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Entries for April 2024

South Sudan: Where are Fr Luke and his driver?

Posted on April 30, 2024 in: Vatican News

South Sudan’s Diocese of Tombura-Yambio is desperately searching for Fr. Luke Yugue and his driver, Mr Michael Gbeko. The duo left Nagero County for Tombura on Saturday, 27 April, but did not arrive at their destination. Their whereabouts are unknown. Read all

Pontifical charity provides solar panels to Church in Syria and Lebanon

Posted on April 30, 2024 in: Vatican News

As electricity prices soar in Syria and Lebanon, Aid to the Church in Need provides solar power to the local church. Read all

Faith in action: Church's compassionate aid for migrants in Spain

Posted on April 30, 2024 in: Vatican News

Catholic-inspired organizations are implementing a series of social programs in Ceuta and Algeciras, assisting those arriving from Africa to enter Europe. One of the greatest challenges is the fight against human trafficking which exposes women to forced prostitution. Read all

Holy See: ‘Birth control is not the key to sustainable development’

Posted on April 30, 2024 in: Vatican News

As the U.N. marks the thirtieth anniversary of the Cairo International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) this year, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia reiterates that promoting birth control policies does not help eradicate world poverty and promote sustainable development. Read all

Pope's May Prayer Intention: For the formation of men and women religious

Posted on April 30, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis releases his prayer intention for the month of May: For the formation of men and women religious and for seminarians. In his video message, the Pope emphasises the ongoing development of their vocations through grace, prayer, community, and witness to the Gospel. Read all

Ethiopia and its life-giving water wells

Posted on April 30, 2024 in: Vatican News

Fr Filippo Perin, 52, is a missionary in Ethiopia’s Gambella region on the border with South Sudan. A beautiful land where, however, there is no water; the people are starving and the climate is unbearable. His project, supported by the Salesians and the non-profit organization Cuore Amico, opens as many wells as possible to ensure the population’s survival in a country where the average life expe...

South African Bishops saddened by the killing of yet another priest: Fr Paul Tatu

Posted on April 30, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) says they are saddened by the tragic death of a Stigmatine priest Fr Paul Tatu of the Archdiocese of Pretoria. Read all

Bishop Martinelli: Interreligious education promotes fraternity

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia shares his views at a meeting hosted by the Committee of Human Fraternity and the Muslim Council of Elders dedicated to the importance of interreligious education and the promotion of ethical values. Read all

Evangelizing the Internet is a reality that the Church needs to take seriously

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

The St. Paul’s Catholic Seminary at Sowutuom-Accra, in the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, Ghana, celebrated the benefactors of the Seminary for their contributions towards the sustenance of the formation of future priests with a thanksgiving Mass and a fundraising session. Read all

US urges Hamas to accept Israeli proposal for Gaza truce

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

A senior Hamas delegation is in Egypt for the latest round of negotiations aimed at pausing – if not stopping – Israel’s war on Gaza. The talks are seen as a chance to prevent a looming Israeli ground offensive in the southern city of Rafah where half of Gaza’s population has sought shelter from fighting elsewhere. Read all

Calls for climate aid: African leaders push for boosted funding

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

African leaders are urging wealthier nations to increase financial support to a crucial World Bank initiative that provides low-interest loans to help developing countries address the pressing challenges of climate change and socio-economic inequalities. Read all

Pope Francis pens preface to book on 'Conversation in the Spirit'

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis offers the preface to a new book, entitled “The Conversation in the Spirit - The art of discernment and the practice of synodality," by Jesuit Fathers Juan Antonio Guerrero Alves and Óscar Martín López, which is published by the Vatican Publishing House (LEV) on April 30. Read all

Vatican releases schedule for Pope's visit to Verona

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Holy See Press Office releases the itinerary for Pope Francis' pastoral visit to Verona on May 18, featuring meetings with the local Church, children, and prisoners. Read all

Cameroon: Sisters’ hospital is a point of reference for 95,000 people

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

A health facility run by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Jeanne Antide Thouret, in the heart of Cameroon, provides healthcare to people tried by malaria, malnutrition, and tuberculosis. Read all

Pope to Canossians and Montfort Brothers: ‘Uniformity kills’

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

Meeting the Canossian Fathers and the Montfort Brothers of St. Gabriel, Pope Francis urges them to open their arms to the poor with courage, fixing their gaze on the Crucifix, and to value the richness of diversity. Read all

Parish priests meet to share experiences of synodality

Posted on April 29, 2024 in: Vatican News

Parish priests from around the world gather in Sacrafano, outside Rome, for an International Meeting dedicated to the question of “How to be a local synodal Church on Mission.” Read all

Video highlights of Pope Francis' pastoral visit to Venice

Posted on April 28, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis makes a pastoral visit to the northern Italian city of Venice on 28 April. He first visits with inmates at the Giudecca Women’s Prison facility, followed by a meeting with curators and artists of the Holy See’s Pavilion for the 60th Venice Biennale. Then he meets with young people at the Basilica of St. Mary of Good Health, followed by Mass in St. Mark’s Square, the recitation of the...

Inside look at Pope Francis' visit to Venice from St. Mark's Square

Posted on April 28, 2024 in: Vatican News

As Pope Francis concludes his visit to the Italian city of Venice, our correspondent, Deborah Castellano Lubov, brings us the festive atmosphere after his Mass in St. Mark's Square and reflects on the day's impact. Read all

Pope prays for peace and stability in Haiti and all war-torn countries

Posted on April 28, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis invokes the intercession of Our Lady for the many situations of suffering in the world, turning his attention in particular to Haiti where a transitional Council has just been asked to appoint a new head of government. Read all

Pope presides at Mass in Venice, calls for inclusion and hospitality

Posted on April 28, 2024 in: Vatican News

Presiding at Mass amidst the grandeur of St. Mark's Square in Venice, Pope Francis issues a call for encounter, inclusion, and care for our common home, noting that beauty must be available to all. Read all

Pope to youth in Venice: Get off your phones and pay attention to others

Posted on April 28, 2024 in: Vatican News

As he visits the Italian city of Venice, Pope Francis urges young people to make themselves a gift for other people by focusing on how we can help someone else instead of complaining about being alone or misunderstood. Read all

Pope encourages women inmates at start of his visit to Venice

Posted on April 28, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis begins his pastoral visit to Venice at the Giudecca Women’s Prison, where he tells female inmates that he very much wanted to meet them to tell them they hold a special place in his heart. Read all

Pope in Venice: ‘Art is a city of refuge for humanity'

Posted on April 28, 2024 in: Vatican News

Addressing artists in the Giudecca's women's prison facility in Venice, Pope Francis invites everyone to imagine a world where no human being is considered a stranger. Read all

Venice welcomes Pope Francis

Posted on April 27, 2024 in: Vatican News

As the Italian city of Venice welcomes Pope Francis on Sunday morning, our correspondent, Deborah Castellano Lubov, offers us a look ahead at the Pope’s scheduled events on the sidelines of the Venice Art Biennale. Read all

Venice awaits Pope Francis

Posted on April 27, 2024 in: Vatican News

As the Italian city of Venice prepares to welcome Pope Francis on Sunday morning, our correspondent Deborah Castellano Lubov offers us a look ahead at the Pope’s scheduled events on the sidelines of the Venice Art Biennale. Read all

Celebrating Marconi and his scientific vision in the service of humanity

Posted on April 27, 2024 in: Vatican News

An event at the Marconi Museum inside the Vatican on Saturday celebrates 150 years since the birth of the man who set up Vatican Radio. Present, alongside the Prefect and directors of the Dicastery for Communications, were also Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, and Guglielmo Marconi’s grandson. Read all ...

