|
|
Entries for February 2023
According to the 2023 Report on “Violations to the rights of Christians in Iran” recently released by by Article18 along with other three Christian non-profit organizations, 2022 saw a significant increase in the number of Iranian Christians arrested and detained in the Islamic Republic.
Read all
Read More
We feature excerpts of an interview with Pope Francis published today by the Catholic Belgian weekly “Tertio” together with the Belgian French publication "Dimanche." The Pope answers questions on numerous themes, including: the Second Vatican Council, the current synodal process, the war in Ukraine and the world’s forgotten conflicts. The Pope calls especially for a new model of economic developm...
Read More
Provisional results from Nigeria's disputed presidential election over the weekend are trickling in. Tallies of votes counted in 25 of the country’s 36 states, show the ruling party candidate is in the lead, but opposition parties have walked out of the counting process citing concerns of fraud.
Read all
Read More
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited Belfast on Tuesday to drum up support for his new deal with the European Union on post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland, calling the deal a huge step forward for the people of Northern Ireland.
Read all
Read More
This first week of Lent, Pope Francis' engagements are suspended as he and top Roman Curia officials dedicate these days to private, prayerful Spiritual Exercises.
Read all
Read More
The number of known victims is growing, while many more remain missing after a boat sank a few metres from the coast of the Italian province of Calabria.
Read all
Read More
In an interview with Vatican News, Cardinal Péter Erdő, Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, discusses "great joy" for Pope Francis' upcoming Apostolic Journey to the nation from 28 to 30 April, while recognizing the significance of the visit taking place with the backdrop of the war in Ukraine.
Read all
Read More
The Nicaraguan government of President Daniel Ortega has banned the celebration of traditional public processions of the Way of the Cross during this year's Lenten season, and has accused Catholic Bishops of “grave crimes and horrors".
Read all
Read More
Sister Teodora Shulak, Superior General of the Redemptorist sisters, shares her reflections and her interior struggles in the face of Russia's ongoing war in her home country, Ukraine.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis will make an Apostolic Journey to the European nation of Hungary from 28 to 30 April, marking his 41st Journey abroad, where he will follow a busy itinerary in the country's capital of Budapest.
Read all
Read More
The “Digital Synod” reached an estimated 20 million people and gleaned tens of thousands of responses from non-Catholics and non-believers, according to Fr Jeffrey Segovia, who points out that real people lie behind all the clicks and likes that fill social media.
Read all
Read More
The Bishop of Manzini in the southern African nation of Eswatini talks about his fears for the seething violence in the country that has already caused bloodshed and that could escalate into conflict on a much greater scale.
Read all
Read More
Laymen participating in the Asian Continental Assembly see the synod as a vehicle for bringing change, new ways of thinking, and new directions, and are happy to have contributed their Asian voices to the process.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis prays for the dead and for those who have survived after the bodies of dozens of migrants wash up on an Italian shore.
Read all
Read More
"El Pastor", a book by journalists Francesca Ambrogetti and Sergio Rubin that was recently published in Argentina, is the result of several interviews with the Pope on the most important and urgent issues of the Church, from politics to economics, from reforms in the Roman Curia to threats to the 'common home'.
Read all
Read More
The third and final day of the Asian Continental Assembly on Synodality opened with an orientation by Cardinal Hollerich, who focused his remarks on synod as symphony and the need for conversion.
Read all
Read More
In renewed appeals following his Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis calls for prayers and for peace for the countless victims of violence in the Holy Land and Burkina Faso.
Read all
Read More
On this first Sunday of Lent, Pope Francis speaks about the spiritual struggle of Lent and explains how in the desert Jesus defeats the temptations of the Devil, who is the "divider." He illustrates how we too must respond to temptation to sin by recalling the Word of God and putting our trust always in the Lord who is ever ready to help us in our journey of faith.
Read all
...
Read More
There was confusion Saturday over a Chinese peace plan to end the war in Ukraine after Washington said it had intelligence that Beijing is considering providing Russia with weapons. Yet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made clear he wants to meet China's leader Xi Jinping to discuss Beijing's proposals, despite concerns about Chinese-Russian relations.
Read all
...
Read More
In an extensive interview with journalist Gerard O’Connell of America Magazine, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul R. Gallagher, underscores the urgent need to halt the fighting in Ukraine and work for a just peace. He also echoes concerns over the increasing threats to global peace and nuclear disarmament.
Read all
...
Read More
Day two of the Asian Continental Assembly on Synodality began with an orientation provided by Sr Nathalie Becquart, who praised the delegates for their ability to talk about tensions without tension.
Read all
Read More
On the first anniversary of the war in Ukraine, Pope Francis attends a screening at the Vatican of the documentary "Freedom on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom," sponsored by filmmaker Evgeny Afineevsky. The Pope meets with those featured in the production, including the mother of a soldier from Azovstal and the owner of the city's steel mill. Praying in conclusion, he said may God "heal our hear...
Read More
Addressing judges and magistrates for the opening of the 94th Judicial Year of the Tribunal of the Vatican City State Pope Francis recalls that every commitment to peace requires a commitment to justice, and that justice and mercy always walk together.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis addresses members of Pontifical Roman institutions and universities and urges them to work together, forming a choir of harmonies, as they follow in the footsteps of Jesus.
Read all
Read More
Women speak on the sidelines of the Asian Continental Assembly on Synodality, assuring their peers that, ‘In the synodal process, we are with you and our voices should be heard.’
Read all
Read More
The religious sisters of the Blessed Virgin of the Good Way Monastery in Iglesias, Sardinia, share the story of their life and mission in the footsteps of St. Clare of Assisi, serving those who suffer the most.
