Canadian churches faced new restrictions as public health officials tried to contain a post-holiday surge of COVID-19.
International News
Philippine Leaders Work to Make Black Nazarene ‘Translacion’ Safe
The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene will only allow 400 people in the church for Masses marking the transfer of the Black Nazarene, but it will offer 15 Masses Jan. 9.
With Land Mines Gone, Mass to Be Celebrated at West Bank Baptismal Site
For the first time in 54 years, a Mass will be celebrated Jan. 10, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, at St. John the Baptist Chapel on the banks of the Jordan River.
On Epiphany, Pope Francis Says Church Needs Healthy Dose of ‘Theological Realism’
Pope Francis during a Mass for the feast of the Epiphany advocated what he called an attitude of “theological realism,” which, he said, fosters trust in God and looks for deeper meaning rather than getting caught up in one’s own problems.
2021 Brings New Challenges to Church in Latin America
There was no “bang” when most of Latin America rang in the New Year due to restrictions caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, but in Venezuela, Mexico, and Brazil, 2021 brought “new” concerns.
Lebanese Man’s Decades of Research Helps Great-Uncle’s Sainthood Cause
Fares Melki’s first introduction to his great-uncle was when he asked his grandfather about the picture framed above his grandfather’s bed. That was around 60 years ago, when Melki was 10.
After Maradona’s Death, Pope Francis Opens Up and Talks Sports
After the recent death of his Argentine countryman Diego Maradona, arguably the greatest soccer player of all time but also a man who spent much of his life battling personal demons, Pope Francis has addressed the superstar’s legacy.
Pope’s Point Man on Charity Released From Hospital After COVID Fight
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.
In New Year, Share the Blessing of Your Time, Pope Writes
At the beginning of a year people hope will mark the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pope Francis urged them to create a “culture of care,” including by sharing the gift of their time with others.
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.