• Home
  • About Us
  • Support
  • Concerts & Events
  • Music & Media
  • Faith
  • Listen Live
  • Give Now

Catholic News

Cardinals gather for the the seventh Novendiales Mass for Pope Francis on May 2, 2025, in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. / Credit: Daniel Ibañez/CNAVatican City, May 6, 2025 / 16:41 pm (CNA).In the days leading up to the conclave to elect the next pope, the College of Cardinals gathered for 12 general congregations at the Vatican to reflect on the state of the Church and the many challenges it faces in the modern world.The meetings, held from April 22 to May 6, included both cardinal electors under the age of 80 and non-electors over 80, who, while not eligible to vote in the conclave, actively participated in the discussions.The early sessions focused on procedural matters, including funeral arrangements and confirming that the conclave would begin on May 7. As the days progressed, the cardinals turned their attention to urgent ecclesial and global concerns.According to daily briefings from the Holy See Press Office, the cardinals addressed a wide range of topics, includ...

Cardinals gather for the the seventh Novendiales Mass for Pope Francis on May 2, 2025, in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. / Credit: Daniel Ibañez/CNA

Vatican City, May 6, 2025 / 16:41 pm (CNA).

In the days leading up to the conclave to elect the next pope, the College of Cardinals gathered for 12 general congregations at the Vatican to reflect on the state of the Church and the many challenges it faces in the modern world.

The meetings, held from April 22 to May 6, included both cardinal electors under the age of 80 and non-electors over 80, who, while not eligible to vote in the conclave, actively participated in the discussions.

The early sessions focused on procedural matters, including funeral arrangements and confirming that the conclave would begin on May 7. As the days progressed, the cardinals turned their attention to urgent ecclesial and global concerns.

According to daily briefings from the Holy See Press Office, the cardinals addressed a wide range of topics, including evangelization, sexual abuse, Vatican finances, synodality, interreligious dialogue, war and conflict, and the desired profile of the next pope.

Attendance at the general congregations rose steadily over the first days of meetings, starting with approximately 60 cardinals on April 22 and climbing to over 180 by April 29. 

The 12th and final congregation took place on May 6 with 173 cardinals present, 130 of whom were electors.

"Among the main themes that emerged was the reaffirmation that many of the reforms promoted by Pope Francis need to be continued: the fight against abuse, economic transparency, reorganization of the Curia, synodality, commitment to peace, and care for creation," Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said of the cardinals' last congregation meeting.

It should be noted that the general congregation discussions took place behind closed doors without any press access, and the daily summaries of topics covered provided by the Vatican were not all-encompassing. For example, topics addressed in Cardinal Joseph Zen's intervention on April 30, including a critique of the Synod on Synodality and explicit mention of scandals related to the late Theodore McCarrick and Father Marko Rupnik, were not reflected in the Holy See Press Office's briefing on the general congregation that day.

Here is a look at some of the challenges that the cardinals discussed ahead of the conclave:

Evangelization

Evangelization emerged as a recurring theme throughout the congregations. On May 5, during the 10th general congregation, there were interventions that focused on the Church's missionary nature and the transmission of the faith. On May 3, cardinals emphasized the need for a pope with a "prophetic spirit capable of leading a Church that does not close in on itself but knows how to go out and bring light to a world marked by despair," according to Bruni.

On May 2, the cardinals reflected on evangelization as the heart of Pope Francis' pontificate. Several interventions highlighted the urgency of effectively communicating the Gospel at all levels of Church life, from parishes to the Roman Curia. Several speakers highlighted the importance of mutual love as the first form of evangelization and another discussed "the hermeneutics of continuity" between the pontificates of John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis, particularly in relation to the Eucharist and the evangelizing mission of the Church.

On April 30, cardinals heard an intervention on the importance of coherence between the proclamation of the Gospel and the concrete witness of Christian life. Evangelization also featured in discussions on April 28.

War and global conflict

Cardinals from conflict zones offered firsthand testimony of the suffering caused by war. On May 5, the discussions included the theme of war and the fragmentation of the world. On May 3, cardinals reflected on the role of the Church and the pope in promoting peace. On May 2, particular attention was paid to the Eastern Churches, described as marked by suffering but also by strong faith.

