Observer

Index - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6

Tony Blair visits Benedict XVI at the Vatican

Vatican City, 24th June 2007 (CNA) - Tony Blair, the Prime Minister of England met yesterday in the Vatican with His Holiness Benedict XVI.  The Prime Minister had been vacationing for the week in Italy, and had also met with his counterpart, Romano Prodi, President of the Italian Council.

St. Athanasius teaches us that those who draw near to God are able to truly draw near to mankind

Vatican City, 20th June 2007 (CNA) - Benedict XVI’s general audience today was held inside of Paul VI hall. The theme of the Pope’s teaching was the figure of St. Athanasius of Alexandria (circa 300-373), whom he called a "column of the Church," and a "model of orthodoxy in both East and West."

Man finds himself in the measure in which he lives for God

Assisi, 17th June 2007 (CNA) - The Holy Father celebrated mass today, robed in green vestments and a large white pallium, in the plaza in front of the Basilica of St. Francis, in Assisi.  The Pope’s message to the civil officials, priests, nuns, and many pilgrims was that they will find themselves according to the measure that they give themselves to God.

Pope Benedict teaches that true alleviation of poverty is spiritual and material

Vatican City, 14th June 2007 (CNA) - Aid organizations must bring more than material aid to truly help those in need, said Pope Benedict. They must bring “the joyful witness of those who have met the Lord,” which will “be a light to illuminate the way of people seeking a more dignified life," the pontiff emphasized.

True Christians see the Church through eyes of love

Vatican City, 13th June 2007 (CNA) - More than 30,000 pilgrims enjoyed the sunny weather today as they gathered for Pope Benedict’s Wednesday audience. He centered his teaching on the example of Eusebius, the bishop of Palestine in the third century.

Benedict meets with astronomers calls them to form their faith and reason

Vatican City, 11th June 2007 (CNA) - This morning Pope Benedict received the faculty and students of the Eleventh Vatican Observatory Summer School in an audience. He exhorted the amateur astronomers to form their faith and their reason so that they can rise to the contemplation of the truth.

Historic meeting between President Bush and Pope Benedict covers wide range

Vatican City, 9th June 2007 (CNA) - This morning President George W. Bush was received in an audience by Pope Benedict XVI for the first time. The discussions between the two world leaders revolved around the situation in the Middle East, Africa (especially Darfur), and a host of societal issues of concern to Christians.

Jesus' Incarnation and Presence in the Eucharist confounds the wisdom of men

Rome, 8th June 2007 (CNA) - Christ’s incarnation and presence in the Eucharist “puts into crisis the wisdom of men”.  So the Pope spoke this past Thursday, at 7 p.m., on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). 

Christians are always and everywhere members of one Body

Vatican City, 6th June 2007 (CNA)- Continuing his catechesis on the connection between Jesus and the Church, the Holy Father spoke today on St. Cyprian, "the first African bishop to achieve the crown of martyrdom." The Pope exhorted the 40,000 gathered and all the faithful to unity using the works of St. Cyprian.

Benedict receives ambassadors, explains proper role of religion in society

Vatican City, 1st June 2007 (CNA) - Five more ambassadors were received by the Holy See today. In receiving the new representatives, Benedict XVI took the opportunity to address the obligation of richer nations to not exploit poorer nations and the role of religion in its interaction with society.

Pope: Christianity Always Enters Into Dialogue with the Culture of Its Time

Vatican City, 30th May, 2007 (CNA) - In his general audience today, Benedict XVI resumed his series of catecheses on leading figures of the early Church, turning his attention to Tertullian. He is known as the first great Christian author to write in Latin and was born in Carthage around the year 150.

“Harrowing” Romanian Abortion Film Wins Cannes’ Palm D’Or; Second Abortion Film to Win a Prestigious Film Festival

Cannes, France, 28th May, 2007 (LifeSiteNews.com) –  Judges at the 60th anniversary of the Cannes Film Festival awarded the coveted Palm d’Or to what is being described as a “harrowing” film. The winning submission depicts the personal and moral consequences that a young woman and her friend face as they attempt to obtain an illegal abortion for the young woman while living in communist Romania.

Pope Benedict reminds the Church of her origins and her mission

Vatican, 27th May, 2007 (CNA) - On an overcast, humid Pentecost Sunday, Pope Benedict XVI met with thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square to give the last Regina Coeli address of the year.

Benedict lends his full support to embattled Italian Bishops

Rome, 24th May, 2007 (CNA) - Amidst the current passionate debate over the role of the Church in public life in Italy, the Italian Bishops conference is holding their general assembly.

Pope insists: Gospel did not destroy native cultures in America

Vatican City, 23rd May, 2007 (CNA) - During his weekly general audience, Pope Benedict reflected on his recent apostolic trip to Brazil and insisted that, despite the shadows in the process of announcing the Gospel in the new world, the Evangelization did not destroy but instead ennobled the native cultures.