Read all
Read More
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed that his nation will do everything to achieve victory a year after Russia's invasion. He spoke as emotionally charged ceremonies were underway across the country to remember the first anniversary of a war that killed at least tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians.
Read all
Read More
The Pontifical Academy of Sciences hosts a two-day conference to discuss global inequalities in cancer research and prevention, with high-level oncologists calling for better distribution of the vast scientific advances achieved in recent decades.
Read all
Read More
The prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches speaks about his recent visit to the earthquake-hit zones of Syria and Turkey, where he consoled families being cared for by Church and local authorities and called for coordinated efforts in bringing aid safely and most effectively to those in need.
Read all
Read More
One year on from Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, the papal representative in the country, tells Vatican Media about the suffering and hopes of the Ukrainian people.
Read all
Read More
Meeting in the Vatican with members of the Pro Petri Sede Association, Pope Francis thanks them for their generous support to the Successor of Peter and the Holy See, saying this generosity is even more urgent today as the world faces war, poverty and exclusion.
Read all
Read More
Turkish authorities have almost completed search and rescue work, two weeks after massive earthquakes claimed over 43,000 lives.
Read all
Read More
On the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, we take a look at the vast humanitarian assistance which the Church in Poland has offered to its war-torn neighbor.
Read all
Read More
Cardinal Grech brings the Pope’s ‘fatherly blessing’ to the delegates to the Asian Continental Assembly on Synodality, expresses his gratitude, and provides orientation.
Read all
Read More
80 delegates from all over Asia entered into communal discernment on Friday, seeking the aid of the Holy Spirit in the opening Mass of the Holy Spirit.
Read all
Read More
Twelve months after Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February 2022, we take a look back at Pope Francis' countless appeals and expressions of closeness to the war-torn nation, as he urges us never to forget the Ukrainian people who are tormented by an 'absurd and cruel' war.
Read all
Read More
The newly established diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Sultanate of Oman are based on the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 18 April 1961 that envisages an Apostolic Nunciature to the Sultanate of Oman and an Embassy to the Holy See. The Catholic Church in Oman through its priests and religious wishes to continue contributing to the social welfare of the Sultanate.
...
Read More
On Thursday Pope Francis gave approval for Decrees allowing for the beatification of Italian Sister Elisabetta Martinez, foundress of the Congregation of the Daughters of St. Mary of Leuca, and recognition of the heroic virtues of five Servants of God from Italy, Brazil, and Spain.
Read all
Read More
The Pope's powerful appeal for peace in Ukraine resounded at the weekly General Audience on the eve of the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion. Participating in the audience were three young women who felt particularly encouraged and comforted by his continuing closeness and prayers. The women from Russia, Ukraine and Belarus told Vatican Radio about their own dreams for peace and of thei...
Read More
A year on from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, there are no signs of an end to a devastating conflict. Pope Francis continues to raise his voice for peace.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis has published a new Apostolic Letter motu proprio, “Il diritto nativo” (“The native right”), clarifying the public ecclesiastical nature of assets acquired by curial institutions and entities linked to the Holy See. They make use of those assets, the Pope writes, “not for their own sakes, as private owners, but, in the name and authority of the Pontiff, for the pursuit of their instit...
Read More
Pope Francis greets members of the ‘Max Planck Society’, an association of German research institutes, and encourages them to place humanity at the centre of their research and projects.
Read all
Read More
The fifth of seven Continental Assemblies for the Synod will get underway on Friday with 80 participants and delegates representing 29 Asian countries.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis warns against impeding aid from reaching war-torn, earthquake-struck Syria, when addressing monks and priests from Eastern Orthodox Churches.
Read all
Read More
The Vatican's Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, says the Holy See is continuing to strive for peace in Ukraine, following the lead of Pope Francis
Read all
Read More
After restoration, the Macuti parish, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the Archdiocese of Beira, was reopened to worship over the weekend.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis reflects on the meaning of receiving ashes on our foreheads at the beginning of Lent, and during the Ash Wednesday Mass, invites us to “set out on the path of charity, prayer, and fasting.”
Read all
Read More
Around a hundred refugees from Afghanistan arrive in Rome, as part of the “Humanitarian Corridors” initiative, which is sponsored by groups including Italy’s Catholic and Evangelical churches.
Read all
Read More
At a special Mass commemorating the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, invites the faithful to read the last year’s tragic events in the light of the Word of God, and to pray to the Lord for the world “to walk again on paths of peace".
Read all
...
Read More
This Ash Wednesday, Pope Francis calls upon Brazilian faithful to commit themselves to combatting the "plague" and "scourge" of hunger worldwide, as he encourages the work of the 2023 Fraternity Campaign, launched by the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil.
Read all
Read More
Bishop Frank Leo says he is ready to continue to serve the Lord in his new ministry as Archbishop of Toronto. The Archbishop-elect will be installed in Toronto on 25 March, the Solemnity of the Annunciation, after being named to the post by Pope Francis on 11 February.
Read all
Read More
Following an attack in Mali in which three UN peacekeepers were killed and five others were injured, the Vatican’s Permanent Observer to the United Nations expresses condolences and condemns all attacks against peacekeepers, upholding their vital role to provide stability and safety.
Read all
Read More
The cross, made of glass from windows shattered by Russian missiles, was brought to him by Father Vyacheslav Grynevych, Secretary General of Caritas Spes-Ukraine.
Read all
Read More
As the one-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine approaches, Pope Francis renews his appeal for "concrete efforts to end the conflict, to reach a ceasefire and to start peace negotiations."
