The pope’s words emphasized his humility and belief that simple acts of devotion could unite the church. His illness has made the appeal more urgent than ever.
Tag: Benedict XVI
What Would the Church Say About End-of-Life Decisions for a Pope?
Francis has weighed in publicly before on ethics for end-of-life medical situations, but it is unknown whether he has made known his own wishes should he face such a crossroads.
Pope’s Illness Is Surrounded by Intrigue Over Possible Resignation
A secret meeting, and echoes of Benedict’s exit, have heightened talk that Francis could resign, too. But the possibility is anyone’s guess.
Catholics Pray for Ailing Pope Francis at Sunday Mass
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for more than a week, had a restful night after receiving oxygen and a blood transfusion on Saturday, the Vatican said.
Richard Williamson, Renegade Priest and Holocaust Denier, Dies at 84
Ordained as a bishop by a traditionalist sect, he was excommunicated then reinstated by the Vatican, but was undone by his antisemitic views.
They Said the Virgin Mary Appeared. The Vatican Is Finally Weighing In.
After decades, and controversy, the Vatican has authorized public worship at a shrine in Bosnia, where a once tranquil village has become a major pilgrimage site.
Pope’s Anti-Gay Slur Lays Bare Church’s Contradictions
The pope used homophobic slang and cautioned prelates about admitting gay men into seminaries. But ordination has also long been a refuge for gay faithful.
Pope’s Critics Feel the Sting After His Patience Runs Out
Vatican observers see a leader more willing to crack down on those seeking to derail his agenda for the Roman Catholic Church.
Returning From Africa, Pope Francis and Christian Leaders Condemn Anti-Gay Laws
In an in-flight news conference after six days in the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, Francis also denounced conservative critics who he said had “instrumentalized” the death of Benedict XVI.
Benedict’s Burial Leaves Francis Alone, and Unbound
Liberal supporters of Francis, a pope never shy about exercising power, now anticipate a late-breaking season of change.