Deacon Lee Ashby Benson III, who served St. Ignatius Parish in Hickory as an influential, joyful figure for nearly two decades, died Jan. 23.

This summer, Loyola University Maryland plans its first Sellinger Mission Driven Business Academy, July 6-10, for an inaugural class of just 15 rising high school juniors and seniors.

Catholic Review Managing Editor George Matysek speaks with Dr. Mary Lou Yam, president of Notre Dame of Maryland University, and Austin Koo, development director at Brightview Senior Living, about a long-planned partnership that will bring a senior living community to the university’s campus. The project will create housing for independent living, assisted living and memory care while opening the door to intergenerational learning.

Archbishop William E. Lori joined the growing chorus of prelates denouncing violence in the United States connected to immigration enforcement.

Maryvale Preparatory School prevailed for the second straight year in “The Classic” by rallying for a 44-34 victory in front of a large and engaged crowd Jan. 30 at Towson University’s SECU Arena.

Catholic Charities of Baltimore is inviting players of all skill levels to enjoy another day of competition for a good cause at the “Righteous Rally” Feb. 7 at Dill Dinkers in White Marsh. 

In the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Father Alagia served as a retreat director at Manresa-on-Severn in Annapolis and led many Marriage Encounter retreats through 1977. He served in pastoral ministry while residing at the St. Claude La Colombière Jesuit Community in Baltimore (2011–16), where he returned in 2025.

As a cast member in the touring production of “Wicked,” Baltimore native Melissa Victor wears costumes with exaggerated bustles and outlandish hats. She also wore the biggest smile of all during her curtain calls in Baltimore, blowing kisses to loved ones in the audience. 

A funeral Mass will be offered Feb. 12 in Wisconsin for Dominican Sister of Sinsinawa Sigrid Simlik, who died Jan. 23. Sister Sigrid, a former teacher at St. Rose of Lima School in Brookland, was 97.

See new clergy appointments including pastors, associate pastors, deacons, and more.