The LOOP
The Saturday Loop - October 3, 2026
AOC TAKES POT-SHOT AT CONSERVATIVES DURING STOP AT CATHOLIC PARISH IN NEW YORK
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez took aim at conservatives during a voter-mobilization stop at All Saints Church, a Syracuse parish already locked in a dispute with its bishop over LGBTQ ministry. The Diocese of Syracuse said that it did not approve the politician's appearance and that the parish never asked for permission.
CATHOLICVOTE BACKS SCHOLARSHIPS ROOTED IN AMERICA’S FOUNDING
CatholicVote’s scholarship partnership gives students a chance to explore the U.S. Constitution and compete for funding toward higher education. The next cycle follows a summer round that drew more than 520 applications.
USCCB WELCOMES EDUCATION TAX CREDIT
Bishop David O’Connell, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Catholic Education, called the Trump administration’s new federal scholarship tax credit a “transformative opportunity” for children that could help families access resources to choose the best learning environment for their children.
SCOTUS HEADS INTO NEW TERM WITH HISTORICALLY LOW RATINGS
As the Supreme Court heads into its 2026-2027 term, only about one-third of Americans approve of its job performance, and trust in the federal judicial branch is at its lowest level in Gallup’s polling history.
AG REPORT ON THREE MASSACHUSETTS DIOCESES FINDS 275 ABUSIVE CLERGY OVER 70 YEARS
A new attorney general’s report found 275 clergy abused nearly 1,000 children across three Massachusetts dioceses, similar to findings in reports from around the country. One diocesan spokesman noted that the Church has made big strides in responding to complaints.
VERMONT DIOCESE ASKS TO END BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS
Two years after filing for bankruptcy, the Diocese of Burlington, Vermont, is asking to end the proceedings. Its bishop points to mounting costs, but the committee representing abuse survivors opposes the move.
A MILLION CHILDREN, ONE PRAYER FOR PEACE
Hundreds of children gathered with Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican Gardens to begin a worldwide Rosary initiative. His message gave the young participants a role that extends beyond their prayers.
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BEHIND THE MUSIC AT SHEEN’S BEATIFICATION
Joshua Russell, headmaster of Chesterton Academy of the Sacred Heart in Peoria, Illinois, conducted much of the music at Blessed Fulton Sheen’s beatification Mass, with his students joining experienced musicians for the celebration. He spoke with Zeale News about the faith that guided his work and the experience he hopes will stay with his students.
ST. FRANCIS’ LIFE OF POVERTY AND FAITH MARKS JUBILEE YEAR
St. Francis of Assisi’s Oct. 4 feast day takes on special significance this weekend as the Church marks 800 years since his death. From wealth and worldly ambition to poverty, prayer, and devotion to Christ, his life continues to shape the Fransiscan tradition.
FINE ARTS FOR MAKEUP
Borrow some of these fine arts rules from the Old Masters to enhance your own makeup routine.
SAINT OF THE DAY
Today, the Church honors St. Mother Théodore Guérin, a French missionary to the pioneers of Indiana.
SATURDAY'S PSALM
"Lord, let your face shine on me.” (Psalm 119)
SATURDAY'S READINGS
Today's Mass readings.
SUNDAY'S PSALM
"The vineyard of the Lord is the house of Israel.” (Psalm 80)
SUNDAY'S READINGS
Sunday's Mass readings.
ANSWER TO TRIVIA
The fifth commandment: "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13).
NEW EPISODE
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