On May 6, at the opening of the final congregation, the cardinals expressed regret over the lack of progress in peace processes in Ukraine, the Middle East, and other regions. They noted an intensification of attacks, particularly against civilians, and issued a heartfelt appeal for a permanent ceasefire and the negotiation of a just and lasting peace. The cardinals invited all the faithful to intensify their prayers for peace.

Sexual abuse

The issue of sexual abuse was discussed explicitly on May 2. Bruni noted that these wounds remain "open" and underlined the importance of awareness and identifying concrete paths for healing. Financial scandals were also mentioned as part of the Church's "counter-witness." The issue of abuse was also raised in the April 28 and May 6 sessions.

Vatican finances

On April 30, the cardinals discussed the financial situation of the Holy See. Cardinal Reinhard Marx presented an update on economic challenges and proposals for sustainability. Cardinal Kevin Farrell outlined the work of the Committee for Investments, while Cardinal Christoph Schönborn spoke about the Institute for the Works of Religion (IOR). Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga provided an update on Vatican property and building renovations. Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, apostolic almoner, spoke about the work of the Dicastery for the Service of Charity.

Synodality

The Synod on Synodality came up in the interventions during several of the general congregations. On May 5, it was presented as "an expression of an ecclesiology of communion in which all are called to participate, listen, and discern together." On May 3, some of the cardinals emphasized synodality and collegiality. On May 2, they discussed synodality in relation to mission and the need to overcome secularism. On April 30, several interventions reflected on synodality as an expression of "differentiated co-responsibility" connected to episcopal collegiality, the Holy See Press Office said.

Divisions in the Church

Concerns about polarization within the Church were raised on May 5, with an intervention expressing alarm over internal divisions. On May 3, the cardinals discussed the Church's dual role to live communion within itself and to promote fraternity in the world. On April 30, an intervention reflected on the suffering caused by ecclesial and social polarization.

During their final congregation, the theme of divisions within the Church and in society was addressed again, along with the way in which the cardinals are called to exercise their role in relation to the papacy.

Priestly and religious vocations

Vocations were addressed in multiple sessions. On April 30, the topic was linked to the spiritual and pastoral renewal of the Church. On May 5, cardinals spoke about vocations, the family, and the Church's responsibility to educate the young.

Service to the poor and migrants

On May 5, the cardinals spoke about the importance of Caritas and its role not only in providing relief but also in defending the poor and bearing witness to the Gospel's call to justice. In the afternoon session on the same day, they discussed migration, recognizing migrants as a gift to the Church while also stressing the need to accompany them and support their faith.

Other topics

The cardinals also discussed care for creation, the legacy of Pope Francis, global fraternity, education as a tool for transformation, ecumenical dialogue, the role of the Curia, the importance of canon law, and the centrality of the liturgy.

In the final general congregation on May 6, the cardinals spoke of the "need to make the meetings of the College of Cardinals more significant on the occasion of consistories" in the future, as this would give the cardinals more of a chance to know one another. After 12 general congregations, the hope is the cardinal electors who hail from 70 different countries at least know each other a little better than they did 15 days ago as they begin the momentous task of electing the next successor of Peter.

Full Article

Thousands participate in the March for Life on May 3, 2025, in Mexico City. / Credit: Courtesy of Steps for LifePuebla, Mexico, May 6, 2025 / 17:11 pm (CNA).Thousands of people participated in the March for Life on May 3 in Mexico City to mark 18 years since abortion was decriminalized in Mexico's capital.The march, organized by the Pasos por la Vida (Steps for Life) association along with other groups, set out from the Monument to the Revolution and followed a route of more than 1.2 miles to arrive at the City Congress, the legislative branch of Mexico City, a quasi state in the Mexican federal system. Young people, senior citizens, and entire families marched amid banners and signs with pro-life messages lamenting the lack of comprehensive policies to aid pregnant women. They also decried the terrible toll of almost two decades of legalized abortion.Since April 2007, abortion has been legal in Mexico City up to the 12th week of pregnancy, making it the first federal enti...

Thousands participate in the March for Life on May 3, 2025, in Mexico City. / Credit: Courtesy of Steps for Life

Puebla, Mexico, May 6, 2025 / 17:11 pm (CNA).

Thousands of people participated in the March for Life on May 3 in Mexico City to mark 18 years since abortion was decriminalized in Mexico's capital.