British troops may help deliver aid to Gaza

Posted on April 27, 2024 in: Vatican News

British troops could be positioned on the ground in Gaza to help deliver aid via a new maritime route. Read all

Pope to Spanish seminarians: 'Fill your emptied land with God'

Posted on April 27, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis meets the community of the Seminary of Burgos, Spain, and urges it to fill Spain’s depopulated rural areas with God by freeing themselves from “false human securities.” Read all

Patriarch of Venice: Mercy at the heart of the Pope's visit

Posted on April 27, 2024 in: Vatican News

On the eve of Pope Francis’ pastoral visit to Venice, Archbishop Francesco Moraglia reflects on the significance of his meeting with inmates at the city’s Giudecca prison, “a place of expiation and rebirth, but also a place of art” as it hosts the Holy See’s Pavilion at the Contemporary Art Biennale. Read all

Pope: Love shared between elderly and young makes society wiser

Posted on April 27, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis meets with participants in an event promoted by the Great Age Foundation, and says intergenerational love has the power to transform society and impart wisdom. Read all

Fears of pending assault on Rafah

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

Reports on Israeli television suggest Israel is expected to begin evacuating civilians from Rafah ahead of a planned ground attack. Read all

Pope Francis to participate in G7 session on AI

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis will take part in the upcoming G7 session on Artificial Intelligence under Italy’s presidency of the group. Read all

Calling global changemakers: Apply now for the Zayed Sustainability Prize

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

Join global changemakers by applying for the Zayed Sustainability Prize. Read all

Gaza: Baby Sabreen, rescued from dying mother’s womb is dead

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

The baby girl who was brought into the world thanks to an emergency cesarean delivery while her mother died from injuries inflicted by Israeli bombs, has herself died. About 15,000 children have died in Israel's attacks on the Gaza Strip. Read all

The number of people facing acute lack of food still increasing

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

The newly released Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) says that 2023 saw a further increase of 24 million people experiencing an acute lack of food from 2022 and points to armed conflicts as the driving factor of food insecurity. Read all

John XXIII and John Paul II: Pastors in the midst of the people

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ten years ago, Pope Francis canonized Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul II during Mass in St Peter’s Square. Living in times of great historical upheaval, the beloved pontiffs bore witness to the hope and joy that comes from an encounter with Jesus. Read all

Nicaraguan Government urged to promote dialogue to overcome the crisis

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) calls on Nicaraguan authorities to reopen dialogue with civil society and restore democratic institutions and fundamental freedoms to overcome the human rights crisis that the Central American country has been experiencing since April 2018. Read all

War in Ukraine: More and more children killed in deadly attacks

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

The verified number of children killed in Russian attacks across Ukraine has increased dramatically this year compared to 2023, as deadly strikes continue. Read all

Pope Francis meets with the President of the Republic of Tajikistan

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

On Friday morning Pope Francis welcomed Emomali Rahmon, the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, to the Vatican. Discussions at the Secretariat of State highlighted the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding between peoples and cultures for the promotion of world peace and harmony. Read all

Haiti: Transitional government sworn in as gangs grow in strength

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

A nine-person transitional council has taken power in Haiti, following the resignation of ex-PM Ariel Henry. Read all

Pope highlights the social value of draughts board game

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

Meeting a group of Italian draughts players, Pope Francis says that the game brings a "breath of fresh air" to our digital societies, marked by individualism. Read all

News from the Orient – April 26, 2024

Posted on April 26, 2024 in: Vatican News

Each week we offer news from the Eastern Churches, in collaboration with L'Œuvre d'Orient. Read all

The origins of the Christian Jubilee

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

We learn how the Christian Jubilee came to be, through the proclamation of the Holy Year 1300 by Pope Boniface VIII. Read all

Burkina Faso: More than 220 villagers killed

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

A report by Human Rights Watch says over 220 civilians in Burkina Faso have been killed by military forces accused of cooperating with Islamic militants. Read all

Archbishop Caccia: We must work to support developing countries

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, speaks at the General Debate of the ECOSOC Forum on Financing for Development (FfD), and encourages working in concrete solidarity to reverse growing economic imbalances and to help developing nations. Read all

African Synod delegates gather in Nairobi to prepare for the October Synod Assembly 2024

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

African Synod delegates have gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, for a three-day seminar to prepare for the Second Session of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod on Synodality scheduled to take place this October in the Vatican Read all

Guglielmo Marconi: 'The man who listened to the future'

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ahead of International Marconi Day and 150 years since his birth, we recall the rich legacy of Guglielmo Marconi, the inventor-entrepreneur who set up Vatican Radio in 1931 and installed a ‘big cell phone’ in Pope Pius XI’s car that connected to the Vatican. Read all

Kenya: Severe floods ravage Nairobi

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ongoing heavy rain causes severe flooding in Kenya. The downpours that have been drenching the land since March have affected over 100,000 people across the country. More than 30 people have been killed in the floods and over 40,000 displaced, according to UN statistics. Read all

Pope to Catholic Action: Embracing one another can prevent wars

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis addresses Italian Catholic Action and emphasises the importance of embracing others through reflections on missing, saving, and life-changing embraces. Read all

Pope Francis receives Hungarian President

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

Hungary’s President, Tamás Sulyok, is received in private audience in the Vatican by Pope Francis. Read all

Cardinal Parolin on Pope Francis’ pontificate: No reversals on reforms

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin discusses key issues roiling the Church during the presentation of the new book, “Five questions agitating the Church”, by noted Vaticanist Ignazio Ingrao. Read all

Pope to Hungarian pilgrims: 'The gift of peace begins in our hearts'

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

Meeting Hungarian pilgrims in the Vatican, Pope Francis encourages them to be men and women of peace and to continue to safeguard their Christian identity, and thanks the Hungarian Church for welcoming Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war. Read all

Pope: 'A negotiated peace is better than an endless war'

Posted on April 25, 2024 in: Vatican News

In an interview with CBS, Pope Francis calls for an end to the wars in Ukraine, Gaza, and around the world. He says there is room for everyone in the Church pointing out that if a parish priest doesn't seem welcoming, one can look elsewhere: “There is always a place, don't run away from the Church.” Read all

UN Human Rights Chief deplores killings of children and women in Rafah

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

The United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has decried a series of Israeli strikes on Rafah in the past few days that have killed mostly children and women. He has repeated his warning against a full-scale incursion to an area to which 1.2 million civilians are sheltering. Read all

With the Patriarch of Jerusalem, 200 days since the start of the war

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Cardinal Patriarch of Jerusalem reflects on the ongoing war in Gaza expressing his belief it shows the inevitability of the two-state solution: “There is no alternative to the two states but the continuation of war." Read all

Cisco signs the "Rome Call for AI Ethics"

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

Cisco, the multinational digital communications technology company, signs the Pontifical Academy for Life’s “Rome Call for AI Ethics” committing to an ethical approach to artificial intelligence in the areas of Ethics, Education and Rights. Read all

Pope: Open the door to Our Lady

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis sends a video message to the Diocese of Termoli-Larino in southern Italy, that will welcome the statue of Our Lady of Fatima from April 27 to May 5, 2024. In it, the Pope encourages the faithful to open their doors and hearts to the Mother of God. Read all

South Sudan: Bishop Hiiboro Kussala reflecting on Vocations highlights gratitude

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

Reflecting on the recently celebrated World Day of Prayer for Vocations, South Sudan’s Catholic Bishop of Tombura Yambio says he is filled with gratitude for his own call to be a priest, for the priests he works with, and for the number of young people responding to join the seminary in his diocese. Read all

UNICEF chief warns of ‘catastrophic’ situation in Haiti

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Director General of UNICEF says more than three million children in Haiti are in need of humanitarian assistance, as conditions in the country continue to worsen. Read all

Pope Francis meets with Ghana's Vice President

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis receives Ghana's Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the Vatican. Read all