Holy Father speaks about his trip to Brazil, the media, and the Ascension

Vativan, 20th May, 2007 (CNA) - Thousands of pilgrims flocked to St. Peter's square to hear the Pope's first public address since his trip to Brazil last week. Benedict speech was filled with relevant topics - his trip to Brazil, the annual World Day of Social Communications, and the celebration of the Ascension.

Pope calls Latin American Bishops to center mission in Christ, not ideologies

Aparecida, 13th May, 2007 (CNA) - Pope Benedict XVI urged Latin American Bishops on Sunday to focus their mission in announcing the faith in Jesus Christ and avoid ideologies that have been proven a failure in history.  The Pontiff delivered the longest speech of his Pontificate on Sunday, May 13, during the inaugural session of the 5th Conference of Latin American Bishops that will last until May 31st.

Church grows by attraction, not proselytism, Pope says

Aparecida, 13th May, 2007 (CNA) - The Church grows by the energy of Christ’s love and not by the power of ideologies, Pope Benedict XVI said on Sunday morning, during the inauguration of the 5th General Conference of Latin American Bishops at the Marian shrine of Aparecida, Brazil.

Pope asks priests, consecrated to remain in “the school of Mary”

Aparecida, 12th May, 2007 (CNA) - After leading the recitation of the Rosary at the colossal shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida in Brazil, Pope Benedict XVI called on priests, religious and consecrated to remain faithful to their calling and to live in a manner that attracts new vocations to the Church.

Pope Benedict canonizes First Brazilian Saint and makes call for reconciliation with God

Sao Paulo, 11th May, 2007 (CNA) - Today, before more than a million faithfull gathered at the Campo de Marte in Sao Paulo, Pope Benedict canonized Brazil's first native-born saint before hundreds of thousands of flag-waving followers in the world's largest Roman Catholic nation. Pope Benedict made reminded the necessity for reconciliation with God and among men, calling for clean lives and clear souls.

Pope calls on Latin American youth to discover, follow God's call

Sao Paulo, 10th May, 2007 (CNA) - Addressing a cheering crown gathered at the old soccer Stadium of Pacaembu in Sao Paulo, Pope Benedict XVI challenged Brazilian and Latin American young people not to "spoil your youth" but to listen and follow God's call in their lives.

Brazil awaits Pope Benedict for apostolic visit

Sao Paulo, 9th May, 2007 (CNA) - This morning, Pope Benedict XVI left Rome  for a six-day trip to Brazil. His plane left from Rome's Fiumicino airport bound for Brazil At 9 a.m. this morning,. The 9,477-kilometer flight is expected to last twelve and a half hours and the papal plane is scheduled to land at the international airport of Sao Paulo / Guarulhos in Brazil in the mid-afternoon, at around 4.30 p.m. local time.

Vatican official says religious experiencing difficult trials in Europe

Madrid, 8th May, 2007 (CNA) - The secretary for the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, Archbishop Agostino Gardin, OFM Conv., said this week religious life in Europe “is currently facing unprepared for difficulties.”

Holy Father consecrates his trip to Mary, the Mother of the Church

Rome, 7th May, 2007 (CNA) - Scattered sprinkles did not stop thousands of pilgrims from gathering in St. Peter's Square yesterday to hear the Pope's Regina Caeli address. In his first address of May, his Holiness drew attention to the fact that May "is the Marian month par excellence."

Pope Benedict calls Christians to imitate Virgin Mary, be guided by God’s signs

Vatican City, 2nd May, 2007 (CNA) - As the month traditionally set aside for devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary begins, the Vatican has announced that Pope Benedict XVI’s general prayer intention for the month of May will center on imitation of the woman whom the Church considers the “first Christian.”

Pope supports Archbishop who received death threats over opposition to gay marriage

Vatican City, 1st May, 2007 (CNA) - According to the BBC, Pope Benedict XVI has lent his support, by phone, to Italian Archbishop Angelo Bagnasco, who has received death threats in recent days over his public opposition to same-sex marriage.

Pope Benedict ordains 22 new priests, calls them to ‘be ready to give their lives’ for Christ

Vatican City, 30th April 2007 (CNA) - Pope Benedict XVI marked Sunday’s 44th annual World Day of Prayer for Vocations by conferring priestly ordination on 22 men from the Diocese of Rome. He told the new priests that their newly received sacrament makes them “participants in Christ’s own mission.”

Vatican confirms: Pope Benedict has accepted invitation to visit United Nations HQ in New York

Vatican City, 27th April 2007 (CNA) - The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Fr. Federico Lombardi S.J., confirmed recent rumors that Pope Benedict XVI has accepted an invitation to visit United Nations headquarters in New York City.

