Editorial Assistant

Rome’s anti-Trump protesters express mixed views on pope summit

Pope/Trump, Vatican
May 23, 2017

A small crowd of protesters gathered in Rome to protest Donald Trump and his controversial policies ahead of his meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican on May 24. Though some protesters were hopeful that the historic meeting would bring positive change on issues concerning migration and the environment, the majority was skeptical that the encounter would bring any actual change.

Ahead of meeting with Pope Francis, Trump aides present a divided front

Church in the US, Pope/Trump
May 22, 2017

Trying to predict President Trump’s behavior can be a tall order, but a close look at the advisors who are following him on this historic trip can offer an insight on what council the president might be getting before his meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican May 24.

Will Italy’s surprisingly positive take on Trump influence the Pope?

Church in the US, Global Church, Pope/Trump
May 19, 2017

Italy is preparing to welcome Donald Trump during his visit with Pope Francis in the Vatican and the G7, but what do Italians really think of the controversial president? The surprisingly positive Italian perspective might influence the pope, who, apart from having lived in Italy for four years now, also has an Italian heritage.

Pope: Every man is a story of love that God writes on this earth

Vatican
May 17, 2017

Jesus “is someone who knows us, sees our pain and disappointment, and who is moved by us and calls us by name,” Pope Francis said during his general audience May 17. “Every man is a story of love that God writes on this earth.”

UN forces retake areas from Christian rebels in Central African Republic

Global Church
May 16, 2017

U.N. peacekeeping forces regained control of Muslim majority areas in the Central African Republic after Christian rebels had attacked them, killing dozens of civilians. Catholic leaders have failed so far in their efforts to convince parties to lay down their weapons and to work for peace.

Catholic priest among those arrested in mafia-run scam to steal from migrants

Global Church
May 15, 2017

Local mafia in southern Italy have allegedly been siphoning off state funds destined for the country’s largest migrant center since 2009. A charity run by Father Edoardo Scordio operates the center, and he was among those arrested in connection to the scheme.