Read all
Read More
At his weekly general audience, Pope Francis says that a Church which does not invoke the Holy Spirit “closes in on itself in sterile and exhausting debates” .
Read all
Read More
Thousands of Christians belonging to various denominations and institutions stage a peaceful prayer protest in New Delhi asking authorities to intervene to check the rapid rise of anti-Christian incidents.
Read all
Read More
The Vatican Secretariat of State has completed its virtual reproduction of a collection of 170 volumes preserving the requests for help addressed to Pope Pius XII by Jews from all over Europe after the beginning of Nazi-Fascist persecution.
Read all
Read More
The NATO military alliance says the world has become more dangerous after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his nation’s suspension of a key nuclear weapons treaty with the United States.
Read all
Read More
Nicaragua’s government strips 94 people of their Nicaraguan citizenship, including an Auxiliary Bishop of Managua who is already in exile in Miami, and a Catholic priest.
Read all
Read More
Ahead of the first anniversary of the war in Ukraine, on February 24, the Council of Bishops’ Conferences of Europe (CCEE) is inviting its members to celebrate a special Mass for the restoration of peace on March 10. Prayer, fasting and charity are the only real weapons capable of transforming people's hearts, say Italian bishops.
Read all
...
Read More
Pope Francis publishes a rescript related to the motu proprio “Traditionis custodes”, and clarifies that bishops must obtain authorization from the Holy See before granting permission for parish churches to be used for Eucharistic celebrations with the preconciliar rite and before allowing priests ordained after 16 July 2021 to use the 1962 Roman Missal.
Read all
...
Read More
Police in the US city of Los Angeles announce the arrest of Carlos Medina, the husband of Bishop David O'Connell's housekeeper, in connection with the murder of the late Irish-born Auxiliary Bishop.
Read all
Read More
The story of a Milanese leader and pioneer company in the cultivation and processing of this extraordinary plant, and the testimony of its president, Emanuele Rissone: “I felt the need to turn to the field of sustainability after becoming a father. The Earth urgently needs good practices.”
Read all
Read More
The Society of Jesus releases a statement detailing new abuse accusations against Slovenian-born Fr. Marko Rupnik, which cover a period of more than 30 years, and announces that proceedings are planned within the Jesuit order.
Read all
Read More
On the occasion of the feast of the Chair of St. Peter, pilgrims visiting St. Peter’s Basilica will be able to admire the statue of the Apostle and the suggestive "luminaria" symbolizing the Magisterium of the Supreme Pontiff.
Read all
Read More
Vehicles, houses and people have been swept away in the coastal city of Sao Sebastiao.
Read all
Read More
Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishops, offers Vatican News an overview of the proceedings from last year's International Symposium "Towards a Fundamental Theology of Priesthood", which were presented on Monday.
Read all
Read More
The US President pays an unannounced five-hour visit to the capital city of Ukraine, pledging support just days before the one-year anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis addresses participants in a workshop hosted by the Pontifical Academy for Life on the relationship between the person, emerging technologies and the common good, and reiterates that progress of science and technology must always be at the service of human dignity and integral human development.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis tells members of St Peter’s Circle that he sees in them the image of the Good Samaritan who was moved by compassion and tenderness.
Read all
Read More
In an address to members of an Italian cinema organisation, Pope Francis reflects on the importance of beauty, which, he said, is often “left to one side” in theological discussion.
Read all
Read More
Cyclone 'Gabrielle' kills at least 11 people in New Zealand, and leaves hundreds unaccounted for, as the country calls a State of Emergency.
Read all
Read More
The US Archdiocese of Los Angeles mourns the late Bishop David O’Connell, who was shot and killed on Saturday, and recalls his life of service to the Church as a peacemaker and advocate for immigrants.
Read all
Read More
Nearly two weeks after a devastating earthquake hit Turkey and Syria, more than 46,000 people have died and more than 80,000 buildings have either been badly damaged or collapsed.
Read all
Read More
During his Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis issues an appeal for help for all those suffering and killed by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, as the death toll climbs toward 50,000; the war in Ukraine; and the cyclone in New Zealand.
Read all
Read More
During his Sunday Angelus address, Pope Francis urges the faithful to strive always for the 'extraordinary,' like Jesus who died for us sinners, who could not offer Him anything in return.
Read all
Read More
The upcoming Addis Ababa Continental Synod Meeting will reflect and engage in discernment over the working Document for the Continental Stage.
Read all
Read More
As the Church marks the Seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time, Fr. Luke Gregory, OFM offers his thoughts on the day’s liturgical readings under the theme: “'It seems to be all turned upside down!”
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis sends a message to a Study Day on people with disabilities, and urges everyone to love and care for them just as Jesus does.
Read all
Read More
Relief efforts across Turkey and Syria are continuing, while it is estimated that about 26 million people have been impacted by the disaster.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis addresses the presidents and representatives of Episcopal Commissions for the Laity participating in the Conference “Pastors and lay faithful called to go forward together” and urges them to promote lay co-responsibility in their Churches in a spirit of synodality.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis grants an interview to Italy’s ‘Canale 5’ program “Journeys of the Heart”, and reflects on the suffering inflicted by war and the importance of faith in God’s plan despite life’s disappointments.
Read all
Read More
As new aid from Pope Francis arrives in Turkey on Saturday morning, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, tells Vatican News the Holy See's commitment to those suffering from the catastrophic earthquakes that have claimed more than 45,000 lives in Turkey and Syria.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis meets with participants in a formation course organized by the Roman Rota, and highlights the important link between pastoral care and canon law.
Read all
Read More
From the initial concept to the most challenging stages, Fr. Boniface Endorf reflects on his project to organize the first Perpetual Adoration Chapel in the US city of New York, which is scheduled to open in June.
