World News
Pilgrims return to Guadalupe basilica but in smaller numbers
Millions of pilgrims like Jesús Martínez Aguilar, 68, who walked for two days to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, renewed a tradition and act of faith common across Mexico, even if they couldn't come in 2020. They came "to see the Virgin again," he said.
Pope prays for peace in Ukraine as Russia moves troops to border
With Russia amassing thousands of soldiers and heavy weapons on its border with Ukraine, Pope Francis prayed for peace in the region. As an aside, he said that it "saddens me greatly: more weapons were produced this year than last year."
Pope: Through Mary, Latin America can move toward renewal
Festive music, dancing and prayers in honor of Mary echoed through St. Peter's Square as hundreds celebrated the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Some reenacted the moment when in 1531 St. Juan Diego revealed the miraculous image of Mary.
Vatican releases text for installing catechists, explains ministry
Catholic men and women formally installed in the new ministry of catechist, instituted by Pope Francis seven months ago, are not simply religious education teachers but represent a new, formal office and vocation in the church.
Synod official apologizes to gay Catholics, encourages their participation
LGBTQ Catholics, "who once again felt left out," are more than welcome to participate in the discernment and discussion process leading up to the world Synod of Bishops in 2023, a synod official said, apologizing to New Ways Ministry.
Christmas is time for sharing, not commercialism, pope says
"Let us not live a fake, commercial Christmas! Let us allow ourselves to be enveloped by God's closeness, by the Christmas atmosphere that art, music, songs and traditions bring to our heart," Pope Francis said Dec. 10.
How does this happen? Catholic leaders ask after migrants killed in crash
A tractor-trailer carrying more than 150 migrants crashed in Mexico's southern Chiapas state, claiming at least 53 lives and leaving dozens more injured -- an accident highlighting the dangers of human smuggling through the country.
Pope closes Year of St. Joseph with visit to troubled young adults
Pope Francis encouraged the residents of a community in Rome that helps people experiencing marginalization, crisis or substance abuse to "have the courage to tell others, 'there is a better way,'" and to not be afraid of misery.
Vatican Nativity crèche inspired by Peru’s Andean region
The representation of Peru's diverse Indigenous communities in this year's 30-figure Nativity scene in St. Peter's Square embodies the joy and hope of their faith, said a Peruvian bishop. It also marks the 200th anniversary of Peru's independence.
In morning darkness, pope observes Immaculate Conception
An hour before sunrise, Pope Francis set white roses at a statue of the Immaculate Conception in the center of Rome, praying Mary would help all who suffer.