At 9:45 a.m. on April 21, American Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced the death of Pope Francis from the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, where the late Holy Father resided for the duration of his 12-year papacy. Cardinal Farrell didn’t do so by chance.
Author: John Lavenburg
Pope Francis Initiated Unprecedented Synod to Unite Catholic Voices Worldwide
Pope Francis’ Synod on Sydonality was a four-year undertaking that included dialogue and listening sessions between Catholic bishops, religious, and laity at the local, national, and international levels.
A Vision For a Globalized College of Cardinals
Pope Francis wasn’t the first pontiff to appoint to the College of Cardinals bishops from non-European, non-traditional locales in terms of Catholicism. He did, however, globalize the college in a way that far exceeds anyone who came before him.
Bishop Brennan, U.S. Leaders Remember Pope Francis: ‘May God Be Good to Him’
Bishop Robert Brennan still remembers the words of accompaniment that Pope Francis spoke to the U.S. bishops during his visit to the United States in 2015.
Our Common Humanity: Pope Francis’ Call to Welcome, Protect, and Integrate Migrants
Pope Francis’ prioritization of the plight of migrants and refugees continued was a focus of his pontificate, both in words and in action.
Pope Francis Dies at 88
Pope Francis, known in part for his consistent advocacy on behalf of those who suffer and for promoting an inclusive approach to Church governance worldwide, has died at the age of 88.
Diocesan Priest Joins President Trump in Holy Week Celebration
At the invitation of President Donald Trump, Father Frank Mann was one of only two Catholics to attend the 2025 White House Easter Prayer dinner held on April 16.
How Pope Francis Has Shaped the Current American Episcopacy
On Aug. 5, 2024, Pope Francis appointed then-Bishop Richard Henning of Providence to succeed Cardinal Seán O’Malley in the Archdiocese of Boston — one of the most prominent sees in the United States.
Pro-Life Advocate Archbishop Naumann Reflects on 50 Year Priesthood
After 50 years of ministry, including 20 leading the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, pro-life leader Archbishop Joseph Naumann had his resignation accepted by Pope Francis on April 8.
New York Bishops Seek Support for National School Choice Funding
Given the unlikelihood that New York state will create a parental school choice program anytime soon, the state’s Catholic bishops have shifted their advocacy toward federal legislation.