Note on the morality of using some anti-Covid-19 vaccines
The question of the use of vaccines, in general, is often at the center of controversy in the forum of public opinion. In recent months, this Congregation has received several requests for guidance regarding the use of vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes Covid-19, which, in the course of research and production, employed cell lines drawn from tissue obtained from two abortions that occurred in the last century. At the same time, diverse and sometimes conflicting pronouncements in the mass media by bishops, Catholic associations, and experts have raised questions about the morality of the use of these vaccines.
Appointments – December 17, 2020
Archbishop Bernard Hebda has announced the following appointment in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
Survivor Support Groups
The following survivor support groups for victim/survivors are currently meeting in the archdiocese.
U.S. Bishop Chairmen for Pro-Life and Doctrine Address Ethical Concerns on the New COVID-19 Vaccines
Source: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops On December 14, Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic
Appointments – December 3, 2020
Archbishop Bernard Hebda has announced the following appointments in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
Rediscover: Hour Changes to Practicing Catholic
From the Office of Communications: January 1, 2021, “The Rediscover: Hour” radio show on Relevant Radio 1330am becomes “Practicing Catholic” – bringing conversation with the bishops and snapshots of Catholic life to faithful listeners in brand new ways.
Statement Regarding Theodore McCarrick Report
From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda: There is, rightfully, much interest in the Vatican’s comprehensive and historic report on Theodore McCarrick, issued yesterday. I am grateful to the courageous abuse survivors who have come forward in this case and others.
Statement on Holy See’s Report on Theodore McCarrick by Most Reverend José H. Gomez Archbishop of Los Angeles President, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
I welcome the report of the Holy See’s investigation into its knowledge and decision-making regarding Theodore McCarrick during his long career as a priest, bishop, and cardinal.
50th Anniversary of Venezuela Mission Opportunity for Gratitude, Hope
For many Twin Cities Catholics, “Father Greg Schaffer” has become synonymous with the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis’ mission in Venezuela. And not unreasonably so.
President of U.S. Bishops’ Conference Issues Statement on 2020 Presidential Election
Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued the following statement on the 2020 presidential election.
Catholic Campaign for Human Development – Sunday, Nov. 22
This annual appeal is a U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop’s national initiative to help organizations that focus on alleviating poverty. The appeal supports local and national organizations, run by low income groups, that move people from reliance to self-sufficiency.
Statement Regarding Pope Francis’ Remarks on Same-sex Civil Unions
From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda: Pope Francis’ remarks giving qualified support to civil unions of same-sex couples are not his first as pope.
World Mission Sunday: Weekend of Oct. 17 – 18
The theme this year is “Here I am, Send me.” Due to the COVID-19 situation, World Mission Sunday, a celebration in solidarity with mission overseas though the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, will also include mission at home through Catholic Home Missions. World Mission Sunday will be one celebration and collection supporting mission dioceses … everywhere.
Statement Regarding David Haas
From Tim O’Malley, Director of Ministerial Standards and Safe Environment: A recently published report compiling allegations against Davis Haas is disturbing. We affirm and emphasize the importance of courageous survivors of abuse telling their story publicly. History has shown that confronting sexual abuse leads to a better future and promotes justice. Hopefully, that proves to be the case here.
Letter from Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda Concerning Rev. Robert Altier and His Comments About the COVID-19 Pandemic
From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda: The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is blessed with many fine priests. We have reason to expect them to teach the truth of the Gospel, faithfully passing on the teachings of our Church.
Statement Regarding Father Robert Altier
From Father Michael Tix, Vicar for Clergy and Parish Services: The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is aware of Father Altier’s homily from last Sunday and has been in contact with him. With the assistance of experts in this area, the matter continues to be under review.
Appointments – September 10, 2020
Archbishop Bernard Hebda has announced the following appointments in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
Pontifical Good Friday Holy Land Collection: September 13
This important collection is held annually on Good Friday. This year, due to the COVID -19 situation, Pope Francis has suggested moving the collection for the Holy Land to September 13, 2020, near the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. If you have not already given to this collection, please consider doing so on September 13. Your support is very important as the Holy Land is also struggling with this pandemic.
Sign of the Times: What to Make of Black Lives Matter
The Men’s Ministry group at St. Peter Claver is a reflection of the parish it’s affiliated with, historically founded as a faith home for St. Paul’s African American Catholics.
Most of the group’s nine core members are Black, though men from other ethnic backgrounds participate, too. What unites them is their faith and friendship in Christ. It’s motivated them to gather on the second Saturday of the month for over 20 years to pray, read Scripture and discuss current events.
But even with this common foundation, members of the group found themselves taking different viewpoints on the topic of conversation at their July 10 meeting: Black Lives Matter.
Bishop Chairmen Issue Statement for Fifth Anniversary of World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation
Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City and Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, respective chairmen of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committees on Domestic Justice and Human Development and International Justice and Peace, issued a pastoral message for the annual World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation.
Emergency Collection for Beirut, Lebanon: September 5/6
On the weekend of September 5 and 6, parishes will take up this much needed emergency collection for those suffering in Lebanon. The Center for Mission will forward financial donations to Catholic Relief Services. Please be as generous as you are able: many are counting on our help.
In Wake of Kenosha Violence, U.S. Bishops’ Chairman for Committee Against Racism Urges Day of Prayer and Fasting
This Friday, August 28 marks the 57th anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington where Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have A Dream” speech. Bishop Shelton J. Fabre of Houma-Thibodaux, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism offered a reflection on Dr. King’s iconic words on the anniversary.
Appointments – August 27, 2020
Archbishop Bernard Hebda has announced the following appointments in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
54-Day Novena
In the Catholic tradition, a 54-day Rosary novena begins August 15 (Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary) and ends October 7 (Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary). Join in praying the Rosary daily! Read more in Bishop Andrew Cozzen’s recent column in The Catholic Spirit and on the Queen of Peace Media website.
