World News

Ukrainian priests appeal for support as Russian threat grows

Fearing an invasion by Russian armed forces, Catholics in Ukraine were "seeking prayers for peace, as well as material help and support" from Western church leaders.

Court acquits Indian bishop of rape; nun to appeal

Bishop Franco Mulakkal was cleared of raping a member of the Missionaries of Jesus in Kerala state. A court said the prosecution could not prove the allegations against him.

Spanish bishops assure pope of sex abuse probes

A newspaper uncovered 251 cases of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church in Spain dating back 80 years. Unlike nationwide efforts in other countries, individual dioceses will look into the cases.

Synod is a ‘style to be adopted,’ not a program, pope says

The synodal process is a path of engagement that makes room for the Holy Spirit, and not a "majority consensus like a parliament" to guide the church, Pope Francis said.

Reversal in India: Missionaries of Charity can get foreign funds

The Indian government has cleared the way for the globally renowned charity to utilize foreign funds, some two weeks after blocking money needed for ministry to the poor.

Pope calls for ‘reality check’ against misinformation about vaccines

Rejecting "baseless information or poorly documented facts" about COVID vaccines, Pope Francis called for increased global access to vaccines, medicines and diagnostic tools.

Pope to install catechists, lectors at Word of God celebration

At his celebration of Mass for the Sunday of the Word of God Jan. 23, Pope Francis will formally install new catechists and lectors -- ministries open to women.

Pope appeals for peace in Kazakhstan; reflects on prayer

Pope Francis hoped "social harmony will be restored" in the central Asian nation where dozens have been killed in protests due to rising fuel costs. He also taught on the need for prayer.

Missionaries of Charity forced to close orphanage in India

Although the congregation is short of funds, the Indian government refuses to allow contributions from foreign sources and demanded $250,000 from the nuns for trespassing.

Ordinary people called to be extraordinary Christians, pope says

Living out and proclaiming the Gospel are inseparable aspects at the heart of an authentically Christian life and witness, Pope Francis said in his message for World Mission Sunday.