IMAGE: CNS photo/Abir Abdullah, EPA By Cindy Wooden VATICAN CITY (CNS) — While the ongoing crisis of Rohingya refugees fleeing Myanmar for Bangladesh will draw much attention during Pope Francis’ visit to the two countries in late November, the pope also is expected to focus on interreligious dialogue, poverty and …

IMAGE: CNS/L’Osservatore Romano By Junno Arocho Esteves VATICAN CITY (CNS) — While a Lamborghini would make a stylish popemobile, Pope Francis has decided to auction off the one he was given by the Italian automaker to aid several charities close to his heart. The pope was presented with a one-of-a-kind …

By Junno Arocho Esteves VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Mass is the highest form of prayer and not an appropriate moment for small talk, Pope Francis said. At church, Catholics should spend their time in silence before Mass, preparing “to meet with Jesus” instead of engaging in “chitchat,” the pope said …

IMAGE: CNS illustration/Michigan Catholic By Mike Stechschulte DETROIT (CNS) — On Nov. 18, more than a few Hail Marys will be thrown around inside Ford Field. And unlike a football game, every single prayer will be answered. That day jerseys and helmets will be replaced by chasubles and miters as …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Bob Roller By Carol Zimmermann BALTIMORE (CNS) — U.S. Catholic bishops acknowledged that Catholic families and married couples need more support from the church at large and hope to offer it by giving parishes plenty of resources through a pastoral plan for marriage and family life. A proposal …

By Simon Caldwell MANCHESTER, England (CNS) — The terms “mother” and “father” will be banned from Catholic schools’ admissions forms in England and Wales following a complaint the terms discriminated against gay and stepparents. The Office of the Schools Adjudicator, which settles disputes on behalf of the government, upheld the …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Felipe Trueba, EPA By Junno Arocho Esteves VATICAN CITY (CNS) — During his visit to Chile and Peru, Pope Francis will honor the country’s religious roots and underline the plight of indigenous men and women. The Vatican said Pope Francis will be in Chile Jan. 15-18, visiting the …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Bob Roller By Rhina Guidos BALTIMORE (CNS) — Though the Catholic Church has responded to racism for many years, some leaders and church institutions have at times been part of the problem, said a bishop who is heading a committee against racism. Bishop George V. Murry, speaking to …

By Carol Zimmermann BALTIMORE (CNS) — Young people in the church want to be heard and be invited to be a part of church leadership, according to a report by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in preparation for next year’s Synod of Bishops on youth. They are often at …

IMAGE: CNS photo/Bob Roller By Dennis Sadowski BALTIMORE (CNS) — Acknowledging wide divisions in the country over issues such as health care, immigration reform, taxes and abortion, the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops called for civility to return to the public debate. Contemporary challenges are great, but …