Read all
Read More
International aid agencies are stepping up efforts to help millions of homeless people, many living in the streets and sleeping under canvas since the deadly earthquake.
Read all
Read More
Youth representatives at the Continental Synodal Assembly for the Middle East share their impressions, and call for "really walking together, not just in name".
Read all
Read More
The Vicar Apostolic of Anatolia in eastern Turkey reflects on the devastation caused by the February 6 earthquakes, talks about his audience with Pope Francis and the pontiff’s constant support, and begs that the quake-struck peoples’ plight may not fall into oblivion.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis receives a delegation of the Congregation of Marian Fathers in the Vatican, and encourages them to continue finding new ways of living out the “treasure” of their spirituality.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis greets a delegation of businessmen and women from Mexico, and urges them to help support the formation of good and holy priests as well as people in need.
Read all
Read More
In his Message for Lent 2023, Pope Francis highlights the relationship between the Lenten journey and the synodal journey, which are both rooted in tradition and open to newness.
Read all
Read More
On Thursday, members of the writing team drafting the North American continental response for the synod concluded the work they began on Monday, grateful and enriched by the experience.
Read all
Read More
Bishop Flores has been “touched and impressed” in different ways throughout the synodal process which he says has been a “great pleasure and honor” for him to lead in the United States.
Read all
Read More
The Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life hosts an international conference on the theme “Pastors and lay faithful called to go forward together” to explore how to encourage a “positive collaboration” between clergy and laypeople for a more synodal Church.
Read all
Read More
Public health experts have warned that the devastating earthquakes that struck south-eastern Turkey and north-western Syira could exacerbate a cholera outbreak in the latter nation.
Read all
Read More
The Dicastery for the Eastern Churches has announced that the Prefect, Archbishop Claudio Gugerotti, will travel to Syria and Turkey from 17 February to 21 February to demonstate the Holy Father’s closeness to the people affected by the earthquake.
Read all
Read More
Through a telegram of condolences, Pope Francis mourns 39 migrants killed in tragic bus crash in Panama, expressing his closeness and prayers.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis entrusts to St. Joseph those within the Italian Bishops' Conference engaged in encouraging financial support for the Church in Italy, and urges them to remember that faith in Christ should always translate into concrete action and into our daily lives.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis receives the new Ambassador of Türkiye to the Holy See and reaffirms his sorrow and prayers for the suffering caused by the deadly earthquake.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis meets with an ecumenical delegation of the United Bible Societies, and encourages their efforts to translate Sacred Scripture into many languages and distribute Bibles across the globe.
Read all
Read More
Bishop Tyson began the synod process in his diocese with those on the peripheries – migrants – and hopes to better align services in his diocese in light of the synod process.
Read all
Read More
In separate meetings with Jesuits in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in South Sudan during his recent Apostolic Journey, Pope Francis shares his concerns about war, for a synodal discussion to protect the environment in the region, and speaks out on a host of other issues.
Read all
Read More
According to the 9-member Prize Committee, including Flaminia Giovanelli, their motivation in awarding the prize to Mr. Rajagopal is his lifelong commitment and work for the poorest and most marginalized in India based on the Gandhian principles of non-violent activism.
Read all
Read More
Canadian theologian Patrick Fletcher reflects on continental stage of synodal process which he hopes will implement what Vatican II taught about the vocation of the baptized.
Read all
Read More
The death toll in the deadly earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria tops 41,000, with millions left without a shelter in both nations. Meanwhile Turkish authorities are focusing on shoddy building practices which are being blamed for exacerbating the destruction.
Read all
Read More
From earthquake-ravaged Turkey, a story of love and courage, as a group of nurses in the hospital of Gaziantep risk their lives to protect premature babies.
Read all
Read More
Until now Rector of Antonine University in Baabda, Lebanon, Michel Jalakh previously served as Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis sends aid to earthquake-struck communities in Syria and Turkey, through the Dicastery for the Service of Charity.
Read all
Read More
In a statement signed by Archbishop Gintaras Grušas, the Council of European Bishops' Conferences (CCEE), expresses its closeness to detained Bishop Álvarez and the Church in Nicaragua as it faces ongoing crackdown by the Sandinista government and asks for prayers for dialogue and peace.
Read all
Read More
Speaking to Vatican News at a synodal assembly in the Middle East, Archbishop Youhanna Jihad Battah urges his fellow bishops to consult the faithful: “We cannot give orders and make decrees with knowing about their needs.”
Read all
Read More
“Sowing Hope for the Planet” is an initiative promoted by the UISG (the International Union of Superiors General) and associations connected with it, in order to make Laudato sí a reality: sharing ideas, formation, and synergetic action aimed at curing a sick planet.
Read all
Read More
At the weekly General Audience, Pope Francis reflects on the Christian proclamation of God’s nearness, and urges us to draw strength from our relationship with Jesus in order to preach the Gospel together in meekness.
Read all
Read More
Barbara Dowding participated in the local Vancouver synod ten years ago as well as in the current synod process. She appreciates how ‘people felt quite free to express their opinions and their thoughts and their desires’ in the Virtual Continental Assemblies.
Read all
Read More
Delegates from the United States and Canada discern the action of the Holy Spirit, the joy of the Gospel, those people whose voices are missing, and steps to take to become a more synodal Church.
Read all
Read More
Delegates of the Churches in the Middle East begin their Continental Synodal Assembly in Beirut, running until 18 February.
Read all
Read More
The UN says Syria's government has agreed to open two more border crossings to allow aid into the country.
Read all
Read More
Peace talks are resuming between the Colombian Government and the ELN – the last major guerrilla group, which is still fighting.
