Standing in a nearly deserted St. Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday, the pontiff called for solidarity around the world to confront the pandemic.
Tag: Francis
‘We Find Ourselves Afraid.’ The Pope Confronts Coronavirus.
The virus is inside the walls of the Vatican, which has canceled public participation in Easter ceremonies, is testing scores of people and considering isolating measures for Pope Francis.
Pope Francis Sets Aside Proposal on Married Priests
The decision, in a letter on Catholic life in remote Amazon areas, is a victory for conservative forces who had warned that change there would put the church on a slippery slope.
Two Popes, and One Big Furor After Benedict Weighs in on Priestly Celibacy
In a new book, the former pope makes a firm defense of celibacy for priests as Pope Francis is expected to decide whether to allow married priests in remote regions. Let the intrigue begin.
Pope Francis Apologizes After Slapping Away a Clinging Pilgrim
As the pontiff greeted members of the public on New Year’s Eve, one woman grabbed his hand with both of hers. A video of the incident was shared widely online.
Pope Francis, in Christmas Speech, Urges Nations to Tend to Refugees
In his traditional holiday benediction, Francis renewed his call to resolve conflicts and to help those who have fled them.
Pope Francis Abolishes Secrecy Policy in Sexual Abuse Cases
Church officials can now share information with secular law enforcement authorities. Critics said the confidentiality rule led to the concealment of abuse.
German Catholic Church Debates Sexuality, Celibacy and Women’s Roles
With the German church’s global influence, a meeting of bishops and laypeople to take up hot-button topics has led to warnings of a new schism, originating in the home of the Protestant Reformation.
Pope Francis, in Japan, Warns of ‘Selfish Decisions’ on Nuclear Energy
Making the first visit to the country by a pope in 38 years, Francis called for an end to the nuclear arms race in visits to Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Catholic Bishops Back Ordination of Married Men as Priests in Amazon Region, a Milestone
It was the first time a summit of bishops convened by a pope has endorsed such a historic change to the tradition of a celibate priesthood. The final decision will be up to the pope.