Civil disobedience and media campaign urged to stop spread of abortion in Mexico

Mexico City, 26th April 2007 (CNA) - Various civil groups in Mexico have announced they will defer to the official reaction of the Archdiocese of Mexico City, expected to come this Sunday, regarding the legalization of abortion, and they anticipated acts of civil disobedience would take place, as well as a new media campaign in support of life.

Communion within the Church essential for flourishing of vocations

Vatican City, 24th April 2007 (CNA) - The Press Office of the Holy See made public today Pope Benedict XVI’s message for the upcoming World Day of Prayer for Vocations, which falls on Sunday, April 29th.  The Holy Father referred to the theme of this year’s 44th Day of Prayer – “The vocation to the service of the Church as communion” – emphasizing the key role communion plays in the flourishing of vocations.

Benedict examines St. Augustine's path of conversion

Rome, 23rd April 2007 (CNA) - Enjoying the second day of his pastoral visit Lombardi Dioceses of Vigevano and Pavia, Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Holy Mass at the Borromeo College of Pavia.  The Holy Father focused his homily on the conversion of Saint Augustine, whose bodily remains the Holy Father visited at an Augustinian Monastery in the area.  The conversion of St. Augustine, Benedict said, was not an event, but a path.

Pope recalls the need for a harmony between faith and reason in the Christian life

Vatican City, 18th April 2007 (CNA) - Thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square today to attend Pope Benedict XVI’s weekly General Audience and catechesis.  The Holy Father discussed the great Father of the Church, St. Clement of Alexandria, who emphasized the need for a harmony between faith and reason to achieve an intimate union with God.

Pope Benedict celebrates birthday, gives thanks to God for His Mercy

Vatican City, 16th April 2007 (CNA) - On the eve of his 80th birthday, the Holy Father celebrated Mass with 60 Cardinals, Bishops and Archbishops, and the Metropolitan of Pergamo, sent by the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Sunday in St. Peter’s Basilica.  Following the proclamation of the Gospel, The Holy Father gave a short homily.

Catholics call on politicians to work for peace and maintain Europe’s Christian roots

Rome, 12th April 2007 (CNA) - Participants at the international congress “Values and Perspectives for the Europe of Tomorrow,” organized by the Commission of Bishops' Conferences of the European Community on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Treaties of Rome, called on European political leaders to remain committed to peace and to the Christian roots of the region.

Pope Benedict to celebrate 80th birthday with a Mass this Sunday

Vatican City, 10th April 2007 (CNA) - The Vatican issued a reminder this morning that Pope Benedict XVI will mark the occasion of his 80th birthday with a Mass of Thanksgiving in St. Peter’s Basilica.  The celebration falls on the same day the Church celebrates the second Sunday of Easter, known as “Divine Mercy Sunday.”

We must spread the news of Christ’s resurrection to the world without fear

Castelgandolfo, 9th April 2007 (CNA) - Today, at midday, Pope Benedict XVI marked Easter Monday with the praying of the Regina Coeli, the Marian prayer which replaces the Angelus during the Easter Season.  Speaking from his balcony at Castelgandolfo, the Pope reminded the faithful that those who have encountered the resurrected Christ and who believe, have nothing to fear.

“My Lord and my God,” Pope Benedict says Easter morning

With His love Christ overcomes sin and death, Benedict exclaims

Vatican City, 4th April 2007 (CNA) - Pope Benedict XVI gathered today with tens of thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square on the day before the Church enters its most solemn and holy season.  The Holy Father reminded the faithful that what the Holy Triduum celebrates Jesus Christ’s victory over sin and death.

The fragrant love of John Paul II has filled the whole Church, Benedict XVI says

Vatican City, 2nd April 2007 (CNA) - Presiding at a Mass Monday afternoon in St. Peter’s Basilica to commemorate the second anniversary of the death of John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI remarked that “the fragrance of his love has ‘filled the whole house,’ that is, the whole Church.”

Ruini lauds John Paul’s relationship with the Lord as he passes Beatification Cause on

Rome, 2nd April 2007 (CNA) - As anticipated, the Diocese of Rome officially concluded its investigation into the life, virtues and fame of sanctity of Servant of God John Paul II with a ceremony at midday today, in the Basilica of St. John Lateran.  The conclusion of the diocesan investigation is the first step in the process of beatification of the late pontiff who died on April 2, 2005.

Sister Marie Simon-Pierre speaks of miraculous cure at press conference

Paris, 30th March 2007 (CNA) - “All I can tell you is that I was sick and now I am cured.  It is for the church to say and to recognize whether it is a miracle,” so said the 46 year-old Religious Sister who many think may have been miraculously cured through the intercession of the late Pope John Paul II.  The French nun, the identity of whom was unknown to the world until this week, spoke to the press in today.

Italian bishops to legislators: Legalization of civil unions “unacceptable” and “dangerous”

Rome, 28th March 2007 (CNA) - The Permanent Council of the Italian Bishops Conference, led by new president Archbishop Angelo Bagnasco, has sent a firm message to members of the Italian Legislature – voting for the legalization of civil unions, which would pave the way for legalized homosexual “marriage,” is not compatible with the Catholic faith and is dangerous to society.