Pope prays for peace and for a two-state solution in Palestine and Israel

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis pleads for global peace, emphasizing the devastating consequences of war and urging prayers for conflict-stricken regions like Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and Myanmar, while advocating for peaceful resolutions and reconciliation. Read all

Pope at Audience: Live faith, hope and charity, to merit eternal life

Posted on April 24, 2024 in: Vatican News

During his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis transitions from discussing the cardinal virtues to the theological ones, recalling that faith, hope and charity help us follow Christ, guide our journey together toward holiness, and restore us, even when we fall. Read all

CAFOD: UK’s Rwanda deportation plan misguided approach to crisis

Posted on April 23, 2024 in: Vatican News

Britain's recent decision to approve legislation allowing the deportation of asylum seekers to Rwanda has sparked condemnation from humanitarian organizations including CAFOD, the aid agency for the Catholic Church in England and Wales. Read all

South Korean youth say government is not doing enough to fight climate change

Posted on April 23, 2024 in: Vatican News

South Korea’s highest court is set to hear a case brought by young people arguing that the government’s lack of action on climate change violates their fundamental rights. Read all

Five migrants drown in English Channel as Rwanda asylum bill passes

Posted on April 23, 2024 in: Vatican News

Five migrants, including a 7-year-old girl, drown attempting to cross the English Channel, only hours after Britain’s Parliament passes a bill to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda, a move decried by several Catholic aid agencies. Read all

‘Happy Name Day’: Well-wishers greet Pope on feast of St George

Posted on April 23, 2024 in: Vatican News

Friends and supporters from around the world offer prayers and best wishes to Pope Francis on the feast of his heavenly patron, St George. Read all

Celebrating World Book and Copyright Day 2024

Posted on April 23, 2024 in: Vatican News

The World Book and Copyright Day is an annual event organized by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and is held on the 23rd of April to promote reading, publishing and copyrights. Read all

The Church and Democracy

Posted on April 23, 2024 in: Vatican News

Less than a year after Pope Francis' return visit to Portugal, a special conference in Rome organized by the Portuguese Embassy to the Holy See and Sovereign Military Order of Malta commemorates the installation of democracy in Portugal fifty years ago, and celebrates the occasion with a lecture of Professor Manuel Braga da Cruz of the Catholic University of Lisbon, and a dialogue with Andrea Torn...

Grandparents and grandchildren to gather with Pope Francis for April event

Posted on April 22, 2024 in: Vatican News

At a press conference hosted by the Holy See Press Office, organizers unveiled a 27 April event sponsored by Italy's "Fondazione Età Grande" (Old Age Foundation) that will bring together grandparents and grandchildren to the Vatican's Paul VI Hall as a way to promote the role and contribution of the elderly in today's world. Read all

Earth Day: Pope Francis urges responsibility for our common home

Posted on April 22, 2024 in: Vatican News

On World Earth Day 2024, Pope Francis reminds everyone of our duty to protect the planet and safeguard peace. Read all

SIPRI report shows huge rise in annual global military expenditure

Posted on April 22, 2024 in: Vatican News

A new study shows that global military expenditure surged to $2.443 trillion in 2023, driven by heightened tensions and regional conflicts, with top spenders like the US, China, and Russia leading the increase, while regional dynamics and emerging trends shaped spending patterns worldwide. Read all

Saint Pio Foundation to release photos of Padre Pio

Posted on April 22, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Saint Pio Foundation is set to unveil ten photos of the beloved 20th century saint, in order “to foster devotion to Saint Pio.” Read all

EU Bishops: Enlarging EU presents opportunity and challenges

Posted on April 22, 2024 in: Vatican News

Faced with prospect of enlarging the European Union to include new members, the Bishops of the European Union (COMECE) say the possibility offers hope and opportunities, but also presents a series of challenges that must be concretely confronted. Read all

‘Sr. Claire’ centre offers hope to children with intellectual disabilities

Posted on April 22, 2024 in: Vatican News

“In some ethnic groups of Sub-Saharan Africa, people with intellectual disabilities are often marginalized,” says Sr. Claudia Samba, FCSM who has worked with children with intellectual disabilities in both Senegal and Mauritania for eight years, at the “Sr Claire” Center in Rosso. Read all

Pope to La Mennais Brothers: be fathers to those you serve

Posted on April 22, 2024 in: Vatican News

On the occasion of their General Chapter, Pope Francis urges the Brothers of Christian Instruction of Ploermel – known as the La Mennais Brothers – to be “fathers who reflect the loving and compassionate face of God”. Read all

Ukraine thanks U.S. for military aid after suffering setbacks

Posted on April 21, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ukrainian and Western leaders have welcomed a desperately needed military aid package for Ukraine passed by the U.S. House of Representatives after mounting concerns the country may lose the war against Russia. In addition to the 61 billion dollars worth of military assistance for Ukraine, the House approved part of a broader foreign aid package that included about $34 billion for Israel and other...

Ongoing Israeli operation in West Bank leaves casualties

Posted on April 21, 2024 in: Vatican News

Palestinian officials say 13 people have been killed in an Israeli military operation at a refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. Read all

Pope prays for dialogue over conflict in the Middle East

Posted on April 21, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis issues a heartfelt plea for peace in Palestine, Israel, and Ukraine, urging dialogue over conflict and remembering the suffering of those affected. Read all

Pope at Regina Coeli: Jesus the Good Shepherd awaits us with open arms

Posted on April 21, 2024 in: Vatican News

At the Regina Coeli on Good Shepherd Sunday, Pope Francis reminds us that Jesus loves us without limit, giving His life for us. He prays that we may go meet the Lord and allow ourselves "to be welcomed and lifted up by the loving arms of our Good Shepherd." Read all

Called to sow seeds of hope and to build peace

Posted on April 21, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Fourth Sunday of Easter also known as the Good Shepherd Sunday is the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. This year marks the 61st anniversary of this event which was initiated by Pope Paul VI during the Second Vatican Council in 1964. Read all

Ukraine: The United Nations fears mounting death toll in children

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has expressed concern about the mounting death toll among children in Ukraine after the war against Russia entered its third year. UNICEF announced at least eight people, including children, were killed in the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro by a suspected Russian air strike. Read all ...

Fears of disease loom in Gaza

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

The UN relief agency for Palestinians says the threat of disease outbreaks in Gaza is growing as winter ends and temperatures rise. Read all

Lord's Day Reflection: '‘I am the Good Shepherd’

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

As the Church marks the Fourth Sunday of Easter, Fr. Edmund Power, OSB, offers his thoughts on the day’s liturgical readings under the theme: “I am the Good Shepherd". Read all

Pope Francis receives Prime Minister of Belize

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis receives John Briceño, the Prime Minister of Belize, at an Audience in the Vatican on Saturday Read all

Cardinal Parolin: Avoid escalation in Middle East conflicts

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

On the sidelines of an Agidae conference at the Pontifical Urban University, Cardinal Pietro Parolin comments on the recent news from the Middle East region, saying everyone is working to ensure the conflict does not escalate. Read all

Pope remembers Pius VII, a man of communion in difficult times

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis invites Italian pilgrims from the Dioceses of Cesena-Sarsina, Savona, Imola and Tivoli Pope Francis to heed the legacy of the Servant of God Pope Pius VII, a courageous witness of the Gospel in times of struggles and divisions. Read all

Pope to future priests: Become shepherds with Christ's loving heart

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

With Christ's loving heart, open arms and with a smile, be shepherds to your people, suggests Pope Francis when addressing seminarians of Seville, Spain, on the eve of Good Shepherd Sunday. Read all

Pope calls historians to be experts in and servants of humanity

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis receives members of the Pontifical Committee for Historical Sciences on the 70th anniversary of the Committee’s foundation. Read all

Vatican Museums' Graphic Arts on display in Minneapolis in the sign of encounter

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Thrivent Art Gallery in Minneapolis, Minnesota, inaugurates the exhibition "Art That Unites: A Dialogue between the Centuries from the Vatican Museums and Thrivent Art Collection." The exhibition, in collaboration with the Vatican Museums, presents some of the most significant contemporary graphic masterpieces from the pontifical collections, exhibited for the first time in the United States. ...