Read all
Read More
Greeting pilgrims after last Sunday’s Angelus Prayer, Pope Francis addressed a special word to Congolese nationals, who came to express their gratitude to him for the visit he recently undertook to their country.
Read all
Read More
Valentine’s Day, a time to show love, is a welcome celebration for today’s world, which is so lacking in compassion and selfless love, according to Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo of the Diocese of Oyo, in Nigeria.
Read all
Read More
Jacqui Remond, co-founder of the Laudato si' Movement, encourages us to read the Book of Creation written by God the Father and to recognize the gift of water "in the waterfalls, the gifts of dew and droplet, to praise and really sing out that song together with water."
Read all
Read More
A group of delegates representing 268 dioceses located in the United States and Canada gather in Orlando, Florida, from 13-17 February, to compose the response to the Working Document for the Continental Stage of the Synod for a Synodal Church.
Read all
Read More
The final report of the Independent Commission for the Study of Sexual Abuse of Children in the Catholic Church in Portugal, releases validated testimonies relating to abuse cases that occurred between 1950 and 2022 and points to over 4,800 victims.
Read all
Read More
The Digital Synod launches an online prayer initiative to mark the tenth anniversary of the pontificate of Pope Francis on March 13.
Read all
Read More
Following Pope Francis’ appeal, the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) are mobilizing their networks of missionary priests, religious sisters, laymen and women and launching a special collection to aid survivors of the 7 February earthquake in Turkey and North-West Syria.
Read all
Read More
Heavy fighting has been reported around the devastated eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. The trench-for-tranch battle is taking its toll on the local population.
Read all
Read More
Over one million people in Aleppo have lost their homes due to the earthquake, with the most affected areas being those already devastated by the war. There are calls for sanctions to be lifted in order to provide greater aid, in line with the assistance given to Turkey. In this interview with Vatican News, Dr Emile Ketty, the director general of the Ar Arjaa Hospital In Aleppo, says there should ...
Read More
As the chance of finding survivors amongst the rubble in Syria and Turkey dwindles, the focus shifts to providing humanitarian aid.
Read all
Read More
Meeting a delegation of the Italian Federation of Rare Diseases (UNIAMO), Pope Francis encourages the organization to continue its advocacy for a better quality and inclusive health service for those affected.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis expresses joy for the twinning of two geographically distant Sanctuaries dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, remarking on how Mary is always a bond of communion for the holy People of God.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis encourages a delegation from the University "Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani," in Tbilisi, Georgia to use knowledge and faith to dispel the darkness of indifference and hatred.
Read all
Read More
More than 29,000 people have died in Syria and Turkey as a result of Monday’s earthquakes.
Read all
Read More
The world is marking 12 February as Red Hand Day. On this day, the international community makes special effort to raise awareness about children recruited for armed conflict.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis renews his appeal for concrete help and prayers for all those affected by the devastating earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria. He also prays for war-ravaged Ukraine, calling on responsible parties to have the courage to walk the path of peace.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis decries the imprisonment of Nicaraguan Bishop Rolando Alvarez and the expulsion of dissidents, and appeals to political leaders to open their hearts to truth and justice and engage in dialogue.
Read all
Read More
The Episcopal Council of Latin America, as well as the bishops of Chile and Spain, have condemned the violation of human rights in Nicaragua, while at the same time denouncing the imprisonment of Bishop Rolando Álvarez and the expulsion of political opponents.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis invites Christians to give of themselves totally and love God without reserve in order to fulfil their faith.
Read all
Read More
The Holy Father has appointed Bishop Frank Leo, until now titular of Tamada and auxiliary of the archdiocese of Montréal, as metropolitan archbishop of Toronto, Canada.
Read all
Read More
The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Bob John Hassan Koroma, of the clergy of Makeni, until now vicar general and administrator of the Cathedral, as bishop of the diocese of Makeni.
Read all
Read More
Moscow says it is ready for peace negotiations with Kyiv, but without preconditions, despite reportedly using more than 100 missiles and killer drones since Friday to attack critical infrastructure inside Ukraine. Though the fighting caused many casualties, Ukraine made clear it isn’t ready for negotiations with invading Russia under the current circumstances.
Read all
...
Read More
This is one of the intentions entrusted to the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network. The Pope invites all to pray that Christian witnesses infect the Church with their courage.
Read all
Read More
As the Church marks the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Marion Nguyen, OSB, offers his thoughts on the day’s liturgical readings under the theme: “Greatness in the Kingdom”.
Read all
Read More
A UN official has said 5.3 million people in Syria may have been left homeless by Monday’s devastating earthquakes that struck Syria and Turkey.
Read all
Read More
Sr. Alphonsa Kiven shares her experience of visiting Central African Republic during a time of conflict, a journey “where my faith was strengthened and where I experienced God working in the Gospel witness of our Sisters”.
Read all
Read More
The Appeals Court of Managua convicts the Bishop of Matagalpa for treason undermining national integrity and spreading false news and strips him of his Nicaraguan citizenship
Read all
Read More
Formulating “theology in the Pacific world” was a strong theme in the Oceania Synod Continental Assembly. Archbishop Tatamai shares how several Christian beliefs flow naturally from Melanesian thought and practice.
Read all
Read More
As the US announces that it is temporarily lifting sanctions on aid to Syria in the wake of two devastating earthquakes, Fr Firas Lufti calls for them to be permanently abolished and describes the work the Church is doing in Aleppo to help people left on the streets due to the disaster.
Read all
Read More
Over 2,000 people are expected to attend a special circus show in Rome on 11 February as part of an initiative organized by the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, among whom will be refugee families from Ukraine, Syria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan.
