The Vatican said the reason for the apostolic visitation in 2017 was due to “shortcomings concerning the style of government, the life of the members of the council, the pastoral care of vocations, the formation of new vocations, administration, the management of works and fundraising.”

Lithuania's cardinal-designate Sigitas Tamkevicius, a Jesuit and a veteran of Soviet prisons and labor camps, will receive the red hat from Pope Francis Oct. 5 at the Vatican.

Pope Francis received Fr. James Martin S.J. in the papal library of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace this morning.

Pope Francis denounced “the globalization of indifference” as he celebrated Mass in St Peter’s Square on the 105th World Day of Migrants and Refugees on Sept. 29.

During a conference held in the Vatican on Sept. 27 on "The Common Good in the Digital Age," Pope Francis told delegates that there is a need to search for ways for society to deal with the challenges of the digital age.

“My election as pope did not convert me suddenly,” Pope Francis said, “so as to make me less sinful than before. I am and I remain a sinner. That’s why I confess every two weeks.”