Vatican

Advent meditations for Pope delve into meaning of peace

Dec 08, 2014

Papal preacher Father Raniero Cantalamessa gave his first advent homily to Pope Francis, touching on the biblical meaning of the word peace – both as a gift from God and a longing of the human heart.
Pope Francis: 'Let yourselves be consoled' during Advent

Dec 08, 2014

In his Angelus address on Sunday, Pope Francis asked that during Advent the faithful prepare for the Lord’s coming by being open to God’s consolation, which we must receive personally before giving to others.
Pope Francis decries persecution of Iraqi Christians in video message

Dec 08, 2014

In a video message delivered to the displaced Iraqi Christians on Saturday, Pope Francis decried the suffering experienced by those persecuted for their faith, while expressing his gratitude for their witness.
Pope: the 'feminine genius' takes on theology's uncharted territory

Dec 08, 2014

In an address given to theologians, Pope Francis praised the increasing presence of women in the field, saying that their femininity has the capacity to delve deeper into the mystery of Christ.
Leave your nests! Wake up the world

Dec 04, 2014

Religious men and women are called to leave their “nests” and bring the Gospel to the peripheries, said Pope Francis in a video message marking the vigil of the Year for Consecrated Life.
Pope calls for continued renewal of religious life

Dec 04, 2014

Pope Francis called upon religious communities to continue the renewal begun 50 years ago at the Second Vatican Council.
Respond with renewed enthusiam to God’s call

Dec 04, 2014

New Movements and communities “are called to coordinate their efforts in caring for those wounded by a globalized mentality which places consumption at the centre, neglecting God and those values which are essential for life,” the Pope observed.
Pope rejects armored car for visit to Turkey

Dec 04, 2014

Despite fears about his security during his visit to Turkey, Pope Francis has again refused to use an armored car.
Pope Francis’ prays with Grand Mufti at the Blue Mosque

Dec 04, 2014

During Pope Francis’ visit to Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, he paused for a moment of prayer alongside Ankara’s Grand Mufti – a moment of “interreligious dialogue” which mirrored that of his predecessor.
Pope thanks patriarch for ‘fraternal’ welcome

Dec 04, 2014

In his brief speech to the patriarch during the prayer gathering, Pope Francis said that he had mixed feelings, one being a heart “full of gratitude” to God for allowing the encounter of their churches, as well as hope and anticipation for the Feast of St Andrew, the celebration of which is a key reason for his visit.