Morning Briefing

As this Morning Briefing is being posted, the funeral for Sr. Margaret Brennan is about to commence, and we continue to mourn Fr. Dan Berrigan We'll have more about both of these giants later today, so please check back.

The Southern Cross, the Catholic newspaper of the South Africa, reflects on the resignation of Tony Spence, former editor in chief of Catholic News Service, and the Catholic media’s mission.

The religious freedom campaign of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops took on a new urgency, wrapped in ominous tones and a foreboding script, in a newly released video.

Vatican City -- Francis rails against child sexual abuse, saying abusers must be 'severely' punished

Guayaquil, Ecuador -- Sister turns neglected hospital into a sanctuary for people with Hansen's disease

Zambia’s Catholic Bishops call for action on environment

New York -- NY state to consider assisted suicide law

How to read Pope Francis’ Statement on Marriage and Family Life: Groundbreaking document seeks to transform the way Catholics live by Eileen M. Daily, Boston University

Catholic groups have launched a billboard campaign to encourage people to partake of God's mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Vatican financial watchdog registers three-fold increase in suspicious activity in 2015

Tell us how you really feel, Mr. Speaker: John Boehner Thinks Ted Cruz Is 'Lucifer' And A 'Miserable Son Of A Bitch'

3 Franciscan friars ordered to stand trial in sex abuse case

Commentary: Why greater diversity may (temporarily) thin out your pews

Start your day inspired with daily scripture reflections. Join NCR's sister publication, Celebration, for Daily Bread, a series of short reflections written by four authors who meet regularly to share the readings.

Or reflect on Pencil Preaching by Pat Marrin. Every morning Pat Marrin breaks open the Word with a pencil sketch and a short meditation.