The COVID-19 pandemic has forced governments and individuals to operate as if every day brings with it a new contingency plan. The Catholic Church is no different, in a sense, at least when it comes ...

VATICAN CITY — If you go to the Sacrament of Penance in 2023, there will be two subtle changes in the wording of the prayer of absolution, which the priest prays to conclude the sacrament. The new ...

The dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is seen through trees in the Vatican Gardens. (Credit: Paul Haring/CNS.) Listen ROME — In places particularly hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic and with severe ...

An electronic sign reads, "There is no threat" in Oahu, Hawaii, after a false emergency alert that said a ballistic missile was headed for Hawaii Jan. 13. Honolulu Bishop Larry Silva gave general ...

Pope Francis announced plans last week, as part of his Holy Year of Mercy, for easier absolution for women who have had abortions. Five seconds later, battle lines were drawn. Supporters hailed his ...

People who recall, or even imagine, being absolved of their sins tend to donate more money to the church, according to British researchers. "Recent evidence has suggested that people are more likely ...