Hard-hit Italian hospital has no more COVID-19 patients in intensive care

Staff at the Pope John XXIII hospital in Bergamo -- once the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy -- announced they had no more patients with coronavirus in their intensive care unit.

Profiles in Mission: Liz Amaro

She has a personal and professional interest in seeing Our Lady of the Lake School evolve into a full PS-8 campus.

Celibacy is a gift, not an obstacle, indigenous priest says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — While indigenous cultures may have difficulty accepting the concept of celibacy, indigenous candidates for the priesthood are more than capable of understanding that it is a gift from God, said an indigenous priest from Brazil.

Eleven cardinals urge maintaining church rules on marriage

Cardinals coming from Europe, Asia, South America and Africa compiled their essays and personal pastoral reflections in a new book as well as urge extreme caution in considering any plan to readmit to Communion Catholics who have divorced and remarried civilly without having received an annulment.

In Jesus’ heart, the sinner is more important than the sin, pope says

The heart of the sacrament of reconciliation, Pope Francis said, is "not the sins we declare, but the divine love we receive, of which we are ever in need."

Nitty-gritty ministry: Pope in Africa applies Gospel to real life

VATICAN CITY — While Pope Francis’ comments on U.S. criticism of his papacy drew the biggest headlines during his visit to Africa Sept. 4-10, the Masses he celebrated in Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius drew the biggest crowds.

‘When crisis strikes’: On St. Patrick’s Day, Irish bishops offer prayers

DUBLIN (CNS) — With all St. Patrick’s Day parades and events canceled due to restrictions aimed at containing the coronavirus pandemic, most bishops and priests celebrated Masses via webcam or parish radio.

Benedictines of Mary release Easter album [VIDEO]

The Benedictines of Mary are a contemplative order who is once again making some noise by releasing its fourth musical album tomorrow. "Easter at Ephesus" is a 27-track album that features a seasonal array of chants and hymns.

In letter, pope encourages priests dejected by abuse crisis

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis acknowledged the shame and frustration felt by priests who are discouraged by the actions of fellow clergy members who betrayed the trust of their flock through sexual abuse and abuse of conscience and power.

Pope prays for ‘Normandy Summit,’ peace in Ukraine

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis offered prayers for a summit in France that will seek to bring an end to the ongoing war in eastern Ukraine.