Francis, who will celebrate his 87th birthday on Dec. 17, spoke freely about his health, the possibility of resignation and whether he is losing patience with detractors.

A Reflection for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, by Kevin Christopher Robles

Fort Calhoun, Neb., mourns the loss of Rev. Stephen Gutgsell after he was fatally stabbed at the rectory of St. John the Baptist Parish on Dec. 10, 2023.

While Pope Francis’ pastoral visits have stayed consistent, his hospital visits have increased.

In a “note” from the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Vatican has upheld a rule mandating that the ashes of the deceased be preserved in a consecrated place.

A Reflection for Monday of the Second Week of Advent, by Sebastian Gomes