AdVaticanum
Articles by AdVaticanum
Vatican rejects reports that Rupnik has been acquitted
The Vatican has dismissed reports that Father Marko Ivan Rupnik has been acquitted in his canonical criminal trial, insisting the judges have reached no decision and are still examining evidence submitted from dioceses, the Jesuits, interested parties and the press
Jul. 22, 2026 · The Vatican
Australian bishop goes on trial over 26 charges involving Aboriginal men
The trial of Bishop Christopher Saunders has begun in Western Australia. The retired Bishop of Broome, 76, has pleaded not guilty to 26 charges relating to the alleged sexual abuse of three young Aboriginal males between 2008 and 2017
Jul. 22, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pope Leo makes private pilgrimage to Monte Cassino
Pope Leo XIV made an unannounced pilgrimage to the Abbey of Monte Cassino to pray at the tomb of St Benedict and join the Benedictine community for Sext and lunch before returning to Castel Gandolfo
Jul. 21, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Vatican financial watchdog signs cooperation agreement with Germany’s central bank
The Vatican’s financial watchdog has signed a cooperation agreement with Germany’s central bank following Pope Leo XIV’s recent overhaul of the authority’s governing statutes. The memorandum of understanding was signed on 17 July at Palazzo San Carlo by ASIF Director Federico Antellini Russo and Dr Burkhard Balz, a member of the Executive Board of the […]
Jul. 21, 2026 · The Vatican
SSPX Superior General urges faithful to stand firm as canonical battle begins
The Superior General of the Society of Saint Pius X has issued his first direct appeal to the laity since the Vatican declared the Society’s bishops excommunicated. In an internal pastoral letter, Fr Davide Pagliarani tells the faithful to remain steadfast as the SSPX prepares for what it expects will be a lengthy canonical dispute with the Holy See
Jul. 20, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Nemet says Catholic-Orthodox relations have entered a new phase
Cardinal Ladislav Nemet says relations between the Catholic Church and the Serbian Orthodox Church have improved markedly in recent years. He also reflects on reconciliation in the Balkans, the dangers of hate speech and why the Church must avoid clericalisation
Jul. 20, 2026 · Outside the Walls
US bishops say Trump administration should remove IVF from fertility benefits rule
The US Conference of Catholic Bishops has submitted a 17-page response to the Trump administration’s proposed fertility benefits rule, arguing that IVF should be removed and that federal policy should instead support treatments that address the underlying causes of infertility
Jul. 17, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Bishop asks women to stop pursuing Catholic priests
After suspending six priests and introducing reforms across the Diocese of Maralal, Bishop Hieronymus Joya has appealed to women not to pursue relationships with Catholic clergy, defending priestly celibacy and warning that priests remain vulnerable to temptation
Jul. 16, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Vatican Bank appoints Giovanni Boscia as new director general
The Vatican Bank has appointed Giovanni Boscia as its next director general, promoting the current deputy director general following the retirement of Gian Franco Mammì after eleven years in the role. Boscia takes over at the Institute for the Works of Religion as the Holy See’s long-running programme of financial reform continues
Jul. 16, 2026 · The Vatican
Vatican launches healthcare initiative for missionaries and religious outside insurance system
Not all consecrated religious and missionaries are covered by the Vatican’s internal health insurance. A new initiative aims to change that, creating a dedicated healthcare framework built around solidarity rather than employment status
Jul. 15, 2026 · The Vatican
Bishop suspends 15% of priests after diocesan reforms
A bishop has suspended six priests, around 15% of his diocesan clergy, as part of a programme of reforms aimed at strengthening discipline, financial oversight and governance within the diocese
Jul. 14, 2026 · Outside the Walls
French bishop says Catholic MPs backing assisted suicide should not receive Communion
