Pope Francis

People sometimes forget life’s ultimate purpose is to prepare for the kingdom of heaven, Pope Francis said.

Pope Francis’ letter, written to all people of goodwill, is an invitation for dialogue.

The Vatican Secretariat of State has sent a note to nuncios around the world explaining the pope’s comments about civil unions in the documentary “Francesco” by Evgeny Afineevsky.

Cardinal-designate Gregory will be the first African American cardinal from the United States to be elevated to the College of Cardinals. He and the other 12 prelates will be elevated at a Nov. 28 consistory at the Vatican.

Pope Francis often has expressed openness to the idea of laws recognizing civil unions, including for gay couples, to protect their rights.

Although his film is called “Francesco,” director Evgeny Afineevsky said the main character of his new documentary “is us, humanity,” and Pope Francis simply is the one “trying to point us in the right direction.”

“Some of the most nefarious online gossip is spread on Catholic keyboards.”

“The pope’s first official trip outside Rome in more than seven months couldn’t come at a better, or more critical, time.”