Holy See issues Pope Benedict’s liturgical schedule for Holy Week

Hidden event of the Annunciation marks most profound change for humanity

Vatican City, 25th March 2007 (CNA) - Greeting thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square on this, the last Sunday of March, Pope Benedict XVI used the occasion to remind those present that Sunday marks both the Feast of the Annunciation and the Fifth Sunday of Lent.

Holy See: Youth have the right to truth and respect from media

Vatican City, 20th March 2007 (CNA) - “Youth have the right to ask the media to inform with truth, respecting the dignity due to every human,” so said the President of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, Archbishop John Foley, at a meeting regarding “Information and protection of children’s rights” held in Messina, Italy yesterday.

The Eucharist is the font of all Christian joy, Pope Benedict says

Confession provides a spiritual spring which provides energy for defeating evil

Vatican City, 16th March 2007 (CNA) - Receiving participants in an annual course on the internal forum and confidentiality within Sacramental Confession, promoted by the Apostolic Penitentiary, at midday today, Pope Benedict XVI reemphasized the tremendous importance of the Sacrament of Penance.

Spanish bishops denounce blasphemous pornographic catalogue

Madrid, 15th March 2007 (CNA) - Archbishop Santiago Garcia of Merida-Badajoz and Bishop Amadeo Rodriguez of Plasencia have strongly denounced the tax-payer funded publication of a catalogue containing pornographic images of Christ, the Virgin Mary and the Saints.

Cardinal Dziwisz reveals secret of widespread devotion to John Paul II

Vatican City, 15th March 2007 (CNA).- In the wake of the recent announcement of the April 2nd presentation of the diocesan phase of John Paul II’s cause for beatification, the late Pope’s former secretary, Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz of Krakow, revealed that in his judgment, the secret of the widespread devotion to him is the love he showed for man and for the infinite, as well as his love for the people.

USCCB president welcomes Pope’s latest exhortation on Eucharist

Washington DC, 15th March 2007 (CNA) - The president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a statement welcoming Pope Benedict XVI’s apostolic exhortation on the Eucharist, saying it clearly reflects the mind of the bishops who attended the 2005 world synod on the Eucharist. The document was released by the Vatican on March 13.

Vatican puts stop to work of Jesuit Liberation theologian

Vatican City, 14th March 2007 (CNA) - Wednesday morning, a day earlier than expected, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith published a Notification concerning certain works of Fr. Jon Sobrino S.J. According to the note, these works "contain propositions which are either erroneous or dangerous and may cause harm to the faithful."

Pope confirms “obligatory character” of celibacy in the Latin Tradition

Vatican City, 13th March  2007 (CNA) - In his Apostolic Exhortation on the Eucharist today, Pope Benedict XVI confirmed that priestly celibacy remains obligatory in the Latin tradition as a means of attempting to achieve, “complete configuration to Christ.”

Vatican releases “Sacramentum Caritatis” with press conference

Vatican City, 13th March 2007 (CNA) - In the Holy See Press Office at 11.30 a.m. today, the presentation took place of the post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation "Sacramentum Caritatis," on the Eucharist, source and summit of the life and mission of the Church. Participating in the press conference were Cardinal Angelo Scola, patriarch of Venice, Italy and relater general of the 11th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, as well as Archbishop Nikola Eterovic, secretary general of the Synod of Bishops.

Diocese of Rome concludes examination of John Paul II’s holiness

Rome, 11th March 2007 (CNA) - The Diocese of Rome has concluded its examination of the life and virtues of the Servant of God, Pope John Paul II.  Cardinal Camillo Ruini, Vicar General for the diocese, announced on Saturday that the important investigation had been concluded and will be marked by a ceremony at Rome’s Cathedral, the Basilica of St. John Lateran on April 2nd, the AP reports.

All mankind must choose between continued conversion or death, Pope says

Vatican City, 11th March 2007 (CNA) - Thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square on a sunny Spring-like day to hear the words of Pope Benedict XVI at his weekly Angelus address.  The Holy Father examined the mortality of all men and reminded those present that true conversion is the only path to conquering evil and death.

Kremlin confirms upcoming meeting between Pope Benedict and President Putin

Vatican City, 6th March 2007 (CNA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has an official meeting scheduled with Pope Benedict XVI during the head-of-state's upcoming trip to Italy and Greek, Russian news sources have confirmed.  The Holy Father and the Russian President will meet on March 13th.

Cardinal Pell speaks on dialogue with Anglicans, Muslims

Sydney, 5th March 2007 (CNA) - Sensational and inaccurate media reports about a document describing the status of Anglican-Roman Catholic dialogue regarding Christian unity are “not helpful to the task of preserving and strengthening inter-church relations,” said Cardinal George Pell over the weekend.