A French bishop has warned Catholic lawmakers who support assisted suicide legislation should not receive Holy Communion. The intervention was made by Bishop Marc Aillet of Bayonne just days before members of the French National Assembly are expected to vote on the government’s controversial end-of-life bill on 15 July. Speaking to France Catholique on 7 […]
Jul. 14, 2026 · Outside the Walls
At Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV says Church must remain open to all
Pope Leo XIV has said the Catholic Church must remain open to everyone, especially those living on society’s margins, during a lunch with 200 poor and vulnerable people at Castel Gandolfo
Jul. 14, 2026 · The Vatican
Controversial retired archbishop defends SSPX after excommunications
Controversial retired Archbishop Jan Paweł Lenga has publicly defended the SSPX following the excommunications over its episcopal consecrations
Jul. 11, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal McElroy offers new explanation for removing Washington exorcist
Cardinal Robert McElroy has offered a different explanation for his removal of Monsignor Stephen Rossetti as an exorcist for the Archdiocese of Washington, differing from the one given in the archdiocese’s original announcement
Jul. 10, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Apostolic administrator asks people not to speculate over murdered bishop
The apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Quelimane has urged people not to speculate about the murder of Bishop Osório Citora Afonso, warning against unverified allegations and calling for the legal process to be allowed to run its course
Jul. 9, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Redemptorists clarify relationship with Papa Stronsay before consecration
The Redemptorists have issued a public statement concerning the Papa Stronsay-based Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer ahead of the community’s planned episcopal consecration later this month
Jul. 9, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Cupich on synodality
Cardinal Blase Cupich has described synodality as “the Church learning to dance”. Writing in the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano, the Archbishop of Chicago argued that “both dance and synodality require a shift from individual performance to collective harmony”, transforming individuals into “a single, moving body”. The reflection, published on 7 July under the title Synodality […]
Jul. 9, 2026 · The Vatican
Archbishop Gänswein says now is the ‘kairos’ to lift Traditionis Custodes restrictions
Archbishop Georg Gänswein has said he believes “now is the kairos” to lift the restrictions imposed by Traditionis Custodes. Speaking in an interview with Il Giornale, Pope Benedict XVI’s former personal secretary also reflected on Benedict’s hopes for the older Roman Rite and recalled the pain he witnessed after the 2021 motu proprio
Jul. 8, 2026 · The Vatican
US calls for immediate release of detained Nicaraguan bishop
The United States has called for the immediate release of Bishop Juan Abelardo Mata Guevara after the 80-year-old Nicaraguan prelate was detained by the country’s authorities. The US State Department condemned the detention as arbitrary and accused the Murillo-Ortega government of continuing its persecution of religious leaders
Jul. 8, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Archbishop Coakley calls for simpler presentation of synodality
The president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has called for a simpler presentation of synodality. Speaking after a Vatican meeting with Pope Leo XIV, Archbishop Paul Coakley said synodality must be explained in a way that is readily understood by Catholics in the pews
Jul. 7, 2026 · Outside the Walls
How bishops across the world have responded to the SSPX episcopal consecrations
Following the Vatican’s declaration that the Society of St Pius X has entered into schism, bishops across the US and Europe have begun issuing guidance to clergy and faithful. AdVaticanum has compiled the key statements
Jul. 7, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Koch says reconciliation with SSPX remains possible
Cardinal Kurt Koch has expressed hope that dialogue between the Holy See and the Society of Saint Pius X can one day resume despite the recent episcopal consecrations. Speaking on the Communion podcast, the Prefect for Promoting Christian Unity also questioned whether the current situation can yet be described as a formal schism.
