ROME — When most people say “the Vatican,” they correctly have in mind the central government of the Catholic Church under the pope. Few, however, could tick off more than a handful of its component parts. Catholic insiders probably could name the Secretariat of State as the 800-pound gorilla of the Vatican scene, or maybe … Read more
VATICAN CITY (RNS) — The Vatican’s sprawling megatrial addressing alleged financial mismanagement and corruption among its top officials encountered a new hurdle Thursday (Dec. 1) as the credibility of a key prosecution witness, Monsignor Alberto Perlasca, was thrown into question by new information from an unexpected source. On Wednesday, the Vatican’s chief prosecutor, Alessandro Diddi, … Read more
ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT FROM BAHRAIN (CNS) — A society that does not give women the same rights and opportunities as men will become impoverished, Pope Francis said at the end of a four-day visit to Bahrain. “Women are a gift,” he said. After God made man, he didn’t create “a lapdog for him to … Read more
ROME — The challenges and threats facing humanity and the planet can be confronted effectively if all people come together in “a spirit of solidarity,” said Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, in an appeal also supported by three Vatican dicasteries. “In this spirit of solidarity, we urge world leaders to seek just … Read more
The Vatican Dicasteries for Culture and Education; for Laity, Family and Life; and for Promoting Integral Human Development join the International Olympic Committee in issuing an Appeal for Peace, calling for just and peaceful solutions to disputes and conflicts across the globe. By Christopher Wells An appeal promoted by the President of the International Olympic … Read more
The council then taught that it has been divinely revealed “that the Roman Pontiff, when he speaks ex cathedra, that is, when carrying out the duty of the pastor and teacher of all Christians in accord with his supreme apostolic authority he explains a doctrine of faith or morals to be held by the universal … Read more
Pope Francis is creating 20 new cardinals picked from the four corners of the world, most of whom could one day end up choosing the pontiff’s successor. Francis has raised the possibility of retiring due to his declining health, a path taken by his predecessor, Benedict XVI. If he were to do so, a conclave … Read more