Prayer a question of “life or death,” Pope Benedict says

Vatican City, 4th March 2007 (CNA) - Speaking from his window overlooking St. Peter’s Square this Sunday.  Pope Benedict XVI reflected on the tremendous importance of prayer in the life of Christians, especially in light of today's Gospel readings.

Inherent dignity and worth of world’s women must be upheld

United Nations, 3rd March 2007 (CNA) - Speaking yesterday to the United Nations’ 51st session of the Commission on the Status of Women, Archbishop Celestino Migliore, Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the U.N. noted the tremendous strides which must still be made in stomping out human trafficking and new forms of “slavery” directed at women.  The archbishop also decried the gross undervaluing of women in many parts of the world and the resulting use of abortion to destroy girl babies.

“Amazing Grace” calls us to conversion this Lent, Archbishop Chaput says

Denver, 2nd March 2007 (CNA) - Addressing a new film focused on the traditional hymn “Amazing Grace,” in his weekly column, Denver’s Archbishop Charles Chaput pointed to the stories of profound conversation found within the movie and emphasized mankind’s need for continued conversion during the Lenten Season.

Vatican website to include Chinese translations of papal speeches

Rome, 1st March 2007 (CNA) - Chinese translations of the pope's speeches and writings are soon to be posted on the Vatican website.

Think beyond "obvious" Lenten sacrifices, seek silence, Archbishop Chaput says

Denver, 26th February 2007 (CNA) - Speaking to the Catholic News Agency during this, the first week of Lent, Denver Archbishop Charles Chaput said today that Catholics can make the most of their time of preparation for Easter, by thinking past the obvious things to “give up,” by offering their time in service, and especially by seeking times of silence.  The archbishop also noted how the interior transformations of Lent can equip Catholics to better live their faiths in the public square.

Film on 'Jesus family burial site' is just PR, says archeology expert

New York, 26th February 2007 (CNA) - An Israeli archeologist says a new documentary film, which claims that a burial cave uncovered 27 years ago in Talpiot, Jerusalem, is the tomb of Jesus of Nazareth and his family, is just hype.

Look upon the crucified Christ, Pope Benedict encourages

Vatican City, 25th February 2007 (CNA) - Pope Benedict XVI used his first Sunday Angelus address of the Lenten Season to discuss this year's Lenten theme. Chosen from a small part of the Gospel of St. John, the message "refers to the messianic prophesy of Zechariah: "They shall look upon Him Whom they have pierced" (John 19, 37).

Pope Benedict emphasizes importance of new religious movements need for a balanced priestly life

Rome, 23rd February 2007 (CNA) - During a meeting held yesterday morning in the Vatican with pastors of the diocese of Rome, the Holy Father answered a number of questions addressed to him by priests on numerous matters.  During the discussion the Holy Father told his priests to do their best to support new ecclesial movements and emphasized the need to find a healthy balance between their pastoral and spiritual lives.  The Pontiff went so far as to confess his own preference for morning prayer time.

Conversion of the heart is at the center of Lent, Pope says

Rome, 21st February 2007 (CNA) - Celebrating Ash Wednesday Mass at the ancient Roman Basilica of Santa Sabina this afternoon, Pope Benedict XVI emphasized that conversion of the heart lies at the center of Lent. The Holy Father said that during the Season of Lent, which starts today, Christians should focus on continually converting their hearts to God.

Anglican Communion sends U.S. Episcopal Church ultimatum on homosexuality

London, 20th February 2007 (CNA) - Leaders of the worldwide Anglican Communion, meeting this week in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, have issued an ultimatum to the Episcopal Church of the United States, demanding an end to the appointment of gay clergy and the blessing of same-sex couples.

Christians in Holy Land must fast, grow in love throughout Lent, says Latin Patriarch

Jerusalem, 20th February 2007 (CNA) - The Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, Michel Sabbah, said Lent reminds Christians in the Holy Land that military occupation, the limitation of freedom, the lack of security, and violation of the laws can be turned into an opportunity for new life.

Priests confessors are “active instruments of divine mercy,” Pope reminds in address on Sacrament of Penance

Vatican City, 19th February 2007 (CNA) - Today in the Vatican, the Pope received Cardinal James F. Stafford, major penitentiary of the Apostolic Penitentiary, prelates and officials of that tribunal, and those priests and prelates who hear confessions at the basilicas of Rome.  The Holy Father reminded those gathered and all priests of their role as transmitters of the mercy of God to the world.

Holy Father recounts Jesus’ “manifesto” of love

Vatican City, 18th February 2007 (CNA).- Pope Benedict XVI's weekly Angelus address focused on some of "the strongest words of Jesus: 'Love your enemies.'" According to the Holy Father, this teaching amounts to a "manifesto presented to all, to which He demands adherence on behalf of all His disciples."

