NATION/WORLD

Pope Francis updated the "Fundamental Law of Vatican City State," opening the possibility that laypeople can be members of its governing commission and emphasizing that the independence of the city-state is essential for the mission of the Holy See.

Although she died centuries ago, the English mystic Julian of Norwich continues to remind people of the importance of "faith in God's loving providence and holiness of life expressed in generous service to our brothers and sisters in need," Pope Francis said.

St. Francis Xavier offers the faithful, especially young people who are itching to make a difference in the world, a wonderful example of how to find courage in prayer and spread the joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis said.

The Vatican has pulled from circulation a World Youth Day stamp of Pope Francis with young people in an image that resembles propaganda from Portugal's former dictatorship.

The Catholic Church must combat clericalism among its ranks by giving authority to a "responsible and reliable" laity, the head of the Vatican's development dicastery said.

The Ascension of the Lord into heaven means Jesus is there with his Father to intercede on behalf of the faithful, Pope Francis said.

The beauty of the Christian faith lies not in its theological explanations but in the lives of people who dedicate themselves to prayer, charity and sharing the Gospel, Pope Francis said.

Pope Francis formally recognized the martyrdom of an Italian priest shot by Nazi soldiers after they discovered he was helping his parishioners hide about 100 Jews.

Catholics who have immigrated to Italy or are living there for work or study help show the universality of the Catholic Church, a Rome pastor said as he welcomed bishops and faithful from Africa and Latin America to the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and Martyrs, a Rome church designed by Michelangelo.

Pope Francis will visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Fátima during his trip to Portugal for World Youth Day 2023, the Vatican said.