Benedict XVI

Vatican police arrested Pope Benedict XVI's personal butler on Friday following an investigation into the "Vatileaks" scandal in which confidential church documents, including personal letters to the pope, were made public.  

The president and the pontiff held a private meeting for about an hour at the Council of State and Ministers, afte the Pope arrived in Havana and paid homage to the country's patron saint. On Monday, there was a minor incident where a man was restrained ...  

The pontiff presided at a solemn Easter vigil Mass in St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, to usher the 1.2 billion-member church into the most important day of its liturgical calendar. The basilica, the largest church in Christendom, was in the dark for ...  

Skopje. A Macedonian delegation, headed by Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, met with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on Thursday, writes Macedonian Vecer daily. “We informed the Pope about the situation in Macedonia, about our ecclesiastical goals, the ...  

Rome. Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev presented a 200-kilogram Easter egg to Pope Benedict XVI, FOCUS News Agency envoy reported. By tradition, on May 24 - Day of Bulgarian Education and Culture and Slavonic Literature, Pope Benedict XVI grants an ...  

VatiLeaks is pretty much what it sounds like: leaks from the Vatican, which culminated in, "Your Holiness: The Secret Papers of Benedict XVI," a blockbusting book from journalist Gianluigi Nuzzi, who cites a Vatican source called "Maria" for leaking sensitive letters address to Benedict XVI. Now police have arrested a man whom the press identifies [...]  

Rome. Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev has renewed the invitation to Pope Benedict XVI to visit Bulgaria, FOCUS News Agency envoy reported. In a private talk, held in the frames of the traditional audience given by the Pope to the Bulgarian president ...  

Rome. Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev has renewed the invitation to Pope Benedict XVI to visit Bulgaria, FOCUS News Agency envoy reported. In a private talk, held in the frames of the traditional audience given by the Pope to the Bulgarian president ...  

Pope Benedict XVI waves to faithful at a welcome ceremony at the airport in Silao, Friday March 23, 2012. Benedict's weeklong trip to Mexico and Cuba is his first to both countries. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills) Rome (CNN) -- Pope Benedict's ...  

VATICAN CITY (RNS) Over the course of the last six months, Pope Benedict XVI delivered five major speeches to small groups of American bishops who were in Rome for their "ad limina" visits, which are required once every five years. The ad limina ...  

Luanda — Pope Benedict XVI has named Dom Benedito Roberto archbishop of Angola's northern Malanje province, and father Zeferino Zeca Martins to the post of auxiliary bishop of Luanda. The information that reached Angop on Tuesday was released by the ...  

VATICAN CITY — Over the course of the last six months, Pope Benedict XVI delivered five major speeches to small groups of American bishops who were in Rome for their “ad limina” visits, which are required once every five years. The ad limina visits ...  

Speaking days before the first papal visit to the Caribbean dictatorship of Cuba in 14 years, Pope Benedict XVI said: "Today it is evident that Marxist ideology in the way it was conceived no longer corresponds to reality." On the plane taking him from ...  

Christian authorities of the country believe Benedict XVI’s Angelus appeal will contribute to dialogue. Clashes and deaths yesterday in Deir ez Zor and other cities. Saudi Arabia recalls its ambassador. The concern of Melkite Archbishop Jeanbart: "The ...  

This was Benedict XVI’s message to the faithful of Romano Canavese, a village in the province of Turin where Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone was born. This is the first public outing for Benedict XVI since his arrival at Les Combes ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has praised the "great generosity" of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform. Benedict on Friday held the last of a series ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has praised the "great generosity" of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform. Benedict on Friday held the last of a series ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has praised the "great generosity" of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform. Benedict on Friday held the last of a series of periodic ...  

The window of the study in the Apostolic Palace opens after the death of John Paul II with best wishes to Orthodox Churches that celebrate Easter today. The Holy Father Benedict XVI speaks about the Feast Day of Saint Joseph the Worker and jokes with the ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has praised the "great generosity" of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform. Benedict on Friday held the last of a series ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has praised the "great generosity" of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform. Benedict on Friday held the last of a series ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has praised the "great generosity" of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform. Benedict on Friday held the last of a series ...  

No, the pope did not mention Georgetown University by name when discussing the Catholic campus culture wars. Yes, he did mention the law ... that they are truly Catholic theologians. Many American bishops have cited a “growing recognition ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has conferred papal honors on six priests of the Fall River Diocese, one of whom is Msgr. Edmund Fitzgerald, pastor of St. Thomas More Church in Somerset. Msgr. Fitzgerald is one of five priests in the diocese to be named ...  

Orlando Catholic Diocese Bishop John Noonan met Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican on a visit to Rome the week of May 4 -12. Noonan wrote about the experience on his blog. Here’s an excerpt:  The bishops were lined up alphabetically by ...  

There is no other Pope who is named Joseph, except Pope Benedict XVI. I suggest that you should also Google St. Malachy, who predicted the last Pope… and in his list Pope Benedict XVI would be the second to the last Pope. St. Malachy’s prophecies are ...  

By Alessandro SpecialeReligion News Service(RNS) Here are two things that don't typically go together: Pope Benedict XVI and feminist culture.Read More... More on Catholic Church  

(RNS) Here are two things that don't typically go together: Pope Benedict XVI and feminist culture. Yet they both share a veneration for Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th-century German nun who was the first woman to be officially recognized as a "prophetess ...  

Pope Benedict XVI delivers his blessing from inside his vehicle as he arrives to celebrate mass in Arezzo, Italy, Sunday, May 13, 2012. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)AP2012 VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI says he is pleased the Catholic ...  

Armenian Ambassador-at-Large to Vatican Vigen Chitechyan handed his credentials a couple of days ago to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. MFA press and information department says Ambassador Chitechyan held meetings with ...  

Re: Terry Mattingly’s May 12 religion column, “Pope Benedict XVI lectures professors”: Pope Benedict XVI’s latest stand on Catholic education, stressing fidelity to Church teaching, ties in nicely with the Vatican’s latest corrective ...  

