World News
Pope accepts resignation of Belarusian archbishop
The archbishop, who turned 75, had been barred from returning to Belarus. It is unusual for the pope to accept the resignation of a bishop the day he turns 75 and for the Vatican to make such announcements on a Sunday.
Philippine Catholic leaders doubt that killed Indigenous fired first
Nine Indigenous group leaders were shot dead during an attempted mass arrest by security forces, who claimed the people were Communist rebels who opened fire first. The Social Action Center of the Capiz Archdiocese condemned what it called an unnecessary use of force.
Despite hardships, pope says there is much for which to be thankful
Pope Francis' message sought meaning for the COVID pandemic, that "like other scourges that strike humanity," it would awaken compassion and "attitudes and gestures of closeness, of care, of solidarity."
In new year, share the blessing of your time, Pope Francis writes
Despite suffering from a bout of sciatica that left him unable to preside over Mass Jan. 1, the pope sent a homily consecrating the new year to Mary. He prayed that she would "teach us to find time for God and for others."
God gives everyone the task of being peacemakers, pope says
In his Jan. 1 World Day of Peace message, Pope Francis prayed that 2021 would be a time of "human and spiritual growth" and "a time to build and not to destroy. He also prayed for the people of Yemen.
Head of German bishops, self-described conservative, calls for change
Limburg Bishop Georg Bätzing suggested changing norms on care for homosexual persons, ordination of women and sharing Communion with Protestants. He called on the Vatican to allow decentralized administration and to permit leeway.
Pope prays for victims of powerful earthquake in Croatia
The magnitude 6.4 quake was the second to strike the country in two days. Seven people were known to have died; dozens were injured and many more people remained missing.
Gratitude leads to much-needed hope, joy, pope says
The gratitude that comes from encountering Christ's love and mercy is enough to bring joy and hope to a troubled world, Pope Francis said Dec. 30.
Argentina legalizes abortion during first 14 weeks of pregnancy
The Argentine Catholic bishops' conference, saying the new law will "further deepen divisions in our country," expressed disappointment but said it "will continue working with firmness and passion in the care and service of life."
With tears of joy, exiled archbishop returns to Belarus for Christmas
The archbishop's exile for four months was widely read as part of broader efforts by President Alexander Lukashenko and his supporters to halt criticism of the government.