Pope Francis on Thursday denounced “aggressive” nationalism that rejects migrants, and said Catholics should follow the Gospel-mandated call for a welcoming church that doesn’t distinguish between “natives and foreigners, residents and guests.”

“There is only one great call in the Gospel, and it is that of following Jesus on the way of love,” Pope Francis said in his weekly Wednesday audience. “In this sense, charity and contemplation are synonymous.”

While millions of laypeople around the world are recognized as catechists in their parish or diocese, Pope Francis is preparing to formally institute the “ministry of catechist.”

In the present tragic situation, when the whole world is prey to suffering and anxiety, we fly to you, Mother of God and our Mother, and seek refuge under your protection.

The speed and virulence of the Covid-19 outbreak in India have been among its most shocking aspects. Could an outbreak as ferocious happen somewhere else?

Being an altar server should be a “profession of faith” to the entire parish community, Pope Francis told young men and women participating in Portugal's annual altar server pilgrimage to Fatima.