VATICAN CITY — Riccardo Muti will be conducting a concert in the Vatican in honor of Pope Benedict XVI. He's the second big-name maestro to be conducting for the pope this spring. La Scala opera house announced last week that Daniel Barenboim ...  

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI on Saturday (May 5) called on Catholic colleges and universities in the United States to do more to affirm their “Catholic identity,” particularly by ensuring the doctrinal orthodoxy of their faculty and staff.  

Pope Benedict XVI has long been a classical music fan and in the next few weeks, he will take time out from his schedule to attend two classical concerts. The Italian conductor is expected to lead Rome's Teatro dell'Opera on Friday, with music ...  

VATICAN CITY, MAY 17, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI on Wednesday viewed a private screening of a film on the life of the Virgin Mary at the Vatican. After the screening, the Pontiff thanked the producers of “Mary of Nazareth,” an international ...  

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Riccardo Muti will be conducting a concert in the Vatican in honor of Pope Benedict XVI. He's the second big-name maestro to be conducting for the pope this spring. La Scala opera house announced last week that Daniel Barenboim would ...  

VATICAN CITY, MAY 17, 2012 (Zenit.org).- In his general audience on Wednesday, Benedict XVI remarked on the United Nations’ International World Day of Families, held Tuesday. The theme chosen by the UN to mark the event was “family and work.”  

Italian maestro will lead Rome's Teatro dell'Opera in selection from Vivaldi and Verdi in honour of pope's seventh anniversaryVatican City, Associated PressThe Italian conductor Riccardo Muti will conduct a concert in the Vatican in honour of Pope Benedict XVI, the second big-name maestro to perform for the pope this spring. La Scala opera house announced last week that Daniel Barenboim would conduct Beethoven's Ninth symphony when the pope...  

Pope Benedict XVI recently granted Hildegard Von Bingen, a 12th century German nun, sainthood. Our take: Pope Benedict XVI recently granted Hildegard Von Bingen, a 12th century German nun, sainthood. Although she has been considered a saint in ...  

VATICAN CITY, MAY 16, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Taking up the theme of prayer in the letters of St. Paul, Benedict XVI today reflected on the essential role of the Holy Spirit for those who wish to communicate with God. The Pope spoke of prayer not primarily as a ...  

MILAN -- Pope Benedict XVI will attend a concert at the La Scala opera house of Beethoven's Ninth symphony conducted by Daniel Barenboim. The June 1 concert is part of the pope's Milan visit for the World Encounter of Families, which deals with ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has dug deep into Vatican coffers to make a £155,000 donation to fund disaffected Anglicans fed up with Church of England's 'liberal teachings' and who want to join the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Benedict's generous gift was announced ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has dug deep into Vatican coffers to make a £155,000 donation to fund disaffected Anglicans fed up with Church of England's 'liberal teachings' and who want to join the Roman Catholic Church.  

The Pope has donated £150,000 to help Anglicans who have become disenchanted with the Church of England’s liberal teachings move to the Roman Catholic Church.  

"WITH the pleasure of having undertaken my apostolic journey to Cuba for the 400th anniversary of the discovery and presence in that nation of the venerated image of Nuestra Señora de la Caridad del Cobre, it is a pleasure for me to express to Your Excellency and the country’s other authorities my deep gratitude for the sterling attention shown me during my unforgettable stay in this noble land ...  

Without belief in the true God our efforts are in ultimately fruitless, in fact not only fruitless, but they bear poisonous fruit There is an opposite side to Benedict XVI's "dream." We may call it Pope Benedict XVI's "nightmare." The nightmare happens ...  

ROME (AP) -Former world champion Maria Hoefl-Riesch has met Pope Benedict XVI during the weekly general audience in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican. The German skier was accompanied by her husband Marcus Hoefl. Hoefl-Riesch won the overall World Cup ...  

Havana.- Pope Benedict XVI thanked President Raul Castro in a letter published on Friday for the warm welcome he received during his apostolic visit to Cuba in March. I am pleased to inform Your Excellency and other Authorities of the country about my ...  

for justice is not only nightmarish when it is acted upon without regard to truth of God, it is also nightmarish when we do it without regard to truth of man. There is, Pope Benedict XVI observes in his Lenten reflection, "a permanent temptation within man ...  

On May 18, Pope Benedict XVI attended a screening of the new film Mary of Nazareth, directed by Giacomo Campiotti. After watching the movie, Pope Benedict commented that it shows the ...  

ROME - Former world champion Maria Hoefl-Riesch has met Pope Benedict XVI during the weekly general audience in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican. The German skier was accompanied by her husband Marcus Hoefl. Hoefl-Riesch won the overall World Cup title ...  

Kano — Pope Benedict XVI on Sunday bestowed the honour of Papal Dame of the Order of St. Gregory the Great on the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Oluremi Oyo. Honoured alongside her were the wife of the governor of Kaduna State ...  

Kano – Pope Benedict XVI on Sunday bestowed the honour of Papal Dame of the Order of St. Gregory the Great on the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Oluremi Oyo. Honoured alongside her were the wife of the governor of Kaduna State ...  

The Father calls us into his eternal happiness and joy through prayer, which leads us along the path of sharing in the life of the Holy Trinity It is prayer that fosters love of God; it is love of God that accomplishes all things. Our Lord Jesus Christ ...  

In his latest address to American bishops visiting Rome, Pope Benedict XVI stressed that Catholic educators should remain true to the faith -- a reminder issued just in time for another tense season of commencement addresses. No, the pope did ...  

Vatican city, Vatican (AHN) – Pope Benedict XVI on Monday celebrated his 85th birthday in his hometown Bavaria, Germany. He is second oldest pope after Leo XIII, who died at the age of 93 in 1903. Celebrating his birthday with his 88-year-old ...  

Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his 85th birthday Monday with visitors from his native state of Bavaria in Germany and is now the oldest pope since Leo XIII, who died in 1903 aged 93.Keep on reading: Pope Benedict XVI turns 85, oldest pontiff in a century  

GAYLORD — Pope Benedict XVI has bestowed Papal Honors on six priests of the Diocese of Gaylord. The Rev. James A. Suchocki, the Rev. Raymond C. Mulka, the Rev. James L. Brucksch, the Rev. Edwin A. Thome and the Rev. Francis J. Murphy, who have ...  

As the world celebrates his 85th birthday, Pope Benedict XVI holds fast to his principles. He continues to stand for tradition over reform - whether you like it or not.  

The Pontifex Maximus, Pope Benedict XVI, will visit Lebanon from 14 to 16 September 2012. This papal visit will coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Sabra and Shatila massacre that was perpetrated by Christian militia forces under the watch of Israeli ...  

April 16 and April 19 are two important dates in the life of Joseph Ratzinger. The first is when Pope Benedict XVI was born 85 years ago in Marktl am Inn, in Bavaria. The second is when he was elected pope in 2005. Both dates gave rise to a wave of wishes ...  

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on the seventh anniversary of his election. Pope Benedict has worked tirelessly to unite people of different beliefs ...  

ROME – This week marks two important dates for Pope Benedict XVI: He turns 85 today and Thursday marks the seventh anniversary of his election as pope, the 265th pope in a long line spanning the centuries from St. Peter onward. There are no ...  

VATICAN CITY—Pope Benedict XVI celebrated a very Bavarian birthday Monday, marking his 85 years with his brother, German bishops and a musical band from his native land. Benedict began the day with a Mass in which he alluded to his own ...  

Pope Benedict has not been shy in regards to issues of the environment. He has spoken frequently about everyone's right to food, right to water and responsible sharing. He has spoken about the real meaning of progress and development and what that means for our planet of limited resources. He has discussed climate change, the connection between science and nature, and how the path of cultivating peace is directly linked to protecting creation...  

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again The Good News of Easter is that the puzzle which Plato and Cicero struggled to solve is resolved for us, in fact has been revealed to us. Not, however, by myth, and not by dream. But by a brute ...  

VATICAN CITY, MAY 8, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI received in audience Monday 26 new Swiss Guards along with their families. The new recruits were sworn in on Sunday in a ceremony that is held every May 6 to commemorate the day when 147 Swiss Guards ...  

Albeu.comPope meets President of AlbaniaVatican RadioPope Benedict XVI on Saturday morning met with the President of the Republic of Albania, Bamir Topi, who later met with the Cardinal Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone and his Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Dominique Mamberti ...Pope Benedict XVI supports Albanian EU IntegrationAlbeu.comPope talks EU adhesion with Albanian presidentFocus Newsall 3 news articles »  

ROME, APRIL 24, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Initially the media portrayed Pope Benedict XVI as God’s Rottweiler, the stern protector of the faith. Seven years later he is now seen as a gentle and humble intellectual who has learned to move among the people ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has personally written to the head of the German bishops' conference to change the text of the Mass to say that Christ died "for many" rather than "for all". In a letter dated 14 April to Archbishop Robert Zollitsch, and which the Pope ...  

Received by email from the author, Leonard Swidler, and published with his permission. * * *   AN OPEN LETTER TO PROF. JOSEF RATZINGER, POPE BENEDICT XVI   Dear Joe,   Some years back when you were still the head of the Holy Office (“of the Sacred Inquisition” is, as you know, stilled chiseled in stone [...]  

In 2010, to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Pope Benedict's election and to support the Holy Father during the media attacks that year on the Catholic Church over the clerical sexual-abuse scandal, the Knights of Columbus asked their fellow Catholics to join them in a novena for the Pope. The Knights composed their own Prayer for Pope Benedict XVI to use during the novena. As we celebrate the Holy Father's 85th birthday (April 16) and the...  

Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his 85th birthday on Monday at the Vatican, where he dismissed talk of retirement but asked for prayers as he prepares for the "final stretch" of his life. "I am facing the final leg of the path of my life and I don't know what ...  

At the Pope’s request, the Cuban government declared last Good Friday a national holiday; however, it was made clear that this was “an exceptional case.” Fourteen years ago, Pope John Paul II requested the first religious holiday in the island ...  

We wanted to make sure you didn’t miss our Rome bureau’s video story last week for the seventh anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI’s election.  Providing reflections on Benedict’s papacy is Father John Wauck, who teaches at Rome’s Pontifical University of the Holy Cross. He gives insights on Benedict’s travels, on his approach to other religions and to [...]  

As Pope Benedict XVI celebrates his 85th birthday and seventh anniversary as pope this week, amid concerns of his health, the Catholic clergy has asked for prayers and the strength to carry on.  

Pope Benedict XVI celebrates his 85 th birthday on 16 April and he will do so with his brother, Monsignor Georg Ratzinger, bishops and a music band from his native land of Bavaria in Germany, at the Vatican. The Pope started the day with his 88 year old ...  

In this release... Pope Benedict XVI's Cuban Pilgrimage & the Suppression of the Ladies in White Pope Benedict XVI looked to reestablish the vitality of the Catholic faith during his recent visit to Cuba – a trip that was profoundly affected by ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has honored 6 priests from the diocese of Gaylord. Five were named prelates of Honor of His Holiness; one was named Chaplain of His Holiness, all come with the honorary title of Monsignor. The diocese says Papal Honors have not been ...  

The "birthday gift" the pope is most hoping for this week ... Six high candles now stand on the altar during all papal ceremonies, at his request, to the irritation of photographers and cameramen because it blocks their view of him. Although the pope's ...  

VATICAN CITY (AP) – Pope Benedict XVI is celebrating Easter Sunday Mass in sun-drenched, flower-adorned St. Peter's Square ... was wrapping up stamina-taxing Holy Week ceremonies that drew huge crowds to Rome.  

