Pope Francis presents Diocese of Knoxville with blessing

One of new pontiff’s first acts is to sign papal document for Cardinal Rigali as gift to Bishop Stika and the diocesan faithful As Pope Francis establishes the 265th pontificate since St. Peter following his March 13 ascension from the College of Cardinals, where he served as Archbishop Jorge Mario …

Diocesan parishioners respond to selection of Pope Francis

Hispanic community already feeling impact with the election of first Holy Father from the Americas The impact of Pope Francis’ election is being felt around the world, and in the Diocese of Knoxville parishioners are reacting with excitement to the new pontiff and his interaction with the faithful. Deacon Bill …

Diocesan seminarian has front seat to history

For Michael Hendershott, papal succession is opportunity to study, serve Seminarian Michael Hendershott’s studies at the Pontifical North American College in Rome are preparing him for a lifetime of service to God and the Catholic Church. Studies in theology, philosophy, and history, however, couldn’t fully prepare him for events that …

New principal named for Sacred Heart Cathedral School

Sarah Trent, an educator with more than 20 years of teaching and administrative experience, has been named principal of Sacred Heart Cathedral School. The announcement was made March 19 by Father David Boettner, vicar general and rector of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In making the announcement …

Media coverage shifting focus to College of Cardinals

As His Holiness Benedict XVI fulfilled his resignation intention Feb. 28, ending his eight-year pontificate, the College of Cardinals that will select the pope emeritus’ successor has indicated it will hold a March 4 meeting to schedule a papal conclave. News of Benedict XVI’s departure has gripped the world and …

Diocesan faithful give Cardinal Rigali a memorable send-off

In a turnout befitting a pope—or a cardinal—more than a thousand well-wishers were on hand Feb. 26 at All Saints Church and McGhee Tyson Airport to see Cardinal Justin Rigali as he departed for Rome, where he will join the College of Cardinals in a conclave to elect the next …

Notre Dame High School alum, director answers God’s call

Tour with schools superintendent inspires Jenny Rittgers to join Religious Sisters of Mercy Jenny Rittgers finally said yes. And the decision has changed her life. After a long discernment, the Notre Dame High School graduate and admissions director answered the call to consecrated religious life and in January joined the …

Diocese of Knoxville plays role in papal succession

Pope Benedict XVI’s announcement Monday that he will resign effective Feb. 28 took the world by surprise, prompting Diocese of Knoxville Bishop Richard F. Stika and Cardinal Justin Rigali, who is in residence in the diocese, to meet with East Tennessee media representatives and brief them on the pontiff’s decision. …

KISL basketball: A true underdog story

St. John Neumann School’s boys varsity basketball team claimed the 2012-13 Knoxville Independent School League tournament championship in the large school division, defeating Episcopal School of Knoxville in the championship game. The Mustangs, who finished second in the KISL regular season, were led by tournament most valuable player Joseph Fluker, …

Blue Mass recognizes public safety workers

Knoxville police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians were on hand Feb. 8 as Bishop Richard F. Stika presided at a Blue Mass in recognition of the public safety community. A Knoxville Police Department honor guard, surrounded by Knights of Columbus, stood in place at Sacred Heart Cathedral as the …

KCHS student athletes sign scholarship papers

Ten Knoxville Catholic High School student athletes signed letters of intent Feb. 6 to continue playing sports in college. It was the first day that high school seniors can accept athletic scholarships to play at a Division I school. The 10 students signed letters allowing them to pursue academic and …