ROME – Despite being almost 90 years old and suffering from the various ailments that come with ageing, Pope Francis has touted some ambitious travel plans for this year, including potential visits to Polynesia and a long-awaited return trip to Argentina.  Though there is nothing yet on the calendar for this spring, the Pope in

MUMBAI – As the world’s largest Muslim nation heads to the polls on 14 February, which also happens to be Ash Wednesday this year, the country’s bishops are making special provisions to ensure the country’s minority Catholic population can participate in what is shaping up to be a tense election. The bishops are also calling

“Let us pray for all the victims of violence,” Pope Francis said in remarks to the faithful praying the Palm Sunday Angelus with him in St Peter’s Basilica on Palm Sunday, “especially those of this morning's attack in Indonesia, in front of the Cathedral of Makassar,” on the southwest coast of South Sulawesi.

Addressed to the Apostolic Nuncio in Indonesia, Archbishop Piero Pioppo, and signed by the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, the telegram says Pope Francis was "saddened to learn of the tragic loss of life and the destruction of property caused by the violent earthquake in Indonesia," and "expresses his heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this natural disaster." "He prays for the repose of the deceased," the message goes on to say, "the healing of the injured and the consolation of all who grieve." Pope Francis also offers special and particular encouragement to civil authorities, "and those involved in the continuing search and rescue efforts."

At least 10 dead and scores injured in suspected suicide attacks

A daily guide to what's happening in the Catholic Church

A daily guide to what's happening in the Catholic Church

A daily guide to what's happening in the Catholic Church