Pope Francis Oct. 29 appointed Father Kurt Burnette, rector of Sts. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Pittsburgh, to head the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic, N.J. The diocese covers Byzantine and Ruthenian Catholics living in New England and on the East Coast.

During the last week of October, the main entrance to Manila North Cemetery looked like a small-town fiesta. In the Philippines, the Day of the Dead usually is celebrated Nov. 1, All Saints’ Day. This is when people visit their loved ones’ graves bearing food, flowers and candles and sometimes music — when it’s allowed at the cemetery.

After three years of intensive preparations, the International Schoenstatt Movement celebrated the beginning of its Jubilee Year in Armadale last Friday.

Doubleview mother Therese Johnston says the awarding of the June O’Connor scholarship to her daughter Ann will be a huge help to her family.

Pope Francis has expressed his empathy for, and solidarity with, people suffering amid bushfires in New South Wales.

The University of Notre Dame Australia has received an $18,400 grant from Volunteering WA, allowing it to expand on its work with local sporting clubs and recreation groups.

Grey skies failed to dampen the enthusiasm of more than 50 young children as they ‘Sock’d’ it to poverty in Mundaring last week.

Iona Presentation Primary School students obtained an extraordinary double victory on October 13, with success in National Creative and Critical Thinking Competitions located on opposing sides of Australia.

Parramatta Bishop Anthony Fisher’s expressed his concern for people ravaged by bushfires by launching an appeal this week. Bishop Fisher launched the appeal through CatholicCare Social Services, Parramatta, writing a letter to concerned persons throughout the country

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe will celebrate the 6pm Mass and bless the columbarium. Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey will also join the parish community to celebrate Mass on November 3 at 9.30am.