Sri Lanka: In pursuit of justice 5 years from Easter Sunday attacks

Posted on April 20, 2024 in: Vatican News

On the eve of the fifth anniversary of the Sri Lanka Easter Sunday bombings, efforts to seek closure and accountability for those responsible for the massacre continue to face many challenges. Fr Rohan Silva, director of Colombo’s Centre for Society and Religion speaks about his tireless quest for justice. Read all

A conversation with the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

In view of the World Day of Prayer for Vocations (21 April) we asked Cardinal Lazarus You Heung-sik, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy, some questions. Read all

Cardinal Dolan marks anniversary of ‘Pontifical Mission for Palestine’

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, was in Jerusalem from 12-18 April, in his capacity as President of the Catholic Near East Welfare Association. During his visit, he participated in formal meetings and in encounters with local Christian communities. Read all

Committed to life: Nearly 30 years of service in Poland for Ursuline Sisters

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

February 2025 will mark 30 years since the Institute of the Ursuline Sisters of the Immaculate Virgin Mary of Gandino arrived in Poland. Read all

Indian Lok Sabha elections kick off amid growing polarization

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

India starts voting in the largest election globally, with nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi running for a consecutive third term against the INDIA coalition led by the Indian National Congress. Read all

The female face of migration in Brazil

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

The exponential increase of foreign women arriving in Brazil poses a challenge for the state and civil society. Various ecclesiastical organizations offer multiple opportunities through training, employment, and support for entrepreneurship. Read all

Pope modifies Vatican judicial norms with new motu proprio

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

With a new Apostolic Letter issued 'motu proprio,' Pope Francis modifies laws governing the Vatican's judicial system, especially regarding remuneration and pensions for judges. Read all

Vatican offers free cancer screening for homeless women in Rome

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

Under the Colonnade of St. Peter's Square, the Vatican Dicastery for the Service of Charity runs a clinic offering dozens of homeless women free screening for breast cancer, as part of an initiative with the Komen Italy association. Read all

Faced with irresponsibility, people are called to responsibility

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

Our Editorial Director offers his thoughts on Pope Francis' encounter with the Network of Schools for Peace, saying that a cry for peace is swelling amid the many situations of war and conflict. Read all

News from the Orient – April 19, 2024

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

Each week we offer news from the Eastern Churches, in collaboration with L'Œuvre d'Orient. Read all

Pope asks children to be “artisans of peace”

Posted on April 19, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis asks Italian children to pray for their peers in Ukraine and Gaza, and encourages them to be “artisans of peace” as he meets with students and teachers of the Italian National Network of the Schools of Peace to the Vatican. Read all

Pope encourages deepening of faith and communion for building Christian unity

Posted on April 18, 2024 in: Vatican News

In his greetings shared with participants at the Fourth World Gathering of the Global Christian Forum taking place in Accra, Ghana, Pope Francis encourages everyone to deepen their faith and revitalize fraternal love, reflecting the unity to which Christians are called as they discuss the challenges facing the global Christian community. Read all ...

Cardinal Ambongo expresses worry over increasing violence in eastern DRC

Posted on April 18, 2024 in: Vatican News

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, Metropolitan Archbishop of Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo, has warned that the situation in the east of the country is deteriorating rapidly. Armed militias have recently captured several towns in the area. Read all

Ethiopian Bishop appeals for help to alleviate humanitarian crisis in Tigray

Posted on April 18, 2024 in: Vatican News

Bishop Medhin of the Catholic Eparchy of Adigrat, Ethiopia appeals for vital aid amid a catastrophic humanitarian crisis gripping the northern region of Tigray. Read all

Qatar mediating role between Israel-Hamas under strain

Posted on April 18, 2024 in: Vatican News

Qatar is reviewing its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas. Read all

Quebec bishops: Christians must respond to call of the hungry

Posted on April 18, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Bishops of Quebec call on Christian communities to respond “to the call of those who are hungry,” to ensure that everyone has enough to eat. Read all

Attacks on villages in southern Chad create climate of anxiety

Posted on April 18, 2024 in: Vatican News

The head of the Justice and Peace Commission in Chad’s Diocese of Sarh has told Vatican News about the heavy toll exacted on lives, livestock and property as a result of unknown gunmen Read all

'Get caught up in God's love,' Pope urges Discalced Carmelites

Posted on April 18, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis invites Discalced Carmelites to immerse themselves entirely in the Lord's presence in order to be filled with joy and love. Read all

Council of Cardinals discusses global situation, Synod, role of women in Church

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

The meetings took place from 15-16 April at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican. Discussions focused on a number of areas, including the global situation, prayers for end to conflicts in different parts of the world, especially the Middle East and Ukraine. The Council of Cardinals with Pope Francis expressed hopes that efforts to find paths of negotiation and peace would be strengthened. ...

Holy See highlights Indigenous youth as guardians of culture

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

In a statement addressed to the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at the 23rd Session in New York on April 16, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the UN, spoke of the importance of supporting indigenous people, especially young people, and cultivating dialogue. Read all

Jailed Aung San Suu Kyi moved to house arrest

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

The ousted leader of the National League for Democracy Party and Nobel-laureate has been moved out of prison along with Myanmar former President Win Myint due to a major heat wave. Read all

Holy See urges solidarity and action for Ethiopia's humanitarian crisis

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Holy See emphasises the need for solidarity and urgent action in response to Ethiopia's humanitarian crisis, stressing the dire conditions of over 4.4 million internally displaced people and over one million refugees, along with severe drought, malnutrition, and economic difficulties. Read all

Pope Francis: St. Pius X was a Pope near to people who suffer

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis pens the preface for a new book by Fr. Lucio Bonora on Pope St. Pius X, and praises the early 20th century Pope for the depth of his catechesis and opposition to World War I. Read all

Pope Francis appeals for release of prisoners of war

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis turns his attention to prisoners of war, prays for their freedom and denounces the tortures many of them are subjected to. Read all

Pope Francis mourns Cardinal Pedro Rubiano Sáenz of Bogotà

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis remembers the 'self-sacrificing' pastor of the late Cardinal Pedro Rubiano Sáenz, Archbishop Emeritus of Bogotà, Colombia, who passed away at age 91 on Monday. Read all

Pope at Audience: Temperance won't rob our joy, but will fill us with happiness

Posted on April 17, 2024 in: Vatican News

During his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis focuses on the fourth and final cardinal virtue of temperance, saying that our ability to have power over ourselves will help us savour all we have in life, in a much more meaningful and joyful way, akin to sipping a glass of wine, rather than drinking it all at once. Read all

"Conversations in the Spirit” to help women strengthen their role in the Church

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

Mónica Santamarina, president of the World Union of Catholic Women's Organisations (WUCWO) speaks with Vatican News about the upcoming online eventorganised in preparation of the second part of the Synod on Synodality Read all

CAFOD welcomes pledges to help Sudan and surrounding countries

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

The aid agency of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, CAFOD, welcomes EU pledges to support relief efforts in war-torn Sudan and neighbouring countries, but urges much more is needed to save millions at risk of famine due to the crisis caused by the civil war. Read all

Greater public awareness needed to stem child slavery

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

Christoph Lehermayr of "Missio Austria" says consumers’ awareness and behaviour in developed countries are the first steps in fighting the scourge of child slavery and labour that affects millions of children across the world. In an interview with Vatican News marking the International Day Against Child Slavery, Lehermayr speaks of the work carried out by Church organizations to free children from...

