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.

In War-Torn South Sudan, Starvation is Endemic

Some in the troubled African nation hoped Pope Francis’ visit would foster “reconciliation and peace.”  But because of his ailing knee, the Pope Francis will send the Vatican’s secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, to Africa in his place.