The COVID-19 pandemic not only caused a one-year delay in holding the World Meeting of Families, it also prompted a look at new ways to involve Catholic families from around the world and to ensure that they take the lead in ministering to each other.
Vatican
Pope to B’nai B’rith leaders: Remembering atrocities is antidote to evil
People must help one another and counteract the temptation of evil that deceives them into thinking conflict can be resolved by violence and war, Pope Francis told a delegation from B’nai B’rith International.
Religious leaders must inspire humanity to renounce violence, pope says
The world urgently needs dialogue that promotes a culture of peace and nonviolence, and concrete efforts aimed toward that end, Pope Francis said.
Vatican offers indulgence for World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
Any Catholic who participates in the celebration July 24 of the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly can receive a plenary indulgence, the Vatican announced.
Cardinal Sodano, former Vatican secretary of state, dies at 94
Cardinal Angelo Sodano, former Vatican secretary of state and former dean of the College of Cardinals, died in Rome May 27 at the age of 94.
Pope announces new cardinals, including U.S. Bishop McElroy
Pope Francis announced he will create 21 new cardinals Aug. 27, including 68-year-old Bishop Robert W. McElroy of San Diego, California.
Pope, with Ukrainian families, to lead rosary for peace May 31
Pope Francis and Ukrainian families in Rome will gather May 31 before a statue of Mary, Queen of Peace, to recite the rosary for peace in Ukraine and in other places at war.
Pope prays for Texas shooting victims, calls for stricter gun laws
Saying his heart was broken at the news of at least 19 children and two adults being shot and killed at a Texas elementary school, Pope Francis said it was time to say “Enough!” and enact stricter laws on gun sales.
Returning from Ukraine, Polish archbishop urges Vatican to revise attitude
The president of the Polish bishops’ conference criticized the Vatican’s “naive and utopian” attitude to the war in Ukraine and urged Rome to show “greater maturity” in attitudes toward Russia.
Pope to set date for canonizations at consistory
Pope Francis has cleared the way for the canonization of Blessed Giovanni Battista Scalabrini, founder of the Scalabrinian missionaries, dispensing the requirement of a miracle attributed to his intercession, the Vatican announced.
Pope calls for united efforts in care for creation during Laudato Si’ Week
After Pope Francis led the recitation of the “Regina Coeli” prayer with visitors in St. Peter’s Square May 22, the pope invited everyone to take part in “Laudato Si’ Week,” which runs May 22-29.
Pope thanks those dedicated to promoting life
Pope Francis thanked those who are dedicated to promoting life and defending conscientious objection.