World News
Hold the phone: Vatican says Pope Francis doesn’t use WhatsApp
While the thought of receiving a blessing by text from Pope Francis could have millions of mobile users glued to their smartphones, a Vatican spokesman said via Twitter that isn't the pope's style.
New Vatican news site ready to launch before Christmas
The Council of Cardinals learned that a new multimedia communications website for the Holy See will launch soon, at the request of the pope and the cardinals. The council not only is seeking to reform the curia, but change "mentalities."
Philippine Congress extends martial law in southern Philippines
Lawmakers approved a request by President Rodrigo Duterte to extend martial law in the region for another year to root out terrorists communist-led guerrillas. Critics fear the imposition of martial law nationwide.
Pope urges Catholic groups to work together to defend human dignity
Pope Francis encouraged attendees including Helen Alvare of a forum to explore how Catholic NGOs, including Catholic schools, can better protect and promote the human person in a rapidly changing world.
In Albania, Franciscans work to heal past wounds through remembrance
Although empty for almost 30 years, the walls of the Spac prison in Albania still show evidence of the horrors that took place there.
Pope: Guadalupe feast shows Mary’s closeness to those on margins
Like St. Juan Diego, who felt of no importance at being chosen by Mary because of his indigenous heritage, marginalized people in today's world are often made to feel worthless by conditions imposed upon them, the pope said.
Blessed Oscar Romero continues to inspire listeners through radio
In San Salvador's traffic jams or at work, people tune in to listen to the martyred archbishop's homilies, just as they did over 30 years ago. The homilies date from the 1970s through 1980 when he was murdered.
Christian vocation is to serve life, health, pope says in message
In his message for World Day of the Sick, Feb. 11, the pope urged Catholics individually and as a community to continue to provide loving care for the sick.
Venezuelans try new food strategies to combat hunger, malnutrition
Because of hyperinflation, the monthly minimum wage buys just four boxes of eggs. Tomorrow it might be worth even less.
Prepare way for the Lord with prayer, acts of charity, pope says
Advent is a time to make a renewed commitment to prayer and to caring for others, Pope Francis said.