Jul. 6, 2026 · The Vatican
Pope Leo XIV overhauls Vatican financial watchdog with major governance reform
Pope Leo XIV has approved the biggest restructuring of the Vatican’s financial watchdog since its creation in 2010. The reform abolishes ASIF’s president and governing board, places its leadership under direct papal appointment and introduces a new management structure while expanding the authority’s role in overseeing the Holy See’s financial system
Jul. 3, 2026 · The Vatican
LIVE from Écône: First Pontifical Mass of SSPX Bishop Schreiber
Jul. 2, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Fr Davide Pagliarani’s sermon for the 2026 episcopal consecrations in Écône
As the more than four-hour ceremony in which the Society of Saint Pius X consecrated four new bishops draws to a close, AdVaticanum is publishing excerpts from the sermon delivered by Fr Davide Pagliarani, Superior General of the Society of Saint Pius X
Jul. 1, 2026 · Outside the Walls
LIVE from Écône SSPX Consecrations 2026
Jul. 1, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Fr Pagliarani’s letter to Pope Leo XIV over episcopal consecrations
Fr Davide Pagliarani has responded to Pope Leo’s letter regarding the Society of Saint Pius X’s planned episcopal consecrations but stopped short of saying whether the fraternity intends to suspend the ceremony. Responding to the Pope’s personal letter, published by the Vatican on 30 June, the Superior General of the Society thanked the Holy Father […]
Jun. 30, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Mottos and Coats of Arms of new SSPX bishops released
The SSPX has released the episcopal mottos and coats of arms of the four priests who will be consecrated bishops at Écône on 1 July
Jun. 26, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Vatican releases unpublished Benedict XVI homilies
The Vatican has released a collection of previously unpublished homilies preached by Pope Benedict XVI during private Masses as pope and pope emeritus
Jun. 25, 2026 · The Vatican
Bishop of Northampton charged with two counts of rape of girl under 16
The Bishop of Northampton, David Oakley, has been charged with two counts of rape of a girl aged under 16. The alleged offences are said to have taken place between 2000 and 2001 in Staffordshire. He is due to appear at Cannock Magistrates’ Court on 14 August
Jun. 24, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Pizzaballa returns to Gaza with Patriarch Theophilos
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa has returned to Gaza alongside Patriarch Theophilos III in a fresh wartime visit to Holy Family parish
Jun. 24, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal McElroy says Church has “frequently wounded” LGBT Catholics through “judgmentalism and exclusion”
Cardinal Robert McElroy told the Outreach Conference in Washington that the Church has “frequently wounded the LGBT community through judgmentalism and exclusion”, while pointing to Pope Leo XIV and the Synod on Synodality as signs of a new pastoral approach
Jun. 23, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Owensboro Bishop Medley ends parish TLM and grants “permission” for Novus Ordo ad orientem instead
Bishop William Medley of Owensboro has ended the Traditional Latin Mass at a parish in Kentucky and granted “singular permission” for the Novus Ordo to be celebrated ad orientem in its place
Jun. 22, 2026 · Outside the Walls
A novena of Benedict XVI’s greatest homilies and addresses, day 2: the Inauguration Mass
Day two of our novena of Benedict XVI’s greatest homilies and addresses features the homily delivered at the Inauguration Mass of his pontificate, preached in St Peter’s Square just days after his election in April 2005
Jun. 22, 2026 · Catechesis
A novena of Benedict XVI’s greatest homilies and addresses, day 1: Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice
To mark the 75th anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI’s priestly ordination on 29 June, AdVaticanum is publishing a nine-day series of some of the most important homilies and addresses of his public life. Day one begins with the homily Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger delivered at the Mass Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice on 18 April 2005, the day before he was elected Pope
Jun. 21, 2026 · Catechesis
Diocese of St Gallen campaign asks: ‘Shall we pave the way for the first female pope?’
