Morning Briefing

Meet the Texas pastor who opposes public funding of religious education — and fights the Koch agenda

The question before America today is whether the theoretical need to defend against tyranny still outweighs the apparent public health need to reduce gun deaths. The origins of the Second Amendment

Montreal, Canada -- 'A long and tortuous road' Catholic brother's guilty plea brings relief for victim, but not closure.

Osage, Iowa -- Time capsule reveals Sacred Heart Catholic Church's history

Hilton Head, South Carolina -- Hilton Head synagogue, Catholic church join together to learn from each other

The low standing of women in the Catholic Church is the most significant reason for the feeling of alienation towards it in Ireland today, Archbishop of Dublin Diarmuid Martin has said. Gender issues are a bigger factor in falling engagement than sex abuse, Martin says.

Not sure this is strictly Catholic news, but it is cultural significance: Charles Manson, a Symbol of Unrepentant Evil, Dies

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.