As Pope Francis became the first pope to celebrate Mass on the French island of Corsica Dec. 15, the usual excitement of an open-air Mass with the pope was combined with the flair and pageantry of a Renaissance fair.
papal trip
Vatican Publishes Schedule for Papal Trip to Kazakhstan
Pope Francis’ September visit to Kazakhstan will mostly focus on a gathering of religious leaders from around the world, but it will also include a Mass and meeting with Catholics in this Muslim-majority nation.
Busy Schedule Hints that Pope Francis Isn’t Winding Down, He’s Cranking Up
For months, rumors have circulated that Pope Francis could be set to resign later this summer, at least in part due to his ongoing health struggles. However, comments from both Pope Francis and his top aides suggest that rather than winding down, his schedule is actually picking up.
Pope Francis To Visit Assisi, Matera in September
Pope Francis will make back-to-back pastoral visits to the Italian cities of Assisi and Matera at the end of September, the Vatican announced.
Pope Francis’ Envoy Welcomed By Faithful in South Sudan
Hundreds of people greeted Pope Francis’ envoy to South Sudan’s capital on July 5. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin was received by religious leaders, government officials, and hundreds of guests who sang and danced upon his arrival.
Pope Francis Knee Troubles Force Cancellation of July Trip to Africa
Because of continuing problems with his knee, Pope Francis has postponed his planned trip to Congo and South Sudan July 2-7, said the Vatican press office.
Pope Francis Says He’s Still Considering Possible Trip to Ukraine
Sitting in a wheelchair in the courtyard of the Apostolic Palace, Pope Francis allowed himself to be grilled by a group of youngsters, including one who asked when he would go to Ukraine “to save all the children who are suffering there.”
Pope Francis’ Knee Problems Cast Doubt on Foreign Trips This Summer
A Lebanese government official said Pope Francis’ visit to the country next month, which had never been formally announced by the Vatican, was being postponed due to the pontiff’s health, casting doubt on Pope Francis’ ambitious summer travel plans.
Mercy, Love Dispel Hypocritical Religiosity, Pope Francis Says in Malta
Christians who truly imitate Jesus are more inclined to forgive and be merciful than those who, under the pretense of holiness, point fingers and condemn others, Pope Francis said.
Meeting Migrants, Pope Francis Warns Civilization Risks Being ‘Shipwrecked’
Saying civilization itself risks foundering because of apathy and selfishness, Pope Francis insisted that migrants and refugees must be treated with care and kindness and recognized as brothers and sisters.