EWTN News explains: Why do popes issue papal documents and what are they?
This week the Vatican announced the upcoming release of Pope Leo XIVʼs long-awaited first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas. Amid anticipation of the encyclical there is renewed interest in what papal documents…
St. Augustine: Pentecost reverses chaos of Babel, unites Church under the Holy Spirit
On May 24, Catholics around the world celebrate the solemnity of Pentecost — the day on which the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples of Christ who gathered in Jerusalem…
In Italian region marred by toxic waste, Pope Leo XIV praises ‘beauty no injustice can erase’
Pope Leo XIV greeted residents and civic leaders in the southern Italian town of Acerra on May 23, a region marred by toxic wastes but possessing what the pope said…
In Italy’s ‘Land of Fires,’ Pope Leo XIV laments ‘the cry of creation and the poor’
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Italyʼs “Terra dei Fuochi,” or “Land of Fires,” for a one-day visit on May 23, the first pope in history to meet with this population…
How Catholics can receive a plenary indulgence on Pentecost
On the solemnity of Pentecost, which this year is celebrated on May 24, Catholics have the opportunity to gain a plenary indulgence. An indulgence can be received by praying or…
Why Catholics celebrate Mary as ‘mother of the Church’ the day after Pentecost
In 2018, Pope Francis added the memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, to the Roman calendar. This memorial is celebrated each year on the Monday after…
Pope Leo XIV discusses major challenges of EU and its future with European bishops
Pope Leo XIV met on May 21 with the Commission of the Episcopal Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), with whom he discussed the future of the EU and reflected…
Leo XIV authorizes beatification of 80 civil war martyrs ahead of his trip to Spain
On May 22, Pope Leo XIV approved the promulgation of six decrees from the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, following an audience granted to its prefect, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro.…
Peace, unity, and AI: What Pope Leo’s messages reveal about his thought
During his papacy and before, Pope Leo XIV has revealed his thought on a myriad of issues in his speeches, homilies, and writings, and several clear themes have emerged. He…
Czech cardinal reflects on martyrs under communism ahead of priest beatifications
Cardinal Michael Czerny this week reflected on the martyrdom of Catholics who gave witness to Jesus Christ under communist rule in eastern and central Europe during the “Blessed Martyrs Under…
Pope to visit Italy’s ‘Land of Fires,’ victims of Mafia’s toxic waste dumping
ACERRA, Italy — Pope Leo XIV will spend Saturday morning in Acerra, Italy — one of three “corners” of the so-called “triangle of death” and the epicenter of a dramatic…
Catholic Charities USA brings traveling exhibit to U.S. Capitol on annual lobbying day
Catholic Charities USA brought its traveling “People of Hope Museum” to Capitol Hill for its annual advocacy day, inviting members of Congress to see firsthand how its ministries impact both…