News
Whatever it’s called, does conflict meet just-war criteria?
The U.S. last declared war nearly 80 years ago in World War II. Afterward, there were several wars fought that weren't declared as such. Catholic thinkers see Catholic principles as guiderails for future conflicts.
Make brave choice to lead simpler, eco-friendly life, pope says
In a new video, Pope Francis prayed that people would change the way they eat, travel and use resources for an environmentally sustainable lifestyle, "taking inspiration from our young people who are resolutely committed to this."
Use papal teaching to develop ‘ecological conscience,’ bishops advise
In a message for the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, two U.S. bishops echoed Pope Francis' invitation to discernment in response to growing environmental challenges that affect human life. Meeting those challenges requires "a well-formed reason" and faith.
Pope plans to visit climate change conference in Glasgow
Pope Francis will travel to the U.N. Climate Change Conference in Scotland in November, and to host about three dozen religious leaders from around the world at a meeting at the Vatican and in Rome Oct. 4 in preparation for COP26.
Remains of Korea’s first Catholic martyrs recovered
Historical research and DNA tests have confirmed the discovery of the mortal remains of the first three Korean Catholic martyrs more than two centuries after their deaths, a South Korean diocese reported.
Supreme Court rules against blocking Texas’ 6-week abortion ban
The 5-4 vote by the high court left open the possibility that the state's law could be challenged in other ways, including in Texas state courts. It is one of the strictest abortion laws in the U.S., banning abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detectable.
No ‘semblance of truth’ found in abuse claims against Brooklyn bishop
The Vatican has determined that allegations of sexual abuse of a minor against Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn were found not to be credible. The Archdiocese of New York had begun an investigation under norms issued by Pope Francis in 2019 to address such allegations against bishops.
Pope: Euthanasia legislation in Europe is sign of ‘throwaway culture’
Increasing calls to legalize euthanasia in several European countries, as well as the disregard for vulnerable people and the unborn, collectively are "one of the tragedies of today's European culture," Pope Francis said in an extensive radio interview.
Pope discusses his health, the Latin Mass, democracy in radio interview
Pope Francis put to rest rumors of his resignation, explained the intent of his recent norms for the Mass and agreed with a view that efforts to build democracy abroad must consider "historic, ethnic and religious issues" without "ignoring other people's traditions."
Pope addresses Vatican reforms aimed at curbing corruption, abuse
Pope Francis said in a radio interview that he authorized an investigation into the Vatican's failed property deal in London as a sign that he was "not afraid of transparency or the truth." He is reviewing a new constitution reforming the Curia.