Read all
Read More
Nicaragua’s civil authorities deport 222 people who were detained for political reasons, including several priests and seminarians accused of conspiring against the government.
Read all
Read More
Kyiv says Russia launched over 50 missiles at Ukraine on Friday, a day after President Volodymyr Zelensky pleaded in Europe for more military support, including fighter jets.
Read all
Read More
Amid frigid temperatures, rescue efforts continue in the search for victims in Turkey and Syria following Monday's catastrophic earthquakes.
Read all
Read More
As the week-long Synod Continental Assembly of Europe draws to a close in Prague, Cardinal Mario Grech and other participants call for synodality to become a “way of life” for the Church.
Read all
Read More
Meeting a group of Indigenous delegates attending the 6th Global Meeting of the Indigenous Peoples Forum, Pope Francis calls for the protection of their rights and highlights the crucial role of indigenous peoples in the fight against climate change.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis greets members of the Italian Modern Pentathlon Federation, and praises sporting activities as a way to exercise discipline and creativity on behalf of our spiritual development.
Read all
Read More
The 6-day Synod Continental Assembly for Oceania wrapped up on Friday with the Bishops expressing their joy for the week of prayer and time spent to "consider our shared mission as the Chief Shepherds of our region."
Read all
Read More
Maronite-rite Catholics living in Oceania bring their experience of a synodal Church to the Synod journey, as well as their diversity and different ways of following Our Lord, according to Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay.
Read all
Read More
Jesuit Refugee Service Syria was already accompanying the long-suffering people in war-ravaged northern Syria before the earthquake, providing basic services and spiritual closeness. As it faces the current dramatic emergency, the JRS team appeals for support and prayers.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis renews the Church’s support for people suffering in Turkey and Syria as a result of devastating earthquakes, as countless lives and buildings lie in ruins, including the Cathedral of Iskanderun.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis encourages those providing healthcare ministry for the Diocese of Rome to never be discouraged, to continue serving Jesus present in the faces of all they assist, and tells the sick, that the Lord is always close to the fragile.
Read all
Read More
A huge rescue effort is continuing in Turkey and Syria to find survivors from Monday’s earthquakes which killed over 16,000 people. Relief organizations are warning of potential catastrophic consequences of humanitarian crisis caused by the disaster.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis greets members of an Amateur sports association and urges them to follow three rules, both in sports and in life.
Read all
Read More
Bishops’ Conferences of Oceania and the Eastern Catholic Churches are gathered in Fiji for the Continental Synodal Assembly in Oceania. As a representative of the Eastern Rite explains, it is an occasion to give value to different traditions and viewpoints while thinking together.
Read all
Read More
Sr Katharina Kluitmann, a Franciscan Sister of Penance and Christian Charity from the Lüdinghausen Province, offers her second reflection on the Synod journey underway in Germany.
Read all
Read More
Unwrapping aspects of a “theology in the Pacific world” on the sidelines of the Synod Continental Assembly of Oceania, Archbishop Rochus Tatamai of Papua New Guinea explains certain aspects of Melanesian culture that can be used to explain the Catholic Faith.
Read all
Read More
As Cardinal Mario Zenari, Apostolic Nuncio to Syria, visits Aleppo to offer consolation to communities affected by the devastating earthquakes of 6 February, he calls for solidarity, saying this will be “a test of humanity” for the international community and the war-torn country.
Read all
Read More
Father Sabbarese, 60, from Salerno, currently Judicial Vicar of the Ecclesiastical Court of Vatican City, has been appointed to the post by Cardinal Mauro Gambetti.
Read all
Read More
A company in Chile has a project that transforms textile industrial waste into thermal insulation panels for social housing and for low-income families and individuals. It is a “seed” that, in order to germinate, needs the contribution of each of us in an attempt to preserve our common home. According to Franklin Zepeda there is only one solution: consume less
Read all
...
Read More
“The peace which our country so badly needs is not a purely human peace based on personal interests, but rather the peace of Jesus,” said the Archbishop of Juba.
Read all
Read More
Speaking at a Conference organized in Skopje by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe on “Addressing Anti-Semitism in the OSCE Region“, Vatican Nuncio Luciano Suriani shares the Holy See’s concerns over rising anti-Semitism in Europe.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis decries human trafficking's 'disfiguring' of human dignity, in a video message released for the 9th World Day of Prayer and Reflection against Human Trafficking, marked in the Catholic Church on the feast of St. Josephine Bakhita.
Read all
Read More
The President of COMECE is calling on authorities in Nicaragua to immediately release clerics and faithful who are in detention and under criminal prosecution.
Read all
Read More
A Global Solidarity Fund project promotes the work of a network of religious congregations that collaborate with the private sector. Thus, not only are the Sisters able to offer more training and employment opportunities, but also combat abuses against migrants and address the scourge of human trafficking.
Read all
Read More
At the Synod Continental Assembly of Oceania on Wednesday, a group of theologians presents via video the results of their “communal theological reflection” on the three themes chosen for further deepening: Care for the oceans, synodality, and formation for mission.
Read all
Read More
During the General Audience, Pope Francis issues an appeal for help for all those affected by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, as the death toll soars.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis dedicates his weekly General Audience to his 40th Apostolic Journey abroad to the African nations of the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, thanking God for being able to fulfill 'the dream' of visiting each.
Read all
Read More
The Synod of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church has decided to move away from the Julian Calendar which will involve changing the dates of several fixed liturgical feasts. For the time being, however, Greek Catholics will continue to celebrate Easter on a later date according to the old calendar.