Pope Benedict XVI washes feet during the Mass of the Lord's Supper at St. John Lateran on Holy Thursday 2012, Rome, Italy. (Photo by Vatican Pool/Getty Images) Pope Benedict's prayer intentions for April 2012 reflect the fact that Holy Week and Easter fell ...  

VATICAN CITY — The Vatican announced on Tuesday (May 15) it had settled a lawsuit against Italian clothing group Benetton for using an image of Pope Benedict XVI in one of its advertisement campaigns. The image had been modified to show Benedict kissing ...  

Greetings also arrived from German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Queen Elizabeth II and Italy's president Giorgio Napolitano. He received several gifts, including a large crucifix, a Maypole, a traditional Bavarian Easter basket and a bunch of white flowers.  

The Executive Director of UNAIDS Michel Sidibé has asked for Pope Benedict XVI’s personal engagement in ending new HIV infections in children. During an audience with the Pope, Mr Sidibé spoke to him about how keeping children free from HIV was an ...  

In his latest address to American bishops visiting Rome, Pope Benedict XVI stressed that Catholic educators should remain true to the faith -- a reminder issued just in time for another tense season of commencement addresses. No, the pope did not mention ...  

Richard James Pope Benedict XVI used his Easter Sunday message to urge the Syrian government to end fighting in the country and a start a dialogue with the rebels and other parts of the international community. Pope Benedict XVI greets the crowds at the end of the Easter Mass (Picture: AP) After celebrating Mass in St Peter's Square in front of 100,000 people, the Pope said: 'May the risen Christ grant hope to the...  

Richard James Pope Benedict XVI has warned mankind is 'groping in the darkness, unable to distinguish good from evil' ahead of his traditional Easter Sunday Mass in Rome's St Peter's Square. Pope Benedict XVI holds a candle during the Easter vigil Mass (Pic: EPA) The head of the catholic church voiced his concerns during a vigil Mass on Saturday evening which was brought forward from its usual midnight start to...  

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI led the world's Catholics in Good Friday ceremonies shadowed by growing Vatican concern over the fate of Christians in the Middle East and perceived threats to its teachings. The German-born pope, who turns 85 on April 16, presided over a ceremony in St. Peter...  

Vatican City - Pope Benedict XVI entered a darkened St Peter's Basilica carrying a tall candle late Saturday in the Vatican to begin the annual Easter vigil. The pontiff, who turns 85 this month, used a mobile platform - a device to aid movement ...  

Pope Benedict XVI presided over Good Friday services at St; Peter's Basilica and Rome's Coliseum where the Stations of the Cross took place. Benedict, who turns 85 on April 16, didn't carry the cross during the hour-long procession itself. Instead,...  

Editor’s Note: Alleluia! As we celebrate Easter, we present the final blog of Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz.,  from Pope Benedict XVI’s March 26-28 visit to Cuba. Wednesday, March 28, 2012 HAVANA — We had to get up early to walk to the sight of the papal Mass, which was to begin at [...]  

6, No. 3, pp. 63-73), entitled "Benedict XVI and Islam." Minerbi's essay opens by recounting the inchoate efforts of Benedict XVI to engage Islam unapologetically, during 2005 and 2006 (see my own discussions, here and here), influenced by Samir ...  

Pope Benedict XVI celebrated the Easter Vigil Mass at St. Peter's Basilica with a sermon contrasting the light of Christ and his resurrection to the darkness of immorality in the world. Still, Benedict worried in his homily: "The darkness that...  

"I think he won't travel that much anymore, because it's more and more of an effort," Rev Georg Ratzinger said of Pope Benedict XVI, who has looked frail in recent weeks. Rev Ratzinger, who is three years older than his brother, made the remarks during an ...  

Pope Benedict XVI named Bishop-elect Sheltz as auxiliary bishop on Feb. 21, 2012, filling a role that has been vacant since March 2010. "I am moved and humbled that His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, would choose me to serve in this capacity, in a place that ...  

Report by JENIFERLAMUG In celebration of the Easter Sunday- Christianity’s most joyous holy day, in which the faithful believe that Christ had rose from the dead, Pope Benedict XVI led the Easter Mass in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican...  

Pope Benedict XVI will continue the expansion of the new Catholic Church structure created for former Anglicans by launching an ordinariate for Australia on June 15. “I am confident that those former Anglicans who have made a journey in faith that has ...  

In his latest address to American bishops visiting Rome, Pope Benedict XVI stressed that Catholic educators should remain true to the faith — a reminder issued just in time for another tense season of commencement addresses. No, the pope did ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has sharply condemned a group of dissident Austrian priests and laymen for questioning key teachings of the Catholic Church. The group, known as the Pfarrer Initiative, has challenged the church on topics such as priestly celibacy and its ...  

CADILLAC – Papal honors have been given to six priests in northern Michigan. The Rev. Frank Murphy of Cadillac now has the honorary title of monsignor. The title was given to him and five other priests from the Diocese of Gaylord by Pope ...  

Benedict XVI has struggled with dissent and works feverishly to silence opponents, denying any liberal idea or movement a hearing or opportunity to show why it is necessary for the church to become contemporary or die.Contributor: Arthur Frederick IdePublished: May 04, 2012  

CTV.caPope Benedict XVI calls for peace in his Easter messageLos Angeles TimesREPORTING FROM ROME -- Pope Benedict XVI on Sunday used his traditional Easter message to call for an end to bloodshed in Syria and for greater efforts to resolve other conflicts in the Middle East and Africa. Before an estimated 100000 pilgrims ...Pope marks Easter with call for end to violence in SyriaFox NewsPope backs Syrian ceasefire in Easter messageABC...  

Pope Benedict XVI has bestowed the Papal Honour of the Knighthood of St. Gregory on Mrs Oluremi Oyo (OON), the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). A statement by Very Rev. Peter Ebidero, the Vicar-General, Diocese of Kano, also listed ...  

