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National Catholic Register

The Faithful 11: Meet the Patriots and Seahawks Playing for Christ this Super Bowl Sunday

Robert Gauthier
New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry (85) thanks God after his touchdown in the fourth quarter during the AFC wild card game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the New England Patriots at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA on Sunday, January 11, 2026.

From pro-life witness, a pre-Super Bowl elopement, and moments of faith lived on and off the field, here are 11 players to watch this Sunday.

Archbishop Ronald Hicks Takes Helm of Archdiocese of New York

Jeffrey Bruno/EWTN News
Archbishop Ronald Hicks delivering the homily at his installation Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral on February. 6, 2026.

Addressing his new flock directly, Archbishop Hicks said, 'I desire to follow the heart of Christ, to be a good shepherd. I come to walk with you, to serve you, and to proclaim Jesus Christ to you.'

Leo XIV Meets With Founder of Sant’Egidio Community

Vatican Media
Sant’Egidio Community founder Andrea Riccardi meets with Pope Leo XIV on Feb. 5, 2026.

Pope Leo XIV and Sant’Egidio Community founder Andrea Riccardi discussed the role Christians and the Church are called to play in promoting peace in the midst of various world conflicts.

Pope Leo XIV May Add European Parliament to 2026 Travel Agenda

Vatican Media
Pope Leo XIV receives the President of European Parliament Roberta Metsola at the Vatican on Jan. 29, 2026.

The brief stopover is part of the pontiff's very busy schedule, but it holds a particularly strong significance.

Pope Calls for Olympic Truce in Letter for Winter Games

Vatican Media
Pope Leo XIV visits the Pontifical Paul VI School in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, on Dec. 17, 2025.

The pontiff warned that profit, doping, and fanaticism can distort sport’s deeper human purpose.

The Japanese Martyrs: Evangelizers Through Blood

The Christian martyrs of Nagasaki are depicted by an unknown 17th century Japanese artist.
The Christian martyrs of Nagasaki are depicted by an unknown 17th century Japanese artist.

COMMENTARY: St. Paul Miki and his companions did more than simply die for the faith. They lived it with missionary vigor and intentionality that ensured it would outlive them.