A synod calls on everyone to become experts in “the art of encounter” in a way that is uplifting and transformative, Pope Francis said, formally opening the process leading up to the assembly of the Synod of Bishops in 2023.
Jesus, the source of truth, sets people free, pope says at audience
By remaining in Jesus, Christians are free because his truth transforms their lives and guides them away from the slavery of sin toward what is good, Pope Francis said.
Leaders in religion, science unite to urge action at COP26
The two nations co-chairing the U.N. Climate Change Conference are counting on the persuasive power and moral pull of religious leaders to help convince the world’s governments to set high standards in their commitment to mitigate climate change.
Washington cardinal ordains deacons from North American College in Rome
Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory of Washington ordained 21 men from the Pontifical North American College to the diaconate Sept. 30 in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Papal academy gives U.S. death row chaplain ‘Guardian of Life’ award
Death row inmates in Florida’s prisons refer to their 6-foot-by-9-foot cell as their “house,” with some having lived in their “house” for 40 years — longer than one Catholic lay chaplain said he has lived in his family home in Tallahassee.
Church needs to hear God speaking through those who are hurting, pope says
To listen to the Holy Spirit, members of the church must listen to each other and especially to those who are marginalized, Pope Francis said, explaining how dioceses are to help the church prepare for the Synod of Bishops.
Leadership is distorted by thirst for power, betraying charism, pope says
Pope Francis praised Catholic lay movements and associations for living out the Gospel in their everyday lives and for promoting education, social support and evangelization in the world’s peripheries.
Vatican publishes letters to rabbis emphasizing pope’s respect for Judaism
Pope Francis has not devalued the Torah and does not question the fact that the Torah is crucial for modern Judaism, Cardinal Kurt Koch told two prominent Jewish leaders.
El Vaticano publica guía para que diócesis comiencen camino sinodal
El Vaticano ha publicado un documento preparatorio y un “manual” para las diócesis, como parte de la preparación de la iglesia mundial para la asamblea del Sínodo de los Obispos de 2023, abordando el tema “Por una Iglesia sinodal: comunión, participación y misión”.
New Swiss Guard barracks will allow room for families, maybe female guards
The Swiss Guard’s main duties are providing security services, protecting the pope and his residence and offering honor guard duty at the main entrances to Vatican City State, at public audiences, Masses and diplomatic receptions.
Denounce violence, inflammatory preaching, pope tells religious leaders
Religious leaders must courageously cooperate in supporting each other in opposing hatred and promoting peace, Pope Francis said.
Pope Francis says Benedict rightly warned against not respecting life
Pope Francis praised his predecessor’s courage in denouncing the danger of people no longer respecting or understanding the sacredness of human life.