World News
Get a pocket Bible, read it during your commute, pope recommends
If you get a seat on a bus or a free minute somewhere else, "pick up the Gospel and read a few words," Pope Francis told members of a suburban parish filled with people who commute to Rome for work. People listen to the radio, to television and to gossip throughout the day, but "do we take a bit of time each day to listen to Jesus?" the pope asked.
Buddhists donate funds to rebuild typhoon-damaged Philippine church
TACLOBAN, Philippines (CNS) -- On a recent Sunday morning, the congregation at Santo Nino Parish in Tacloban crammed into a space one-third the true size of the church. The crowd spilled out onto the courtyard, which had two big gray tents bearing the logo of a Buddhist foundation.
For Pope Francis, a year of reform and evangelization
Take an in-depth look back on the pope's first anniversary, a year in which the world warmed to his affable, informal manner and simple language. Pope Francis has focused on a message of mercy, forgiveness and concern for the poor, and urged Catholics to go out into the world to share their faith.
Ukrainian Catholics fear ‘new oppression’ after Russian takeover
OXFORD, England (CNS) -- A Ukrainian Catholic priest in Crimea said church members are alarmed and frightened by the Russian military occupation and fear their communities might be outlawed again if Russian rule becomes permanent.
Economic woes, violence leave Venezuelan charities short of food, meds
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (CNS) -- Deep economic problems and violent demonstrations in Venezuela have left Catholic charities struggling to supply food and medical supplies amid an increase in demand for services, said a top Catholic aid official.
Cardinal calls to maintain, yet reinterpret, doctrine to help families
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In its approach to divorced and civilly remarried Catholics, the Catholic Church needs to find a middle ground that does not destroy or abandon doctrine, but offers a "renewed" interpretation of church teaching in order to help those whose marriages have failed, Cardinal Walter Kasper said.
Catholic officials: Release of kidnapped nuns was answer to prayers
BEIRUIT (CNS) --The release of at least 12 Greek Orthodox nuns who were abducted in Syria in December was an answer to prayers, said regional Catholic officials.
In Argentina, pope’s impact has moved beyond spiritual realm
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (CNS) -- Maria Delamonica spoke somewhat sourly of the state of affairs in Argentina, where the economy is teetering and politics are polarized. But her voice brightened when the topic turned to Pope Francis and the changes in the country since he was unexpectedly elected one year ago.
Pope says religious must be witnesses to Gospel even in use of money
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The world doesn't need a lesson in "theoretical poverty" from Catholic priests, brothers and nuns, but it needs a living example of how to be careful with money, live simply and share with others, Pope Francis said.
One can’t dialogue with Satan, pope says; the Bible is the best defense
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- When temptation comes your way, don't try to "dialogue" or argue with the devil, Pope Francis said, but seek refuge and strength in the words of the Bible.