U.S. Congress Archives

Capitol Hill riots addressed in homilies at some U.S. Catholic churches

Jan 13, 2021

Just days after the siege on the U.S. Capitol, several bishops, priests and deacons across the country used their pulpits during Jan. 9-10 weekend Masses in cathedrals, parishes and converted outdoor worship spaces, due to the pandemic, to address what happened in Washington and how people of faith should respond.

By Carol Zimmermann

Two Catholic members of Congress reflect on Capitol attack, work ahead

Jan 12, 2021

Seeing the U.S. Capitol building being stormed by a rioting mob Jan. 6 brought a visceral reaction from Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, a Republican from Nebraska. Fortenberry, who is Catholic and often attends daily Mass at St. Peter’s Church on Capitol Hill, called the attack a “desecration.”

By Mark Zimmermann, CNS

Fallout over Capitol siege extends to job losses for those who were there

Jan 11, 2021

Just as the political and criminal fallout has continued over the Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol by people seeking to halt the Electoral College certification of President-Elect Joe Biden’s win in the November election, the fallout has extended to job losses for those who have been identified as taking part in the siege.

By Mark Pattison

Washington pastors reflect on Capitol attack that hit close to home

Jan 11, 2021

Like many across the country, Father William Gurnee and Father Gary Studniewski watched in horror as a rioting mob stormed and ransacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, attempting to disrupt Congress at it certified the Electoral College vote of President-elect Joe Biden.

By Mark Zimmermann, CNS

Missouri congressman defends ‘A-woman’ end to prayer

Jan 6, 2021

U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver said he was caught off guard by the negative response after he ended his opening prayer on the first day of the new Congress by saying, “Amen and A-woman.”

By Associated Press

As Jesuit chaplain retires, House of Representatives picks first female chaplain

Jan 5, 2021

With the year-end announcement that Jesuit Father Pat Conroy would be retiring as chaplain of the House of Representatives, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced that for the first time, a woman will take over the post.

By Rhina Guidos