World News
Pope recognizes martyrdom of Oklahoma priest killed in Guatemala
Father Stanley Rother was brutally murdered July 28, 1981, in a Guatemalan village where he ministered to the poor. His recognition of martyrdom clears the way for his possible beatification, one step from sainthood.
Pax Christi International seeks new Israeli-Palestinian peace process
Saying that adherence to international law is critical for a peaceful world, on Dec. 1 the Catholic peace organization urged Israel and Palestine to return to negotiations and "begin a dialogue rooted in mutual respect for human rights and the dignity of the other."
Beyond expectations: Pope sees God of surprises at work in 2016
Pope Francis described 2016 as a "packed year," one full of initiatives that helped Catholics "see and touch with their hands the fruits of the mercy of God."
New Caritas report sets out building blocks for more-just Europe
"The financial and economic crisis that started in 2008 proved a 'stress test' for European social models," said the Brussels-based Caritas Europa.
French archbishop criticizes bill on digital interference on abortion
Archbishop Georges Pontier of Marseille, president, said the bishops think the legislation questions the very foundations of liberties in France, and he urged Hollande to not allow the bill's passage.
When God calls, he always inspires, walks with his disciples, pope says
Through individual vocations, God calls men and women to be touched and transformed by his love, not use his gift for personal comfort, pursuing business opportunities or self-promotion, Pope Francis said.
Dialogue, common good can heal nation wracked by fear, pope tells France
As French citizens prepare for presidential elections starting in April, the pope supported the bishops' call for rediscovering the true meaning of political life.
Pope meets Martin Scorsese after director screens ‘Silence’ for Jesuits
The book and film are a fictionalized account of the persecution of Christians in 17th-century Japan; the central figures are Jesuit missionaries.
Pope: Reflections on mercy may be over, but compassion must live on
"Let us commit ourselves to praying for each other so that the corporal and spiritual works of mercy increasingly become our way of life," he said.
Lithuanian archbishop says citizens tense over Russian buildup
The U.S.-born archbishop, president of the Lithuanian bishops' conference, told Catholic News Service, "The old Russian empire mentality is still alive, and there are many there who consider the three Baltic states part of that empire.