The archdiocese raised more than $50,000 to finance the buyback event. Police officers exchanged cash and gift cards for weapons retrieved from the trunks of vehicles that formed a continuous, long line for several hours, wrapped around Edmondson Village Shopping Center.

Assuring Rome priests of his gratitude and prayers, Pope Francis asked them to use part of their summer rest to reflect on ways to strengthen the unity of the church and promote greater collaboration with laypeople.

George Matysek interviews Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, C.Ss.R, urban vicar for the Archdiocese of Baltimore; and Geri Byrd, director of Seek the City, a two-year pastoral planning effort launched last year concerning the future of all 57 parishes in Baltimore City and several in Baltimore County.

The Baltimore group of more than 50 had a packed 11-day itinerary, arriving in Lisbon July 29 and taking a city tour, including stops at Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and St. Anthony of Padua Church.

Deacon Edward Conway Sullivan Jr., who served at St. Joseph in Cockeysville for more than 20 years, is being remembered for his “generous, generous heart” and his devotion to his parish.