Number of articles: 448

An Extraordinary "Urbi et Orbi" Blessing

This papal blessing dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. Over the years, it was eventually extended to the entire Catholic population.​

From the Church and the Pope

Pope Calls Everyone to Two Special Moments of Prayer

Pope Francis has invited everyone to pray the Lord's Prayer at the same time on Wednesday, March 25, (12 noon Rome time), for an end to the pandemic. He will also give an extraordinary "Urbi et orbi" blessing on Friday, March 27, outside St. Peter's Basilica.

From the Church and the Pope

​Confession: A God Who Runs to Meet Us

During these days of quarantine, most of us find it very difficult to go to confession. Perhaps a return to normalcy is still far off, but the moment God sees that we are repentant, He hurries towards us, excited and proud that we are returning home.

Fostering Interior Life

Plenary Indulgences and Possible Collective Absolution in Time of Emergency

The Apostolic Penitenciary has announced that "the gift of special Indulgences is granted to the faithful suffering from COVID-19 disease, commonly known as Coronavirus, as well as to health care workers, family members and all those who care for them in any capacity, including through prayer." It also reminds the faithful of the possibility of collective absolution in times of emergency.

From the Church and the Pope

Pope Francis Prays for an End to the Pandemic

Pope Francis left the Vatican on Sunday to visit two important pilgrimage sites in Rome to pray for the world in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak.

From the Church and the Pope

Anniversary of the Pope's Election

Pope Francis was elected on March 13, 2013. He speaks here about the protection Saint Joseph constantly provides in watching over the Church.

From the Church and the Pope

Pope's Prayer Intention for March 2020

"Let us pray together that the Church in China may persevere in its faithfulness to the Gospel and grow in unity."

From the Church and the Pope

“Be reconciled to God!”

"In the sacrament of Penance, the fire of God’s love consumes the ashes of our sin." Homily of Pope Francis in the Basilica of Santa Sabina, Ash Wednesday, 26 February 2020.

From the Church and the Pope

Apostolic Exhortation "Querida Amazonia"

Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation "Querida Amazonia" of Pope Francis, with link to the document in pdf format.

From the Church and the Pope

"Christ looks upon a wounded humanity into the heart of each person"

Message of Pope Francis for the 28th World Day of the Sick on February 11, feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.

From the Church and the Pope