Pope Leo XIV plans to hold an extraordinary consistory of cardinals in January 2026 to discuss important Church matters, with the specific agenda and attendees yet to be announced, amid ongoing discussions about Church reforms and collegiality.
Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has passed away. During his leadership, he focused on church reforms including safeguarding children, promoting diversity in leadership, and expanding global temple construction. He also worked to address past racial policies and foster partnerships with organizations like the NAACP. Nelson was a former surgeon known for his precision and obedience to church covenants, and he led the church through significant changes and growth.
Pope Leo XIV, in his first interview, discussed his stance on LGBTQ+ inclusion, Vatican-China relations, the sex abuse crisis, U.S. immigration issues, women's leadership in the church, and Vatican finances, emphasizing dialogue, respect, and ongoing study without immediate doctrinal changes.
Pope Leo XIV is taking a six-week summer vacation at Castel Gandolfo to reflect on pressing church issues such as appointments, finances, clergy abuse cases, liturgical divisions, and potential travel plans, while maintaining a quiet and reserved approach to his papacy.
Pope Leo XIV is taking a six-week summer vacation at Castel Gandolfo to reflect on pressing church issues such as appointments, finances, abuse scandals, liturgical divisions, and future travel plans, while maintaining a quiet, reserved approach to his papacy.
Pope Francis opened the Vatican summit on the future of Catholicism, urging participants to reject doctrinal rigidity and embrace an open and welcoming vision of the church. The synod will address hot button issues such as clergy abuse, women's ministry, LGBTQ inclusion, and church authority. The pope cautioned against relying on human strategies and ideological battles, emphasizing unity and friendship. He drew a parallel to the Second Vatican Council and called for a church that looks mercifully at humanity. The synod, which will take place in two sessions, is expected to be the most contentious of Francis' papacy.
Pope Francis opened the Vatican summit, urging participants to reject doctrinal rigidity and embrace an open and welcoming vision of the Catholic Church. The month-long Synod of Bishops will address hot-button issues such as clergy abuse, women's ministry, LGBTQ inclusion, and church authority. The pope cautioned against relying on human strategies and ideological battles, emphasizing unity and friendship. He drew a parallel to the Second Vatican Council, which opened the church to the modern world. This synod is expected to be the most contentious of Francis' papacy. The delegates will engage in open conversation and discuss themes of communion, participation, and mission. The pope called for a church that looks mercifully at humanity and welcomes all.
Pope Francis stated that the Catholic Church is open to everyone, including homosexuals, but within the framework of its rules. While the Church does not allow same-sex marriage or blessings for same-sex couples, Francis supports civil legislation that grants same-sex couples rights in areas such as pensions and health insurance. He emphasized the need for ministers to accompany all people, including those not conforming to the rules, with patience and love. Francis has been working towards making the Church more welcoming and less condemning, particularly towards the LGBT community, without changing teachings that encourage chastity for those with same-sex attraction.