Vatican

Vatican

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace: Urgent Appeals for Ukraine and Gaza

Pope Leo XIV seated and reading a peace appeal during a public address at the Vatican, holding papers and speaking into a microphone with a calm and focused expression.

A Compassionate Plea from the Vatican In his recent address, Pope Leo XIV issued a heartfelt and powerful appeal for peace, urging immediate ceasefires and humanitarian aid to address ongoing crises in Ukraine and Gaza. His passionate speech highlights the Vatican’s continued commitment to peace, dialogue, and human dignity. Pope Leo XIV Urges Immediate Ukraine Ceasefire Speaking during his general audience at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV expressed deep distress over the ongoing violence in Ukr

2 minute read.
Vatican

America’s First Pope: What Leo XIV Means for the Church

Pope Leo XIV greets the public from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica after his election in 2025, marking the historic moment as the first American pope.

How the new pope 2025 reshapes the future of Catholicism. Who Is Pope Leo XIV? On May 8, 2025, history was made. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, born in Chicago, was elected the 266th pope of the Catholic Church, taking the name Leo XIV. This marked a significant milestone—he became the first American pope ever chosen by the Vatican's conclave. With decades of service in Peru and a leadership role within the Order of Saint Augustine, Pope Leo XIV brings a pastoral heart, academic rigor, and

2 minute read.
Vatican

Conclave 2025: Why Even the Cooks Swear a Secrecy Oath

Cardinal in red cassock administers the secrecy oath to a Vatican staff member inside a marble hall, with Swiss Guards standing watch in the background.

What Is the Conclave Secrecy Oath? When a papal election starts, silence isn’t just golden—it’s mandatory. Every support worker – from Swiss Guards to kitchen crews – must raise their right hand in the Pauline Chapel and vow never to reveal what they see or hear. Breaking that promise brings automatic excommunication under Church law. Why the Vatican Locks Things Down * Preserve the cardinals’ freedom from outside pressure * Prevent leaks that could sway votes * Protect the spiritual focu

1 minute read.
Vatican

Conclave 2025: Cardinals Touch Down in Rome Ahead of the Papal Election

Cardinals in red cassocks wheel suitcases toward St. Peter’s Basilica at sunrise while a jet passes overhead—symbolizing their arrival in Rome for the 2025 papal conclave.

The Road to the Sistine Chapel International flights have been landing all weekend as all 133 cardinal‑electors arrive at Fiumicino Airport and settle into Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guest house that will serve as their temporary home during the vote. Dean of the College of Cardinals Giovanni Battista Re confirmed that every seat is now filled for the first General Congregation, set for the evening of May 7, 2025. What Happens Inside the Conclave? Time‑Honored Rituals Meet 21st‑Century S

1 minute read.