New pope calls for Christian witness in world that finds faith ‘absurd’
By Justin McLellan, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — Where Christians are “mocked, opposed, despised or at best tolerated and pitied” is where the Catholic Church’s…
As pope’s casket is sealed, he is remembered for simplicity, humility
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — After an estimated 250,000 people had passed by the body of Pope Francis, lying in…
Poor to welcome pope’s casket to St. Mary Major where simple tomb is ready
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Given the late Pope Francis’ care and concern for the poor, a representative group…
Special terms used during the period between popes
VATICAN CITY — Here is an explanation of some of the terms and practices related to the time between the death of Pope Francis…
Pope’s funeral set for April 26, public viewing April 23-25
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — The funeral Mass of Pope Francis will be celebrated April 26 in St. Peter’s Square,…
In final testament, pope asks for simple burial, prayed for peace
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — In his brief final testament, Pope Francis asked to be buried at Rome’s Basilica…
Precise rules govern what happens in period between popes
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Centuries of experience dealing with the death, or occasional resignation, of a pope has…
U.S. cardinal to play key role until a new pope is elected
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — With the death of Pope Francis April 21, the practical aspects of overseeing the…
Pope’s funeral rites, a celebration of hope, to begin late April 21
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis’ funeral rites, like those for any pope or any Christian, are meant…
With pastor’s touch, Pope Francis preached mercy, embraced ‘peripheries’
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis, who died April 21 at the age of 88 gave new energy to…