The morning after his election, the first item on Pope Francis’ agenda was visiting the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where he left a bouquet of flowers for Our Lady. He returns to the basilica on Saturday, once again with a Marian intention. The pontiff will pray the rosary, which will be broadcast live on ...read more

Pope Francis greets Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI inside the doorway of the Mater Ecclesia monastery in Vatican City. Benedict XVI returned to Vatican City for the first time after his resignation became official on February 28, 2013. — Photo courtesy of L’Osservatore Romano Photographic Service ...read more

Below is the full text of Pope Francis’ catechesis at today’s General Audience. The transcript and translation of the Holy Father’s talk are provided by Vatican Radio. Dear brothers and sisters, Good Day! Today, May 1st, we celebrate Saint Joseph the Worker and begin the month traditionally dedicated to Our Lady. In our encounter this ...read more

For forty-four young people, Sunday will be one of the most (if not the most) important days of their lives.  Pope Francis will confer the Sacrament of Confirmation on each of them at a Mass in St. Peter’s Square. (The above photo from 2012 shows then-Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio leading a confirmation service in a poor ...read more

To say that the election of Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio as pope was a surprise is an understatement. Since his name was announced on the balcony of St. Peter’s square March 13, there has been great interest in what he has to say and teach on matters of the faith. There are several sources of information ...read more

As a 22 year old, it is always humbling to have to ask for money from those whom I know, in many cases, are struggling financially themselves. There seems to be a financial need everywhere these days – coming to us from places like our homes, workplaces and places of worship. It is sobering to ...read more

A reflection on Isaiah 6:1-2; 3-8; 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 and Luke 5:1-11 Tomorrow the Church marks the 50th World Day of Prayer for Vocations, a day that is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Easter, traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday. As I reflect on the readings for Good Shepherd Sunday (Acts 13:14,43-52; Revelation 7:9,14-17 ...read more

Pope Francis chose a fitting day to preside at the first priestly ordinations of his pontificate. Tomorrow, April 21, is the 50th World Day of Prayer for Vocations, an occasion instituted by Servant of God Paul VI in the midst of the Second Vatican Council. The fourth Sunday of Easter also represents Good Shepherd Sunday, ...read more

This afternoon, Pope Francis celebrated mass at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside-the-Walls in Rome. Published below is the unofficial translation of his homily. For repeat broadcast times of the full liturgy, visit S+L’s Easter page. Dear Brothers and Sisters! It is a joy for me to celebrate Mass with you in this Basilica. I ...read more

Pope Francis has been a surprise in many ways. Alot of things he does are things we are not use to seeing in a pope. One of the things that makes this pope different from other popes: he is a Soccer fan.  He is even a card carrying member of the athletic association where he ...read more