The march, organized by the Pasos por la Vida (Steps for Life) association along with other groups, set out from the Monument to the Revolution and followed a route of more than 1.2 miles to arrive at the City Congress, the legislative branch of Mexico City, a quasi state in the Mexican federal system. 

Young people, senior citizens, and entire families marched amid banners and signs with pro-life messages lamenting the lack of comprehensive policies to aid pregnant women. They also decried the terrible toll of almost two decades of legalized abortion.

Since April 2007, abortion has been legal in Mexico City up to the 12th week of pregnancy, making it the first federal entity in the country to adopt this measure. Since then, 22 other states have decriminalized abortion, with notable momentum during the six-year term of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (2018–2024), of the MORENA (National Regeneration Movement) political party.

Currently, President Claudia Sheinbaum, also of MORENA, continues to promote this same policy.

According to data from the Steps for Life organization, the cumulative effect of these new laws has resulted in "more than 292,000 Mexican lives never seeing the light of day." 

'Abortion hasn't solved anything'

During the rally held in front of the City Congress, a manifesto was read pointing out that "abortion hasn't solved anything."

Pilar Rebollo, outgoing leader of Steps for Life, warned that decriminalization, far from solving problems, has inflicted "a great many wounds, revictimized pregnant women, and deprived Mexico of an entire generation." 

In her speech, she also denounced the "manipulation of figures that renders both aborted children and wounded mothers invisible" in addition to criticizing "the lack of comprehensive policies that truly support women" and "the imposition of an agenda that turns death into a right and marginalizes the [child in the womb] because he doesn't produce anything, profiting from the most vulnerable."

"And meanwhile, Mexico bleeds," she lamented.

"Today we remember the missing generation and embrace every mother who has suffered in silence. But we also proclaim with hope that every heart that beats is a promise, and every step taken today can change history," Rebollo said.

Six demands to promote life

Also speaking during the event was Luisa Argueta, the march's national coordinator, who presented a series of demands addressing different areas.

She demanded politicians pass "a constitutional reform that recognizes the right to life from conception to natural death" as well as public policies that allocate funding "to motherhood, adoption, and palliative care, not death-dealing solutions."

The pro-life leader also called for the reinstatement of public reporting on abortion in Mexico City and emphasized the need for each state to publish "real and verifiable figures on abortions, homicides, and disappeared persons [missing and likely dead]."

She also called for "respect and protection for conscientious objection for medical personnel, who save lives."

Argueta also addressed society, urging it to abandon "the archaic idea" that motherhood is solely a woman's responsibility, and emphasized that "men and women need each other to make decisions and take responsibility."

Finally, she called for "active citizen participation," which means "we should support, donate, adopt, monitor, and vote for life."

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.

Full Article

White smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on March 13, 2013, signaling that the College of Cardinals has elected a new pope. / Credit: ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty ImagesACI Prensa Staff, May 6, 2025 / 17:41 pm (CNA).When a new pope is elected, there are two signs that mark that historic moment: the white smoke ("fumata bianca" in Italian) erupting from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel and the formula "habemus papam" pronounced by the cardinal protodeacon from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica overlooking the square of the same name.This is the history of both traditions:The white smoke The history of the white smoke, which indicates that the cardinals have elected a new successor of St. Peter, is ancient. In 1274, at the Second Council of Lyons, Pope Gregory X, in a document titled Ubi Periculum, determined the procedure for holding a conclave. There he specified that the election would be done in isolation and with strict secrecy. For this reason,...

White smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on March 13, 2013, signaling that the College of Cardinals has elected a new pope. / Credit: ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images

ACI Prensa Staff, May 6, 2025 / 17:41 pm (CNA).

When a new pope is elected, there are two signs that mark that historic moment: the white smoke ("fumata bianca" in Italian) erupting from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel and the formula "habemus papam" pronounced by the cardinal protodeacon from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica overlooking the square of the same name.

This is the history of both traditions:

The white smoke 

The history of the white smoke, which indicates that the cardinals have elected a new successor of St. Peter, is ancient. In 1274, at the Second Council of Lyons, Pope Gregory X, in a document titled Ubi Periculum, determined the procedure for holding a conclave. 

