Palestinian Nuns Among Latest Saints Declared By Pope Francis
Two nuns from 19th-century Palestine were among four sisters who were canonized by the pontiff in a ceremony at St. Peter's Square at the Vatican.
Vatican
Vatican Officially Recognizes State Of Palestine
In a treaty between the two sides, the Holy See switches its diplomatic relations from the Palestine Liberation Organization to the state of Palestine. Israel said it was "disappointed."
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."
Vatican Affirms Plan To Make Missionary Junipero Serra A Saint
The choice of Serra, whom the church sees as an evangelist, has drawn criticism over his role in the California mission system of the 18th century.
Learning About The Quran ... From A Catholic Archbishop
As a young priest, Michael Fitzgerald studied Islam and served the Vatican in Muslim countries. Devoted to promoting Catholic-Muslim understanding, he's now teaching Jesuit students about the Quran.
Vatican Ends Scrutiny Of U.S. Nuns
It's an abrupt conclusion to a five-year doctrinal overhaul of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, the main umbrella group for nuns in the U.S., that began in 2012.
Vatican? More Like Vatican't! Eat Spaghetti, That Is
Pope Francis' doctors are telling him to lay off pasta and get more exercise. But Francis, who reportedly eats a plate of spaghetti every day, has not taken well to the suggestions.
Pope Francis' Financial Reforms Rattle Vatican's Old Guard
As the second anniversary of his papacy nears, Pope Francis has made significant progress in bringing transparency to the Vatican's finances and Cardinal George Pell is carrying out sweeping reforms.
With New Cardinals, Pope Aims To Widen Horizons Of Church Leadership
In a formal ceremony, 20 prelates became princes of the Catholic Church. The new cardinals mark a shift in the church under Pope Francis toward poor nations — and away from Europe.
Oscar Romero, The Murdered Archbishop Who Inspires The Pope
Pope Francis and the Vatican have recognized Romero, who served as archbishop of San Salvador, as a martyr. NPR's Scott Simon reflects on his life, and the possibility he might become a saint.