Religious people must listen to one another and speak to each other as brothers and sisters, the pope said. "Listen and speak softly, peacefully, seeking the path together."

Italian media report that a nerve gas was used in yesterday’s attack by the forces of the Assad regime against the rebels in this area.

The promotion of Monsignor John Kennedy to head of the discipline section of the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith was the second abuse-related appointment in recent days.

Pope Francis has made it possible for bishops to ensure the validity of marriages celebrated in the traditionalist communities.

The cardinal considered it “highly significant” that Francis’ letter is dated April 4—the anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.