The cardinal is the most senior churchman yet to be convicted of historical sexual offenses. His conviction is a grave blow not only to the church in Australia but also to Pope Francis.

Pope Francis has terminated the services of three cardinals who for the past five years were members of his council of nine cardinal advisors.

Francis is the first pope to visit the oil-rich United Arab Emirates, a majority-Muslim country of 10 million people.

Although he was addressing some 60 staff and students from the Gesu in Rome, Francis’ message seemed to be addressed to the worldwide Jesuit community.

The Vatican today announced the approval of its application to a payment-integration initiative of the European Union for simplification of bank transfers in the euro currency.

The Vatican announced today the archbishop will serve on a committee overseeing the bishops’ meeting along with Cardinals Blase Cupich and Oswald Gracias and Jesuit Father Hans Zollner.