The C9 continues to meet in the Vatican

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

The April session of the Council of Cardinals began on Monday in the presence of Pope Francis. The last one was in February and saw the participation of three women who offered the cardinals and the Pontiff a contribution on the theme of the role of women in the Church. Read all

Green schools for children in Madagascar

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

The island country of Madagascar, off the southeastern coast of Africa, is deeply affected by the consequences of climate change. That’s why, the Diocese of Mananjary in the southeast, has decided to create "green schools" with courses on education for the protection of our Common Home, placing a bet on the future of young Malagasies. Read all ...

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Church of Africa: An interview with Fr Joel Nkongolo

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

Congolese national and Claretian priest Fr Joel Nkongolo recently spoke to Fr Paul Samasumo of Vatican News about AI’s implications or possible impact on the African Church. Fr Nkongolo is currently based in Nigeria. Read all

UNICEF calls Nigeria to take decisive action to protect children

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

UNICEF Nigeria urges ‘decisive action’ to protect children in Nigeria and ensure they are able to receive a quality education. Read all

Cardinal Suharyo of Jakarta presents the Indonesia that Pope Francis will meet

Posted on April 16, 2024 in: Vatican News

In a wide-ranging interview with Vatican News, Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo of Jakarta, Indonesia, looks forward to Pope Francis’ arrival in September, discusses his small Catholic flock on the largest Muslim country, coexistence among religions, and the witness of Asian Christians. Read all

Church leader in Australia attacked during worship service

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

Authorities in Australia have arrested a man who attacked Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel of Christ The Good Shepherd Church as he was giving his sermon during a liturgical celebration. The attack took place in a Sydney suburb and does not appear related to one days earlier at a local shopping centre. Read all

World Council of Churches does not agree to XXV WRCC's Decree

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

The General Secretary of the WCC says the organization cannot reconcile the Decree of the XXV World Russian People's Council, whose head is the Orthodox Patriarch, which describes the conflict in Ukraine as a "holy war." Read all

"Conversations in the Spirit” for women in a synodal Church

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

Around 1,400 people from all over the world are expected to gather online to put synodal methodology into practice, with a focus on the participation of women in a synodal Church. Read all

US, Europe, Russia urge restraint after Iran attack on Israel

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

Following the recent weekend attack on Israel by Iran, European countries are joining the United States in urging restraint. Read all

New modern stained-glass windows to be installed in Notre Dame

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

As the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris continues at a steady pace after the devastating fire that ravaged the Gothic masterpiece on April 15, 2019, the French Government appoints a committee of experts to select projects of new modern-style stained-glass windows to replace the existing ones in six of its chapels. Read all ...

Sudan: One year of conflict

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

The war in Sudan broke out exactly one year ago. 12 months of fierce fighting and violence have caused a huge loss of life, the displacement of millions of people, acute hunger, and a tragic ongoing humanitarian crisis. Read all

Congo-Brazzaville: Bishops evaluate and offer guidance to episcopal commissions

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

Bishops in the Republic of Congo, over the weekend, concluded their first Plenary Assembly for 2024. The Plenary was held in the capital, Brazzaville. During the report sessions, they evaluated various pastoral projects and received reports on the activities of the Episcopal Commisions and Church institutions. Read all

Council of Cardinals commences April meetings in the Vatican

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

April 15 marks the start of the April working session of the C9 - Council of Cardinals, in the presence of Pope Francis. Read all

The invisible and indelible wounds of war

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

Dr. Richard Mollica, Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, shares with Vatican Media his decades of experience in assisting trauma survivors as they and their families seek healing from the hidden wounds of war. Read all

Cardinal Parolin tells university students their commitment counts

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, encourages university students of the Università Cattolica in Milan, to make the most of their time now, in order to create a better future. Read all

Cardinal Tolentino de Mendonça: WYD are indispensable, even after 40 years

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

Forty years after the first worldwide gathering of young people in St. Peter's Square in 1984, a procession carrying the World Youth Day Cross recalls the many fruits of the initiative set in motion by Pope St. John Paul II. Read all

Poland: Thousands join National March for Life in Warsaw

Posted on April 15, 2024 in: Vatican News

Thousands of people express their support for the lives of unborn children and their opposition to expanding access to abortion, as they took part in Poland’s National March for Life on Sunday. Read all

Ukraine military fears more losses at battlefields

Posted on April 14, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ukraine’s military chief warned that the battlefield situation in the industrial east has “significantly worsened in recent days,” amid concerns that warming weather allows Russian forces to launch a fresh push along several stretches of the more 1,000 km-long (620-mile) front line. Read all

Calls for calm after Iran launches massive missile attack

Posted on April 14, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Israeli military says 99% of the drones and missile fired at it from Iran overnight were intercepted without hitting their target. Read all

Over Taxation of Kenyans: A matter of concern, says the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops

Posted on April 14, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has expressed deep concern over the increasing burden of taxation on Kenyans. Addressing the media, just before the weekend, the Bishops who were meeting for the Plenary Assembly held at Roussel House, Karen Nairobi, raised the issue of taxation, among other pressing matters affecting the nation. Read all ...

Pope calls for every effort for dialogue and peace in Mideast

Posted on April 14, 2024 in: Vatican News

At the conclusion of Sunday's Regina Coeli, Pope Francis makes a heartfelt appeal to halt the spiral of violence in the Middle East and for all nations to favour negotation and peace efforts, while assisting those suffering in Gaza. Read all

Pope at Regina Coeli: How beautiful is it to share our faith

Posted on April 14, 2024 in: Vatican News

During his Sunday Regina Coeli this third Sunday of Easter, Pope Francis invites faithful to remember their personal encounters with the Lord and to consider how truly beautiful it is for us to share and transmit our faith. Read all

Lord's Day Reflection: 'A Divine Encounter'

Posted on April 14, 2024 in: Vatican News

As the Church marks the Third Sunday of Easter, Jenny Kraska offers her thoughts on the day’s liturgical readings under the theme: "A Divine Encounter". Read all

Pope Francis offers consolation and prayers to victims of Sydney attack

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

In a telegram signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, Pope Francis says he is "deeply saddened" by an attack at a Sydney, Australia, shopping centre that left six people dead. He assures the victims of his prayers and spiritual closeness. Read all

Radio Maria's accounts blocked in Nicaragua

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

Radio Maria radio station has announced that it can no longer access its savings at the Banco de la Producción. Read all

Pope Francis approves decrees for new Italian Saint and two Blesseds from Spain

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis approves the canonization of the foundress of the Oblates of the Holy Spirit and the beatfication of a priest and a layman murdered in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War. Read all

Holy See Press Office declaration on dismissal of nun in France

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, responds to questions from journalists about the dismissal of Sabine de la Valette, formerly Sister Marie Ferréol. Read all

Iranian action on Israel expected, says US President

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

President Biden has urged Iran not to attack Israel in retaliation for last weeks deadly strike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria. Read all

Pope to Italian scouts: ‘We must defend the dignity of all human life’

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

As the Italian Catholic Movement of Adult Scouts (MASCI) celebrates 70 years of foundation, Pope Francis encourages them to continue to stay true to their founding values of community, education, service, and care for human life and our common home. Read all

Young people of St. Francis look to a better world

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

Amid celebrations for the eighth centenary of St. Francis of Assisi's stigmata, hundreds of young people gather in Florence until Sunday to look at the future through the eyes of the great saint. Read all

Pope: Like our cities, we build future with an eye to the past

Posted on April 13, 2024 in: Vatican News

Meeting with members of the Spanish World Heritage Cities Group, Pope Francis says people build their cities and cultures by mixing faith in God with their historical situations. Read all

Pope: Stop the war in the Middle East, don't allow it to spread

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

In a message to Muslims for the conclusion of Ramadan, Pope Francis shares his desire for peace in Palestine, Israel, Syria and Lebanon and appeals to all men and women of goodwill to not “allow the flames of resentment, driven by the ominous winds of the arms race, to flare up", calling on leaders to stop the fighting and prevent a possible spread of the war. Read all ...

