardinal Pierre over the years, particularly over the last four months through the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Thank you, Your Eminence, for your tireless service to the Church in the United States, and on behalf of my brother bishops, I offer our heartfelt prayers and best wishes in your retirement.” 

Archbishop Caccia was born on February 24, 1958, in Milan, Italy. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1983 and has served in the Diplomatic Service to the Holy See since 1991. His curriculum vitae may be found here.