A fixture in the Holy See Press Office, John Thavis is now preparing to step down as the Rome Bureau Chief of Catholic News Service. Since 1983, the Minnesota native has covered the Vatican for CNS, where he has become one of the most-read journalists on the Roman scene. In this Witness interview from 2007, ...read more

“Let us begin!” The phrase is a fitting conclusion to the press conference introducing Archbishop Charles Chaput as the new leader of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Catholic News Service’s John Thavis offers the details on today’s significant appointment. You can also view Salt + Light CEO Fr. Thomas Rosica’s Witness interview with the Archbishop here. ...read more

The Vatican has established diplomatic ties with a predominantly Muslim nation, and the Pope appeals for humanitarian aid to Somalia. Catholic News Service Rome Bureau Chief John Thavis reports. ...read more

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

Taking a look at the Vatican’s not-so-Secret Archives, bracing for reaction from China, and sixty artists for sixty years of ordination. Catholic News Service Rome Bureau Chief John Thavis covers all this in today’s Vatican report. ...read more

It’s been a busy week for Pope Benedict, with the highlight being his 60th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood. That milestone is the focus of this week’s Catholic News Service Vatican Report with Rome Bureau Chief John Thavis and Rome correspondent Carol Glatz. ...read more