Vatican Prefect for Clergy reemphasizes the value of priestly celibacy

Vatican City, 14th February 2007 (CNA) - In an article published this Wednesday by the daily edition of L' Osservatore Roman, Cardinal Claudio Hummes, Prefect of the Congregation for Clergy, defended the importance of priestly celibacy for the Church, qualifying it as "a precious gift from Christ."  

Spiritual poverty is worse than material poverty, Pope’s message says

Vatican City, 13th February 2007 (CNA) - To celebrate the presentation of Pope Benedict XVI’s Lenten message, a press conference was held today at the Vatican.  Speaking at the conference were Archbishop Paul Josef Cordes, President of the Pontifical Council "Cor Unum," and Fr. Oreste Benzi, president of the John XXIII Foundation.  Archbishop Cordes noted that through his message this year, the Pope is decrying the poverty of God’s presence in today’s world, saying that, “the absence of God is worse than material poverty.”

The world must rediscover riches of Natural Law, Benedict says

Vatican City, 13th February 2007 (CNA) - Late yesterday morning, the Holy Father received in audience participants in an international congress on Natural Law, being promoted by the Pontifical Lateran University.

Number of world’s Catholics remains steady, number of priests grows slightly

Vatican City, 12th February 2007 (CNA) - Monday morning, Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B. presented the Holy Father with the 2007 edition of the "Annuario Pontificio," or pontifical yearbook.  According to the stats compiled in the new book, the percentage of the world which is Catholic remained unchanged, while the number of priests slightly increased.

You are never alone, Pope tells the world’s sick

Vatican City, 12th February 2007 (CNA) - At the conclusion of the 15th annual World Day of the Sick, Pope Benedict XVI addressed a large group of infirm pilgrims who had gathered in St. Peter’s Basilica for a late Sunday Mass with Cardinal Camillo Ruini.  The Holy Father reiterated themes from his weekly Angelus message, encouraging the pilgrims to offer their sufferings to the Father and to remember that Christ and the Christian community are with them.

Pontiff highlights importance and vitality of new movements and charisms

Vatican City, 8th February 2007 (CNA) - The Pope today received participants in the annual meeting of bishops, friends of the "Focolare" movement, who are considering the theme: "Christ crucified and abandoned, light in the cultural night," and participants in the ninth congress of bishops, friends of the Sant'Egidio Community, who are studying the question: "The globalization of love."

Vatican curtly denies Italian media rumors

Vatican City, 8th February 2007 (CNA) - In a brief but firm communiqué Thursday morning, Father Federico Lombardi S.J., Director of the Holy See’s Press Office, denied the validity of a story in the Italian daily "La Stampa."  Lombardi said the story’s purported “revelations” which claimed that the Vatican Secretary of State has agreed to a request from the government of Italy to keep quiet on social issues and that the Holy See is receiving pressure from certain bishops over the appointment of the next President of the Italian Episcopal Conference are both false.

Gospel must be announced where secularism and individualism have taken hold, Holy Father affirms

Abuja, 7th February 2007 (CNA) - In the Vatican Basilica this morning, the Pope met with prelates from the Italian region of Lombardy, who are currently in the course of their "ad limina" visit. Pope Benedict told the bishops along with several groups of Catholics from their various dioceses that it is an ever more important task of all the faithful to announce the Gospel in areas where secularism, individualism, and hedonistic consumerism have taken hold.

Renowned documentary on monastic life makes US debut

New York, 7th February 2007 (CNA) - A feature-length documentary on monastic life, which has had unexpected success on the big screen in Europe and Canada, will be released in theatres across the United States this month.

World Day of the Sick

Vatican City, 6th February 2007 (CNA) - Late yesterday afternoon, the Apostolic Penitentiary published a decree announcing the concession of indulgences to the faithful for the World Day of the Sick, which is celebrated every year on February 11, Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Proclaim the message of the Lord of life, Pope tells consecrated

Vatican City, 5th February 2007 (CNA) - On Saturday Pope Benedict XVI met with various members of congregations, institutes, societies of apostolic life, and new forms of consecrated life, for the occasion of the World Day of Consecrated Life, an annual celebration instituted by John Paul II.

Pope Benedict condemns fan violence surrounding “world of football”

Vatican City, 5th February 2007 (CNA) - A day after the Super Bowl of American football, the Pope tackled an increasingly prevalent problem in the other sport known as football.  Speaking by way of a telegram delivered by his Secretary of State, Pope Benedict XVI condemned all forms of violence surrounding soccer - the sport known as football in the rest of the world.

Schedule for Holy Father’s celebration of Lent and Easter released

Vatican City, 2nd February 2007 (CNA) - The Vatican made public today the liturgical schedule of Pope Benedict XVI between Ash Wednesday, which falls on Feb. 21st this year, and the Fourth Sunday of Easter.  The schedule includes the Pontiff’s traditional Holy Week celebrations, a Pastoral visit within Italy, and a celebration of Pope Benedict’s 80th birthday.

