Four Massachusetts Catholic bishops warned of environmental red flags documented by scientists and urged a change in behaviors in a Sept. 16 statement calling for substantial changes to safeguard creation.

In his general audience at the Vatican on Sept. 18, Pope Francis explained that the Catholic Church will endure, despite the frailty and sins of its members, because it is God's project.

The passing of Cokie Roberts elicited grief from politicians, journalists and news organizations on social media.

Nicaragua's bishops urged unity, dialogue and a willingness to overcome a "crisis of trust" as the Central American country celebrated its independence on Sept. 15.

As the U.S. Church's abuse expenses have prompted dioceses to lay off staff, sell property and liquidate some assets, there is growing evidence that more Catholics across the country are deciding not to contribute to their bishops' diocesan appeals because of the scandals.

Sentencing someone to life in prison without the possibility of parole is "not the solution to problems, but a problem to solve," Pope Francis told Italian prison guards, prison chaplains and officials from the Ministry of Justice.