There he specified that the election would be done in isolation and with strict secrecy. For this reason, and to avoid any communication with the outside, the smoke signal was eventually adopted as part of the ritual. The tradition of burning ballots goes back to at least 1417, and likely before then, according to historian Frederic J. Baumgartner. The addition of the white spoke to announce the election of a new pope is more recent, however. Baumgartner traces it to 1914, with the election of Pope Benedict XV.

If the smoke coming out of the chimney of the Sistine Chapel is black, it means that none of the proposed candidates has reached two-thirds of the votes needed to be elected. If the smoke is white, the Church has a new universal pastor. 

In ancient times, the method to give the smoke these colors was to burn the ballots used in the voting with a bit of wet straw so that it would come out black, or dry so as to obtain white smoke. 

Nowadays, and due to some episodes that caused confusion, special chemical compounds and a procedure that includes two different tubes, one for each color of smoke, are used. 

In addition, a bell is rung, part of the ritual introduced when Pope Benedict XVI was elected, which confirms the smoke is white and a new pope has been elected. 

Habemus papam 

The announcement that a new pontiff has been elected is formulated in Latin, and while its best-known words are "habemus papam," the expression is officially a bit longer: 

"Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: 

Habemus papam; 

Eminentissimum ac reverendissimum Dominum, Dominum [prænomen] Sanctæ Romanæ Ecclesiæ Cardinalem [nomen], 

qui sibi nomen imposuit [nomen pontificale]."

Translated, the complete formula reads: "I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope! The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Don [given name], cardinal of the Holy Roman Church [surname], who has imposed on himself the name of [papal name]." 

The text is partially inspired by a passage from the Gospel of St. Luke, which reproduces the words of the angel when he announces the birth of Jesus to the shepherds: "Do not be afraid, for I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all: Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, who is the Messiah, the Lord" (Lk 2:10-12).

The adoption of this formula dates back to 1417 at the election of Pope Martin V. Those who claimed the papal throne before him were Antipope John XXIII (who had convoked the Council of Constance and appointed most of the electors), Antipope Benedict XIII (the only one appointed a cardinal before the Western Schism) and Pope Gregory XII. 

The first two were deposed by the council itself, and Gregory XII abdicated. Two years later, the council elected a new pope. For this reason, the announcement could be interpreted as: "(At last) we have a pope (and only one!)."

A version of this story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.

Full Article

null / Credit: pim pic/ShutterstockCNA Staff, May 6, 2025 / 18:11 pm (CNA).The U.S. Department of Justice on Monday urged a federal judge in Texas to dismiss an ongoing lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) over its removal of safety restrictions on abortion drugs.  In its filing on Monday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) argued in federal court that Idaho, Kansas, and Missouri did not have standing to sue, following the Biden administration's legal course. The three Republican-led states sued the FDA last year, maintaining that the loosening restrictions on the drug mifepristone have led to abortion pills flooding their states, endangering women and undermining pro-life laws. The FDA should prohibit telehealth prescriptions for mifepristone, require in-office visits, and restrict the gestational age at which chemical abortions can occur, the states argued, saying that "women should have the in-person care of a doctor when taking high-risk d...

null / Credit: pim pic/Shutterstock

CNA Staff, May 6, 2025 / 18:11 pm (CNA).

The U.S. Department of Justice on Monday urged a federal judge in Texas to dismiss an ongoing lawsuit against the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) over its removal of safety restrictions on abortion drugs.  

In its filing on Monday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) argued in federal court that Idaho, Kansas, and Missouri did not have standing to sue, following the Biden administration's legal course. 

The three Republican-led states sued the FDA last year, maintaining that the loosening restrictions on the drug mifepristone have led to abortion pills flooding their states, endangering women and undermining pro-life laws. 

The FDA should prohibit telehealth prescriptions for mifepristone, require in-office visits, and restrict the gestational age at which chemical abortions can occur, the states argued, saying that "women should have the in-person care of a doctor when taking high-risk drugs." 

The three states picked up the lawsuit after the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously dismissed it in June 2023, saying that the group of pro-life doctors and organizations that filed the original case lacked standing as they could not show they had been harmed by the abortion drug's widespread availability. 

In 2021, the FDA lifted restrictions on mifepristone, authorizing doctors to prescribe the drugs online and mail the pills, allowing women to perform early abortions — up to 10 weeks of gestation — without leaving their homes. 

