The Nativity scene is seen after a lighting ceremony in St. Peter’s Square
Vatican
Vatican Gardens Lead The Way in Showing How to Stay Green
Roughly half of the Vatican’s 110 acres is devoted to gardens, and a major project is underway to keep them as “green” as possible.
Vatican Bans Sale of Cigarettes
Concerned by the damage caused by smoking, Pope Francis has banned the sale of cigarettes in Vatican City State.
Apostolic Nuncio to the US: “Unity Prevails Over Conflict”
During a week in which the U.S. bishops issued a statement expressing loyalty to Pope Francis and encouraging greater charity in dialogue, the Apostolic Nuncio to the U.S. praised the pope’s “spirituality of synodality and discernment” and argued for greater unity in the Church.
Walk from Assisi to Rome Is No Roman Holiday
After weeks of navigating difficult terrain, avoiding wild animals and steep cliffs, the devoted pilgrims and hiking enthusiasts who manage to traverse the 155 miles between Assisi and Rome on foot arrive in St. Peter’s Basilica and report a special kind of payoff.
Hong Kong Bishop Emphasizes Pastoral Over Political Concerns
In an exclusive interview with The Tablet, Hong Kong’s new bishop spoke of how he is focusing on pastoral matters over political concerns. Bishop Yeung says he devoting attention to young people, the elderly, and building social solidarity, rather than emphasizing political disagreement with the government.
Callista Gingrich Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to Holy See
In a vote on Monday, the United States Senate confirmed Callista Gingrich to serve as the ambassador to the Holy See. She will be tasked with serving as the liaison between Pope Francis and President Donald Trump, a relationship that has not always been harmonious.
Brooklyn Artist Visits Masterpiece at Vatican
We all know the image: God’s arm extending across the pastel blue sky, his muscles in tension, his body twisted and enveloped in a brain-shaped veil, His finger inching toward that of Adam, who lies seemingly lifeless, waiting for that ‘touch of life’ that will give birth to the race of men.
Vatican Pharmacy Doing Booming Business
Serving an average of more than 2,000 clients a day, the Vatican pharmacy may be one of the world’s busiest in-person dispensaries of pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter medicines, soaps, ointments and elixirs.
Number of Catholics Continues to Grow
Taken together, the 10 countries with the most Catholics account for almost 56 percent of the world’s Catholic population, the Vatican reported.