The Latest News & Updates

Pope Leo XIV met Argentine President Javier Milei on his first day in Argentina, drawing attention to social problems in the country. In Uruguay, he celebrated Mass at the nation’s principal Marian shrine and urged mothers to persevere in passing on the faith.

Christchurch’s new Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is New Zealand’s first newly built Catholic cathedral in more than 120 years. Its architects say the structure was designed to serve the community for the next 200 years.

Chaldean monks returned historic manuscripts to an Iraqi archdiocese after more than five decades. The handover ceremony was held at the Monastery of the Servant of God and Martyr Gabriel Danbo in Ankawa, a predominantly Christian district of Erbil.

In Kenya, Bishop Mark Kadima Wamukoya urged Christians to pray for everyone, including those who hurt or betray them, following Christ’s example.

Pope Leo XIV concluded his visit to Uruguay with an evening prayer vigil, encouraging the country’s Catholic minority to preserve and share the faith. During an outdoor Mass away from the capital, he also urged Uruguayans to live as a community of prayer and recognized the country’s Catholic heritage.

On the first full day of his South American trip, the pope celebrated Mass and met with local communities. He also visited a lower-income neighborhood, where a Catholic parish serves people in need, and spoke of the social harm caused by violent crime.

A new film, “The Dating Project,” explores challenges in relationships and dating in the United States. Streaming on EWTN+, it is intended for single Catholics and parents who hope their children will find a suitable partner.

Father Alberto Medel said Mexican officials required him to remove his clerical attire to renew his passport, despite judicial rulings protecting religious clothing. His account raises questions about how those protections are applied in administrative settings.

Democrats are considering two abortion measures for the opening 100 hours of the 2027 legislative session. One would legalize abortion nationwide, and the other would permit federal tax funds to support abortion.

A new film, “Jimmy,” examines actor Jimmy Stewart’s lesser-known service in the Second World War and the faith, humility and kindness that shaped his life.

In Uruguay, Pope Leo called for protection of life at every stage and universal access to healthcare. His speech referred to his recent cancer surgery. Separately, exit polls from the 2026 midterm elections found Catholic voters nearly evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans; Muslim and Jewish voters, as well as nonreligious voters, largely supported Democrats.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom commuted the death sentences of nearly 550 prisoners on death row on Nov. 5. A Catholic group praised the decision as the largest commutation in state history.

Texas’ Catholic bishops congratulated Democratic candidates who won every top statewide office and prayed for their wisdom. They also reaffirmed that Catholic principles concerning life and the family remain unchanged.

Pope Leo XIV sent a message to a Rome conference marking 100 years since the consecration of China’s first bishops. Participants discussed the Vatican’s complex relations with China, and the pope praised Chinese Catholics for their unity.

Maryland Attorney General’s Office said Father Laurence LaPointe pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a boy at Gilman School in the 1970s. In Peru, Father Hugo Gabriel Sánchez said Pope Leo remains a close friend who cares about his well-being as the priest awaits his visit.

In Texas, Democrats won statewide offices, prompting concern among Catholics and pro-life advocates. Pro-life activists pointed to Republicans’ continued control of the state Senate, which they said could block legislation they view as a setback for their cause. Bishops and pro-life groups also responded to three defeats in abortion referendums and Democratic gains in congressional races.

Pope Leo met with singer Bob Dylan and gave him a rosary. The meeting brought the two together at the Vatican.

The Laudato Si’ Platform launched a digital atlas focused on Pope Francis’ ecological vision. The map was presented at a Wednesday press conference at the Holy See Press Office.

Pope Leo XIV appointed Martial Bernard as bishop of Soissons, France. At 48 when he is ordained on Dec. 20, Bernard will become the youngest bishop in the country.