News
Pope visits Russian Embassy to express concern over war
According to the Russian ambassador in Rome, the focus of his conversation with Pope Francis Feb. 25 was "the humanitarian situation in Ukraine" and the "protection of people."
Europeans, shocked at Russian invasion of Ukraine, pray for peace
The leader of a Catholic community in Rome lamented that amid hope for "a century of peace, at least in Europe" after the Cold War, nationalism arose and weapons were deployed. Now, "we've all lost."
Pope ordered to rest painful knee, will skip two key events
Pope Francis, dealing with sciatica and knee problems that affect his ability to stand for long periods, will not travel to Florence or celebrate Mass for Ash Wednesday.
Via Twitter, at Mass and in prayer, U.S. bishops unite behind Ukraine
Bishop Joseph Bambera of Scranton was among prelates nationwide praying for the people of Ukraine. Brooklyn's bishop prayed that the situation "does not escalate."
Fearless nuns in Ukraine remain to serve the people
Women religious in Ukraine are facing Russia’s invasion of that nation with determined faith and a commitment to aid refugees. If a full-scale attack happens, "it will be hard, but we can take it,” said one Basilian sister.
U.S. church offers prayers, solidarity after Russia attacks Ukraine
As war broke out in Europe Feb. 24 with Russia's early morning attacks on Ukraine, Catholics in the U.S. joined Pope Francis in prayers for the people of the East European nation and for peace.
With invasion, Ukraine is being ‘crucified,’ says Phila. archbishop
Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, spoke with CatholicPhilly.com from Paris Feb. 24, where he is following closely the invasion by Russian forces aiming to “destroy Ukrainian statehood and install an authoritarian system."
‘In the name of God, stop now!’ European leaders react to Ukraine attacks
Catholic leaders meeting in Italy Feb. 24 appealed for peace and expressed alarm about the potential for "a humanitarian catastrophe" after Russia attacked Ukraine. One cardinal urged governments to welcome Ukrainians fleeing their homeland.
There’s still time to stop ‘horrors’ of war, Vatican official says
The Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, pleaded for an end to hostilities Feb. 24 after Russia's decision to invade Ukraine. He held "hope for a glimmer of conscience" of leaders who "hold in their hands the fortunes of the world."
Pope calls for day of prayer, fasting for peace in Ukraine
As the threat of war loomed over the world, Pope Francis on Feb. 23 called on people to pray and fast for peace in Ukraine on Ash Wednesday, March 2. "May the Queen of Peace protect the world from the folly of war," he said.