Vatican News
This Week: Close of Jubilee Year, Calls for World Peace, Unity in Church
CatholicPhilly presents a weekly roundup of international news from Vatican News, the official news portal of the Holy See. The following report on the week of Jan. 5, 2026 links to stories on VaticanNews.va.
Catholic Actor Finds Christmas Joy in Helping US Charity
With the Vatican's Nativity scene and huge Christmas tree glittering in the Roman sun behind him, David Henrie reflected on the joy of giving during the Advent season.
Pope Urges People to Protect, Cultivate Even Smallest Signs of Peace, Hope
The "confrontational" tone dominating both global and national politics is "deepening instability and unpredictability day by day," Pope Leo XIV wrote in his message for World Peace Day.
Rather Than Chasing Productivity, Turn to God to Resolve Restlessness, Pope Says
In today's fast-paced world with pressures for results and efficiency, Pope Leo XIV said many have been stripped of their serenity and ability to live.
Christmas Creche, Tree are Signs of Hope, Pope Says
The Nativity scene and the Christmas tree are signs of faith and hope, Pope Leo XIV said.
On Guadalupe Feast Day, Pope Prays Leaders Shun Lies, Hatred, Division, Disrespect for Life
Pope Leo XIV prayed for Mary's maternal intercession so that she would help nations avoid lies and hatred and instruct leaders to protect the dignity of all human life.
Christian Archaeology Can Serve Evangelization, Pope Says in Document
Christian archaeology seeks to see, hear and touch the Word made flesh, Pope Leo XIV said, inviting the world's bishops and others to encourage young people, lay people and priests to study archaeology.
Live Authentically with Prayer, Letting Go of the Unnecessary, Pope Says
The secret to living an authentic life is praying to understand what is truly beneficial according to God's plan and letting go of the superfluous, Pope Leo XIV said.
Dialogue, Diplomacy Can Lead to Just, Lasting Peace in Ukraine, Pope Says
Meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Pope Leo XIV reiterated the importance of dialogue and his hopes for a just and lasting peace in the region.
Pope Prays Mary Will Fill Believers with Hope, Inspire Them to Serve
Celebrating the feast of the Immaculate Conception as the Jubilee Year was ending, Pope Leo XIV prayed that "Jubilee hope" would "blossom in Rome and in every corner of the earth," bringing with it reconciliation, nonviolence and peace.