Pope Francis Urges Church To Embrace Those Who Divorce And Remarry
The headline on the Vatican's official news site makes the point clearly: "Pope: divorced and remarried people not excommunicated."
Roman Catholic Church
Vatican Establishes Tribunal To Investigate Bishops In Abuse Cases
Pope Francis sets up a tribunal to hear cases against senior clergy accused of not protecting children who were abused by priests. A victims' group says the Vatican isn't going far enough.
Prosecutor Charges Minnesota Archdiocese With Turning 'Blind Eye' To Abuse
The six gross misdemeanor charges and a related civil complaint stem from abuse by former St. Paul priest Curtis Wehmeyer.
Raul Castro Says Pope Inspiring Him To Return To Church
The Cuban leader, who went to Jesuit schools as a child, says he might "resume praying and turn to the Church again" if Francis "continues in this vein."
Archdiocese Of St. Paul-Minneapolis Files Chapter 11
Facing more than a dozen claims of sexual abuse by priests, the archdiocese says it needs protection to reorganize. Eleven other U.S. dioceses have filed bankruptcy since 2004.
Pope Announces 20 New Cardinals, With Homelands From Myanmar To Mexico
Some of the prelates come from countries that have never before been represented at such a high level in the Catholic Church — including Tonga and Cape Verde.
Pope Francis And His Gift For Blending The Spiritual And The Political
Despite detractors within the church, Pope Francis' emphasis on humility and mercy has won him strong support worldwide. He has addressed thorny issues such as Vatican finances and clerical sex abuse.
Vatican Bishops Scrap Opening To Gays, Divorced Members
Earlier this week an interim summary of the synod on family issues included conciliatory language on gays and on the taking of holy communion for divorced church members.
What They're Saying: Vatican's New Tolerance On Gays And The Divorced
We take a look at viewpoints from the Catholic and secular media about a stunning interim report released by a synod of bishops meeting at the Vatican.
In 'Season Of Mercy,' Will Vatican Rethink Communion For Divorcees?
Pope Francis hasn't ruled out changing church doctrine that bars divorced and remarried Catholics from receiving Holy Communion. There are fierce opponents, while others favor simplifying annulment.