Read all
Read More
Bishop Paolo Bizzetti, Vicar Apostolic of Anatolia, describes the reality on the ground following the two devastating earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria, saying people have united in faith amid the tragedy.
Read all
Read More
Rescuers rush to save those trapped under the rubble as the death toll continues to rise.
Read all
Read More
The Cardinal Archbishop of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, reflects on the Pope’s recent journey to neighbouring South Sudan. The Lord has listened to their prayers, he says but will politicians?
Read all
Read More
As Pope Francis continues to express his concern for Turkey and Syria following two massive earthquakes, the Pontifical Mission Societies launches a fund to offer concrete assistance to people suffering their effects.
Read all
Read More
Synodality, caring for the ocean, and formation for mission were three pastoral challenges that were explored by the Synod Continental Assembly of Oceania in Suva on Tuesday.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis' apostolic journey to South Sudan concluded with the celebration of Holy Mass in Juba on Sunday morning. South Sudan expert Miklos Gosztonyi highlights some of the most significant aspects of the visit.
Read all
Read More
Wildfires devastate the Latin American country, and neighbours attempt to come to its aid.
Read all
Read More
The Bishop of Rumbek discusses the Pope’s recent Pilgrimage of Peace to South Sudan, and urges Catholics to "have the courage to dialogue!"
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis is saddened by the huge loss of life caused by earthquakes in Turkey and in Syria. His words of closeness and assurances of prayers came in telegrams sent to the apostolic nuncios of the countries.
Read all
Read More
Two hundred delegates from throughout Europe gather in the Czech capital of Prague to discern the fruits of the synodal work at the local level. The European continental assembly for the third phase of the Synod on Synodality is taking place from 5-12 February.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis concluded his three-day pilgrimage of peace to South Sudan on Sunday with the celebration of an open-air Mass at the John Garang Mausoleum in the capital, Juba.
Read all
Read More
On Monday, the second day of the Synod Continental Assembly in Suva, participants begin to engage Oceania’s response to the Document for the Continental Stage, and engage those on the peripheries, visiting two vulnerable communities.
Read all
Read More
The Church in Oceania is currently celebrating the Continental Assembly for the Synod on Synodality. Participants were welcomed to Suva on Sunday in an opening Mass, welcoming ceremony and orientation.
Read all
Read More
Video highlights of Pope Francis' three-day Apostolic Journey to South Sudan, which saw the Pope celebrate Mass, entrust the nation to Our Lady of Africa, and launch a forceful appeal for peace and reconciliation.
Read all
Read More
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, shares his thoughts at the end of the ecumenical pilgrimage with Pope Francis to South Sudan, and says Christians have grown accustomed to living apart, but it is rather the norm for the Church to work as one.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis visits the Basilica of St. Mary Major upon his return to Rome, and prays before the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary in thanksgiving for his Apostolic Journey to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Read all
Read More
On the return flight from South Sudan, Pope Francis is joined by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland for a press conference. The Pope reflects on the instrumentalization of Benedict XVI’s death and the reiterates that criminalizing homosexual people is an injustice.
Read all
Read More
Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, gave the opening address at the General Assembly of the Federation of Catholic Bishops Conference of Oceania, highlighting two fundamental themes of the gathering: climate change and synodality.
Read all
Read More
In a video message sent on Sunday to the Suva Continental Assembly, Cardinal Grech recalls that this is an experience of "an ecclesial exercise of discernment which is based on the conviction that God is at work in the history of the world, and concretely in the events and situations that the People of God live in each continent".
Read all
...
Read More
Pope Francis departs from Juba aboard the papal plane bound for Rome, marking the conclusion of his 6-day Apostolic Journey to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Read all
Read More
Pope Angelus offers his final words of farewell to South Sudan at the conclusion of Mass on Sunday, expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome he received and offering a prayer for hope and peace.
Read all
Read More
With the reassurance that Jesus knows and loves each of us personally, Pope Francis calls on the faithful of South Sudan to be "the salt of the earth" and "the light of the world" during his Mass for vast crowds in Juba.
Read all
Read More
As the Church marks the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr Edmund Power, OSB, offers his thoughts on the day’s liturgical readings under the theme: “Salt of the earth, light of the world”.
Read all
Read More
Video highlights of the second day of Pope Francis' Apostolic Journey to South Sudan, during which he encourages Catholic clergy and religious in their mission, expresses his closeness to internally displaced people (IDPs), and holds an ecumenical prayer service.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis, Archbishop Justin Welby and the Rt. Rev. Dr Iain Greenshields met on Saturday afternoon with Internally Displaced People who live in protected camps that are spread in different parts of South Sudan.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis addressed the faithful gathered for an ecumenical prayer service in South Sudan, and urges all those present to pray, to work and to journey.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis addresses the winners of the Zayed Prize for Human Fraternity, and tells them that fraternity can be reached, and peace obtained, but that it is a long journey.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis meets South Sudanese internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Juba with Archbishop Justin Welby and Rev. Iain Greenshields, and reiterates his heartfelt appeal to end all conflict in South Sudan so as to bring a better future for its people.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis meets with the bishops and clergy of South Sudan in St Theresa's Cathedral in Juba. An opportunity to talk about the role of the universal Church and of intercession as an icon of synodality
Read all
Read More
Sudan’s President Salva Kiir pardons 71 inmates who were serving different sentences. The act of clemency comes during Pope Francis’ pilgrimage of peace to the east African nation.
Read all
Read More
Catholic faithful in South Sudan express their fervent hopes that Pope Francis' Apostolic Journey to the nation will bear fruits of peace at all levels of society.
