Pope Leo XIV addressed young people in Rome, emphasizing the importance of seeking truth, authentic relationships, and the transformative power of prayer, especially in overcoming loneliness and superficial connections in the digital age.
Micah Kim, the 5-year-old son of Catholic speaker Paul Kim, passed away after a severe medical emergency caused by the flu, despite successful surgery and medical efforts. The family received widespread prayer support from the Catholic community worldwide, and Paul Kim expressed faith and hope amid their grief, acknowledging Micah's eternal life in God's presence.
Pope Leo, in his first Angelus address of 2026, called for global and familial peace through prayer, emphasizing hope, conversion of hearts to God, and the example of Mary and Christ's Heart as models for transforming pain into peace and forgiveness.
Pope Leo XIV visited the Basilica of St. Mary Major to pray at the tomb of Pope Francis and the Salus Populi Romani icon, paying homage and offering prayers for his predecessor and recent deceased church leaders, while also celebrating a Mass for Pope Francis and others who have passed away.
Barry Windham asked fans to pray for WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda, who has been moved to hospice care amid family tragedies, including the loss of his son Bray Wyatt and ongoing health struggles.
Justin Bieber's mother, Pattie Mallette, publicly prays for his well-being and healing on social media, expressing her support and blessings, shortly after Bieber shares a philosophical reflection on grace and effort.
Dolly Parton's sister has called for prayers as the singer, who is dealing with health problems and has postponed her Las Vegas residency, remains optimistic about her recovery and future performances.
Dolly Parton's sister Freida has called on fans to pray for Dolly, who is taking a break from the spotlight due to health challenges, including recent procedures and recovery from a kidney stone, amid her ongoing grieving process after her husband's death.
Dolly Parton's sister Freida is praying for her amid health concerns that led to the postponement of her Las Vegas residency, with fans encouraged to pray for her recovery and strength.
Charlie Kirk was shot during an event at Utah Valley University, with a suspect in custody; officials and politicians are calling for prayers for his recovery.
President Donald Trump called on Americans to gather in groups of 10 for weekly prayers in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the United States, raising discussions about the separation of church and state.
President Trump announced plans to direct the Education Department to support and promote prayer and religious expression in public schools, aiming to strengthen religious liberty and Judeo-Christian principles, despite existing legal restrictions on state-sponsored prayer.
Country singer Drake White and his wife are mourning the loss of their newborn daughter, Della Elizabeth White, who died shortly after birth at 29 weeks. The country music community has expressed support and prayers for the family during this difficult time, as White shared heartfelt messages and scripture on social media. The couple had conceived Della via IVF, and they have a son named William Hawk. White has faced health challenges in recent years, including a stroke, and his wife has battled health issues as well.
Vice President JD Vance visited Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis after a tragic shooting that left two children dead and injured 21, including a girl who protected her younger friend. During the visit, families urged him to support bipartisan gun legislation, and he called for prayers and action to address mass shootings. Protestors gathered outside, and the community emphasized unity and hope through prayer.
Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sorrow over a tragic school shooting in Minneapolis that resulted in two deaths and 20 injuries, condemning the 'pandemic of arms' and calling for an end to violence and the promotion of peace and dialogue.