Department of Justice attorneys asked the federal judge in Texas to throw out the lawsuit. 

"Regardless of the merits of the states' claims, the states cannot proceed in this court," read the May 5 memorandum issued by the DOJ. 

A pro-life group is urging the Trump administration to reinstate medical safeguards around abortion pills.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of SBA Pro-Life America, told CNA that the motion "is about who has the right to sue, not whether abortion drugs are safe." 

During the recent presidential campaign, pro-life advocates criticized Trump for his position that abortion law should be left for the states to decide. In 2024, Trump committed to not restricting abortion pill access and said that abortion is no longer a federal issue.

Dannenfelser urged the Trump administration "to reinstate basic measures that require real medical oversight" in regard to the abortion pill. 

"Women and girls deserve better than high-risk drugs with no in-person doctor, no follow up, and no accountability," Dannenfelser said. "This isn't health care, it's harm."

A recent study found that more than 1 in 10 women who take the abortion pill mifepristone to complete a chemical abortion will suffer a serious health complication during the process.

Dannenfelser called abortion drugs "dangerous."

"A growing body of evidence shows the serious harm these drugs pose to women as well as their babies," Dannenfelser continued. 

"At a minimum, the Trump administration should reverse the Biden FDA's reckless nationwide mail-order abortion drug policy," Dannenfelser said.

Full Article

Lt. Matt Owens of the Arlington County Police Department plays the bugle in honor of fallen service members, at the annual Blue Mass on Tuesday May 6, 2025, at St. Patrick Cathlolic Church in Washington, D.C. / Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNAWashington D.C., May 6, 2025 / 18:41 pm (CNA).On Tuesday afternoon, hundreds of first responders filled St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, D.C., to attend the 31st annual Blue Mass, a tradition that honors the sacrifice of those serving in law enforcement and public safety.Organized by the Archdiocese of Washington, Auxiliary Bishop Roy Campbell celebrated the May 6 Mass, as Cardinal Robert McElroy is currently in Rome for the papal conclave. Washington Auxiliary Bishop Roy Campbell greets first responders after the annual Blue Mass on Tuesday May 6, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, D.C. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNASeveral prominent members of law enforcement participated in the Mass, including Chief John Th...

Lt. Matt Owens of the Arlington County Police Department plays the bugle in honor of fallen service members, at the annual Blue Mass on Tuesday May 6, 2025, at St. Patrick Cathlolic Church in Washington, D.C. / Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA

Washington D.C., May 6, 2025 / 18:41 pm (CNA).

On Tuesday afternoon, hundreds of first responders filled St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, D.C., to attend the 31st annual Blue Mass, a tradition that honors the sacrifice of those serving in law enforcement and public safety.

Organized by the Archdiocese of Washington, Auxiliary Bishop Roy Campbell celebrated the May 6 Mass, as Cardinal Robert McElroy is currently in Rome for the papal conclave. 

Washington Auxiliary Bishop Roy Campbell greets first responders after the annual Blue Mass on Tuesday May 6, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, D.C. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA
Washington Auxiliary Bishop Roy Campbell greets first responders after the annual Blue Mass on Tuesday May 6, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, D.C. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA

Several prominent members of law enforcement participated in the Mass, including Chief John Thomas Manger of the U.S. Capitol Police and Deputy Director Michele Ward Leo of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, who both served as lectors. 

"Today, we gather to celebrate the Eucharist, as well as gathering to celebrate all of you, our first responders, our police officers, our firefighters, our ENTs, all who push into situations … most of us are doing our best to get away from," said Monsignor Salvatore A. Criscuolo, retired pastor of St. Patrick's and a police chaplain, who gave the homily. 

Monsignor Salvatore A. Criscuolo delivers the homily at the 31st annual Blue Mass on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA
Monsignor Salvatore A. Criscuolo delivers the homily at the 31st annual Blue Mass on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA

"You wear uniforms that the world recognizes. But underneath that uniform, whether it be a uniform or a suit, there's a human soul, a human being, a beloved child of God," he continued, emphasizing the crucial need for first responders to be dependent on Christ. 

