Report flags weak funding and low completion in natural family planning programs

The report found that a total of 18,211 individuals received some instruction on natural family planning across dioceses in 2025, but there were only 7,518 individuals who attended a full course.

Sainthood cause for Virginia farmer who saved his son moves forward

The sainthood cause for Tom Vander Woude, a Catholic father of seven who died saving his youngest son, moves to the information gathering stage.

Study: Doctors don't screen for abortion coercion — and it hurts women

A recent study highlights that when women are coerced or pressured into abortion, they are at high risk for negative outcomes — but abortion prviidess rarely screen for abortion coercion.

Pope Leo XIV marks 71st birthday with opening of water exhibit at Vatican Library

The pontiff launched the "AQVA Catastrophe and Wonder" exhibit on Sept. 14.

Cardinal Czerny announced as first recipient of Pope Leo XIV Sustainability Medal

The recently retired prefect of the Vatican's human development office will receive the award from the pope on Oct. 13.

UN asked to recognize surrogate motherhood as a new form of slavery

The request makes the case that surrogacy fits the definition laid out in the 1926 Slavery Convention that the practice entails the rights of ownership of a person.

Nearly 700 young Christians gather in Iraq for Baghdeda Youth Festival

The young people came together to pray and hear talks under the theme "In the Footsteps of St. Francis."

Capuchin bishops reflect on dual calling as friars and diocesan shepherds

At a gathering in Assisi, Italy, prelates considered how prayer, poverty, and closeness to the people can shape their governance and pastoral care of dioceses.

Pope Leo XIV repeals COVID-era pay cuts to Vatican cardinals

Pope Francis had instituted the cuts as an austerity measure in 2021.

Vatican Latin Mass permissions steady across papal transition

Thirty-four dioceses received permission for celebrations in parish churches in 2025 — unchanged from 2024 — with the United States accounting for 24 of the 34 decrees.