The Latest News & Updates

Pope Leo XIV is currently on a visit to France, which began on September 25 and will conclude on September 28. The visit marks a significant event in the Catholic calendar, with the Pope’s itinerary and activities closely followed by the global Catholic community.

In other news, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen has been declared “blessed” by Pope Leo XIV. The beatification ceremony, held on September 24, was a significant event, marking a step closer to sainthood for the late Archbishop. Following the beatification, Pope Leo XIV announced that Blessed Sheen’s feast day will be observed on December 9, coinciding with the anniversary of his death.

In the United States, Catholic bishops are advocating for the inclusion of Catholic schools in Colorado’s universal preschool program. The bishops argue that Catholic schools should be able to participate in the program without compromising their faith. This issue is part of a broader discussion on the role and place of faith-based education within public education systems.

Finally, a pastor has resigned following a lawsuit filed by an employee who alleges that he dismissed her report of sexual assault. The archbishop of Louisville has accepted the pastor’s resignation as legal proceedings continue. This incident underscores the ongoing efforts within the Church to address and rectify instances of misconduct and abuse.

A new book by Allan Smith, published on September 15, sheds light on the life and legacy of Fulton Sheen, known as ‘America’s Apostle’. The release of the book comes just a week before Sheen’s beatification. EWTN’s Matthew Bunson provides a detailed discussion of the book and Sheen’s enduring influence on “EWTN News Nightly.”

In response to the ongoing issue of sexual abuse, the Archbishop of Panama has sought the assistance of the Transparency Commission. This project, sponsored by Notre Dame Law School and Madrid’s Villanueva University, aims to address and rectify instances of abuse within the Church. The Archbishop has also publicly asked for forgiveness from the victims of such abuses, stating that silence cannot be maintained in the face of such atrocities.

A recent claim by watchdog group Do No Harm has prompted calls for a federal inquiry into Planned Parenthood and its affiliates. The group alleges that the organization may be miscoding visits in a manner that makes youth hormone prescriptions appear routine, potentially obscuring the true nature of these visits.

The Allentown Diocese has initiated its annual blood drive on the feast of St. Januarius, in response to a nationwide blood shortage. Allentown Bishop Alfred A. Schlert emphasized the critical need for blood donations, noting that blood cannot be manufactured or replaced and can only come from individuals willing to give of themselves for others.

Lastly, two bishops in Brazil have responded to the country’s president’s criticism of the Catholic Church. They stressed that the president should concentrate on governing the country effectively, rather than offering unsolicited advice to the Church on matters such as celibacy and the ordination of women.

The recent murder of Father Román de la Cruz Hernández in Mexico is suspected to be the work of organized crime, according to local priests. This tragic event is not seen as an isolated incident but rather as part of a larger pattern of intimidation and fear. The motive behind these acts is believed to be an attempt to sow fear within the community.

In Uruguay, despite low church attendance and a largely secular society, the president of the country’s bishops’ conference sees the visit of Pope Leo as a potential catalyst for spiritual renewal. The Pope’s visit is viewed as a chance to bring about a ‘spiritual springtime’ in the country, offering a boost to the faith of the local Catholic community.

Sister Miriam James Heidland, SOLT, a popular Catholic podcaster, speaker, and author, has announced her discernment of a new religious community. Known as Friends of the Bridegroom, the community is currently in the early stages of establishment. Sister Heidland’s announcement has generated interest within the Catholic community.

Bishop Garcia of Austin has expressed concern over a recent shooting incident involving ICE officials. The Bishop has called for prayers for the man who was shot and for all those involved in the incident. He also urged government authorities to be transparent and honest about the circumstances surrounding the event.

Notre Dame theologian John Cavadini is set to receive the 2026 Ratzinger Prize. The award, which will be presented by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on December 19, is a significant recognition in the Catholic world. Cavadini’s work as a theologian has made a substantial impact on the Catholic community.

The Vatican is set to engage in discussions with world leaders at the UN General Assembly on the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and human dignity. The central question guiding the discussion is, “What are we building, for whom, and who will inherit it?” This dialogue aims to explore the ethical implications of AI technology and its potential impact on human society.

In other news, Magdalena Wolińska-Riedi, a veteran Vatican journalist and writer for EWTN News, has been honored as the Polish speech champion. The award ceremony took place in Ostrowiec, Poland, on September 21. This recognition underscores Wolińska-Riedi’s significant contributions to journalism and her exceptional skills in communication.

In Switzerland, the annual March for Life event drew thousands of participants, despite attempts by masked cyclists to disrupt the proceedings. The organizers have initiated legal action after the Zurich city authorities prevented the march from taking place in the city center for the sixth year in a row. This pro-life event continues to be a significant gathering for those advocating for the rights of the unborn.

Pope Leo XIV recently addressed the Federation of Capuchin Poor Clare Nuns of Italy, encouraging them to renew their commitment in light of the decreasing number of vocations. The audience with the pontiff took place on September 21, providing an opportunity for the nuns to receive guidance and encouragement in their religious mission.

Finally, Pope Leo XIV is set to pray the rosary for peace alongside more than 700 children at the Vatican. These children, hailing from various schools and parishes throughout Rome, will join the pontiff in the “One Million Children Praying the Rosary” campaign. This initiative serves as a powerful symbol of unity and prayer for peace in the world.

Pope Leo XIV has made an appeal for international aid in response to the escalating crisis in Somalia. During his Sunday Angelus catechesis, the Pope drew upon the parable of the vineyard workers to illustrate the concept of God’s generosity, which he suggested challenges human notions of merit and reward.

The Catholic Church, often perceived through the lens of the Latin rite, encompasses 23 Eastern Churches that are in full communion with Rome. These Eastern Churches, while maintaining their ancient traditions, form an integral part of the one Catholic fold, demonstrating the diversity and unity within the Catholic Church.

In Lebanon, a prayer pilgrimage from Byblos to Annaya is being organized to show solidarity and bring hope to Christians in the southern part of the country. The faithful will walk to St. Charbel’s shrine, a significant site of Christian devotion, as part of this spiritual journey.

Archbishop Lori of Baltimore recently addressed the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious in Missouri. In his keynote speech, he expressed the Church’s hope in women religious, acknowledging their essential role within the Catholic community.

In anticipation of Yom Kippur, a significant Jewish holy day involving fasting and atonement, U.S. bishops have acknowledged the ‘deep spiritual bonds’ between Catholics and Jews. The holy day, which usually falls in late September or early October, serves as a reminder of the shared spiritual heritage and mutual respect between the two faiths.