WASHINGTON (CNS) — The Vatican envoy to the U.S. recalled the persecution of Asian Catholics, making special mention of victims of the recent bombings Easter Sunday in Sri Lanka, during the annual pilgrimage of Asian and Pacific Island Catholics to the country’s largest Marian shrine on May 4. “Despite persecution, the church in Asia continues
RAKOVSKI, Bulgaria (CNS) — In the Catholic heart of Bulgaria, Pope Francis celebrated a special Mass for 245 children receiving their first Communion and thanked them for helping him, their parents and grandparents remember their own first Communion. “Today you have made it possible for us to relive that joy and to celebrate Jesus, present
MANILA, Philippines (CNS) — Church leaders across Asia have expressed alarm over threats to press freedom amid reports of increasing attacks and intimidation of journalists, resulting in growing levels of self-censorship. Media advocacy group Reporters Without Borders said it takes a “lot of courage” to work as a journalist these days amid the threat of
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Christians must allow themselves to be guided by the Holy Spirit if they expect to live a Christian life, Pope Francis said. Only through the Spirit can men and women “rise from our limitations, from our deaths,” the pope said in his homily April 30 during morning Mass at the Domus
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — People who feel restless or lacking inner peace will discover it when they visit those who are experiencing great difficulty, suffering, illness or persecution, Pope Francis said. Jesus’ wounds are a source of peace “because they are the sign of Jesus’ enormous love” as he conquered evil, sin and death with
TAPACHULA, Mexico (CNS) — Pope Francis has donated $500,000 to assist migrants attempting to travel through Mexico, but who are increasingly being impeded by Mexican officials from reaching the U.S. border. Those migrants who travel the length of Mexico are also being impeded in their attempts to apply for asylum in the United States and
INDIANAPOLIS (CNS) — Numerous organizations, both private and public, seek to help those who struggle with substance abuse through programming and support services, but Father Bryan Eyman has committed to a different approach: prayer. Confident in the power of Jesus to satisfy every thirst, Father Eyman has been offering prayers for people struggling with alcoholism
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — As individuals and as a church, it can be tempting to dwell on mistakes, failures and sins that block the fullness of life, but Easter is the proclamation that the Lord is victorious and his love will triumph, Pope Francis said. “Easter is the feast of tombstones taken away, rocks rolled
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — As the machine of warfare continues to churn out more dangerous weaponry, only the power and joy of Christ’s resurrection can fill hearts with comfort and peace, Pope Francis said before giving his Easter blessing. “May the one who gives us his peace end the roar of arms — both in
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Just as Jesus always sought to be with the people to serve, teach and heal them, so, too, must priests always be in the midst of God’s people, “pouring ourselves out” for them, Pope Francis said. Being with the people “is the most beautiful place” to be, he told priests during
