peace

Thousands of children representing every continent joined Pope Francis for the event “Let Us Learn from Boys and Girls” to focus attention on children’s simple and sincere desires for peace and harmony in the world.

The co-founders of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, an international movement that builds relationships between Muslim and Jewish women, received the Pacem in Terris award on Sept. 13.

Shortly after urging people to pray the rosary for peace and entrusting the people of Ukraine to Mary’s care, Pope Francis met briefly with Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, director of external relations for the Russian Orthodox Church

As part of his series of talks about “zeal” for evangelization, Pope Francis spoke about the witness of “the host of martyrs — men and women of every age, language and nation — who have given their life for Christ.”

The pope continued his series of audience talks about “evangelical zeal,” looking at how that differs from pretending to share the Gospel while really just seeking attention or pushing one’s own ideas.

Some 45,000 people were present in the square for the morning Mass, the Vatican said, and by noon there were close to 100,000 people inside and outside the square for the pope’s Easter message and blessing “urbi et orbi” (to the city and the world).

Missionaries are called to be like Christ in bearing witness to the realities of the communities they serve, the pope said.

In interviews focused on the 10th anniversary of his election, Pope Francis insisted it is not his task to make an accounting of what he has or has not accomplished since March 13, 2013, but he had three words for what he hopes for the future.