Many Ukrainians without power after deadly Russian strikes

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Authorities say hundreds of settlements in Ukraine are without power after Russian drone and missile strikes that killed at least five people. Read all

Pontifical Biblical Commission wraps up annual plenary assembly

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Suffering and illness in the Bible were the main themes of the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Biblical Commission which concluded on April 12, a day after an audience with Pope Francis. Read all

Archbishop Paglia: EU Parliament vote on abortion favors strong over the weak

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, President of the Pontifical Academy for Life, has criticised a recent decision of the EU Parliament to include access to abortion in the EU Charter on Fundamental Rights as "a step backward culturally," saying it prioritises self-interest over community welfare. Read all

A sad day

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Our Editorial Director comments on the European Parliament vote on the inclusion of the right to abortion in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. Read all

Solemn proclamation of Jubilee set for Ascension Thursday

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis is set to preside at the celebration of Holy Mass for the Solemnities of the Ascension, Pentecost, and the Most Holy Trinity, with the latter also being observed as the first World Day of Children. Read all

Pope grants indulgences for participants in Eucharistic Revival

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Apostolic Penitentiary, acting on a mandate from Pope Francis, issues grants of indulgence for participants in the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage and the National Eucharistic Congress, taking place in the United States this summer as part of the National Eucharistic Revival. Read all

Pope Francis to visit 4 nations across Asia and Oceania in September

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis will make an Apostolic Journey to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore on September 2-13, 2024. Read all

Pope to Papal Foundation: ‘Don’t neglect prayer in your work’

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis meets with a delegation of The Papal Foundation on the occasion of the US-based organization's annual pilgrimage to Rome, and highlights the importance of the spiritual dimension of their generous contribution to the Holy See’s charitable work. Read all

Pope thanks The Papal Foundation for financial assistance to students

Posted on April 12, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis expresses his gratitude to The Papal Foundation for its service to the "poor, refugees, and immigrants affected by war and violence,” as the charitable organization announces $14.7 million in grants, scholarships, and humanitarian aid for Catholics worldwide. Read all

Pope invites children at Roman parish to turn to God in prayer

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis inaugurates the "School of Prayer" with children preparing for their First Holy Communion, responding freely to numerous questions, as he encouraged them to embrace their faith, and turn to God in prayer, in the good times and the bad. Read all

COMECE: New EU Pact on migration presents several critical issues

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Legal expert José Luis Bazan of the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) says that the agreement reached on Wednesday over the major reform of the EU's migration presents several critical issues though it is still a step forward, considering the present polarized context. Read all

COMECE 'saddened' by vote to add abortion access to EU Charter of Fundamental Rights

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Following European Parliament's vote in favor of including access to abortion in the EU's Charter of Fundamental Rights, the Secretary General of COMECE, Fr. Manuel Enrique Barrios Prieto, appeals for forming and educating consciences to vote responsibly in upcoming elections, and recalls the EU Bishops' recently-presented grounds for opposing voting for the resolution. Read al...

The Jobel at the origins of the Jubilee

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Shofar, a ram's horn used in the Jewish tradition to announce the beginning of some sacred festivals, is at the root of the word "Jubilee." Read all

EU's new Asylum and Migration Pact disappoints rights groups

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

The European Parliament narrowly approves the wide-reaching reform of the European Union's migration and asylum policy. Aid agencies and human rights activists express disappointment saying it fails to protect those most in need. Read all

Cardinal Parolin in Aparecida: We must continue to pray for peace

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Speaking to Vatican News on the sidelines of the spiritual retreat which traditionally opens the General Assembly of the Brazilian Bishops’ Conference (CNBB) gathered this week in Aparecida, the Vatican Secretary of State highlights the need to continue to pray for peace at this trying time for the world. Read all

Archdiocese of Accra to engage Ghana’s young people in dialogue

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ghana’s Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has lined-up several activities aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration between the Church’s hierarchy and its vibrant youth community. The initiatives will culminate in a Youth Congress slated for June 2024. Read all

Cardinal Gregory sees ‘Dignitas infinita’ as balanced, challenging document

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

US Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the Archbishop of Washington, D.C., speaks with Vatican News about human dignity, the National Eucharistic Revival, and the Synod on Synodality. Read all

Indigenous leader: Pope Francis helps us protect our lands

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

In an interview with Vatican News, Shaman Davi Kopenawa, the leader of the Yanomami tribe in the Amazon, who met with Pope Francis before Wednesday's General Audience, discusses the "calamitous" situation of the lands being besieged, without scruples, by extractive activities. Read all

Archbishop Gallagher meets Vietnam’s Prime Minister in Hanoi

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations is in Vietnam until 14 April. During the visit he has held cordial talks with the Prime Minister and other government officials. Meetings with the Vietnamese Catholic community are scheduled in Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. Read all

Pope Francis advocates for inclusion and dignity for people with disabilities

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis addresses the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, and emphasises the need for inclusive societies that recognise the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities, denouncing the throwaway culture and advocating for integral inclusion and solidarity. Read all

Pope Francis: ‘Bible shows Jesus’ closeness to suffering humanity’

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis meets with members of the Pontifical Biblical Commission, and encourages biblical scholars to explore Jesus’ example of compassion and inclusion when faced with the suffering of others. Read all

India: Religious superiors explore ‘heartbeat of the Church’

Posted on April 11, 2024 in: Vatican News

Over 100 superiors of Catholic religious institutions gather in Kerala to explore ways to lead their congregations and better serve the Church in India. Read all

US setting up temporary port for Gaza humanitarian aid

Posted on April 10, 2024 in: Vatican News

In the six months since Israel mounted its military operation in the Gaza Strip to counter a Hamas attack mounted from Gaza, the Palestinian territory’s infrastructure has been dealt a crippling blow. Beyond the more than thirty thousand dead, Palestinians of all ages are at risk of starvation, and famine looms in the region. Read all

Fr. Faltas: Christians enduring war in Holy Land in faith and hope

Posted on April 10, 2024 in: Vatican News

Father Ibrahim Faltas, Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land, reflects on the realities faced by Christian communities in the Holy Land, underscoring the importance of solidarity, prayer, and unwavering faith in times of turmoil. Read all

Pope asks for prayers for those affected by flooding in Kazakhstan

Posted on April 10, 2024 in: Vatican News

During his General Audience, Pope Francis requests prayers for those affected by massive flooding in Kazakhstan, which has impacted many regions of the Central Asian country and forced thousands of people to evacuate. He also asks for prayers for those suffering from conflicts in the Holy Land, Ukraine and Myanmar. Read all

Pope at Audience: Grace-sustained fortitude helps us daily

Posted on April 10, 2024 in: Vatican News

During his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis continues his catechetical series on virtues and vices, focusing on the cardinal virtue of fortitude, saying that sustained by grace, it can fuel our efforts daily and bring us closer to God. Read all

Humanitarian organizations urge action against famine in Sudan

Posted on April 09, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ahead of a humanitarian conference on war-torn Sudan and its neighbouring countries to be held in Paris on April 15, aid organisations have urged international actors to take immediate action to prevent famine setting in the country. Read all

European Court of Human Rights rules on climate change cases

Posted on April 09, 2024 in: Vatican News

The European Court of Human Rights on Tuesday rules that Switzerland’s failure to adequately work to meet emission reduction targets amounted to a vioaltion of human rights. Read all

