Not everyone gets the chance to serve ice cream to the leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics, but Msgr. Cuong Pham did just that, once handing Pope Francis a dish of vanilla ice cream.
International News
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.
Memorial Mass Held to Honor Victims of Dominican Republic Nightclub Tragedy
At a Mass to honor the victims of a recent nightclub roof collapse in the Dominican Republic, Bishop Octavio Cisneros highlighted the need for the diocese’s Dominican community to accompany all those who were affected.
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.
A Basket Filled With Faith: Eastern Europe Easter Tradition Explained
Holy Saturday is one of those days when the church, though liturgically silent, speaks volumes through signs. In Poland and Ukraine, one of the most popular and deeply symbolic gestures is the blessing of Easter foods, known as “swieconka,” or Easter basket.
Be ‘Heralds of Hope,’ Pope Asks Priests in Homily for Chrism Mass
Especially in a Jubilee Year, but also every day, priests are called to continual conversion so that they can authentically preach the good news of hope, Pope Francis wrote in the homily he prepared for the Holy Thursday chrism Mass.
Barcelona Rejoices as Famed Architect Antoni Gaudí Is Declared Venerable
In a joyful milestone for the church and lovers of sacred art, Pope Francis declared famed Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí venerable April 14, recognizing his heroic virtues in a decree announced during a Vatican audience with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro. Best known for designing Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, Gaudí dedicated over 40 years of his life to the masterpiece, now seen as both a symbol of faith and an icon of transcendent beauty.
Despite Improved Health, Pope Picks Cardinals To Lead Holy Week Liturgies
Pope Francis is going without supplemental oxygen for longer periods and is continuing therapy to recover his voice and to recover his physical strength, the Vatican press office said, but he also is increasing the number of private meetings he is holding with the heads of Vatican offices.
‘Nothing Is Sacred’: Religious Leaders Condemn Russia’s Palm Sunday Attack on Ukraine
Catholic and other religious leaders are condemning a Palm Sunday attack by Russia on a Ukrainian city that killed 34 – including two children – and injured 119.