World News

Behind hatred, violence is an unloved heart, pope says at audience

"When an adolescent is not or does not feel loved, violence can arise. Behind so many forms of social hate and hooliganism, there is often a heart that has not been recognized," he said.

Pope, cardinal advisers study ‘healthy decentralization’ proposals

The cardinals and pope looked at the possibility of allowing bishops to determine whether a permanent deacon who is widowed can remarry or whether a permanent deacon who is unmarried or widowed can be ordained to the priesthood without having to "wait for a decision to be made in Rome."

Catholic leaders pray for London fire victims, offer assistance

The June 14 early morning fire, which killed at least six people and injured more than 70 others, sent black smoke stretching for miles. Officials said they expected the death toll to rise.

Vatican releases online questionnaire for youth

To help the Synod of Bishops on youth to better understand the lives, attitudes and concerns of young people, the Vatican is inviting all 16- to 29-year-olds around the world to complete an online survey.

Pope names members for renewed Pontifical Academy for Life

After broadening the scope of and issuing new statutes for the Pontifical Academy of Life, Pope Francis appointed new members to the advisory body and included scientists, professors and experts in medicine and ethics from both religious and secular backgrounds.

Death of prelate illustrates complicated situation of bishops in China

According to the Chinese government, which does not recognize papal authority over a bishop's appointment, a Catholic bishop must be produced through an election. The result then must be approved by the bishops' conference, which is not recognized by the Vatican.

Poverty requires action, not empty words, pope says

People cannot sit back and be indifferent or unresponsive to growing poverty in the world as a privileged minority accumulates "ostentatious wealth," Pope Francis said.

Displaced near South Sudanese border live on mangoes, sweet potatoes

Families here were displaced in late 2016 and early 2017 as fighting between government soldiers and rebels escalated.

Vatican bank reports $40 million profit in 2016

The institute held assets worth 5.7 billion euros at year's end, which included deposits and investments from close to 15,000 clients -- mostly Catholic religious orders around the world, Vatican offices and employees, and Catholic clergy.

U.S. bishop: Media can counter fears by showing refugees as real people

By telling individual stories and putting a human face on migrants seeking a new home, the media can help inspire communities to assist and not be afraid of newcomers, said retired Bishop Ricardo Ramirez of Las Cruces, New Mexico.