FALL RIVER — Many parishioners across the Diocese of Fall River found something new in their inboxes recently: the first electronic newsletter version of The Anchor, the longtime news source for the Catholic Church in Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Islands.

Like its forerunner printed version, The Anchor e-newsletter offers diocesan news and events, plentiful images, feature stories, parish happenings, commentary, and information on upcoming events. What readers will find new in the e-version is multi-media content, links to additional information, and the ability to access content in multiple languages. Plus, the e-version will include expanded coverage of the Catholic Church around the nation and across the world including developments from the Vatican and the latest news on Pope Leo XIV.

With its transition to a digital format, The Anchor will be issued weekly rather than monthly and no longer requires a paid subscription. It’s available for free to anyone who signs up to receive it.

Editor Joan D. Warren looks forward to this “new chapter” in the life of The Anchor and assures longtime readers that its mission remains the same.

“Continuing its over 68-year legacy as the official news source of the Diocese of Fall River, The Anchor remains committed to informing, reporting, and shining a light on the faith-filled people, parishes, and ministries that make up this vibrant diocesan community,” she said.

The Anchor e-newsletter is created on a responsive platform, meaning it can be read on any screen size -desktop, tablet, or smartphone. It’s designed to offer an optimal, user-friendly experience.

Late last fall, the Diocese of Fall River announced the plan to move The Anchor to a digital format, citing widespread use of digital platforms, changing media habits, and increasing costs.

“I want to be sure the Diocese is sharing the Good News in the most effective ways available with the aim of reaching as many people as possible,” explained Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., in a letter to subscribers. “This decision regarding The Anchor comes in response to changing times and new opportunities. More and more people get their news and information online, and digital platforms allow us to share stories more quickly, reach more people, and use our limited resources more effectively.”

This week’s inaugural e-newsletter follows last week’s launch of an updated, re-designed, mobile-friendly website for The Anchor to which stories in the newsletter will be linked.

The Anchor is partnering with Vatican News and OSV News to broaden the scope of its coverage and augment local diocesan content in its digital products.

“Together with our newly redesigned Anchor website, this e-newsletter will deliver local, national, and global news, thoughtful commentary, upcoming events, faith enrichment resources, and much more,” said editor Warren.

You can sign up to receive The Anchor through its website, anchornews.org

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
Office of Communications