A statement by Pope Francis in a documentary film in which he endorses civil unions for same-sex couples has generated a great deal of buzz in the Catholic Church with religious leaders coming down on both sides of the issue.
Pope Francis
Pope Francis Has History of Defending Marriage, but Being Open to Some Civil Unions
Pope Francis often has expressed openness to the idea of laws recognizing civil unions, including for gay couples, to protect their rights. The pontiff’s comments in a brief passage in the documentary film, “Francesco,” are similar to the position he took while archbishop of Buenos Aires and echo remarks he has made in several interviews during his pontificate: “Marriage” is only between a man and a woman, but civil union laws could provide legal protection for couples in long-term, committed relationships.
Pope, Religious Leaders Pray for Peace, Greater Care for One Another
The pontiff, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople and an international array of other Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Sikh and Buddhist leaders gathered on Rome’s Capitoline Hill Oct. 20 to affirm their community’s commitment to peace, dialogue, fraternity and assistance to the poor and needy.
Pope, Red Cross President Discuss Pandemic, War Relief Efforts
The Catholic Church and the International Red Cross share the common goal of helping the poor and those displaced due to the pandemic and various conflicts around the world, said Peter Maurer, the president of the humanitarian organization.
Vatican Reports Positive Coronavirus Case at Pope’s Residence
A resident at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, the residence where Pope Francis lives, tested positive for COVID-19, the Vatican announced.
Pope Francis Invites Children Worldwide to Pray the Rosary on Oct. 18
In his last Angelus, Pope Francis invited children to participate together in a very special initiative. He spoke to the crowd gathered outside of St. Peter’s Square, asking that children all over the world pray the rosary together on Sunday morning, Oct. 18.
Pope Francis Replaces Ousted Cardinal Becciu With Key Ally
On Oct. 12 the Vatican announced several key personnel moves, the most significant of which is the appointment of Bishop Marcello Semeraro to the Vatican’s saint-making office after its former prefect, Cardinal Angelo Becciu, was fired over allegations of embezzlement.
Pope Calls Brazilian Priest, Thanks Him for Work With Homeless
Father Julio Lancellotti was caught by surprise Oct. 10 when Pope Francis personally called him asking about his work with the homeless.
Mexican President Again Asks Pope for Apology for 1521 Conquest
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has asked Pope Francis to apologize for the church’s role in the conquest of the Americas. It’s the second time he has made such a request of the pontiff in less than two years.
Bishop: Francis Expressed ‘Dramatic Concern’ Over Germany’s ‘Synodal Path’
A German bishop says Pope Francis expressed a “dramatic concern” over the Catholic Church in Germany and its “synodal path” of reform that began last year, which could include reviewing “taboo” issues such as priestly celibacy and a female priesthood.