Pope Francis asked a longtime expert in handling abuse allegations to gather new information in Chile concerning Bishop Juan Barros of Osorno.
International News
Irish Gov’t Sets Vote That Could Legalize Abortion
The Irish government announced it will hold a referendum in late May asking citizens whether they want to retain or delete the constitutional article that provides for the equal right to life of the mother and her unborn child “with due regard to the equal right to life of the mother.”
Visiting Hispanic Bishops Hope To Break Down Walls of Isolation
Building walls, whether between Israel and the Palestinian territories or the United States and Mexico, can only serve to separate people and create more isolation, said Auxiliary Bishop Eusebio L. Elizondo of Seattle, Wash.
Pope Apologizes for Word Choice on Sex Abuse Crisis
Pope Francis apologized to victims of clergy sex abuse, saying he unknowingly wounded them by the way he defended a Chilean bishop accused of covering up abuse by his mentor.
Under Fire in Congo
At least six people were killed during demonstrations across the country against delayed elections and Congolese President Joseph Kabila.
The Pope In Chile
Photos from Pope Francis’ trip to Chile
The Pope In Peru
Photos of Pope Francis’ trip to Peru
Pope Touched All Bases in Chile, Peru
Pope Francis tackled politically charged issues during his weeklong visit to Chile and Peru, decrying human trafficking, environmental destruction, corruption and organized crime in speeches before audiences that included political leaders.
In-Flight Nuptials: Pope Didn’t Glide Over Church Requirements
Pope Francis’ decision to convalidate the marriage of two flight attendants in the air sent waves of turbulence through the Catholic blogosphere, where respected canon lawyers and pastors raised serious questions about the pope sending a message that marriage wasn’t so serious.
Pope Francis Defends Airborne Wedding, Insisting the Couple Was Ready
Pope Francis has defended his decision to perform an airborne wedding while flying over Chile, saying the two flight attendants were properly prepared for the sacrament and that refusing them might have meant they would never get around to being married in the Church.