ROME -- Pope Benedict XVI encouraged those threatened by unemployment and other economic woes to draw courage and strength from the suffering of the crucified Jesus Christ as the pontiff presided over a Good Friday candlelit Way of the Cross ...  

ROME (AP) - Pope Benedict XVI, tourists and Romans are praying together at the traditional Good Friday candlelit procession at the Colosseum in Rome. Crowds of faithful clutched candles and prayer books outside the ancient arena in the heart of the Italian ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI issued a blistering denunciation Thursday of priests who have questioned church teaching on celibacy and ordaining women, saying they were being selfish in disobeying his authority. Benedict made the rare and ...  

Via El Nuevo Herald and Babalu Blog, former Cuban prisoner of conscience Dr. Oscar Elias Biscet writes about Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Cuba: I didn’t oppose Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to my country. Even when I was convinced that...  

The Pope does not agree with many of us. He has recently taken a firm stand against ordaining women. A fuller report can be found here. Pope Benedict has restated the Roman Catholic Church’s ban on women priests and warned that he would not ...  

AREZZO, Italy (AP) — Pope Benedict XVI is promoting the church's prescription for coping with the economic crisis: share resources and pare lifestyles down to the essentials. Benedict spoke about economic problems as he made a daylong pastoral visit ...  

Pope Benedict XVI is promoting the church's prescription for coping with the economic crisis: share resources and pare lifestyles down to the essentials. Benedict spoke about economic problems as he made a daylong pastoral visit Sunday to the ...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI has begun a Good Friday service at the Vatican by kneeling in silent prayer. Benedict rested his folded hands on a red cushion near the central altar of St. Peter's Basilica as he prayed during the solemn ...  

AREZZO, Italy (AP) — Pope Benedict XVI is promoting the church's prescription for coping with the economic crisis: share resources and pare lifestyles down to the essentials. Benedict spoke about economic problems as he made a daylong pastoral visit ...  

The pope has called for peace in Syria and across the Middle East in his traditional speech on Easter Sunday. The message coincided with a car bombing at a church in Nigeria that left several dead.  

(AGI) Vatican City - "I reminded everybody that Cuba and the World need changes, but they will be possible only if everyone opens to the integral truth on man", as Pope Benedict XVI summarized the meaning of his pastoral visit to Cuba, where the Church is ...  

POPE Benedict XVI is promoting the church's prescription for coping with the economic crisis: share resources and pare lifestyles down to the essentials. Benedict spoke about economic problems as he made a pastoral visit to the Tuscan town of Arezzo on Sunday.  

VATICAN CITY — In a rare public rebuke, Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday (April 5) denounced a call for optional celibacy and women’s ordination that was issued by a group of Austrian priests, saying true reform will not come as a result of open dissent.  

Writing for the Associated Press, Nicole Winfield is reporting that, "Pope Benedict XVI issued a blistering denunciation Thursday of priests who have questioned church teaching on celibacy and ordaining women, saying they were being selfish in disobeying his authority. Benedict made the rare and explicit criticism from the altar of St. Peter's Basilica in his homily on Holy Thursday, when priests recall the promises they made when ordained...  

This will be the second trip to the region for Benedict, who visited Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian Territories ... After celebrating Mass in St. Peter’s Square, Benedict voiced hope that Easter’s joy would comfort Christian communities ...  

She wore a red coat to stand out among the foreign dignitaries and international politicians. Others in line to meet the leader of the Roman Catholic Church carried gifts: tapestries, paintings, even the Olympic torch. Olivia Kassien didn't have ...  

This story comes from the Yahoo! Contributor Network, where individuals publish their unique perspectives on some of the world’s most popular websites. Last week, Pope Benedict XVI came to Cuba. It was only a decade or so ago that Pope John Paul II came ...  

As the Pope visits Mexico this week, an editorial in New York's Spanish-language newspaper El Diario/La Prensa notes that Mexico doesn't have the same relationship with Pope Benedict XVI that it had with John Paul II.A Pope's visit to Mexico is an occasi...  

The pope can't cook but knows how to wash dishes following dinner and practises addresses with a tape recorder, according to his older brother. Before he became Pope Benedict XVI, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine ...  

Pope Benedict, leading the world's Catholics into Easter, said technological progress, in the absence of awareness of God and moral values, posed a threat to the world. Benedict presided at a solemn Easter vigil Mass in St. Peter's Basilica to ...  

Since Thomas Jefferson responded to the Danbury CT Baptists enjoining a wall separating state and church the nation prospered. Rick Santorum and Benedict XVI want to tear down this wall.Contributor: Arthur Frederick IdePublished: Apr 29, 2012  

Pope Benedict XVI was today promoting the church's prescription for coping with the economic crisis - share resources and pare lifestyles down to the essentials. Benedict spoke about economic problems as he made a day-long pastoral visit to the Tuscan town of Arezzo. During his homily at Mass, he acknowledged the complexity of the problems made it hard to pinpoint "more rapid and efficient" solutions to the eurozone crisis, which...  

Ho, April 1, GNA - Pope Benedict XVI, Head of the Catholic Church, has exhorted young people to turn to God for the joy and fulfillment they seek. “The discovery and preservation of spiritual joy is the fruit of an encounter with the Lord. Find your ...  

Carrying a tall, lit candle, the pope ushered in Christianity's most joyous celebration with an Easter vigil service Saturday night, but voiced fears that mankind is groping in darkness, unable to distinguish good from evil.  

Pope Benedict XVI. Pope Benedict XVI has indicated that condom use may be acceptable for certain people, such as male prostitutes, to reduce the spread of HIV. The pope's comments, which were published Saturday in the ...  

The Zanzucchis' reflections - published by the Vatican ahead of the ceremony - invited the faithful to meditate on how Jesus suffered and died under the weight of human sin, including that committed within the context of family life.  

