FAITH/STORIES

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Francis offered prayers to the victims and families affected by Hurricane Ida, which devastated the southern and northeastern United States.

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

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

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

August 23, 2021

Seek God through a relationship with Christ, others, Pope Francis says at Angelus

VATICAN CITY -- God can be found in the humanity of Jesus and in the people one meets in life, Pope Francis said.

Pope Francis prays for peace in Afghanistan as Taliban takes control

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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"

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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

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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.

August 3, 2021

At Angelus, Pope Francis warns against using God, others for selfish aims

VATICAN CITY -- People should seek Jesus out of genuine love, not calculated self-interest, Pope Francis said.

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

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“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

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

July 26, 2021

Elderly are to be valued, not discarded, Pope Francis says

VATICAN CITY -- Older people are not "leftovers" to be discarded; rather, they continue to be precious nourishment for families, young people and communities, Pope Francis said in the homily he wrote for the Mass marking the first World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly.

Vatican reports $78 million deficit, also releases APSA report

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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.