In his traditional holiday benediction, Francis renewed his call to resolve conflicts and to help those who have fled them.
Tag: Roman Catholic Church
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.
Johann Baptist Metz, Theologian of Compassion, Dies at 91
One of the most influential Catholic theologians of the 20th century, he challenged his fellow German Catholics to face the reality of Auschwitz.
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.
2 Priests Convicted in Argentina of Sexual Abuse of Deaf Children
The priests at a now-shuttered school in Mendoza were each sentenced to more than 40 years in prison; a former gardener was sentenced to 18 years.
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.
In Bolivia, Interim Leader Sets Conservative, Religious Tone
The leader, Jeanine Añez, promised to unify a nation in turmoil. But her initial steps, taking the country rightward and injecting religious themes, risk deepening the divide.
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.
A Bigger Role for Women in the Catholic Church? 185 Men Will Decide
Discussions at the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon have acknowledged that women must get recognition of some sort. But few expect real change.
Pope Francis May Not Change the World. But He Is Reshaping the Church.
On Saturday, Francis will create 13 new cardinals who reflect his pastoral priorities. He will now have named more than half of those who will elect his successor.