International

Vatican Nativity scene to honour 800th anniversary of St Francis’ creche

By OSV News | October 31, 2023 | 1 Comment

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – On the 800th anniversary of St Francis of Assisi setting up the first Nativity scene, the creche in St Peter’s Square in 2023 will come from the Diocese of Rieti, Italy, and pay tribute to the scene set up in the diocese in 1223. St Francis’ … Read More about Vatican Nativity scene to honour 800th anniversary of St Francis’ creche

Listen to, trust the lay faithful, Pope tells synod members

By OSV News | October 26, 2023 | 2 Comments

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Pope Francis told members of the synod on synodality that they should respect and honour the faith of all baptised Catholics, including the women, trusting “the holy, faithful people of God”, who continue to believe even when their pastors act like dictators. “I like to think … Read More about Listen to, trust the lay faithful, Pope tells synod members

Synod assembly to issue ‘Letter to the People of God’ at session’s end

By OSV News | October 24, 2023 | 1 Comment

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Members of the Synod of Bishops will issue a “Letter to the People of God” at the close of the first session of the synod assembly, which ends on October 29, the Vatican said. The letter, the drafting of which was approved by the synod assembly, … Read More about Synod assembly to issue ‘Letter to the People of God’ at session’s end

Pope calls for world day of prayer for peace as catastrophe looms in Gaza

By OSV News | October 19, 2023 | 1 Comment

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Warning against a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and ongoing conflicts elsewhere, Pope Francis has called for a day of fasting, penance and prayer for peace in the world on October 27. “War does not solve any problems, it only sows death and destruction. It increases hatred, … Read More about Pope calls for world day of prayer for peace as catastrophe looms in Gaza

Jerusalem cardinal offers himself in exchange for Israeli hostages

By OSV News | October 17, 2023 | 2 Comments

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – The Catholic Church’s highest ranking prelate in the Holy Land has offered his “absolute availability” to be exchanged for Israeli children taken hostage by Hamas. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, told reporters during an online meeting on October 16 that he is willing … Read More about Jerusalem cardinal offers himself in exchange for Israeli hostages

Pope condemns terrorism, but expresses concern for Gaza civilians

By Michael Otto | October 12, 2023 | 1 Comment

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Pope Francis condemned Hamas’ terrorist attacks on Israel and pleaded with the militants to free their hostages unharmed, but he also expressed concern about Israel’s tightening siege on Gaza and its impact on innocent civilians. “I continue to follow with sorrow and apprehension what is happening … Read More about Pope condemns terrorism, but expresses concern for Gaza civilians