Religious freedom is not only a fundamental and essential human right, “it is also a pathway to truth and deeper communion with God and neighbor,” said Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state.

Archbishop Gabriele G. Caccia, the Holy See’s U.N. apostolic nuncio and permanent observer, delivered a statement at the Oct. 17 general debate of the U.N. General Assembly in New York.

Often literally pushed to the margins of cities and even parish life, Catholic members of the Roma, Sinti and Traveling communities are models of steadfast faith in the face of adversity, Pope Leo XIV said.

Holiness flourishes in those who serve the weakest, and Christians should defend the truths of the faith, no matter the cost, Pope Leo XIV said, highlighting key traits of the new saints he proclaimed.

Pope Leo XIV met with a coalition of survivors of abuse and victims’ advocates for the first time at the Vatican Oct. 20.

Sacramental marriage and traditional family life increase joy in the good times, give strength during hard times and are a path to true holiness, Pope Leo XIV said.

When the pursuit of profit rules, people become objects to be exploited, and humanity loses its soul, Pope Leo XIV said.

Canonizing seven new saints on World Mission Sunday, Pope Leo XIV said God is present wherever the innocent suffer, and his form of justice is forgiveness.

Pope Leo XIV traveled 23 miles by car to board the “Bel Espoir” sailboat and speak to the crew about peacemaking.

For Syrian Archbishop Jacques Mourad of Homs, who was held captive by the Islamic State group for five months in 2015, receiving an award named after St. John Paul II was a hopeful reminder of the late pontiff’s efforts to advance peace and dialogue in uncertain times.