The Diocese of Phoenix has inaugurated its education center focused on mental health ministry in collaboration with the University of Mary in North Dakota. The opening ceremony, held on September 9, featured Bishop John Dolan, Auxiliary Bishop Eduardo Nevares, and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.
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Bishop Dolan emphasized the center’s mission, stating that those trained there will extend their knowledge into parishes and communities, offering care through both priestly ministry and mental health services. He articulated the importance of helping individuals recognize their inherent worth, reflecting that they are made in God’s image and should feel supported.
The 3,132-square-foot facility will serve both Nazareth Seminary and the Photina Center for Catholic Counseling. It will provide in-person courses for a Catholic anthropology certificate through the University of Mary, along with limited master’s-level counseling courses and professional development resources. The Photina Center will contribute to the mental health ministry, particularly its program aimed at placing counselors in Catholic schools across the diocese.
The center is named after St. Photina, recognized in Eastern Christian tradition as the Samaritan woman who spoke with Jesus at the well, symbolizing its goal to illuminate paths of hope and healing.
In related news, the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota will host Archbishop Emeritus Domenico Sorrentino of Assisi on September 18 for a day of prayer and reflection in honor of St. Francis. The event will feature public veneration of sacred relics, including those of St. Carlo Acutis, St. Francis, and St. Clare of Assisi, as well as a lecture by Sorrentino regarding St. Francis’ “Canticle of the Creatures.”
Additionally, the Diocese of Bridgeport is set to launch an educational series featuring an animated Bishop Frank Caggiano, aimed at teaching young children about the Catholic faith. Titled “Bishop Frank Teaches the Faith,” the series will consist of weekly episodes designed to engage young audiences with fundamental topics of the faith, emphasizing relationships with Jesus Christ.
Lastly, Loyola University Maryland has announced new financial aid guarantees for early decision students and recent graduates of Catholic high schools for fall 2027. The institution will guarantee at least $40,000 annually in Loyola-funded scholarships and grants for these students, reinforcing its commitment to making Jesuit education more accessible.