Lent is a time to free oneself from slavery and take action to free others suffering from the multiple forms of slavery that afflict the world, Pope Francis said.

Auxiliary Bishop William Shomali of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem told OSV News that the level of destruction in Gaza is unprecedented and many residents there are “starving.”

Six pro-life activists, including one already jailed and awaiting sentencing for a separate incident in Washington, were convicted Jan. 30 of federal civil rights offenses resulting from their blockade of an abortion clinic in Mount Juliet, Tenn., on March 5, 2021.

People who are terminally ill and their families should always receive the care and assistance they need, Pope Francis said.

Wrath is a “dark vice” that destroys relationships, focuses all blame on others and only worsens over time, Pope Francis said.

The Catholic University of America has ended its contract with a psychology professor who recently invited a self-described “abortion doula” to address a class of students.

As the Israel-Hamas war enters its fourth month, ending hostilities “all around” to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip has become critical, the head of a U.S.-based Catholic aid agency told OSV News.

Former Vice President Mike Pence condemned Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega’s anti-Catholic persecution in comments at a religious freedom summit in Washington Jan. 30, arguing the U.S. should alter its existing trade agreement with that government if its religious persecution continues.

A new report shows a continued decrease in the number of permanent vocations to consecrated life in the U.S. — but key factors such as family life, devotional practices, Catholic education and personal encouragement can positively impact those numbers.

Catholics need to know what their words and gestures at Mass signify and evoke, a liturgical expert said.