Benedict also condemned the "savage terrorist attacks" on Christian churches in Nigeria ... In Caracas, President Hugo Chavez made an emotional plea that put his health and political future in the spotlight, begging God "don't take me yet" at an Easter ...  

During the 30-minute meeting between the pope and Fidel Castro at the Vatican's Embassy, the retired Cuban leader — a one-time altar boy who was educated by Jesuit priests — essentially interviewed Benedict, asking him about the changes in church ...  

Pope Benedict called for an end to the U.S. trade embargo against Cuba and met with revolutionary icon Fidel Castro on Wednesday.Speaking in a departure ceremony at a rainy Havana airport, Benedict said Cuba could build "a society of broad vision, renewed and reconciled," but it was more difficult "when restrictive economic measures, imposed from outside the country, unfairly burden its people."Source: Reuters  

Benedict, struggling with hoarseness and looking tired, celebrated Mass on Christianity's most joyous holy day on the flower-adorned steps of St. Peter's Basilica, before a crowd of faithful that swelled to far more than 100,000 by the end of ...  

As you know there have been many popes before you who made poor choices. To start, popes agree to send men to their (and others') death in the crusades. Then there was Galileo, and next the horrible inquisitions as well as misleading the folks ...  

AREZZO, Italy — Pope Benedict XVI is promoting the church’s prescription for coping with the economic crisis: share resources and pare lifestyles down to the essentials. Benedict spoke about economic problems as he made a daylong pastoral ...  

evil. The darkness enshrouding God and obscuring values is the real threat to our existence and to the world in general. If God and moral values, the difference between good and evil, remain in darkness, then all other "lights", that put such incredible ...  

Thousands of tourists, pilgrims and Romans jammed the boulevard outside the Colosseum and the ancient Roman Forum to pray with him on a mild, cloudy night and listen to hymns. The faithful clutched candles and prayer books. A few held palms or olive ...  

At the end of Sunday's Mass, Benedict moved to the basilica's central balcony to read his Easter message "to the entire world," as he put it, delivering a ringing appeal for peace in Iraq, Syria and elsewhere in the Middle East, and particularly ...  

Ozzie Guillen is the former manager of the Chicago White Sox and is now managing the Miami Marlins. Who would have ever thought that Ozzie Guillen might have an impact on international politics? Because of Ozzie Guillen's recent remarks concerning former ...  

The crucified Christ is the Source of our hope and strength during sturggle The Way of the Cross which we have spiritually retraced this evening invites all of us, and families in particular, to contemplate Christ crucified in order to have the force to ...  

At this Holy Mass our thoughts go back to that moment when, through prayer and the laying on of hands, the bishop made us sharers in the priesthood of Jesus Christ, so that we might be “consecrated in truth” (Jn 17:19), as Jesus besought the Father for ...  

(Pope Benedict XVI) Pope Benedict XVI loves nature as God's creation and gift to us CHESAPEAKE, VA (Catholic online) - We recently published a "tongue in cheek", well written article by Peg Luksik which touched upon environmental issues within a comedic framework.  

Les Combes (AsiaNews) – By communicating with nature – a vehicle of 'self-awareness' – during the holidays, "man finds his right dimension once again, he rediscovers himself as a creature, small but at the same time unique, "'good for God' because he ...  

VATICAN CITY (RNS) Pope Benedict XVI on Saturday (May 5) called on Catholic colleges and universities in the United States to do more to affirm their "Catholic identity," particularly by ensuring the doctrinal orthodoxy of their faculty and staff.  

Rome/Vatican - Czech Prime Minister Petr Necas had a private meeting with Pope Benedict XVI in the Vatican today at the beginning of the year marking the 1150th anniversary of Christian missionaries SS Cyril and Methodius´ arrival in Great Moravia.  

Pope Benedict XVI received a private audience of Latin American Jewish leaders from 12 countries. The group, which met Thursday with the pope, was led by Latin American Jewish Congress President Jack Terpins. According to Latin American Jewish ...  

Part 4 in a series. Click here for my podcast interview on Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Cuba, hosted by Research on Religion. After watching Pope Benedict XVI’s March 2012 visit to Cuba, I have written a series of posts on Catholicism in Cuba, past ...  

Today marks Benedict XVI's 85th birthay. HAPPY BIRTHDAY BENEDICT! Today is Pope Benedict XVI's 85th birthday. Thursday will also mark the seventh anniversary of his election to the papacy. LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Benedict, who is now one of the ...  

VATICAN CITY, APRIL 25, 2012 (Zenit.org).- The people of Lebanon have great affection for Rome and the papacy, and are thus excited to welcome Benedict XVI to their homeland in September, says the coordinator of the papal visit. Father Marwan Tabet, the ...  

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Benedict XVI has praised his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, as a model for the Polish people on the first anniversary of his beatification. Benedict made his remarks in Polish during his weekly public audience ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has praised his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, as a model for the Polish people on the first anniversary of his beatification. Benedict made his remarks in Polish during his weekly public audience Wednesday, saying "may the ...  

Vatican City -- Pope Benedict XVI has praised his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, as a model for the Polish people on the first anniversary of his beatification. Benedict made his remarks in Polish during his weekly public audience Wednesday, saying "may ...  

Each month, Pope Benedict XVI announces his special prayer intentions—particular things that he wishes all Catholics to pray for that month. (When, for instance, we pray the rosary and say the prayers at the end for the intentions of the Holy ...  

Vatican City— Pope Benedict XVI has praised his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, as a model for the Polish people on the first anniversary of his beatification.  

by Samuel Gregg “Revolution” – it’s a word that conjures up images of winter palaces being stormed and the leveling of Bastilles. But if a true revolutionary is someone who regularly turns conventional thinking upside-down, then one of the world’s most prominent status-quo challengers may well be a quietly-spoken Catholic theologian who turned 85 on April 16. You might also like...  

