After a 10-day stay in the hospital battling COVID-19, one of Pope Francis’s closest cardinals came home Jan. 1 to find a gift from the boss: An Argentinian steak.
Coronavirus
Vatican Set to Launch COVID-19 Vaccinations for Workers, Residents
The Vatican will begin offering COVID-19 vaccinations in mid-January, giving priority to its health care workers, security personnel, employees who deal with the public and older residents, employees and retirees.
Focolare Catholics, Friends Strive to Ease COVID Suffering
By learning the scriptures, local followers of the Focolare movement find ways to be like Jesus, which opens doors to serious exchanges between Catholics and other religions. Service to people in need is also key, so some members volunteered to assemble respirators soon after the COVID-19 pandemic reached New York City.
Cardinal who Met Pope Francis on Friday Hospitalized with COVID-19
Two top Vatican cardinals, one of whom was seen talking with Pope Francis on Friday, have tested positive for COVID-19. One of them is in the hospital, fighting off pneumonia.
Eviction Moratorium Only Delaying the Inevitable, Says Catholic Charities Head
The president of Catholic Charities USA fears an extended eviction moratorium just delays the inevitable loss of homes for millions of Americans during the global pandemic and diminished job market.
Nine Days Before Christmas, Filipinos Continue Tradition While Respecting COVID Safety Restrictions
Various ministries across the Diocese of Brooklyn adapted to new norms amidst coronavirus safety protocols, including limiting church capacity, wearing masks, and socially distanced seated in the pews. For Filipinos celebrating “Simbang Gabi,” or “Mass at Night” at the Queens Village church, the adjustment meant a scaled-down version of its traditional celebration.
Vatican Green-Lights COVID Vaccines, Finds No ‘Cooperation’ in Abortion for Users
After receiving what they said were “several requests for guidance” on the morality of the use of COVID-19 vaccines developed with cells derived from aborted fetuses, the Vatican’s doctrine office issued an explanatory note Dec.21 giving the green light.
Foundation’s COVID-19 Grants Will Fund Medicine, Food in Developing Countries
The Papal Foundation has announced it will give $1.8 million in grants to support COVID-19 relief efforts in developing nations around the world, with the majority of the funds assisting with health care and basic needs for the poor.
Chaplains, Care Home Staff Coping With COVID-19 Protocols
When Father Michael Garvey arrived for his shift as a chaplain at the Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, Florida, on Dec. 15, his first stop was the coronavirus floor, right now full with 24 patients.
U.S. Bishops Urge Vaccination, but Avoid Morally Compromised Vaccines if Possible
The U.S. bishops’ conference is encouraging Catholics to get a coronavirus vaccination because it’s a “moral responsibility for the common good,” even if some vaccines are connected to abortion-derived cell lines.