Read all
Read More
Two Continental Assemblies for the Synod on Synodality begin on Sunday February 5. Representatives of the Episcopal Conferences of Europe and Oceania will be joined by other members of the faithful to conclude the Continental Stage of the Synod.
Read all
Read More
While addressing clergy in Juba for his long-awaited ecumenical pilgrimage in South Sudan, Pope Francis insists we need courageous, generous souls ready to die and suffer for Africa.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis arrived in South Sudan Friday evening from the Democratic Republic of Congo to start a long-awaited ecumenical pilgrimage for peace in South Sudan.
Read all
Read More
The Archbishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland are in South Sudan with Pope Francis on a long-planned “Pilgrimage of Peace”. They had direct words for the country’s leaders at a Meeting with Authorities, Civil Society and Diplomatic Corps in Juba.
Read all
Read More
Salva Kiir, the President of South Sudan, welcomes Pope Francis and his call for peace and reconciliation announcing the country has lifted the Suspension on the Rome Peace Talks.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis tells the leaders of South Sudan that future generations will either venerate their names or cancel their memory, based on what they do now, and he issues an appeal “to leave the time of war behind and let a time of peace dawn.”
Read all
Read More
Today the Pope leaves the Democratic Republic of Congo for South Sudan. In Kinshasa, indescribable gratitude and joy for this meeting, which has shattered predatory and possessive ways of thinking.
Read all
Read More
After bidding farewell to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pope Francis' flight lands in Juba for his long-awaited "ecumenical pilgrimage" for peace to South Sudan with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Iain Greenshields.
Read all
Read More
"Santi subito" - Saints at once, written on a banner in red and blue on a white background, with the images of Blessed Anuarite and Bakanja. This inscription, seen on Thursday, 2 February, at the Martyrs' Stadium where Pope Francis met with young people and Catechists, is meant to be a profound wish and a prayer for the canonisation of these two Congolese martyrs, beatified in 1985 and 1995 respec...
Read More
For almost 15 years, Sister Margaret Scott and other sisters of various congregations have been working in South Sudan, helping to develop the world's youngest nation by giving a future to young people through the training of teachers.
Read all
Read More
The Mission Promoter of "Solidarity with South Sudan", Father David Gentry, paints a a fresco of a nation in dire need of comfort, closeness and hope, as Pope Francis begins his Apostolic Journey to the East African nation.
Read all
Read More
Fighting has killed 27 people ahead of Pope Francis' arrival in South Sudan for an ecumenical pilgrimage with the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis concludes his Apostolic Journey to the Democratic Republic of Congo, as he boards his the papal plane bound for his long-awaited ecumenical pilgrimage in South Sudan.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis meets with the Catholic Bishops of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and urges them to recall that God is close to them in their ministry to be prophets for the Congolese people.
Read all
Read More
Video highlights from Pope Francis’ third day in the Democratic Republic of Congo, during which he held a lively encounter with young Catholics and catechists, encouraged local Church ministers in their mission, and met with Jesuits serving in DR Congo.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis sends a message to the world’s religious men and women for the World Day for Consecrated Life, and highlights the importance of their rich charisms on behalf of the mission of the Church.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis encourages priests, deacons, consecrated persons and seminarians to put Christ at the centre of their lives and to be joyful witnesses of the Gospel.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis establishes an education center on integral ecology in the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, to promote “ecological conversion” as called for in his Encyclical Laudato si’.
Read all
Read More
Amid ongoing tensions between the bordering nations, Bishops from DRC and Rwanda come together during Pope Francis' Apostolic Visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis meets with young people and catechists from across the Democratic Republic of Congo, and urges them never to grow discouraged in their quest to resist corruption.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis’ meeting with the survivors of violence in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday was deeply touching. The Holy Father was clearly moved as he listened to the stories of those marked by extreme violence, pain and evil that knows no reason
Read all
Read More
Video highlights from Pope Francis’ second day in the Democratic Republic of Congo, during which he celebrated Mass, heard harrowing testimony from victims of violence in the country's east, and encouraged charitable outfits in their life-giving mission.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis concludes the second day of his Apostolic Journey to the Democratic Republic of Congo by meeting representatives from several charities in Kinshasa, and thanks them for their precious work for the most vulnerable.
Read all
Read More
Pope Francis meets in Kinshasa with survivors from the war-torn eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and condemns acts of violence after listening to their harrowing testimonies.
Read all
Read More
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa, tells Pope Francis at the end of Mass that his visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo is a "sign of love" for the people of the DRC and an encouragement to hold "free, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections" later in the year.
Read all
Read More
As Pope Francis continues with his visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Vatican News speaks to an expert on the Zaire Rite, the liturgy developed specifically for use in that country.
Read all
Read More
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, “the laity have always understood that the Church and the nation are everybody’s business.”
Read all
Read More
Following Pope Francis’ Apostolic Journey to the Kingdom of Bahrain in November 2022, ‘The Bahrain Declaration’ promoting interreligious dialogue and peace holds its official European launch at a Gala event in Rome.
Read all
Read More
Ensuring access to clean water is a constant challenge in a megacity like Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and in some outlying districts, the State is simply unable to do so. In the commune of Kisenso, a parish run by the Missionaries of Africa oversees a “water project” which allows local people to access the precious resource without having to walk for miles.
...
Read More
The communications minister for the DRC notes that “millions of Congolese lined the streets” to welcome the Pope, and praises his speech calling for peace.
Read all
Read More
On the second day of his Apostolic Journey to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pope Francis celebrates Mass for more than a million people at the "Ndolo" airport in Kinshasa, and urges them to lay down their arms, embrace mercy, and be missionaries of peace.
Read all
Read More