"Because only Christ can truly feed the deep hunger and all of you," Criscuolo said, "the hunger for peace after the chaos of death, the hunger for justice after everything is so unjust, the hunger for hope when everything feels hopeless."

Christ, he said, does not make himself distant from suffering and tragedy but rather is "in the mix" of it all.

"So when you answer that 911 call, you bring presence, peace, and safety," he continued. "When you rescue someone who is trapped or injured, you bring mercy. When you come to someone who is frightened by the world here, you become an instrument of the hands of God. That is your vocation."

The Presentation of the Colors is performed by local, state, and federal honor and color guards at the annual Blue Mass at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, D.C., on May 6, 2025. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA
The Presentation of the Colors is performed by local, state, and federal honor and color guards at the annual Blue Mass at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington, D.C., on May 6, 2025. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA

Criscuolo has served as a chaplain to law enforcement for 37 years. Previously, he served as pastor at St. Patrick Church for 16 years.

"I've been on the streets when there have been some real difficulties," he told CNA after the Mass, reflecting on his years of experience as a chaplain. Recalling the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, he said: "9/11 was the first time ever I had seen fear on police officers' faces." 

Serving as a chaplain to first responders, he said, is "a rewarding ministry, and they give back to me more than I could ever give to them. They're always very supportive … They're all family people: men and women, husbands and wives … and they come here every day, and they don't know what they're going to be facing." 

After the Presentation of the Colors, the names of 13 fallen service members from the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area as well as 15 officers from previous years stretching back as far as 1885 were read in a solemn tribute as representatives of their divisions or family members stood in recognition.

First responders and clergy process through downtown Washington, D.C., for the 31st annual Blue Mass on Tuesday May 6, 2025. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA
First responders and clergy process through downtown Washington, D.C., for the 31st annual Blue Mass on Tuesday May 6, 2025. Credit: Madalaine Elhabbal/CNA

 While the tradition of holding a Blue Mass at St. Patrick's began just over 30 years ago, Criscuolo said the tradition of having special Masses for police officers goes back to the 1930s.

"There was a Catholic police society and a Protestant society, and the [Catholic] police officers would have their Mass here every Mother's Day, and all the Protestant officers would work," he said. "Then in June, the Protestants had their service, and all the Catholics would work the streets for them."

The tradition stopped for several years, he said, until "about 31 years ago, I decided we needed to bring this back again. And we did," he concluded, smiling. "It gets bigger and bigger each year, which is so nice to see."

Full Article

The Sistine Chapel awaits the arrival of cardinal electors for the conclave to elect the next pope, Tuesday, May 6, 2025. / Credit: Vatican MediaCNA Newsroom, May 6, 2025 / 18:44 pm (CNA).The conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor will begin on May 7, as the Church enters the final preparatory phase for choosing its 267th pope.Follow here for live updates of the latest news and information on the papal transition:

The Sistine Chapel awaits the arrival of cardinal electors for the conclave to elect the next pope, Tuesday, May 6, 2025. / Credit: Vatican Media

CNA Newsroom, May 6, 2025 / 18:44 pm (CNA).

The conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor will begin on May 7, as the Church enters the final preparatory phase for choosing its 267th pope.

Follow here for live updates of the latest news and information on the papal transition:

Full Article

Cardinal Kevin Farrell and the College of Cardinals witness the cancellation of papal fisherman's ring and lead seal of Pope Francis on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in the New Synod Hall at the Vatican. / Credit: Vatican MediaCNA Newsroom, May 6, 2025 / 08:25 am (CNA).The conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor will begin on May 7, as the Church enters the final preparatory phase for choosing its 267th pope.Follow here for live updates of the latest news and information on the papal transition:

Cardinal Kevin Farrell and the College of Cardinals witness the cancellation of papal fisherman's ring and lead seal of Pope Francis on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in the New Synod Hall at the Vatican. / Credit: Vatican Media

CNA Newsroom, May 6, 2025 / 08:25 am (CNA).

The conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor will begin on May 7, as the Church enters the final preparatory phase for choosing its 267th pope.