Families themselves must work to protect life and the family, Pope reminds

Vatican City, 4th February 2007 (CNA) - In his Angelus address today, Pope Benedict XVI reminded the thousands of faithful gathered beneath his window in St. Peter’s Square of the tremendous need to respect and defend life, and emphasized the important roll of the Christian family role in today's society.

Milingo seeks guidance of self-proclaimed Messiah

Seoul, 2nd February 2007 (CNA) - Former Catholic Archbishop Emmanuel Milingo has been secretly staying in Seoul to study the theology of the Unification Church, founded by the controversial Rev. Sun-Myung Moon, South Korea’s “The Hankyoreh,” divulged yesterday.

Pope’s UN Rep. stresses need to convert hearts for peace

Geneva, 31st January 2007 (CNA) - Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations at Geneva led an Inter-Religious Service for Peace on at the organization Tuesday evening.  The archbishop told those gathered that the struggle to bring peace in an evermore complex and violent world must begin at the heart of every individual.

Catholic Church in UK faces decision on homosexual adoption

London, 30th January 2007 (CNA) - The Catholic hierarchy in the United Kingdom is facing serious questions today following Prime Minister Tony Blair’s declaration last night that Catholic adoption agencies in the United Kingdom will not be exempt from a new law requiring them to provide children for homosexual couples. While the Church in England and Wales has announced its disappointment at the decision, Scotland’s Catholic hierarchy has already declared that it will not close its adoption programs without a fight.  

Vatican harshly criticizes journalistic manipulation of Confession

Vatican City, 29th January 2007 (CNA) - The Vatican newspaper, "L'Osservatore Romano," has sharply criticized an article published by a weekly Italian newspaper based on a series of false confessions throughout Italy, calling it an "attack on religious sensitivities,” and a breach of “professional ethics.”

Vatican analyst explains why prominent Cardinal opposes Church teaching

Rome, 29th January 2007 (CNA) - Why is Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan, distancing himself from the Church on an issue as critical as that of euthanasia?  Vatican analyst Sandro Magister provides the complex answer to that question in his latest weekly column set to be released tomorrow.

Pope reemphasizes relationship between faith and reason, cites example of St. Thomas Aquinas

Vatican City, 28th January 2007 (CNA) - Pope Benedict XVI used this week's Angelus to return to one of his favorite topics: the relation of Faith and Reason. Citing the example of St. Thomas Aquinas, whose feast day was Sunday, Benedict urged the faithful to remember that faith and reason are not exclusionary principles.

KGB intent on linking Pius XII with Nazis, says former spy

Washington DC, Jan 26, 2007 / 04:18 pm (CNA).- A former high-ranking officer with the KGB claims that the Kremlin and the Russian intelligence agency in the 1960s were set on executing a smear campaign against the Catholic Church, and the main target was Pope Pius XII.

“We are proud to be priests,” Vatican’s new Prefect for Clergy writes

Vatican City, 26th January 2007 (CNA) - The newly appointed Prefect for the Vatican’s Congregation for Clergy, Cardinal Claudio Hummes, released a letter this week, encouraging the world’s priests in their ministry and committing himself to their service.

A Reflection on the Emerging New World Order

In this essay, Canada's best known Catholic novelist, Michael O'Brien, the author of the highly acclaimed Father Elijah: An Apocalypse, begins a serious reflection on the emerging new world order with a whimsical tale demonstrating that the present debate over world government is not an abstraction.

Spiritual Poverty of the West vs. Material Poverty of the East

There was a little nun in Tijuana who had very wise eyes. Their glance was sharp and critical, and the eyebrows over them arched frequently; but the light in them was unmistakable. It was the light of eyes used to gazing in love.

Media must contribute to the formation of children, not the corruption, Pope Benedict affirms

Vatican City, 24th January 2007 (CNA) - Today, on the Feast of St. Francis de Sales, Patron of Journalists, the Vatican made public Pope Benedict XVI’s message for the World Day for Social Communications.  In his message the Holy Father energetically urges the media to aim at contributing to the formation rather than the corruption of children.

Church of England supports Catholic position on homosexual adoption Anglican leader says Catholic Church has right of conscience

London, 25th January 2007 (CNA) - The Church of England has weighed in on the public debate on whether the Catholic Church should be exempt from a gay-rights law that would force 12 Catholic adoption agencies to place children with same-sex couples or close their doors.

Cardinal Bertone emphasizes the efforts of Pope Pius XII to save Jews during the Holocaust

Vatican City, 25th January 2007 (CNA) - During the presentation of a new book chronicling the “anonymous heroes” who worked against the Holocaust during World War II, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Vatican Secretary of State, recalled the exemplary role of Pope Pius XII in the fight against the Nazi’s and in the effort to help those in need, especially the Jews.

