Articles tagged with “vatican”

The Vatican has recognized 167 Sri Lankan Catholics killed in Islamic State inspired suicide bombings six years ago as witnesses of faith, according to the country's Catholic Church. Hundreds gathered for a vigil on Monday at St. Anthony's Church, one of the attack sites, to honor victims from Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic communities. Religious leaders joined the memorial service marking the anniversary of the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings.

Pope Francis made a public appearance on Easter Sunday, greeting thousands in St. Peter's Square after recovering from a severe case of double pneumonia. The 88yearold pontiff rode through the crowd in his popemobile, drawing cheers and blessing babies, a scene unthinkable weeks ago during his health crisis. His voice sounded stronger as he delivered Easter greetings from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, where he imparted the apostolic blessing. Though he did not lead the Mass, delegating it to Cardinal Angelo Comastri, his presence marked a significant milestone in his recovery. An estimated 35,000 people filled the square, erupting in applause as a military band played the Holy See anthem. The event signaled a hopeful turn for the pope, who was hospitalized for five weeks before being discharged on March 23.