After being in the red for the last few years, Vatican finances are back in the black — but a decrease in donations by the faithful means a mixed financial picture for the Vatican. Catholic News Service Rome Bureau Chief John Thavis and Rome correspondent Cindy Wooden report investments and tourism can play a role ...read more

A report from a Vatican-sponsored working group is examining the environmental issues of greenhouse gas emissions, reforestation, air pollution, and global warming. In this week’s Vatican Report, Catholic News Service’s Rome correspondent Cindy Wooden and Rome Bureau Chief John Thavis discuss the Pontifical Science Academy’s findings, and how it relates to what the Church teaches. ...read more

The day October 22nd has a storied history. A parliamentary committee chose the design that would become the Canadian flag. The Supremes became the first all-female music group to have a number one selling album. Toastmasters was established. Some even speculate that Harry Houdini’s physical encounter with a student in Montreal on that day eventually ...read more

It’s the perfect Lenten reading: Jesus of Nazareth – Holy Week: From the Entrance into Jerusalem to the Resurrection.  The followup to Pope Benedict XVI’s first volume on our Lord is now available.  Catholic News Service’s Cindy Wooden and John Thavis offer a review. To download Flash Player please click here ...read more

Pope Benedict XVI proposed a Christian way for engaging the online world with his message for the 45th World Day of Communications. The message, which was released this week, takes the theme Truth, proclamation and authenticity of life in the digital age. Catholic News Service’s Cindy Wooden and John Thavis have the details. To download ...read more

It’s hard to believe that Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to the United Kingdom has come and gone. After months of speculation and negative media, the trip unfolded smoothly and the Holy Father was warmly received by the majority of people. In this week’s Catholic News Service Vatican Report, Cindy Wooden and John Thavis review the ...read more