Pope Benedict XVI. AP VATICAN CITY--Pope Benedict XVI will visit Lebanon from September 14 to 16, the Vatican announced on Sunday. The trip will mark Benedict's second visit to the region. He ...  

Of course Bishop Michael Bransfield of the Wheeling-Charleston West Virginia Diocese deserves his day in court to defend himself. Caught off guard in the middle of a ceremonial week in Rome to present $8 million to Benedict XVI for his most ...  

Before with John Paul II, and especially today with Pope Ratzinger, the Church in India has changed from being a "needy" Church to one that "goes" on mission. The Archbishop of Mumbai Card. Oswald Gracias traces the path of the Indian Church in the years of the papacy of Benedict XVI: New ...  

Related Technology without God is dangerous: pope Pope Benedict XVI holds a cross as he leads a vigil mass during Easter celebrations in the Vatican Pope Benedict XVI prays while holding a candle light as he arrives to lead a vigil mass during ...  

The pope turns 85 today. On the website of Crisis Magazine, Acton Research Director Samuel Gregg looks at this most prominent of “status-quo challengers.”While regularly derided by his critics as “decrepit” and “out-of-touch,” Benedict XVI continues to do what he’s done since his election as pope seven years ago: which is to shake up not just the Catholic Church but also the world it’s called upon to evangelize. His means of doing so doesn’t...  

Jesus before Pilate: What happened during the final week of Jesus of Nazareth's earthly life? How did the man whom many hailed as the Messiah on Palm Sunday come to be rejected by the leaders of his own people just a few days later? In Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week - From the Entrance Into Jerusalem to the Resurrection, Pope Benedict XVI takes up these and other crucial questions. Following is an excerpt. (POPE BENEDICT XVI) At this point we...  

Benedict XVI highlights the initiative of the week of prayer for Christian ... century it has become a fixed appointment for all confessions. Each year, said the Pope, Christians "pray and reflect" on the same biblical text. For 2006 the theme was taken ...  

Irish TimesPope celebrates Easter vigilIrish TimesPope Benedict XVI pictured at the Easter vigil Mass at St Peter's Basilica in Rome today. Photograph: Alessandro Bianchi/Reuters Pope Benedict XVI, carrying a tall, lit candle, ushered in Christianity's most joyous celebration with an Easter vigil ...Pope Benedict warns mankind 'in darkness'BBC NewsPope leading outdoor Easter MassHerald SunPope holds Easter candle at basilica vigilCBS NewsNew...  

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/06/world/europe/pope-assails-disobedience-among-priests.html?emc=tnt&tntemail1=y * * * Pope Rebukes Priests Who Advocate Ordaining Women and Ending Celibacy Max Rossi/Reuters Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday. ROME — Striking the tone that once earned him the nickname “God’s Rottweiler,” Pope Benedict XVI in a stern Holy Thursday homily denounced “disobedience” in the Roman Catholic Church...  

In May 2007, Pope Benedict XVI released a Letter to Chinese Catholics, in which he asked that May 24 each year be dedicated a World Day of Prayer for the Church in China. He chose May 24 because it is the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians, who is venerated at the Shrine of Sheshan in Shanghai. In honor of the first celebration of the World Day of Prayer for China, in 2008, Pope Benedict composed a prayer to Our Lady of Sheshan and asked...  

214 religious congregations are sending Indian members to the missions outside and some of them are taking full responsibilities of developing their mission areas. And this is our gift to the Holy Father for the New Evangelization Year of Faith Benedict ...  

A tired-looking Pope Benedict XVI also prayed for peace around the world and for Christians suffering because of their faithPope Benedict XVI has implored the Syrian regime to heed international demands to end the bloodshed and said he hopes the joy of Easter will comfort Christians who are suffering because of their faith.Benedict, struggling with hoarseness and looking tired, celebrated mass on the flower-adorned steps of St Peter's Basilica...  

VATICAN CITY, APRIL 6, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Here is a Vatican translation of Benedict XVI's homily at the Mass of the Lord's Supper, held in St. John Lateran on Thursday evening. Dear Brothers and Sisters! Holy Thursday is not only the day of the institution ...  

By: NICOLE WINFIELD Associated Press VATICAN CITY — Tuesday marked the anniversary of the start of Pope Benedict XVI’s pontificate, which officially began April 24, 2005, with an inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square. ...  

Pope Benedict XVI -AFPThe pope can't cook but knows how to wash dishes following dinner and practices addresses with a tape recorder, according to his older brother. Before he became Pope Benedict XVI, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, kind of like the Church's head faith policeman. A few times a year he would return home to Regensburg in Germany where the brothers would bond at the...  

Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his 85th birthday quietly on April 16, with a Mass of thanksgiving and a reception for bishops and pilgrims from his native Bavaria. "I am facing the final ...  

On April 16, 2005 Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger turned 78 years old. Two days later he took part in the conclave to elect the man who would follow John Paul II. What happened 24 hours later, is now part of history. He was elected seven years ago. During his pontificate, he has written three encyclicals and has taken on 30 trips- in and outside of Italy. As a whole, he has visited 21 countries in five different continents. Aside from his seventh...  

HUNTINGTON, Ind., April 20, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- A new book published by Our Sunday Visitor, The Environment by Pope Benedict XVI is an unprecedented collection of excerpts from what the Holy Father has had to say regarding the environment- a ...  

the unifying love of a living God. The heart of the "Gospel" is the message that in and through Jesus Christ, authentic unity with God - and through Him, in the Spirit, with one another- is not only possible but is the plan of God for the entire human race.  

Co-author Michael Hesemann available to discuss the Ratzinger Brothers and their lives as the Holy Father turns 85 SAN FRANCISCO, CA (April 13, 2012) – Michael Hesemann, who worked with Msgr. Georg Ratzinger on the fascinating new book My Brother the ...  

