The Religious Liberty Commission held its fifth hearing — with some tense exchanges — to examine a rise in antisemitism Feb. 9, the same day a lawsuit was filed challenging the committee’s creation as unlawful.

Thousands of pilgrims have gathered at St. Anthony’s shrine in Bangladesh’s Archdiocese of Dhaka, despite anxiety and fears of violence, ahead of national elections in Muslim-majority Bangladesh, as they pray for peace in Bangladesh and the world.

The Church in the United States and the Church in Africa “are two lungs of the same Body, breathing the same Spirit,” a Nigerian bishop told Massgoers in Washington, emphasizing how the Church in both countries are united in Christ.

James’ heart started to beat just as the medical team at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria decided they were out of options. The newborn’s healing, which doctors could not explain, was attributed to the intercession of Archbishop Sheen. It became the miracle that cleared the way for his beatification.

Cameroon’s possible inclusion in the itinerary of Pope Leo XIV’s first African trip is drawing growing debate, as security concerns, political tensions and moral objections raise questions about whether the country is ready for a papal visit.

After decades of anticipation and a cause marked by unexpected delays, the Diocese of Peoria has announced that Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen — beloved evangelist, television pioneer and native son of Illinois — will at last be beatified, a joy-filled announcement that comes only after years of legal disputes and renewed scrutiny briefly slowed his path to the altars.

Once dubbed “God’s microphone,” Archbishop Sheen announced God’s truth in a nonconfrontational, yet no less life-giving, manner to untold millions through radio, print and television.

Venerable Fulton J. Sheen will soon be beatified, now that the Vatican has given the green light, the Diocese of Peoria, Illinois, announced Feb. 9. No date or location for the beatification was given.

The Vatican press office confirmed that Pope Leo XIV has no plans to visit the U.S. this year.

The March for Life rally, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and several buildings at The Catholic University of America were among infection sites for confirmed measles cases in the District of Columbia, the capital city’s health department said Feb. 7.