Pope Francis, along with six cardinals and archbishops from North, South, and Central America, worked in collaboration with the Ad Council to produce a public service announcement promoting COVID-19 vaccines. 

Pope Francis was able to lead the Angelus from his hospital room July 11 as he recovers from intestinal surgery, the Vatican said.

VATICAN CITY (CNA) - Pope Francis is recovering from his colon surgery in the same hospital room where John Paul II was treated throughout his pontificate. The Vatican said July 6, two days after the operation, that the pope had “rested well overnight” and his routine follow-up examinations were good.

Vatican-issued revisions to the Code of Canon Law have tightened up clerical sexual abuse penalties, are holding lay men and women responsible for their own inappropriate behavior and have also addressed the recent development of an increasing number of women allegedly claiming they have been ordained priests, which could be considered canonically criminal.

atican-issued revisions to the Code of Canon Lawhave tightened up clerical sexual abuse penalties, are holding lay men and women responsible for their own inappropriate behavior and have also addressed the recent development of an increasing number of women allegedly claiming they have been ordained priests, which could be considered canonically criminal.  Pope Francis’  announced the revisions in apostolic constitution “Pascite gregem Dei,” (“Tend the Flock of God”), released June 1. These revisions to Book VI of the Code are the most significant changes to the legal framework of the Catholic Church since 1983.

The Vatican will host a theological symposium on the priesthood that will touch on questions raised in recent synods, including priestly celibacy, dwindling vocations, and the role of women in the church.

VATICAN CITY ‑ A new letter from the Vatican Secretariat of State has banned the private celebration of Masses at side altars in St. Peter’s Basilica, effective March 22. The regulation might seem tailored to meet COVID restrictions, as Italy prepares to tighten its pandemic measures once again. However, the new rule appears to be permanent. 

In a message to President Joe Biden on inauguration day, Pope Francis said he is praying the new United States president will make decisions which respect the rights and dignity of every person, especially the poor and most vulnerable.

Pope Francis prayed Jan. 10 for the United States, asking the Immaculate Virgin Mary to help foster a “culture of encounter” after the recent violence at the U.S. Capitol.