VATICAN CITY, APRIL 5, 2012 (Zenit.org).- Here is a Vatican translation of the homily Benedict XVI gave at the Holy Thursday chrism Mass. At this Holy Mass our thoughts go back to that moment when, through prayer and the laying on of hands, the bishop made ...  

A new book published by Our Sunday Visitor, The Environment by Pope Benedict XVI is an unprecedented collection of excerpts from what the Holy Father has had to say regarding the environment- a treasure trove of insights and inspiration ...  

Benedict XVI will be welcomed by Cardinal Angelo Scola and other university officials, and will then give his address. It is the fifth time that Benedict XVI visits the Catholic University and the A. Gemelli Polyclinic since the beginning of his pontificate.  

(AGI) Rome - Italy's President, Giorgio Napolitano, has sent his Easter wishes to Pope Benedetto XVI. Writing on "a personal footing and on behalf of the Italian people," Napolitano presented the Pontiff with "best wishes," drawing attention to Easter's ...  

When Pope Benedict XVI travelled to Cuba two weeks ago, he was acting within a long tradition. Popes, after all, are not only spiritual leaders, they are representatives of the oldest continuous absolute monarchy in the world, which traces back ...  

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI, carrying a tall, lit candle, ushered in Christianity’s most joyous celebration with an Easter vigil service Saturday night, but voiced fears that mankind is groping in darkness, unable to distinguish good ...  

Pope Benedict XVI will visit Lebanon from September 14 to 16, the Vatican announced today. The trip will mark the second to the region for Benedict, who visited Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian Territories in 2009. "The pope will come to support Christians so that they are united," Gregory III Laham, the head of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church, said last month after meeting with the pontiff. Benedict will also bring a message of "peace...  

Pope Benedict XVI prayed Sunday for the strength to carry on as he marks two major milestones this week: his 85th birthday and the seventh anniversary of his election to the papacy. The comments, while innocuous, were the clearest sign yet that Benedict has no intention of resigning anytime soon despite his age and increasing frailty.  

If you think Pope Benedict XVI is looking even more weary than usual, you're right, says his older brother. According to the London Telegraph, the Rev. Georg Ratzinger, author of a recent book, My Brother the Pope, told a German Catholic news agency, I ...  

Pope Benedict XVI decried the increasing commercialisation of Christmas as he celebrated Christmas Eve Mass, urging the faithful to look beyond the holiday’s “superficial glitter” to discover its true meaning. Benedict presided over the service in a ...  

Pope Benedict XVI issued a blistering denunciation of dissident priests on Holy Thursday at St. Peter's Basilica, according to the Associated Press. Benedict said he would not tolerate disobedience, in direct response to a group of Austrian priests who ...  

Pope Benedict XVI prayed Sunday for the strength to carry on as he marks two major milestones this week: his 85th birthday and the seventh anniversary of his election to the papacy. The comments, while innocuous, were the clearest sign yet that Benedict ...  

Rome, 8 April 2012 (MIA) - Pope Benedict XVI has delivered his traditional Easter message of peace in front of tens of thousands of pilgrims in St Peter's Square in Rome. He urged Syria's government to end the bloody year-long conflict, and spoke of the ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has asked for prayers and for the strength to carry on as he marks his seventh anniversary as pope this week. Benedict made the comments to thousands of people gathered in St. Peter's Square for his traditional Sunday blessing.  

In his first official engagement of a four-day visit to Germany Pope Benedict XVI was welcomed to the residence of German President Christian Wulff. Benedict's predecessor John Paul always met rapturous crowds in his Catholic Poland. The pope from Catholic ...  

ROME — Pope Benedict XVI encouraged those threatened by unemployment and other economic woes to draw courage and strength from the suffering of the crucified Jesus Christ as the pontiff presided over a Good Friday candlelit Way of the Cross procession at the ancient Colosseum. Benedict didn’t carry the cross during the hour-long procession itself. Instead, he listened...  

VATICAN CITY, April 8 (UPI) -- About 100,000 people filled Vatican Square Sunday to hear Pope Benedict XVI deliver Easter greetings in more than 60 languages. Benedict began the Easter holiday with the traditional three-hour vigil and then ...  

Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Cuba last week has caused the country's president, Raul Castro, to make this year's Good Friday a national holiday, although it is undetermined whether this will become an annual tradition. Pope Benedict began his three-day ...  

Dashing the opposition’s hopes, Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to Cuba last month ended up resembling that of his predecessor John Paul II fourteen years prior. The island’s leaders emerged from both visits unscathed, and surely appreciated Benedict’s ...  

VATICAN CITY (AP) -- Pope Benedict XVI has begun a Good Friday service at the Vatican by kneeling in silent prayer. Benedict rested his folded hands on a red cushion near the central altar of St. Peter's Basilica as he prayed during the solemn ...  

Pope Benedict XVI has praised the "great generosity" of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform.Benedict on Friday held the last of a series of periodic meetings with American bishops over the past few months, saying the church must embrace "the rich patrimony of faith" from newly arrived Hispanic, Asian and African Catholics.He acknowledged that immigration...  

By Ludwig WatzalThe Pontifex Maximus, Pope Benedict XVI, will visit Lebanon from 14 to 16 September 2012. This papal visit will coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Sabra and Shatila massacre that was perpetrated by Christian militia forces under the watch of Israeli occupation troops. To make atonement for the crimes committed by “his” Christian brothers he should commemorate this anniversary by visiting his Palestinian Muslim brothers...  

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI implored the Syrian regime Sunday to heed international demands to end the bloodshed and said he hopes the joy of Easter will comfort Christians who are suffering because of their faith.Benedict, struggling with hoarseness and looking tired, celebrated Mass on Christianity's most joyous holy day on the flower-adorned steps of St. Peter's Basilica, before a crowd of faithful that swelled to far over 100,000 by...  

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI has praised the “great generosity” of American Catholics in welcoming new immigrants and backed the commitment of bishops in the United States to immigration reform. Benedict on Friday held the last of a series of ...