The chaotic withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan was due in part to a lack of foreseeing all possible eventualities, Pope Francis said in a new interview.

A top-ranking Roman Catholic cardinal who eschewed the COVID-19 vaccine said he will soon begin rehabilitation after contracting the coronavirus and spending days on a ventilator.

The withdrawal of U.S. troops is not an end, but instead represents a new chapter in our entanglement with the Taliban in Afghanistan, agree several experts contacted by America magazine.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kansas, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, encouraged Catholics to receive one of the coronavirus vaccines if they discern that it is appropriate to do so.

“I know that I live in safety. I know that I don’t have to worry about being kidnapped, being hurt; I don’t have to worry about being hit by an I.E.D.” Ahmad wishes that same security for his family and the people of Afghanistan.

Surrounded by other churches with huge congregations, Mother Teresa Catholic Church in Cary, N.C., remains intentionally small to more directly minister to its parishioners.