The Diocese of St Gallen says its new “I’m In” campaign is intended to encourage participation in the Church. One poster has attracted particular attention for a question about the possibility of a female pope
Jun. 19, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Aberdeen bishop says Catholics should not attend planned Papa Stronsay consecration
The Bishop of Aberdeen has warned Catholics not to attend the planned episcopal consecration of Fr Michael Mary on Papa Stronsay, saying any such ordination would be unlawful and a grave act of disobedience
Jun. 19, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Founder of Papa Stronsay community to be consecrated bishop by sedevacantists
The founder of the Papa Stronsay-based Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer is set to be consecrated a bishop next month by sedevacantist bishops in Orkney. The ceremony will take place without a papal mandate and follows the community’s embrace of sedevacantism after years in full communion with Rome
Jun. 18, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Archbishop of Milan criticised after LGBT Mass attendee receives Communion in ‘Ah Men’ T-shirt
A Mass celebrated by the Archbishop of Milan for an LGBT Catholic group has attracted criticism after images emerged of a participant wearing a rainbow-themed “Ah Men” T-shirt, a play on the word “Amen”, and later claiming he repeated the phrase while receiving Holy Communion
Jun. 18, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Vatican nuncio says Israeli military activity forced aid convoy to divert in southern Lebanon
Archbishop Paolo Borgia, the Apostolic Nuncio to Lebanon, has described how a humanitarian convoy carrying food, medicine and fuel to isolated Christian communities in southern Lebanon was forced to divert after encountering Israeli military activity near the border
Jun. 16, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Bishop Dominique Rey breaks ranks over Paris church arts festival controversy
Bishop Dominique Rey has become among the first members of the hierarchy to address the controversy surrounding this year’s Nuit Blanche arts festival
Jun. 15, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pope Leo XIV addresses more than 400,000 priests in Feast of the Sacred Heart letter
Pope Leo XIV has addressed more than 400,000 priests worldwide in a letter for the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Day for the Sanctification of Priests
Jun. 14, 2026 · Catechesis
Priest among three detained over murder of Mozambican bishop
A Catholic priest, a security guard and a gardener have been placed in preventive detention as investigators probe the killing of Bishop Osório Citora Afonso of Quelimane. The bishop was shot dead at his residence on 6 June
Jun. 13, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Consecration, canonisation causes and safeguarding votes headline US bishops’ meeting
The US bishops have concluded their Spring Plenary Assembly in Orlando after approving revisions to the Dallas Charter, advancing two sainthood causes and carrying out a national consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Jun. 13, 2026 · Outside the Walls
“The future belongs to God”: US bishops consecrate America to the Sacred Heart
Gathering in Orlando, the Catholic bishops of the United States placed both the Church and the nation under the protection of the Sacred Heart
Jun. 12, 2026 · Outside the Walls
French bishops release itinerary for papal trip
Pope Leo XIV’s visit to France will take him to Paris, Lourdes and Metz from 25 to 28 September. As his apostolic journey to Spain draws to a close, the French bishops have released the first details of the papal itinerary
Jun. 12, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Christian harassment in Israel on course for record year
Reports of harassment against Christians in Israel have risen sharply, according to new figures released by the Religious Freedom Data Center. The Jerusalem-based organisation said it had already documented more than 88 incidents during the first half of 2026, including 63 recorded during the second quarter alone. If the trend continues, the total is expected […]
Jun. 11, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Schneider: Pope Leo “continues” Francis’s reforms
Bishop Athanasius Schneider has said Pope Leo XIV “continues” the course set by Pope Francis, arguing that both pontiffs see recent developments in the Church as a natural consequence of Vatican II. In a recent interview, he also discussed the SSPX, Vatican II and what he described as a doctrinal crisis within the Church.
Jun. 10, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Archbishop Wenski ordains 12 priests for the FSSP
Twelve men have been ordained to the priesthood for the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter in Omaha, Nebraska. Archbishop Thomas Wenski told the new priests that they are called not to “burn out”, but to “burn yourself up” in the service of Christ and His Church
Jun. 10, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Four sentenced to death over 2022 massacre of 41 Catholics at Nigerian church
Four men have been sentenced to death for the 2022 attack on St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, Nigeria, in which 41 worshippers were killed during a Pentecost Mass. The ruling comes almost four years after one of the deadliest attacks on Christians in the country’s recent history
Jun. 10, 2026 · Outside the Walls
