World News
Pope Francis changed the conversation, but can he change the culture?
Matthew Manion hopes more Catholics make choices to change the culture, developing the humility of a Pope Francis to encounter those most in need and the courage of a Pope Benedict to try new things.
Christian activists warn of slaughter of Syrian civilians in Afrin
In March, Syria's conflict entered its eighth year. More than 350,000 people have died, 5 million are refugees and 6.3 million civilians are displaced within the country.
The poor, needy are your treasure, pope tells Sant’Egidio Community
Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Community of Sant'Egidio's founding, Pope Francis urged its members to continue to safeguard the poor, the elderly, the young and the excluded.
Five years a pope: Francis’ focus has been on outreach
The cardinal from Argentina was elected pope March 13, 2013 just a few days after telling the College of Cardinals that the Catholic Church faced a clear choice between being a church that "goes out" or a church focused on its internal affairs.
A timeline of Pope Francis’ papacy
See an infographic highlighting Francis' first five years as pope beginning March 13, 2013.
Wonder and wit: Five years of unique turns of phrase
Ignatiuan spirituality, visual elements from movies, books and medicine plus sayings from daily life help Pope Francis master the metaphors that drive home his spiritual messages.
A small sampler of Pope Francis quotes
See our baker's dozen of memorable thoughts by Francis on topics ranging from clerical sexual abuse to mercy to young people in the church.
U.S. Catholics’ political views driving approval ratings of pope
A Pew Research poll saw "growing discontent with Francis among Catholics on the political right" who "think he is too liberal and naive." Compared to a 2014 poll, "political polarization among American Catholics really stands out."
U.S. Catholics in social ministry buoyed by ‘Francis effect’
The pope's connection to "regular people" inspires Catholics working to serve others through authentic encounters, as Francis does. For five years he has "been like a healing salve on a hurting church."
The places Pope Francis has gone
In the five years since his election, the pope has visited 33 countries outside Italy, including the United States in 2015. See a graphic of the papal visits.