By Cindy WoodenCatholic News Service VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV welcomed Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla to the Vatican for a unique visit combining ceremonial flourishes and a historic moment of prayer in the Sistine Chapel. According to Buckingham Palace, it was the first time since the Reformation in the early 16th […]
From eager anticipation to celebration in St. Peter’s Square
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — When white smoke came pouring out of the Sistine Chapel chimney and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica started pealing, people who had been relaxing at cafes or sitting in the shade went running or quickly walking toward St. Peter’s Square. “Hurry! Get over here! It’s […]
U.S.-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is elected pope; takes name Pope Leo XIV
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the Chicago-born prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops under Pope Francis, was elected the 267th pope May 8 and took the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first North American to be elected pope and, before the conclave, was the U.S. […]
Texts, secrecy guide historic election
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — The conclave to elect a new pope, which began May 7, is governed by two texts: a rule book and a prayer book. The rule book is the apostolic constitution, “Universi Dominici Gregis” (“Shepherd of the Lord’s Whole Flock”), which was issued by St. John Paul […]
Back to the Sistine: Raphael’s precious tapestries briefly return to the chapel for which they were made 500 years ago
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service VATICAN CITY — An artistic masterpiece conceived by the Renaissance master Raphael was on display for one week in the Sistine Chapel to help celebrate the 500th anniversary of the artist’s death. “It’s an important moment” and a way to celebrate a truly great artist, Barbara Jatta, director of […]