SSPX superior says he is ‘astonished’ by Pope Leo XIV’s silence over bishop consecrations
The Superior General of the SSPX has said he is “astonished” that Pope Leo XIV has not personally responded to the society’s request for talks ahead of planned episcopal consecrations on 1 July. Fr Davide Pagliarani also said he still hopes to meet the Pope before consecrations
Jun. 9, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Koch: More Christians martyred today than in the early Church
Cardinal Kurt Koch has said that more Christians are being martyred today than during the first centuries of the Church. Speaking at a pilgrimage for persecuted Christians in Switzerland, he said modern martyrs have created an “ecumenism of blood” that unites believers across denominational divides
Jun. 8, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Bishop Citora Afonso shot dead in Mozambique
Bishop Citora Afonso, Bishop of Quelimane and Apostolic Administrator of Beira, has been found dead after being shot at his episcopal residence in Mozambique. Authorities have opened an investigation into the killing
Jun. 7, 2026 · Outside the Walls
In full: Pope Leo XIV’s homily for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi in Madrid
On the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass before 1.2 million faithful in Madrid and delivered a homily centred on the Eucharist, charity and Spain’s Catholic heritage. Read the full text
Jun. 7, 2026 · Catechesis
30,000 carnations line Madrid streets for Pope Leo XIV’s Corpus Christi procession
More than 30,000 carnations transformed the centre of Madrid as Pope Leo XIV led a Corpus Christi procession attended by an estimated 1.2 million people
Jun. 7, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Patriarch Kirill transfers Metropolitan Hilarion after illegal substance bust
Patriarch Kirill has transferred Metropolitan Hilarion to South America after a search of a vehicle in which he was travelling led to a criminal investigation in the Czech Republic
Jun. 5, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Archbishop Hicks warns New York assisted suicide law begins a “frightening era”
New York’s assisted suicide law will come into force on 5 August. Archbishop Ronald Hicks has warned it marks the beginning of a “new and frightening era” and questioned whether safeguards will remain in place over time
Jun. 4, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal McElroy removes Monsignor Rossetti as exorcist after UFO comments
Cardinal Robert McElroy has removed Monsignor Stephen Rossetti as an exorcist for the Archdiocese of Washington after the priest suggested that many reported UFO sightings could be demonic manifestations. The archdiocese also ended its affiliation with the Saint Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal
Jun. 4, 2026 · Outside the Walls
France drops plan to force priests to break seal of confession
France’s parliament has abandoned plans that would have required Catholic priests to report information heard in confession. The controversial proposal was removed from a child protection bill after opposition from bishops and concerns over religious freedom
Jun. 3, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Fourteen Catholic bishops set to attend UK’s March for Life
Fourteen Catholic bishops will attend this year’s UK’s March for Life, double the number seen in previous years
Jun. 3, 2026
Spanish government orders removal of Cáceres Civil War cross amid heritage battle
The Spanish government has given Cáceres three months to remove the Cross of the Fallen, arguing it is a Francoist symbol incompatible with Spain’s Democratic Memory Law. Local and regional authorities are challenging the order in court and seeking heritage protection for the monument
Jun. 1, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Italian bishop urges Catholics to evangelise Muslims living in Europe
An Italian bishop has called on Catholics to share the Gospel with Muslim migrants and said that failing to proclaim Jesus Christ would amount to a betrayal of the Church’s mission
Jun. 1, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Proposed law could force French priests to break seal of confession
France’s Catholic bishops have urged lawmakers to reject legislation that would require priests to break the seal of confession, stating that “the secrecy of confession is not a privilege for priests, but a right for the faithful”
May 30, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pope Leo XIV grants bishops new powers to dismiss monastery superiors
Pope Leo XIV has granted the Vatican’s Dicastery for Religious the power to authorise diocesan bishops to dismiss monastery superiors in serious disciplinary cases
May 29, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Ghana responds to Magnifica Humanitas
Ghana has praised Pope Leo XIV’s apology for the Catholic Church’s historical role in slavery, calling it an “act of moral courage”. In Magnifica Humanitas, the Pope acknowledged that Church authorities and institutions had at times legitimised enslavement and asked forgiveness “in the name of the Church”
May 29, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pope Leo XIV takes direct control of Padre Pio’s hospital after financial crisis
Pope Leo XIV has placed the hospital founded by Padre Pio under direct Vatican control following years of financial turmoil and mounting debt at the Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza in southern Italy.