CATHAN Conference: Theology, Culture and New Media in Nigeria

Posted on April 09, 2024 in: Vatican News

The members of the Catholic Theological Association of Nigeria (CATHAN), in partnership with John Carroll University, Ohio, USA, recently held their 38th Annual Conference at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Resource Centre, Durumi, Abuja. Read all

EU Bishops: Abortion can never be a fundamental right

Posted on April 09, 2024 in: Vatican News

Ahead of the upcoming vote on 11 April in Brussels on whether to include the right to abortion in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the Bishops of the European Union (COMECE) reiterate their firm opposition to the proposition, and decry imposing ideologies. Read all

From war-torn Cameroon to Marseille: Daniel's journey through hell

Posted on April 09, 2024 in: Vatican News

Daniel Bourha, a young Cameroonian Catholic, speaks to Vatican News about his perilous two-year journey to reach Europe. He was participating in MED24, a conference on migration organised by the French Archdiocese of Marseilles. Read all

Archbishop Gallagher makes 6-day visit to Vietnam

Posted on April 09, 2024 in: Vatican News

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican's Secretary for Relations with States, embarks on a diplomatic visit to Vietnam, which will include meetings with the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister and encounters with the local Church. Read all

Mantellate Sisters’ mission for women in Equatorial Africa

Posted on April 09, 2024 in: Vatican News

Sister Noretta Zecchinon recounts the mission of the Mantellate Sisters, Servants of Mary, who have been serving in Africa for more than a century: “I have always been struck by the fact that women are the backbone of the household economy in Africa, as the Pope also says.” Read all

Pope takes time to discern appointment of new Cardinal Vicar

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

A statement issued by the Communications Office of the Vicariate of Rome says Pope Francis is taking time to "make a healthy discernment" before appointing the new Cardinal Vicar. Read all

Mediterranean Churches discuss migrant ministry in Marseille

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

Following Pope Francis’ Apostolic Journey to Marseille, France, on the occasion of the Mediterranean Meetings in September 2023, the French Archdiocese convenes the “MED 24 on Migrations” to discuss coordinated pastoral efforts for migrants in the region. Read all

Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference releases national code of conduct

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference releases "Integrity in Our Common Mission": a national code of conduct ensuring safety and zero tolerance for clerical abuse. Read all

Cardinal Fernández: Every single person has dignity

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, presents the Dicastery's just-published declaration "Dignitas Infinita" in the Holy See Press Office, calling it a document "fundamental" for remembering that "everyone has their inalienable dignity." Read all

Palestinians return to Khan Younis as Israel quits city

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

Palestinians have begun returning to the shattered city of Khan Younis, after Israel says it is shrinking the numbers of soldiers in southern Gaza. Read all

Pope Francis meets with relatives of hostages held by Hamas

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis meets with relatives of hostages held by Hamas since October 7th. The private audience on Monday morning in the Vatican was confirmed by the Holy See Press Office. Read all

New Vatican document lists ‘grave violations’ of human dignity

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith’s new document 'Dignitas infinita' took five years to complete, and builds on the papal magisterium of the last decade: from war to poverty, from violence against migrants to violence against women, from abortion to surrogate motherhood to euthanasia, from gender theory to digital violence. Read all ...

Ukrainian civilians suffer more deaths

Posted on April 08, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis's appeal to pray for peace in Ukraine comes as that war-torrn nation reels from massive Russian strikes that, besides soldiers, also killed more than a dozen civilians over the weekend. Russia, in turn, has accused Ukraine of hitting Europe's largest nuclear power plant. Read all

Zimbabwe: As the country’s crops fail due to drought, Bishops appeal for help

Posted on April 07, 2024 in: Vatican News

Catholic Bishops in Zimbabwe appeal to Catholic Agencies to serve people from starvation after the country’s president declared the 2023/2024 agricultural season a national disaster. Read all

Argentinean padel champion visits Vatican

Posted on April 07, 2024 in: Vatican News

On the day Pope Francis recalls the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace celebrated on 6 April during the Regina Coeli, Argentinean padel champion, Fernando Belasteguín, visits the "Santa Marta" Pediatric Dispensary accompanied by members of Vatican Athletics. Read all

Lesotho mothers trying to cope with drug addicted children

Posted on April 07, 2024 in: Vatican News

Mrs Pontsho Florina Tumisi, a widow and mother of two children is a member of the Saint Anne’s Catholic sodality in Lesotho. When she found herself dealing with her daughters’ drug addiction, she reached out to other mothers facing trials. Read all

Israeli demonstrators call for release of hostages

Posted on April 07, 2024 in: Vatican News

Israeli media says police in Tel Aviv forcibly dispersed tens of thousands of anti-government protestors, who had gathered to demand the release of hostages seized by Hamas six months ago. Read all

Pope: Sport must foster social friendship and fraternity

Posted on April 07, 2024 in: Vatican News

Recalling the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, Pope Francis upholds the core values of sports in building fraternity. During the Regina Coeli prayer, he also remembers victims of a bus crash in South Africa. Read all

Pope: May the Lord give leaders the capacity to pause and mediate for peace

Posted on April 07, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis reiterates his appeal for negotiated solutions to the ongoing wars in Ukraine, Palestine and Israel. Read all

Pope at Regina Coeli: Have faith in the Risen Christ

Posted on April 07, 2024 in: Vatican News

On the second Sunday of Easter, Pope Francis emphasises the transformative power of encountering the risen Jesus, urging believers to embrace faith, prayer, and love and spread Easter joy. Read all

Haiti: Global indifference to an escalating humanitarian crisis

Posted on April 06, 2024 in: Vatican News

The situation in Haiti continues to worsen as armed and ferocious gangs cause widespread violence and displacement, while the international community remains largely indifferent to the escalating humanitarian crisis. Read all

Cardinal De Donatis appointed new Major Penitentiary

Posted on April 06, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Vicar General for the Diocese Rome succeeds Cardinal Mauro Piacenza at the head of the Apostolic Penitentiary. Read all

Concerns remain of Gaza aid routes, new crossings needed says UN

Posted on April 06, 2024 in: Vatican News

The United Nations and aid agencies have expressed doubt that Israel’s promises to open more aid routes into Gaza will be enough to ease the plight of starving Palestinians. Read all

Pope: Don’t be ashamed to cry before the pain of others

Posted on April 06, 2024 in: Vatican News

Marking the 50th anniversary of the St. Angela Merici Foundation, Pope Francis receives a group of its members and reflects on its mission to serve the most vulnerable. Read all

Pope: Red Cross' humanitarian work shows that fraternity is possible

Posted on April 06, 2024 in: Vatican News

Meeting members of the Italian Red Cross in the Vatican, Pope Francis praises its “irreplaceable service” ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of war and other disasters. Read all

Holy See: International cooperation needed to tackle crimes against humanity

Posted on April 05, 2024 in: Vatican News

At the 78th UN General Assembly, the Holy See supports new measures to address crimes against humanity, asking that they be extended to prevent individuals from being extradited to countries where they risk torture or the death penalty. Read all

Pope visits with 35 priests at St. Henry parish in Rome

Posted on April 05, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis makes a pastoral visit to St. Henry Parish in Rome's 11th Prefecture, meeting with 35 priests and Auxiliary Bishop Daniele Salera. Read all

Camillian priest in Haiti: ‘Amid gang warfare Church must bring hope’

Posted on April 05, 2024 in: Vatican News

Father Robert Daudier, director of the Foyer San Camillo in the gang-controlled municipality of Croix de Bouquet, near Port-au-Prince, speaks to Vatican News about how the Camillian-run Catholic health facility is managing to cope with the constant threat of bandits, and how the Church tries to bring hope to the suffering Haitian population Read all ...

