Topic: Pope Francis

Pope Francis plans to visit Assisi, home of St. Francis

Pope Francis took his name in recognition of Saint Francis, best known for his work with the poor and his love of animals.

Terrorism & Security Kidnapped Syrian bishops still missing, despite reports otherwise

The churches of two prominent Syrian Orthodox bishops reportedly kidnapped in northern Syria were unable to verify a claim that the pair had been released by their armed rebel captors.

Pope Francis on abortion, gay marriage, priestly sex abuse, and more

Pope Francis tackled many hot-button issues before being elected pope: The practice of shuffling pedophile priests was 'stupid,' feminism is 'machismo in skirts,' priestly celibacy 'could change,' and more.

Boston bombings: City finds healing in small deeds and interfaith gathering

At a crowded interfaith service three days after the Boston Marathon bombings and to loud applause, President Obama praises Bostonians 'resolve' and 'compassion.'

After Boston bombing, swift help, comfort, and a resolve to keep running

The rush to help those injured at the Boston marathon was just the start of an outpouring of help and support for Boston, its visitors and residents, including from arch sports rival New York.

Pope Francis launched sainthood process for Argentine priests

Pope Francis, then known as Archbishop Jorge Bergoglio, urged the beatification of martyred Argentine priests. A colleague says they "weren't killed because of their ideology or politics but because they preached the gospel of life in a time when life was being threatened."

Victims' groups cool to Pope Francis's first comments on abuse scandal

On Friday, the new pope addressed the child abuse scandal for the first time since his election, calling for a continuation of his predecessor's unpopular approach.

Pope Francis: Women are 'fundamental' to church

Pope Francis emphasized the importance of women in Catholic homes and churches in a speech Wednesday, but did not suggest they should be ordained.

Can Latin America resist a return to its populist past?

The interventionist role of the military has mostly disappeared in Latin America. But the temptation of populist politics is greater than ever in some countries, while others are resisting the short-term demands of voters in favor of the long-term sustainability of society. Here's a look at six countries.

US jets to South Korea: F-22 Stealth fighters join drills (+video)

US jets to South Korea: The US sent F-22 stealth fighter jets to South Korea to join military exercises as North Korea threatens war. The US has also sent B-2 bomber jets to South Korea.

In Easter message Pope Francis calls for peace

Pope Francis emphasized his concern for the poor and suffering, and delivered a plea for peace in the Middle East and on the Korean peninsula during his first Easter Sunday Mass.

Chapter & Verse Pope Francis's book 'On Heaven and Earth' will be translated into English

Pope Francis first wrote his book in Spanish in 2010, and the title will now be released in English for the first time this May.

What faith brings to life

A Christian Science perspective.

Making nice? Argentina's Kirchner and Pope Francis meet in Rome (+video)

Beneath the cordial meeting today between new Pope Francis and President Kirchner lies a rocky and strained relationship that stretches back to 2004.

Cardinal: pedophilia not a crime says cardinal, followed by swift apology

Cardinal says pedophilia not a crime but an illness. South Africa Cardinal Wilfred Fox Napier apologized for the 'botched' interview. The cardinal now says pedophilia is "a heinous crime."

Pope Francis connects with crowd after first window appearance (+video)

The new leader for the world's Catholics gave a short speech in Italian from his window, a traditional Sunday duty of popes.

In interviews, new Pope Francis confirms commitment to poor

Pope Francis stumbles (video), Vatican criticizes 'left-wing' media campaign

Pope Francis stumbles stepping down from a chair, but recovers. The Vatican was less worried about that stumble, and more concerned about media coverage of the role of Pope Francis during Argentina's 'Dirty War.'

How European Catholics see Pope Francis

The more devout and orthodox the believer, the more likely they are to welcome the pope, but even liberal Catholics are willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Can Pope Francis' focus on poor attract 'indifferent Catholics' back to church?

While questions surround how Pope Francis dealt with Argentina's Dirty War, it is his involvement in the slums of Buenos Aires that is expected to guide his leadership of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics.

Will Jesuit identity help Pope Francis repair 'fractured church'?

The Catholic Church is getting not only its first Latin American pope, but its first Jesuit leader. He hails from an order known for outreach and fresh thinking.

Pope pays hotel bill: Pope Francis sheds luxuries of previous popes

Pope Francis paid his hotel bill and thanked the staff this morning, just one of many signs that he wants a simpler lifestyle than his predecessor, Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI.

Pope Francis signals core mission – returning Catholics to the church (+video)

In his first blessing from the Vatican balcony, Pope Francis spoke of the 'evangelization' of Rome, a clear sign he would carry on the 'New Evangelization' legacy of John Paul II and Benedict XVI.

Boehner unable to join US delegation to Vatican

Boehner says in a statement that he'd like to go, but it's impossible with his duties including the budget debate and hosting the Irish prime minister at the Capitol.

Argentine pope: A reflection of Catholicism 'south of the equator'

Residents of Buenos Aires met the papal announcement with surprise, checking smartphones in the street and asking each other if the news was true.