Holy Father thrilled upon receiving New Testament manuscript

Vatican City, 24th January 2007(CNA) - Pope Benedict XVI expressed his gratitude and profound satisfaction upon receiving a papyrus containing one of the earliest known transcriptions of the New Testament.  According to an L'Osservatore Romano article, the Holy Father spent time examining the famous Papyrus Bodmer 14-15 this week.

Abbot Pierre, founder of the Emmaus community, dead at 94

Paris, 23rd January 2007 (CNA) - Abbe Pierre, one of the most popular and controversial figures in recent French Catholicism, died Monday at the age of 94 at a Paris hospital.

Benedict says all are called to take part in prayer for Christian unity

Vatican City, 22nd January 2007 (CNA) - On Sunday Pope Benedict XVI commented on the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which is taking place January 18-25.  The Holy Father told the pilgrims gathered below his window that, by way of their prayers, all Christians can take part in the task of ecumenism.

Holy Father to address the Church in China

Vatican City, Jan 20, 2007 / 01:36 pm (CNA).- The Press Office of the Holy See has made public a communication which honors the many bishops, priests, and faithful of China, who have, “without compromise,” maintained full communion with the Pope, “even in times when the cost is grave suffering.”  The communiqué also states that Pope Benedict XVI will soon write a letter to Catholics in China.

Anglican primate calls for end to Catholic monarch ban

Dublin, 19th January 2007 (CNA) - The new Anglican Primate of All Ireland has called for an end to the ban on Catholics becoming the British monarch. In an interview with the Irish Times newspaper, Bishop Alan Harper, said it is now time to "move on."

Italian priests join police in fight against satanic crime

Rome, 19th January 2007 (CNA) - Roman Catholic priests will work with Italian police to tackle a rising tide of crimes linked to satanic worship.

Pope calls all Christians to be courageous in preaching the Gospel

Vatican City, 19th January 2007 (CNA) - This morning in the Vatican, Pope Benedict XVI received an ecumenical delegation from Finland, reminding them that Christians must be courageous in working together to spread the Gospel.

Religious persecution growing worldwide, watchdogs say

Washington DC, 18th January 2007 (CNA) - Religious rights group have underlined that religious persecution is on the rise worldwide and especially in Islamic countries.

Vatican expert previews Pope Benedict XVI’s new book

Rome, 16th January 2007 (CNA)- In an article titled, “The Next Battle For and Against Jesus Will Be Fought by the Book,” Sandro Magister, a Vatican expert who writes for the Italian weekly, L’espresso, has published in five languages the complete preface from Pope Benedict XVI’s new book, “Jesus of Nazareth: From the Baptism in the Jordan to the Transfiguration.”  The upcoming release will be the first of an anticipated two volume set, with the first slated go on sale sometime this spring.  Magister predicts the new book, “will be the best-seller of the year.”

Cardinal Bertone: 2006 Papal Visits plant fertile seeds for the universal Church

Vatican City, 12th January 2007 (CNA) - The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, emphasized that Pope Benedict XVI’s major apostolic trips of 2006, “have set foundations and have planted very fertile seeds in the international community, in local churches, as well as in the Universal Church." 

God will call us to account for the good and bad we have done our brothers and sisters

Vatican City, 12th January 2007 (CNA) - In keeping with an annual tradition, Benedict XVI today received members of the General Inspectorate for Public Security at the Vatican, to whom he expressed his "appreciation and recognition" for their service.  While speaking to those entrusted with securing the Vatican for visitors, the Pope recalled that all men and women are “called to be the guardians of our fellows.”

Pro-life groups decry House backing for embryonic stem cell research

Washington DC, 12th January 2007 (CNA) - Pro-life and ethics groups across the United States are expressing their disapproval after the U.S. House of Representatives voted on Thursday in favor of extending federal funding for embryonic stem-cell research.  The newly elected, Democratically controlled House’s vote is a move to lift the restrictions President George W. Bush had imposed on such research by veto in 2001.

Social concern can never be separated from announcing the Gospel, Pope says

Vatican City, 10th January 2007 (CNA) - Returning to a catechesis on the Apostles and early Saints of the Church, Pope Benedict focused his Wednesday General Audience on the figure of St. Stephen.  The Holy Father told some 7,000 pilgrims gathered in the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, that Stephen, who was a Deacon and the first Martyr of the Church, demonstrates that Christians should always act in a socially charitable way, while never shying away from preaching the Gospel.  

Vatican ethicists praise possibilities raised by amniotic stem cell breakthrough

Pope notes international challenges for the new year: hunger, arms races, and attacks on human life

Vatican City, 8th January 2007 (CNA) - Meeting with diplomats from around the world today in the Vatican’s Regal Room, Pope Benedict XVI addressed several of the most significant problems facing the world today: hunger, the continued arms race, an influx of refugees, and various attacks on human life.  The Holy Father traditionally meets with the members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Vatican at the start of the new year.