Follow here for live updates of the latest news and information on the papal transition:

Full Article

The papal fisherman's ring and lead seal are nulled during the 12th general congregation of the College of Cardinals on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. / Credit: Vatican MediaVatican City, May 6, 2025 / 09:46 am (CNA).The papal fisherman's ring and lead seal were nulled during the 12th general congregation of the College of Cardinals on Tuesday.The ring and seal are destroyed or nulled after a pope's death to prevent their future misuse to seal official documents.Cardinal Kevin Farrell and the College of Cardinals witness the cancellation of papal fisherman's ring and lead seal of Pope Francis on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in the New Synod Hall at the Vatican. Credit: Vatican MediaVatican Media shared photos and videos of the cancellation of the ring and seal on May 6, and the X account of the Vatican secretary of state said the procedure was carried out in the presence of camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell and the College of Cardinals in the New Synod Hall.Come tradizione in tempo di Sede Vac...

The papal fisherman's ring and lead seal are nulled during the 12th general congregation of the College of Cardinals on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. / Credit: Vatican Media

Vatican City, May 6, 2025 / 09:46 am (CNA).

The papal fisherman's ring and lead seal were nulled during the 12th general congregation of the College of Cardinals on Tuesday.

The ring and seal are destroyed or nulled after a pope's death to prevent their future misuse to seal official documents.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell and the College of Cardinals witness the cancellation of papal fisherman's ring and lead seal of Pope Francis on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in the New Synod Hall at the Vatican. Credit: Vatican Media
Cardinal Kevin Farrell and the College of Cardinals witness the cancellation of papal fisherman's ring and lead seal of Pope Francis on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, in the New Synod Hall at the Vatican. Credit: Vatican Media

Vatican Media shared photos and videos of the cancellation of the ring and seal on May 6, and the X account of the Vatican secretary of state said the procedure was carried out in the presence of camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell and the College of Cardinals in the New Synod Hall.


According to Universi Dominici Gregis, the apostolic constitution regulating the "sede vacante," the College of Cardinals must "arrange for the destruction of the fisherman's ring and of the lead seal with which apostolic letters are despatched" after the pope's death.

The fisherman's ring is one of several rings typically worn by the Roman pontiff. The ring takes its name from its image of St. Peter as a fisherman, which became the standard design around the mid-15th century.

The first record of the ring's use was on two letters of Clement IV in 1265 and 1266. It was used as a wax seal in private letters in place of the official lead seal used for solemn papal documents.

In 1842, use of the ring and wax seal were replaced by a stamp, but each pope still receives a unique ring of the fisherman at the start of his papacy. Outside of papal ceremonies, Pope Francis typically wore only his episcopal ring.

The destruction of the ring and seal is part of a number of security measures overseen by the camerlengo after the pope's death, including the sealing of the papal apartments, until the election of a new pontiff.

Full Article

Winona-Rochester, Minnesota, Bishop Robert Barron speaks to EWTN News Vatican Correspondent Colm Flynn in Rome on Monday, May 5, 2025. / Credit: EWTN NewsCNA Staff, May 6, 2025 / 10:27 am (CNA).Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester, Minnesota, this week said the next pope should be a disciple of Christ first and foremost, one who places "the declaration of Jesus" at the center of his papacy. Barron spoke to EWTN News Vatican Correspondent Colm Flynn on May 5 in Rome. The U.S. prelate noted that the Church is on "pins and needles" during the interregnum before the election of the next pope, though he admitted it's "an exciting time."Asked by Flynn about the commentary that has proliferated around the papacy since Pope Francis' death on April 21, Barron said the "politicization" of the papal selection process reflects a "lack of proper prioritization." The bishop pointed to Australian priest and theologian Father Gerald Glynn O'Collins, SJ, who when  asked what ...

Winona-Rochester, Minnesota, Bishop Robert Barron speaks to EWTN News Vatican Correspondent Colm Flynn in Rome on Monday, May 5, 2025. / Credit: EWTN News

CNA Staff, May 6, 2025 / 10:27 am (CNA).

Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester, Minnesota, this week said the next pope should be a disciple of Christ first and foremost, one who places "the declaration of Jesus" at the center of his papacy. 

Barron spoke to EWTN News Vatican Correspondent Colm Flynn on May 5 in Rome. The U.S. prelate noted that the Church is on "pins and needles" during the interregnum before the election of the next pope, though he admitted it's "an exciting time."

Asked by Flynn about the commentary that has proliferated around the papacy since Pope Francis' death on April 21, Barron said the "politicization" of the papal selection process reflects a "lack of proper prioritization." 

