VATICAN CITY (CNS) – With a simple tap, Pope Francis joined Instagram and quickly set a record for gaining one million followers. The launch of the “Franciscus” account March 19 was on the feast of St. Joseph and the third anniversary of the formal inauguration of his papacy.
Pope Francis
Pope to Release Document on the Family April 8
The Vatican has set April 8 for the release of “Amoris Laetitia” (“The Joy of Love”), Pope Francis’ reflection on the family and family life. “Amoris Laetitia” is what is known as a “postsynodal apostolic exhortation,” a document addressed to the whole church reflecting on themes of church life and faith discussed at a gathering of the Synod of Bishops.
Pope on Easter: Jesus Heals Our Scars
Easter is a feast of hope, a celebration of God’s mercy and a call to pray for and assist all who suffer, Pope Francis said before giving his solemn blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world).
Vatican Undergoes Ecological Changes During Easter Season
During Holy Week and in the Easter season, the Vatican will take part in several initiatives highlighting the importance of ecology and the care for creation.
Pope: Indifference Met Jesus During Holy Week
Just as the crowds and government officials tried to dodge responsibility for Jesus’ fate after He was arrested, so today too many individuals and countries want someone else to care for refugees fleeing violence and migrants seeking a better life, Pope Francis said.
Pope Condemns ‘Blind Violence’ in Brussels
Pope Francis, condemning the terrorist attacks in Brussels, offered his prayers to the victims, the injured, their families and all offering assistance in the aftermath of the bombings.
Lessons from Mexico For the World’s Youth
“When everything seems too much, when it seems that the world is crashing down around you, embrace his cross, draw close to him and please, never let go of his hand; please, never leave him,” Pope Francis said.
Pope Urges Courage to Confess One’s Sins
Exercise a little courage and go to confession, turn away from selfishness and sin and back to God during the Year of Mercy, Pope Francis urged people at a Lenten penance service.
Murdered Nuns Called Martyrs
The four Missionaries of Charity murdered March 4 in Yemen “are the martyrs of today,” Pope Francis said. “They gave their blood for the church.”
What the Pope Really Said About Trump
The exchange between Pope Francis and Donald Trump was the biggest much-ado-about- nothing political story of the campaign. The headlines blared about the pope denouncing Trump and Trump firing back at the pope. It was all nonsense. A tempest in a fuselage.