Women have served as lectors and acolytes for decades. Now Pope Francis has changed canon law to formally recognize their ministry.

Fabrizio Soccorsi, Pope Francis’ personal doctor, died Jan. 9 of complications caused by Covid-19.

Recognizing “the gifts of each baptized person”—women and men—Pope Francis ordered a change to canon law and liturgical norms so that women could be formally installed as lectors and acolytes.

Pope Francis is “deeply concerned” about the situation in the United States and is praying for peace and harmony in the country.

Below is the text of Pope Francis' homily, delivered on Jan. 6, 2021, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord.

This week, host Colleen Dulle and Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell celebrate their 100th episode of "Inside the Vatican." They discuss a recent order from Pope Francis that stripped a top Vatican office of its financial assets.