Catholic New World - News Digest

News Update

Lawsuit filed

Two women have filed a federal lawsuit against the Archdiocese of Chicago and a former priest over abuse they allegedly suffered more than 40 years ago. According to news reports, the plaintiffs are 58- year-old women who attended the now-closed St. Laurence School in Chicago. Anthony Vader was pastor of St. Laurence Parish from 1964 until 1968. From 1968 until 1998, Vader served at Holy Name of Mary Church in Morgan Park. Vader was removed from ministry in 2003.

Black Catholic ministers gather

Mawusa, a weekend retreat for religious and lay ministers who serve in the black Catholic community, will take place July 24-26 at Techny Towers, 2001 Waukegan Rd., Techny.

The event is sponsored by the Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry, and includes workshops on topics such as modeling behavior, responding to the call and spirituality and evangelization. Cost ranges from $135 for commuters to $245 for a single room.

Registration deadline is July 1. For information, call Mary Norfleet-Johnson or Laura McThay at (312) 534-8052 or 8040, or e-mail [email protected].

News Digest

In Holy Land, pilgrim pope delivers challenges

Pope Benedict XVI's eight-day visit to the Holy Land was a biblical pilgrimage, an interfaith mission and a political balancing act all rolled into one.

It was also a gamble. In a region hardened by decades of conflict and simmering social and religious tensions, there was no guarantee of success.

Vatican launches iPhone, Facebook applications

Vatican City (CNS) - The Vatican is launching iPhone and Facebook applications in an effort to help Catholics, especially younger generations, use new technologies to create a culture of dialogue, respect and friendship.

The new applications are part of a brand new Vatican Web site - www.pope2you.net - that was to go live on World Communications Day, which will be celebrated May 24 in most dioceses.

Catholic New World - Newspaper for the Archdiocese of Chicago