Pope Francis and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy focused their discussion on the repatriation of Ukrainian nationals held in Russian captivity.

The Editors: “Rather than a claim to know conscience’s demands for everyone, it is a challenge for voters to engage in deeper reflection, prayer and dialogue.”

As the Holy Land marked a grim first anniversary Oct. 7 of the Hamas attack on southern Israel, the papal almoner raised $35,000 in one afternoon from synod delegates and immediately sent it to Holy Family Parish in Gaza City.

Pope Francis will welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy back to the Vatican Oct. 11.

What real changes can we expect from the Synod on Synodality? How is the Vatican responding to the rapidly expanding war in the Middle East? And who is rumored to succeed Pope Francis? Colleen Dulle and Gerard O'Connell tackle your burning questions in a special mailbag episode of “Inside the Vatican.”

Francis has revolutionized the College of Cardinals by passing over large archdioceses like Los Angeles, Venice and Milan in favor of picking men from the peripheries who reflect his pastoral orientation and concern for the poor.