The bishop pointed to Australian priest and theologian Father Gerald Glynn O'Collins, SJ, who when  asked what he was looking for in the next pope after John Paul II's death, responded, as Barron put it: "I want someone who declares the resurrection of Jesus in a compelling way."

"Because that was Peter's job," Barron said, "and this is the successor of Peter. I think to put the stress on the spiritual, on the evangelical, on the declaration of Jesus — that's what matters." 

The prelate admitted that there are "further implications" to a pope's job. He told Flynn that there are "political strategies" that help advance the "moral principles" espoused by the Church.

"[T]he preoccupation with — oh, is he left-wing? Is he right-wing? Climate change, immigration — OK, we can get to all that," Barron said. 

"But the first thing I'd look for is a disciple, a believer in Jesus, and who has the capacity to proclaim the Resurrection in a compelling way," he said. "That's the pope's job, [and] to be a source of unity for the Church."

The politicization of the papacy is "seeing [the role] through a relentlessly secular political lens," Barron said. "And you know, again, I get it. But I'm annoyed at the way it gets the priorities off." 

Asked about the cardinals who are considered top contenders for the papal election this week, Barron pointed out that, during the last conclave, "nobody" suspected then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio would become Pope Francis. 

"I always put that forward as a caution whenever we're talking about candidates," the bishop said. "There is certainly a good chance it won't be any of these people."

Full Article

A woman pays tribute to victims of the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks at a cemetery in Negombo, Sri Lanka, on April 21, 2022, marking three years since the tragic attacks. / Credit: Ruwan Walpola/ShutterstockWashington, D.C. Newsroom, May 6, 2025 / 07:00 am (CNA).The archbishop of Colombo, Sri Lanka, announced this week that the 167 Catholics killed in the Sri Lanka Easter Sunday bombings in 2019 will be included on the list of "Witnesses of Faith" established by Pope Francis.Inspired by an apostolic letter by Pope John Paul II, who wanted to ensure the legacy of the "unknown soldiers of God's great cause" was not lost, Pope Francis created the Commission of the New Martyrs - Witnesses of the Faith in 2023. Francis sought to acknowledge Catholics who have lost their lives while professing their faith in the first quarter of the 21st century. Compiled by the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee Year, the list is an ongoing catalogue of Christ...

A woman pays tribute to victims of the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks at a cemetery in Negombo, Sri Lanka, on April 21, 2022, marking three years since the tragic attacks. / Credit: Ruwan Walpola/Shutterstock

Washington, D.C. Newsroom, May 6, 2025 / 07:00 am (CNA).

The archbishop of Colombo, Sri Lanka, announced this week that the 167 Catholics killed in the Sri Lanka Easter Sunday bombings in 2019 will be included on the list of "Witnesses of Faith" established by Pope Francis.

Inspired by an apostolic letter by Pope John Paul II, who wanted to ensure the legacy of the "unknown soldiers of God's great cause" was not lost, Pope Francis created the Commission of the New Martyrs - Witnesses of the Faith in 2023. Francis sought to acknowledge Catholics who have lost their lives while professing their faith in the first quarter of the 21st century. Compiled by the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee Year, the list is an ongoing catalogue of Christian martyrs who, the Holy Father said, "are witnesses of the hope that comes from faith in Christ."

On April 21, 2019, terrorists bombed two Catholic churches, St. Sebastian's and St. Anthony's; an evangelical church; three hotels; and a private residence in Sri Lanka, killing more than 260 people.

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, who has been the archbishop of Colombo since 2009, said that Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, has included the names of the 167 Catholics who died on the Witnesses of the Faith list, "considering the context of their heroism."

Ranjith said they are being included to "honor their sacrifice." 

This past weekend, St. Anthony Church in Colombo held a vigil to honor the lives lost during the fatal bombings. Hundreds of people, including Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic religious leaders, attended the gathering.

Following his attendance at the vigil, Ranjith traveled to the Vatican to take part in the conclave.

Six years after the attacks, Ranjith and the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka are still demanding further investigations into the bomings to examine potential involvement of state officials.

Full Article

Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube Soundcloud

Public Inspection File | EEO

© 2015 - 2021 Spirit FM 90.5 - All Rights Reserved.