Vatican releases guidance for dioceses to begin synodal path

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The Vatican has issued the preparatory document and a "handbook" for dioceses as part of the global church's preparation for the 2023 assembly of the Synod of Bishops, discussing the theme, "For a synodal church: communion, participation and mission."

Legion of Mary on frontlines of faith

Outside of its military overtones, the word “legion” most often describes a large group of people with a singular mission.

Papal master of ceremonies appointed bishop of Italian diocese

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Francis named Msgr. Guido Marini, who has served as papal master of ceremonies since 2007, as bishop of the Diocese of Tortona.

Afghanistan: Pope Francis launches appeal for fasting, prayers for God's mercy

VATICAN CITY -- With increased violence unfolding in Afghanistan, Pope Francis appealed to all Christians to fast and intensify their prayers.

Pope Francis prays for peace in Afghanistan as Taliban takes control

VATICAN CITY -- Hours before the Taliban took control of Afghanistan's capital, Kabul, Pope Francis expressed his hope for the peace and safety of the country's citizens.

Police investigating source of letter containing bullets addressed to "the pope"

ROME -- Italian police have launched an investigation after postal workers discovered an envelope containing three bullets and addressed to "the pope."

Vatican releases rules for online learning for ecclesiastical universities

VATICAN CITY -- The Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education encouraged pontifical universities to expand educational opportunities to those who would normally be unable to attend classes in-person full time, but could manage coursework online, such as prisoners, migrants, the homeless, monks, contemplative nuns and even busy bishops.

A cinematic love letter to the Church's ‘First Lady’

“We’re about to hear the story of a woman — an accompanying witness whose story begins with a prophecy and ends with victory. A woman whose story can be reflected in other people, helping us to see our story in her story.”

Benedict criticizes church in Germany, says mission obscured

FREIBURG, Germany -- Retired Pope Benedict XVI has criticized representatives of the Catholic Church in his home country, Germany.

Vatican reports $78 million deficit, also releases APSA report

VATICAN CITY -- The Vatican reported the Roman Curia had a $78 million deficit in 2020, and on the same day, the Administration of the Patrimony of the Holy See, which administers Vatican properties and investments, made a summary of its annual budget public for the first time.

Appealing to need for unity, Pope restores limits on Latin Mass

VATICAN CITY — Saying he was acting for the good of the unity of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has restored limits on the celebration of the Mass according to the Roman Missal in use before the Second Vatican Council, overturning or severely restricting permissions St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI had given to celebrate the so-called Tridentine-rite Mass.