Addressing a symposium on the priesthood in the Vatican on Feb. 17, Pope Francis presented what he called the “four forms of closeness” that he considers fundamental to the life of a priest.

“To be a Christian is not only to receive the faith, to confess the faith, but to safeguard life, one’s own life, the life of others, the life of the Church,” Pope Francis said in his Wednesday audience.

Just war principles do not require Western nations to practice pacifism or ignore Russian aggression in Ukraine. But they may still guide nations to a nonviolent resolution, and Pope Francis can help.

In an important move, Pope Francis has issued a decree, published “motu proprio” (on his own initiative), in which he has modified the internal structure of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

Super Bowl Sunday is an opportunity like no other to get your message out there. So why doesn’t the Catholic Church ever use it?

Pope Francis has set in motion the preparations for the Jubilee Year 2025, which he believes “can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust” after two years of pandemic and suffering.