News & Commentary

Pope Leo XIV waves to the crowd from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican as he leads, for the first time, the midday recitation of the "Regina Coeli" prayer May 11, 2025. (CNS photo/Lola Gomez)

Besides Leo XIII, 12 other popes have shared that name with new pontiff

When Catholics heard on May 8 the new pope had chosen the name Leo XIV, the thoughts of many turned immediately to Leo XIII, the last pope to bear the name.
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Texas bishops call for reform after migrant deaths in trailer

The Texas Catholic bishops urged immigration reform, saying it is necessary to prevent what happened to 53 migrants discovered dead and dying inside a trailer June 27 from happening again.
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Indigenous priest shares practices that will be part of pope’s Canada trip

When Pope Francis travels to Canada to apologize to Indigenous communities for the way the Catholic Church joined efforts to uproot them from their traditional culture and spirituality, their traditions will be on full display.
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Two men face felonies in fire that destroyed historic West Virginia chapel

More than two weeks after a 145-year-old Catholic church near Shady Spring was destroyed by fire, law enforcement officials announced July 12 that two suspects were arrested and charged with felonies for a blaze officials confirmed was arson.
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Pope names three women to office that helps him choose bishops

Ten days after saying he would name two women to the group that helps him choose bishops, Pope Francis appointed three women to the office.
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Pope speaks on U.S. gun violence, abortion debate, retirement rumors

U.S. President Joe Biden should consult with his bishop or parish priest about his stance on abortion, Pope Francis said, adding that the primary concern of bishops should be pastoral care.
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Pope to visit Assisi, Matera in September

Pope Francis will make back-to-back pastoral visits to the Italian cities of Assisi and Matera at the end of September, the Vatican announced.
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