World News
Don’t fear what is new, Cardinal Hummes says, introducing synod topics
Speaking at the synod's opening session Oct. 7, Brazilian Cardinal Claudio Hummes identified key issues for the synod based on consultations held in church jurisdictions in the nine Amazonian countries over the past year and a half.
Pope names new apostolic nuncio to Chile
Archbishop Alberto Ortega Martin's appointment comes at a time when the Catholic Church in Chile is under continuous scrutiny over its handling of cases involving the abuse of minors and vulnerable adults.
Cardinal Baldisseri explains who’s at Amazon synod, how it works
The members of the synod for the Amazon are mainly the bishops of the Amazon region of nine South American countries, and the discussions will focus on evangelization and safeguarding creation in that region.
Synod is a time to listen, discern, not despise, pope says
The pope said he was saddened to hear a "sarcastic" remark from a synod participant about an indigenous man wearing a feathered headdress who presented the offertory gifts at the synod's opening Mass Oct. 6.
Fear, status quo smother fire of God’s love, pope says at synod Mass
Celebrating the opening Mass of the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon Oct. 6, the pope said, "Jesus did not come to bring a gentle evening breeze, but to light a fire on the earth."
Pope to cardinals: Loving, loyal service requires feeling God’s love
In a ceremony to create 13 new cardinals, Pope Francis reminded new and old members of the College of Cardinals how much their ministry and service depends on their realizing how much God loves them and has been compassionate with them.
English bishop: Court considered parents in ruling on brain-damaged child
Auxiliary Bishop John Sherrington of Westminster welcomed a court ruling allowing a brain-damaged girl to be treated in Italy against the wishes of U.K. doctors.
Proclaim God’s word, avoid boring speeches, pope tells new bishops
Ordaining four new bishops, Pope Francis reminded them that a bishop is first and foremost an apostle, not an administrator who doles out dull discourses.
Pope accepts New Zealand bishop’s resignation after investigation
Bishop Charles Drennan, who had worked at the Vatican on Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, tendered his resignation following an investigation into a complaint made by a young woman of unacceptable sexual behavior of a sexual nature.
On feast of St. Francis, pope joins Amazonians to plant tree at Vatican
At the gathering, Pope Francis welcomed Amazonian church workers and indigenous people ahead of the Oct. 6-27 Synod of Bishops for the Amazon, which he consecrated to the beloved saint known for his care for creation.