Encyclical Due June 18

Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment, “Laudato Sii” (Praised Be), a line from St. Francis of Assisi’s “Canticle of Creatures,” will be released June 18.

Medjugorje Statement Coming

Pope Francis said the Vatican was ready to make an announcement concerning the alleged Marian apparitions in Medjugorje, Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Pope Brings Peace Mission To Bosnia

SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina (CNS) – To overcome fear, discrimination and conflict, people must have a deep desire to open themselves up to God and His mercy, and work actively for peace every day, Pope Francis said.

Vatican Official Under Investigation

Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, the head of the Pontifical Council for the Family and lead Vatican organizer of September’s World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, is under investigation by Italian prosecutors for alleged embezzlement.

Bishops Are Preparing for Synod

The presidents of the bishops’ conferences of Germany, France and Switzerland organized a study day in Rome to discuss issues likely to be raised at the Synod of Bishops on the Family.

Reality Check for Church in Ireland

DUBLIN (CNS) – Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin has said the Church needs a “reality check” after Irish voters overwhelmingly supported same-sex marriage.

Pain of Civil War Influences Syrian Artist

Pain of Civil War Influences Syrian Artist

The sad realities of Syria’s civil war permeate the paintings of Essa Neima, whose recent exhibit began with a dream he had after his friend, a Dutch Jesuit, was killed.

Romero Is a Sign of Sanctity of Americas

By Rhina Guidos SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador (CNS) – Some thought this day would never arrive. Others hoped and some always knew it would. On May 23, the Catholic Church, beatified Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdamez, of El Salvador, who was assassinated in 1980 while celebrating Mass, just a day after pleading and ordering […]