Ukraine

“Wars are easy to get into but usually difficult to extricate from. Since the Russian invasion of Crimea and its occupation of part of eastern Ukraine, an estimated 14,000 Ukrainian soldiers and civilians have died, and no end is in sight.”

In the spotlight: Ukraine-Russia tensions, Olympic gold, Madagascar cyclone, Lunar New Year

In the spotlight: bishop’s ordination, police funeral, Jerusalem snowstorm, Ukraine border tensions

In the spotlight: Tension in Ukraine, national March for Life, Salvadoran martyrs, tsunami

“I am following with concern the rising tensions that threaten to strike a new blow at peace in Ukraine and put into question the security of the European continent, with even wider repercussions,” the pope said Jan. 23.

In the spotlight: Pope’s record collection, “blessing of the waters” and “friar truck” Bible reading

Before giving his Christmas blessing to the city of Rome and to the world, Pope Francis drew attention to the many places around the globe and within human hearts in need of Jesus, the prince of peace.

As leading industrialized nations urged Russia to stand down, Pope Francis prayed for peace in Ukraine and for dialogue to resolve tensions.