Two Catholic cardinals defended Pope Francis' decision to approve a decree that bans priests from blessing same-sex unions, saying that the church needs to be clear in its teaching that marriage is between a man and a woman.
As government delegations from across the globe prepare for a Dec. 2-14 U.N. conference on climate change, Catholic organizations are pledging to make the church's voice heard.
Christians have the teachings and the responsibility to address growing fear of and discrimination against immigrants and refugees, said speakers opening a Vatican-sponsored conference.
A top Vatican official urged young people at a local World Youth Day gathering to protect the planet and actively live the teachings of Pope Francis' encyclical on the environment.
Pope Francis' call for a day of prayer and fasting for peace in war-torn countries like South Sudan and Congo is also a reminder for world leaders to protect their countrymen from violence and injustice, a Vatican official said.
Global leaders must implement policies that support the family and offer real opportunities for the growth and development of all people, Pope Francis said.
Officers, activists, academics and Cardinal Peter Turkson will seek common ground at "The Catholic Church Moves Towards Nonviolence? Just Peace Just War in Dialogue," Oct. 6-8 at the University of San Diego.