May 28, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Swiss bishops back nationwide ban on conversion therapy
The Swiss Bishops’ Conference has backed plans for a nationwide ban on conversion therapy, warning that attempts to suppress or alter a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity can amount to “spiritual abuse”
May 28, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Erdő returns to public life
Cardinal Péter Erdő attended Pentecost Mass in Hungary on Sunday, where he was greeted with prolonged applause after months of uncertainty over his condition
May 27, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Vienna’s controversial cathedral rector to step down after 30 years
The Archdiocese of Vienna has confirmed that Fr Toni Faber will step down as rector of St Stephen’s Cathedral in 2027. The priest has long attracted attention for his media profile, comments on celibacy and support for blessings for same-sex couples
May 27, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Creator of Magisterium AI speaks to AdVaticanum about Magnifica Humanitas
Matthew Harvey Sanders, founder of Magisterium AI, tells AdVaticanum that Pope Leo XIV’s Magnifica Humanitas has set a new benchmark for how Catholics should approach artificial intelligence, warning against treating AI as if it possesses conscience or moral interiority
May 27, 2026 · Culture
Global reactions pour in after Pope Leo XIV’s AI encyclical
Politicians, bishops and technology leaders across the United States, Britain and Canada have begun responding to Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas
May 26, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Archbishop accuses Papua documentary makers of “one-sided” propaganda
Archbishop Petrus Canisius Mandagi has accused the makers of a controversial documentary on development projects in Papua of producing “one-sided” propaganda
May 24, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Germany’s bishops continue to push for women deacons
Germany’s bishops are continuing to press Rome on women deacons. Bishop Franz Jung has said that Pope Leo XIV received a “very clear vote in favour” from the country’s episcopal conference following the Katholikentag gathering in Würzburg
May 22, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Three monks flee Papa Stronsay monastery
Three monks secretly left the Transalpine Redemptorists’ monastery on Papa Stronsay by boat after allegedly arranging their departure with the Diocese of Aberdeen without informing superiors
May 22, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Spain’s religious orders turn to professional investment managers
Religious orders and dioceses across Spain are increasingly turning to professional investment managers and ethically screened funds as ageing communities, falling vocations and rising maintenance costs force Catholic institutions to modernise their finances
May 21, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Armenian Church says Pope Leo XIV discussed possibility of a “Third Vatican Council”
The Armenian Apostolic Church has said that Pope Leo XIV and Catholicos Aram I discussed the possibility of convening a “Third Vatican Council” during a private meeting at the Vatican focused on Christian unity, Artsakh and the Middle East
May 21, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Fake priest seeks forgiveness and asks to return to Catholic Church
A man previously accused of falsely presenting himself as a Catholic priest has sought forgiveness and asked to return to full communion with the Church
May 19, 2026 · Outside the Walls
German Synodal Conference delayed
Germany’s planned Synodal Conference is unlikely to meet this November as the Vatican delays approval over its statutes
May 19, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Paris Olympics performer Barbara Butch to direct installations inside Paris churches
Barbara Butch, the DJ and activist who used the Olympics opening ceremony in 2024 to mock Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, is set to direct a series of immersive art installations inside churches across the French capital during this year’s Nuit Blanche festival
May 18, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Vatican and US embassy clarify Iran ambassador’s papal honour
The Vatican and the United States Embassy to the Holy See have issued clarifications after Iranian media reports claimed Pope Leo XIV had personally granted a special honour to Iran’s ambassador to the Holy See
May 15, 2026 · The Vatican
Argentina’s bishops warn middle class is turning to Church charities in economic crisis
Argentina’s Catholic bishops have warned that worsening economic conditions are driving growing numbers of middle-class families to seek help from Church charities
May 14, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Catholic diocese fights Trump administration over seizure of land close to Mount Cristo Rey
Diocese of Las Cruces has launched a legal battle against the Trump administration after federal authorities moved to seize Church-owned land near Mount Cristo Rey on the United States-Mexico border
May 13, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Emil Paul Tscherrig, first non-Italian nuncio to Italy, dies aged 79
