World News
Archbishop: Decade after independence, South Sudan ‘is bleeding slowly’
Citizens of the world's newest nation will pray and sing victory songs July 9, but deadly conflicts are devastating their country as millions struggle with extreme poverty, hopelessness and reliance on humanitarian assistance.
Belarusian president warns against singing of decades-old hymn
A prominent lay Catholic worried that a police raid on Minsk's Catholic cathedral and arrests elsewhere suggested further police action. A Catholic hymn, "Almighty God," has been a symbol for anti-regime protests.
Indian Jesuit imprisoned on ‘terrorism charges’ dies in hospital
Jesuit Father Stan Swamy, 84, jailed on dubious charges since October, died July 5 in Mumbai from complications of a heart attack the previous day. One of his last messages from jail was to warn of how activists and leaders were being imprisoned for their dissent.
Bishops thank those who lobbied Parliament against abortion proposals
English and Welsh Catholic bishops expressed relief after members of the House of Commons withdrew proposals to legalize abortion on demand up to birth and to make it a crime to protest outside an abortion clinic.
Pope announces visit to Hungary, Slovakia in September
The trip, announced July 4, will include the closing Mass of the International Eucharistic Congress in Budapest, plus stops in several Slovakian cities.
Pope out of bed, walking after surgery at Rome hospital
The second morning after an operation on his colon, 84-year-old Pope Francis continues to recover well, the Vatican press office said July 6.
Vatican indicts Cardinal Becciu, former officials involved in London deal
The unprecedented move was announced July 3 after a failed property investment led to charges of embezzlement, money laundering and abuse of office. The trial is expected to begin July 27.
Pope seeks local events during World Meeting of Families 2022
In past gatherings, participation was "unknown to the majority of families." But Pope Francis cited "an opportunity provided by providence" for a worldwide event so families in every diocese can participate.
Vatican, medical associations look at ways to promote vaccination
Despite the "great achievement" of vaccines, the world is facing the dual challenges of giving everyone access to them and overcoming "vaccine hesitancy," said church and medical leaders.
Through faith and science, people come closer to truth, pope says
When scientists share their data and dialogue with experts in other fields, including religion, they contribute to the search for a holistic truth that promotes the common good, Pope Francis said at an international conference.