New aid routes into Gaza to open after US intervention

Posted on April 05, 2024 in: Vatican News

Israel says it will open and expand three crossings to Gaza to allow the delivery of more humanitarian aid. Read all

International conference in Rome demands abolition of surrogacy

Posted on April 05, 2024 in: Vatican News

For two days, international experts, with the Holy See's participation, gather in Rome to discuss issues surrounding surrogacy, and to demand its abolition. Read all

Pope: Christians must tend to Christ’s wounds in humanity

Posted on April 05, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis recalls the 800th anniversary of the stigmata of St. Francis of Assisi, and encourages Friars Minor to offer God’s forgiveness and mercy to all who suffer in body and spirit. Read all

Archbishop Gallagher in Panama to mark 100 years of diplomatic relations

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Vatican Secretary for Relations with States wraps up a four-day visit to Panama marking the centenary of diplomatic relations with the Holy See. Read all

Israel claims ‘tragic error’ after targeting aid workers

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Israeli army makes an admission of fault after its Monday attack on a humanitarian convoy killed seven aid workers of the ‘World Central Kitchen’. Read all

New Church statistics reveal more Catholics, fewer vocations

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Holy See publishes the 2024 Pontifical Yearbook and the 2022 Statistical Yearbook of the Church, detailing the numbers of bishops, priests, men and women religious, and deacons throughout the world. Read all

Harmonies of faith: a cultural journey within the Jubilee of Hope

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Dicastery for Evangelization presents a host of cultural initiatives that will accompany the faithful as they prepare to welcome and celebrate the 2025 Jubilee Year. Read all

Pope assures victims of Taiwan quake of solidarity and closeness

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

Following the 7.4-magnitude quake that hit Hualien City, Taiwan, on Wednesday, Pope Francis sends a telegram of condolences to the president of the Chinese Regional Bishops’ Conference of Taiwan. Read all

UN: ‘Alarming’ rise in civilian deaths from landmines

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

A new study suggests that civilian casualties from landmines almost tripled between 2022 and 2023. Recently, Pope Francis warned that mines “continue to strike innocent civilians, particularly children.” Read all

Pope Francis: A priest's primary obligation is to keep love alive

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

Speaking with members of the Pontifical Latin-American, Brazilian, and Mexican Colleges, Pope Francis reflects on love, calling it “a central theme in the life of priests.” Read all

Pope: Interreligious dialogue fosters peace and respect for diversity

Posted on April 04, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis encourages people of all religions to promote diversity, peace, and care of creation, as he meets with participants in the first Colloquium between the Holy See and the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Read all

WCC condemns killing of seven WCK aid workers in Gaza

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

The World Council of Churches general secretary joins in strongly condemning the killing of seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen bringing desperately needed food to Gaza. Read all

Catholic leaders in Syria fear more suffering for their people amid Gaza conflict tensions

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Apostolic Vicar of Aleppo and the Maronite Archbishop of Damascus voice concern for a possible escalation of conflict in the Middle East and express gratitude for Pope Francis’ words recalling the continuing suffering of Syrians in his Easter "Urbi et Orbi" message. Read all

Haiti: Religious seminary stormed by armed gangs

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Haitian Conference of Religious decry their country’s chaotic situation, after gangs stormed the Petit Séminaire Collège St. Martial, a seminary run by the Fathers of the Holy Spirit. Read all

Nine killed and over 900 injured by earthquake in Taiwan

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

The strongest earthquake in 25 years rocks Taiwan during the morning rush hour Wednesday, killing nine people and injuring nearly 1,000. Read all

Ukraine's president meets Christian leaders

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

Volodomyr Zelenskyy, the President of Ukraine, meets with Bishops of the country’s Latin-Rite Catholic churches and with representatives of Ukrainian Protestant communities. Read all

Nicaragua: 11 evangelical pastors sentenced

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

Judges have sentenced 11 Protestant ministers to more than a decade in prison, as part of a continuing crackdown on the church in Nicaragua. Read all

Holy See: 'Nuclear deterrence is an illusion'

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

Addressing the UN Disarmament Commission in New York, the Vatican Permanent Observer to the United Nations reaffirms that the logic of deterrence is illusionary and calls for the adoption of a binding international treaty to regulate artificial intelligence modelled on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Read all

South Africa: Limpopo bus tragedy - “One human life lost is one too many,” says Bishop Sipuka

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

The loss of one human life “is one too many,’ says the President of the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC) and Bishop of Umtata Dicose, following the horrific crash on the R518 Mmamatlakala Pass in Limpopo that claimed the lives of 45 people on Holy Thursday. Read all

Telling Our Resurrection Stories: Victory over pain, tears and death

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Christian celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the dead at Easter is for us a victory beyond human imagination. Jesus, the Son of God and rejected Messiah, had suffered the humiliation, pain and shame of the crucifixion and death on the cross. On the third day he rose from death as a sign of God’s power and triumph of evil, darkness and death. Read all ...

Pope prays for people slain in war, recalls Ukrainian soldier Oleksandr

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis recalls a slain Ukrainian soldier, 23-year-old Oleksandr, who was killed in the fighting in Avdiivka, as the Pope held the late soldier's rosary and Gospel. Read all

Pope Francis renews appeal for ceasefire in Gaza

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis makes his latest plea for a ceasefire in Gaza, and appeals for "tireless efforts" to end the Israel-Hamas war, lamenting the suffering of the civilian population. Read all

Pope at Audience: The righteous and upright will find happiness

Posted on April 03, 2024 in: Vatican News

During his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis examines the second cardinal virtue of justice, noting that being righteous leads us toward God, and that justice is fundamental for peaceful coexistence in society. Read all

Ukraine: Easter amid bombardment in Zaporizhzhia

Posted on April 02, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine, Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, describes how Ukrainians spent Easter under heavy Russian bombardment. Read all

Pope's April prayer intention: 'for the role of women'

Posted on April 02, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis releases his prayer intention for the month of April 2024, and invites everyone to pray for the role of women. Read all

Probe underway into deadly Israeli attack on foreign aid workers

Posted on April 02, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Israeli military says it is conducting a thorough review into an airstrike in Gaza that resulted in what it called "the tragic death of seven aid workers for World Central Kitchen." Read all

Pope Francis remembers Benedict XVI in new book: 'He was like a father to me'

Posted on April 02, 2024 in: Vatican News

In a new book interview, Pope Francis discusses his relationship with his predecessor Benedict XVI: 'He always defended me, he never interfered'. Read all

Holy See: Strengthened measures against crimes against humanity required

Posted on April 02, 2024 in: Vatican News

The Holy See's Permanent Observer at the United Nations in New York, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, calls for more effective international measures to combat crimes against humanity, emphasising the importance of human dignity and prevention efforts. Read all

Kannada becomes 53rd language of Vatican Media

Posted on April 02, 2024 in: Vatican News

Vatican Radio – Vatican News adds Kannada as the 53rd language in which we provide coverage of Papal, Vatican, and Church news, offering the Gospel Proclamation in the mother-tongue of 35 million Indians. Read all

Israel's military withdraws from Gaza’s al-Shifa hospital

Posted on April 01, 2024 in: Vatican News

A day after Pope Francis appealed for the Gaza Strip, Israeli forces have pulled out of Gaza’s biggest hospital after a two-week operation. Read all

Pope prays for Easter peace to fill places torn by war

Posted on April 01, 2024 in: Vatican News

Pope Francis invites Christians to pray for the peace of Christ to renew nations torn by war and violence, as he prays the Regina Coeli on Easter Monday. Read all

Pope at Regina Coeli: Lord's Resurrection brings immense joy, transforms our lives

Posted on April 01, 2024 in: Vatican News

On Easter Monday, Pope Francis prays the Regina Coeli prayer, and reassures the faithful in St Peter’s Square and following from elsewhere that with Christ's Resurrection, our lives have changed forever and completely, and we are to be His joyful witnesses. Read all

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