Cardinal Emil Paul Tscherrig, the first non-Italian to serve as Apostolic Nuncio to Italy and San Marino, has died at the age of 79. The Swiss diplomat served the Holy See across four continents during a diplomatic career spanning almost five decades and later took part in the 2025 conclave as a cardinal elector
May 12, 2026 · The Vatican
Canary Islands bishop says politicians must stop using migration “to win votes” ahead of papal visit
Bishop José Mazuelos Pérez of the Canary Islands has urged Spain’s political leaders to stop “playing politics” with immigration ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s expected visit to the country. The bishop warned against ideological polarisation, criticised the handling of migrant policy and said the Pope would call for unity and “the most humane solutions possible”
May 12, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Dutch Bishop Rob Mutsaerts seriously injured in car crash
Auxiliary Bishop Rob Mutsaerts of ’s-Hertogenbosch has been seriously injured in a car crash while returning home after hearing confessions. The conservative Dutch bishop reportedly suffered a dislocated hip, fractured pelvis and broken elbow in the accident on 10 May
May 12, 2026 · Outside the Walls
British ambassador-designate to the Holy See faces scrutiny over activism and Mandelson links
Britain’s newly appointed ambassador to the Holy See has voiced strong support for LGBT Pride activism during her time as British Consul General in San Francisco and has retained social media posts featuring the disgraced politician Peter Mandelson
May 11, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pope Leo XIV appoints outspoken immigration bishop to conservative West Virginia diocese
Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop-Designate Evelio Menjivar-Ayala to lead the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston in West Virginia. The Salvadoran-born bishop, who entered the United States illegally as a teenager after fleeing civil war, has become one of the most prominent episcopal voices on immigration in America
May 11, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Blood of Saint Januarius liquefies during Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Naples
The blood of Saint Januarius reportedly liquefied at Naples Cathedral during the visit of Pope Leo XIV, outside the three traditional dates on which the phenomenon is normally expected to occur
May 11, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pakistan Court upholds marriage of a 13-year-old abducted Christian girl
Pakistan’s Catholic bishops have expressed scepticism after the government announced a review of a court ruling which upheld the marriage of a 13 year old Christian girl to the Muslim man accused of abducting and forcibly converting her
May 10, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Sarah says liturgy has been reduced to ‘mere entertainment’
Cardinal Robert Sarah has called for “clarifications” to parts of the interpretation of Vatican II in order to prevent readings that represent “a break with the faith”. The former prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments also warned against liturgy becoming “mere entertainment” and said the Church must resist pressure to conform to the modern world
May 10, 2026 · Outside the Walls
New general director of Legionaries of Christ says the congregation has “much to contribute”
The new general director of the Legionaries of Christ has said the congregation still has “much to contribute and give” to the Church as it continues its process of renewal
May 9, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Rubio in Rome after month of tension between Washington and Vatican
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Pope Leo XIV and senior Vatican officials on Thursday after weeks of tensions between Washington and the Holy See. The Vatican said the talks were “cordial” and focused on conflicts, humanitarian crises and peace efforts
May 8, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Three priests sent from Fréjus-Toulon to leave Diocese of Amiens
Three priests from the Diocese of Fréjus-Toulon will leave parishes in Amiens after disputes over cassocks, Latin liturgy and preaching led to divisions within local communities. Bishop Gérard Le Stang insisted the decision was not based on doctrinal or liturgical positions, but on the need to restore peace and communion
May 7, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Body of missing Papa Stronsay monk found
A body has been recovered from the sea near Orkney in the search for Brother Ignatius, the 24-year-old monk who disappeared from the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer on Papa Stronsay in April. Police Scotland said formal identification has yet to take place, but his family has been informed
May 7, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pope Leo expected to visit France in September
Pope Leo XIV is expected to visit France at the end of September, with Paris and Lourdes among the proposed destinations. The Vatican has yet to formally confirm the journey, which would follow the Pope’s June visit to Spain
May 7, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Pope Leo’s Spain itinerary released ahead of June visit
The Vatican has released the full itinerary for Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic journey to Spain from June 6 to June 12. The visit will include stops in Madrid, Barcelona, Gran Canaria and Tenerife
