Dispensing birth control had been a regular part of Dr. Mary Ann Sorra’s gynecological practice for eight years. Not anymore.

The Archdiocese of Baltimore announced April 30 that it is eliminating 30 positions at the Catholic Center, its administrative headquarters in downtown Baltimore. Five additional vacant positions will not be filled.

In a funeral liturgy that celebrated his quiet optimism and selfless leadership, Archbishop William D. Borders was laid to rest April 23 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland.

HARWOOD – Ever since the 6th grade, Andrea Norwood has been thinking about becoming a religious sister. There’s something appealing about dedicating one’s life to God and service, she said.

Noses scrunched, eyes were closed and deep breaths were taken May 27 inside the gymnasium of Immaculate Conception School in Towson. Sitting in makeshift salon chairs, more than 50 students were about to have the most memorable haircut of their lives.

The Catholic Review, along with two Baltimore City parishes, will sponsor another Gun Turn-in day May 1, in an effort to stem gun violence in the city.

Renowned for his commitment to collegiality, social justice and a pastoral approach to leadership, Archbishop Borders led the archdiocese from 1974 to 1989, when he retired.

“For me, it’s the most important day of the year,” said Gietka, a Holy Rosary parishioner who gave up skybox tickets at Oriole Park at Camden Yards to attend the liturgy. “I feel lighter. It makes you feel so happy.”

The past and the future came together in a big way at St. Peter in Hancock April 25 when more than 300 parishioners crowded into the tiny brick church to celebrate their parish’s 175th anniversary.

“I find it insulting,” he said. “I find it insulting for all the men and women who are over there fighting wars, for the ones who came back, for our veterans, for the parents who have buried their children, for wives – it’s an insult that anyone would hide behind a freedom that so many people in this country have died for.”