Pope at Audience: Work is essential for our growth in holiness

In his continuing catechesis at the General Audience focusing on Saint Joseph, Pope Francis looks at Joseph's life as a worker and the dignity of labour, essential for our human development and our growth in holiness.

Vatican response to Ayatollah Arafi message on new year

Mr. Ayatollah Arafi, the head of the Islamic Seminaries of Iran, sent a message to the Vatican on the occasion of Christmas and New Year.

Ayatollah Arafi's message to the Vatican:

  We are with you on the International Day of Prayer

The director of the seminaries noted: "We send a message to the Vatican and all the world's religions that we believe in the return of humanity to God and the revival of the tradition of prayer and supplication.

Pope Francis prays in an empty St Peter’s Square on Italy’s deadliest day

Pope Francis under a canopy erected on the steps of St Peter’s Basilica while leading a special service as rain soaked the usually crowded cobblestone square.