You are here
Vatican News
Pope to Church in Asia: United in charity build bridges throughout the continent
Pope Leo invites Bishops gathered in Jakarta, Indonesia, for the 12th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences to be an ever greater sign of God's presence in their various countries, as they discuss the important issues affecting the life and future of the Catholic Church in Asia.
Lord's Day Reflection: 'The Treasure Hidden Twice'
As the Church celebrates the Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Marion Nguyen, OSB, offers his thoughts on the day’s liturgical readings under the theme: “The Treasure Hidden Twice."
Cardinal Grech looks at the synodal journey for the Church in Asia
Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, looks at the key role local churches play in carrying forward the synodal journey as he addresses participants at the 12th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Cardinal Kikuchi of Tokyo: 'Church in Asia lives diverse realities, but one faith'
In an interview with Vatican Media, Cardinal Tarcisius Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo, Secretary General of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences, reflects on the fruits of the FABC Plenary Assembly, highlighting faith, the protection of human dignity, and an urgent pastoral response to migration as shared priorities for the Church across Asia.
Florida bishops petition governor to stay two executions set for same day
In a letter signed by the Executive Director of the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Bishops urge the state’s governor Ron DeSantis to stay the executions of two men, stressing that their crimes “are gravely evil”, yet “it is possible both to uphold justice and to exercise mercy.”
FABC delegates envision a synodal Church that builds bridges across Asia
On Thursday afternoon delegates to the 12th Plenary Assembly of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) present the results of their table discussions and agree that the Church in the continent is called to be a bridge builder and renew its missionary vocation in the face of the world's challenges.
Church ready to meet Africa’s young people where they are, say AMECEA Bishops
Kenya’s Bishop of Embu Diocese and Vice Chair of the Commission for Youth at the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), Peter Kemani, says young people in the AMECEA region are seeking answers, inclusion, involvement and want to participate as serious collaborators, including in the Church’s leadership structures.
The murder of Father Jacques Hamel: A tragedy that shook Christians and Muslims
Ten years ago, on 26 July 2016, Father Jacques Hamel, pastor of the parish of Saint-Étienne-du-Rouvray in northern France, was murdered while celebrating Mass. Two terrorists who had pledged allegiance to the so-called Islamic State slit his throat. One member of the congregation who was attending Mass was also seriously injured.
Pope thanks Italian President for his support of the Church
In a telegram marking the Italian President's 85th birthday, Pope Leo XIV assures Italian President, Sergio Mattarella, of his prayers and entrusts him to the protection of the country's patron saints, Francis of Assisi and Catherine of Siena.
Civilians continue to bear brunt of Gaza conflict
Intensifying attacks by the Israeli military have killed and injured dozens of Palestinians in the last week.
Venezuelan bishops call for reconstruction free from negligence and corruption
One month after devastating earthquakes struck northern and central Venezuela, the country's bishops call for a reconstruction process free from negligence, corruption and political interests, while urging solidarity with survivors and thanking rescuers, volunteers and Pope Leo XIV for their closeness.
Archbishop Gallagher: Ukraine’s people inspire hope amid suffering
At the end of his six-day mission to Ukraine, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher reflects on the resilience of a people "willing to suffer for freedom and peace." Speaking to Vatican Media, the Holy See's Secretary for Relations with States recalls those who have "lost everything," reiterates the Holy See's commitment to humanitarian efforts and peace, and says Pope Leo XIV takes seriously the invitation to visit Ukraine when the time and circumstances can be "as fruitful as possible."
Ghana: Amnesty International urges authorities to pass the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill
Amnesty International Regional Office for West and Central Africa has urged Ghanaian authorities to sign the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill into law, passed in July 2023. In a statement, Amnesty International Regional Manager Elise Cannuel said the Bill was a significant step towards protecting victims of witchcraft accusations. Six years ago, on 23 July 2020, 90-year-old Akua Denteh, accused of being a witch, was lynched to death in Ghana.
Mozambique: Missionary sisters bring relief to flood victims in Xai-Xai
Serving the most vulnerable with compassion, the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood in Mozambique provide food, shelter, and dignity to hundreds of people displaced by devastating floods in southern Mozambique.
Sisters to reopen doors to learning after Venezuelas earthquake
A month after the devastating earthquake in Venezuela, humanitarian efforts continue to address urgent needs while supporting long-term recovery in the country. The Missionary Daughters of the Holy Family of Nazareth (MHSFN), in collaboration with CADIS International, are restoring access to education by reopening their school to serve both existing and displaced students.
UN Report: 645 million people faced hunger in 2025
The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) Report, prepared by five UN agencies, reveals that nearly eight percent of the world's population experienced hunger last year, and that while there have been documented improvements, that the phenomenon still affects nearly 650 million individuals across the globe.
Cardinal Parolin urges renewed Iran talks as Ukraine peace remains elusive
On the sidelines of a book presentation, the Cardinal Secretary of State expresses hope for a return to negotiations and dialogue with Iran, "for the good of the country and of the world," as well as in Gaza. He also reaffirms the importance of the Church's persistent message of peace, and its role to overcome divisions through dialogue, diplomacy and reconciliation.
Laos, the most heavily bombed country in the world
More than fifty years after the end of the Secret War, millions of un-exploded ordinances (UXO) still threaten daily life across Laos. In interviews with Vatican Media, Yeng-Chang Cheung-Wu of the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) and Craig Guwuriro of HALO Trust explain how clearance operations and risk education are helping communities reclaim their land and rebuild their future.
Bishop of Chifeng ordained in China
Appointed by the Pope on 15 June after his candidacy was approved under the terms of the Provisional Agreement between the Holy See and the People's Republic of China, Bishop Joseph Chang Yanfeng had served in various roles within the diocese and, since 2021, as its diocesan administrator.
Matteo Bruni: Reports regarding Rupnik entirely unfounded, assessment still underway
The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, says that reports circulating in recent days about a decision by the judges handling the case of Fr. Marko Ivan Rupnik are “entirely unfounded.” He explains that the assessment of the case is still underway and that the panel is examining documentation from the dioceses involved, the Jesuits, the persons concerned, and media reports.