In Lebanon, hospitals and the health care sector have become the front and center of attention — and an imminent target — following the most recent bout of violence due to heavy clashes in southern Lebanon between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters.

As Catholics, our own miracle stories, big and small, are all woven into the vast tapestry of a faith tradition that embraces supernatural events and celebrates them in ways that we may not even realize.

Archbishop Thomas R. Zinkula of Dubuque released a message Nov. 27 stating “with a heavy heart” that Father Dennis Conway, pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Cedar Rapids, had died in the rectory “by way of suicide.”

A prayer shawl ministry at a Pennsylvania parish is wrapping hundreds around the world in what members call “a hug from God.”

Chad Pregracke of East Moline, Ill., who is recognized worldwide for energizing people to join him in cleaning up rivers and planting trees, will receive the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award, an interfaith award overseen by the Catholic Diocese of Davenport .

With the opening of the Holy Year 2025, Pope Francis’ schedule of liturgies in December and January has expanded.

A ceasefire brokered by the U.S. and France between Israel and the Lebanese-based militant group Hezbollah is being welcomed with “profound hope,” said Bishop A. Elias Zaidan of the Maronite Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace.

After meeting Pope Francis and top Vatican officials, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken praised the pope’s commitment to upholding the dignity of LGBTQ people.

A decade ago, Marguerite Stern entered Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, screaming and topless, to demonstrate her hatred of the church and the pope. In a gesture of repentance, she has now apologized to Catholics for her actions.

Not every Christian is called to be an apostle, prophet or evangelist, Pope Francis said, but all Christians can cultivate the fruits of the Holy Spirit by becoming “charitable, patient, humble, peacemakers.”