World News

At baptisms, pope urges prayers for moms who can’t feed their kids

As Pope Francis once again urged new moms not to be afraid to breast-feed in public, he reminded people to pray for the world's mothers whose poverty means they are unable to provide enough food for their children.

Pope to diplomats: Rejecting God, people, nature leads to conflict

Highlighting some of the most urgent conflicts facing the world, Pope Francis said such strife and injustices were rooted in a culture of rejection that refuses to recognize God, to protect nature and to respect other human beings.

Catholic official: Funding running out for Iraqi refugees in Jordan

A Catholic official warned that funding will soon run out to feed and house thousands of Iraqi Christians sheltering in Jordan after being made homeless by Islamic State militants.

Archbishop Romero is a martyr, Vatican panel says

A panel of theologians advising the Vatican voted unanimously to recognize the late Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar Romero as a martyr, saying he had been killed "in hatred for the faith" in 1980 as he was celebrating Mass.

Pope meets leaders of Yezidi community facing Islamic State persecution

In his appeals for an end to the persecution of minorities in Syria and Iraq, Pope Francis often has mentioned both the Christians and the Yezidis attacked by Islamic State fighters.

Cardinal counts: Nominees nudge numbers toward greater representation

A pope's impact on the College of Cardinals is naturally discussed after his death when his nominees and those of his predecessors enter the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope.

Spain’s new cardinal-designate is advocate of dialogue, reconciliation

Spain's newest cardinal-designate is known as an outspoken champion of peace and reconciliation -- a common trait among some of the men chosen by Pope Francis to join the College of Cardinals in February.

In Philippines, spirituality includes warfare against forces of darkness

In the months leading up to Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines Jan. 15-19, church leaders emphasized "spiritual preparation," such as a special prayer for the pope at the end of each Mass and a reminder to carry out small acts of kindness toward the less fortunate.

Pope Francis in Asia to promote reconciliation, recovery

Interreligious reconciliation and recovery from natural disaster will be major themes of Pope Francis' Jan. 13-18 visit to Sri Lanka and the Philippines, according to the Vatican spokesman.

Vatican sending $3.5 million to help church response to Ebola

The Vatican is helping Catholic dioceses and agencies step up the fight against Ebola and is urging other donors to help.