The process of picking the next pope starts in a few hours. I’m in Rome reporting about it. Today’s newsletter answers questions I keep hearing about how the Catholic Church selects Pope Francis’ successor. How long does the conclave last? As long as it takes! Church rules require two-thirds of the eligible cardinals to agree … Read more
The transition from one pope to the next can be a mystifying time for those who aren’t familiar with the workings of the Roman Catholic Church — and even to some who are. The process is governed by centuries-old rules and traditions that come with their own vocabulary, much of it in Latin. The election … Read more
President Trump flew briefly this weekend into a European continent he has thrown into chaos in recent months, paying respects to Pope Francis at his funeral, but also meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine at a critical moment that may decide both the country’s boundaries and its fate. Mr. Trump was on the ground … Read more
Pope Francis made his first, brief, appearance in more than six weeks on Sunday, appearing on the balcony of a Rome hospital to greet hundreds of people gathered in the square in front. Looking frail, Francis gave a thumbs up. “Thank you everyone,” he said in a wisp of a voice. The pope later left … Read more
Pope Francis will remain in a Rome hospital after being admitted late last week following a series of tests that indicated a “complex clinical picture,” the Vatican said on Monday, raising fresh concerns about the 88-year-old pontiff’s health. Diagnostic tests carried out after Francis was taken to Policlinico A. Gemelli on Friday presented “a polymicrobial … Read more
“I like punctuality, it’s a virtue I have learned to appreciate,” Pope Francis writes in the fifth chapter of his autobiography, to be published on Tuesday in 18 languages, adding that he considers it “a sign of good manners and respect, to arrive promptly.” Unfortunately, as a newborn, Francis writes, he arrived a week late, … Read more
By Robin FosterHealthDay Reporter WEDNESDAY, July 7, 2021 (Healthday News) — Following major colon surgery that was performed on Sunday, Pope Francis ate breakfast, read the newspapers and took a walk on Tuesday, the Vatican said. “His Holiness Pope Francis rested well during the night,” said Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni. “The post-operative recovering is regular. … Read more