Fighting clericalism means empowering laity, cardinal says

The Catholic Church must combat clericalism among its ranks by giving authority to a "responsible and reliable" laity, the head of the Vatican's development dicastery said.

Vatican reportedly pulls ‘controversial’ World Youth Day stamp

The Vatican has pulled from circulation a World Youth Day stamp of Pope Francis with young people in an image that resembles propaganda from Portugal's former dictatorship.

Prayer, love of Christ are source of strength to share Gospel, pope says

St. Francis Xavier offers the faithful, especially young people who are itching to make a difference in the world, a wonderful example of how to find courage in prayer and spread the joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis said.

From the Friendly Skies to heavenly servant: Franciscan becomes a priest at the Casa

About a half dozen individuals, including family, friends and Franciscan colleagues were asked to describe Father James Seiffert, OFM, prior to his ordination to the priesthood Friday at the Franciscan Renewal Center’s Our Lady of the Angels Church.

Pope praises Julian of Norwich as example of faith and service

Although she died centuries ago, the English mystic Julian of Norwich continues to remind people of the importance of "faith in God's loving providence and holiness of life expressed in generous service to our brothers and sisters in need," Pope Francis said.

Pope issues new ‘fundamental law’ for Vatican City State

Pope Francis updated the "Fundamental Law of Vatican City State," opening the possibility that laypeople can be members of its governing commission and emphasizing that the independence of the city-state is essential for the mission of the Holy See.

Holy Spirit defends, consoles those who call on his help, pope says

The Holy Spirit consoles, defends and tenderly corrects those who turn to and listen to him, Pope Francis said.

Vatican neutrality is a force for peace, pope tells ambassadors

In encouraging the peaceful resolution of conflicts and in promoting the common good on the international stage, the Vatican embraces a strategy of "positive neutrality," which allows it to dialogue with all sides, Pope Francis said.

Women are exploited in political disputes, cultural ideologies, pope says

Peace is urgently needed in today's world, and women should be more greatly appreciated, Pope Francis told hundreds of Catholic women.

Pope, Ukrainian leader talk about humanitarian situation provoked by war

After literally hundreds of public prayers for peace in Ukraine and 443 days after Russia launched an all-out war on the Eastern European country, Pope Francis welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Vatican.