May 6, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Bishop-designate of Tagbilaran withdraws weeks before ordination
In the Philippines, Father Gerardo Fortich Saco Jr. has withdrawn from his appointment as Bishop of Tagbilaran less than two months after his nomination, halting his scheduled ordination and leaving the diocese without a bishop
May 5, 2026 · Outside the Walls
US seeks to reset Vatican ties as Rubio heads to Rome
Marco Rubio is set to meet Pope Leo XIV and Cardinal Parolin in Rome, as Washington moves to ease tensions with the Vatican after recent clashes over Iran and criticism from President Trump
May 4, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Cardinal Marx denounces “reactionary propaganda” over German Synodal Path
Cardinal Reinhard Marx has criticised what he called “reactionary propaganda” surrounding Germany’s Synodal Path, rejecting claims of a rupture with Rome and defending the direction of the German Church
May 4, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Papal Foundation approves record $15 million in grants for 2026
The Papal Foundation has approved more than $15 million in grants for 2026, its largest total to date, funding over 140 projects worldwide
May 4, 2026 · Outside the Walls
How the Church decides who becomes a saint
The canonisation process is now a structured system handled by Rome. Reforms have allowed more causes to move forward, but questions over scrutiny and rigour remain
May 2, 2026 · Catechesis
Cardinal Müller rejects claims Vatican finances influenced election of Pope Leo XIV
Cardinal Müller has dismissed speculation that financial concerns shaped the election of Pope Leo XIV
May 1, 2026 · The Vatican
Cardinal Farrell warns of global collapse in Catholic baptisms and marriages
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life, says baptisms of young children have fallen by 31.1 per cent and Catholic marriages by 48 per cent since 1991, warning of a weakening transmission of the faith within families
Apr. 30, 2026 · The Vatican
Switzerland drops case against Crasso in setback for Vatican ‘trial of the century’
Swiss prosecutors have dismissed proceedings against Enrico Crasso, rejecting Vatican claims over fund mismanagement and criticising the Secretariat of State’s lack of cooperation
Apr. 30, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte refuses communion to family at altar rail
A Catholic family in North Carolina claims they were refused Holy Communion after approaching the altar rail during a Confirmation Mass, according to a report from the Diocese
Apr. 29, 2026 · Outside the Walls
German Synodal Way figures defend blessings guidance as Pope reiterates opposition
Leaders behind the German Synodal Way have defended new guidance permitting blessings for couples in irregular unions, as Pope Leo states that the Holy See does not support formalised blessings beyond those allowed under Fiducia supplicans
Apr. 29, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Vatican examines appeal over Charlotte liturgical restrictions
The Vatican has confirmed it is reviewing a formal appeal over liturgical decisions in the Diocese of Charlotte, including restrictions placed on the Traditional Latin Mass
Apr. 29, 2026 · Outside the Walls
Channel 4 drama Falling turns celibacy into a hollow spectacle
A new Channel 4 drama will depict a nun and a priest in a romantic relationship, placing Catholic vows at the centre of a storyline that treats celibacy as something to be tested and overcome
Apr. 28, 2026 · Culture
Pope Leo receives Cardinal Simoni in private Vatican audience after Easter appearance
Pope Leo received Cardinal Ernest Simoni in a private Vatican audience on April 27, marking their second meeting since Easter Sunday. The Albanian cardinal, once sentenced to death under communism, presented a relic the Albanian martyrs
Apr. 28, 2026 · The Vatican
Vatican accepts monks’ appeal over Valle de Cuelgamuros plans
The Vatican has accepted an appeal from Benedictine monks at Valle de Cuelgamuros against government plans, with ministers claiming an agreement with Cardinal José Cobo and the Vatican, while bishops deny any sign-off
Apr. 27, 2026 · Culture
Pope Leo reaffirms opposition to blessing of same sex couples in face of Cardinal Marx’s directive
Pope Leo has reaffirmed that the Holy See does not approve the blessing of same sex couples, as Cardinal Marx advances new pastoral provisions in Munich.
Apr. 24, 2026 · The Vatican
Vatican sets out next phase of Synod on Synodality
The Vatican has confirmed the next stage of the Synod on Synodality, with a series of international meetings planned through to 2028
Apr. 23, 2026 · The Vatican
Archbishop Gänswein on Benedict and Francis relationship
In an interview with La Repubblica, Pope Benedict’s longtime personal secretary discusses Benedict XVI and Pope Francis’s relationship, including tensions over the traditional Mass
Apr. 23, 2026 · The Vatican
Cardinal Marx directs Munich priests to offer blessings to same-sex and irregular couples
Cardinal Reinhard Marx has instructed clergy in Munich to offer blessings to couples in irregular unions, including same-sex couples, under new diocesan guidelines based on Fiducia Supplicans
Apr. 23, 2026 · Outside the Walls