VATICAN INSIDER: A FACT-FILLED, FUN-FILLED SPECIAL – POPE RELEASES PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR 2027

VATICAN INSIDER: A FACT-FILLED, FUN-FILLED SPECIAL

In place of an interview segment this weekend on Vatican Insider, I’ve prepared a Special – a fact-filled, fun-filled feature I’m calling DID YOU KNOW THAT … ? This week in DYKT I’m going to focus on some interesting tidbits about St. Peter’s Basilica.  We’ll look at the basilica’s dome, bronze markings on its floor and a statue of the apostle, saint and pope for whom the church is named. So, stay tuned for that after the news … then write me and tell me DID YOU KNOW THAT?

The following photos are pictures I took at various times (those of the dome were taken from my apartment!). Those of the medallions on the floor of St. Peter’s Basilia were taken in August 2020 for a blog I did on the bronze floor markings.

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POPE RELEASES PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR 2027

Human dignity, art, life, migrants, the elderly, young people, and artificial intelligence: these are some of the themes of the prayer intentions that Pope Leo has entrusted to his Worldwide Prayer Network for next year.

By Vatican News

Pope Leo XIV has released his prayer intentions for 2027.

For each month of that year, the Pope will invite the Church to pray for a specific intention, touching on both global challenges and issues within the life of the Church.

The 2027 prayer intentions were entrusted to the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, which was received in audience by Pope Leo on Friday morning.

Speaking to Vatican News after the audience, the International Director of the Network, Fr. Cristóbal Fones, said that “we live in a world which is running all the time, very fast.” The job of the Prayer Network, he emphasised, is to speak to the need we all have for “deep connection with the Lord, with ourselves, with others.”

Pope Leo’s prayer intentions for 2027:

JANUARY

That the power of prayer might be discovered. Let us pray that everyone in the Church might discover the power of prayer as a personal encounter with the Lord that transforms our hearts and the world.

FEBRUARY

That those who care for others might receive care. Let us pray that those who care for the holistic health of others might receive the support they need, and that with patience, wisdom, and fortitude, they might open avenues of inner healing and hope.

MARCH

That the dignity of human life might be respected. Let us pray that in a culture focused on productivity and instant results, we might be capable of discovering and appreciating the unique dignity of each person, both our own and that of others.

APRIL

That art might be a gift that humanizes. Let us pray that art might be perceived as a true gift that humanizes us, lifts up the spirit, and helps us contemplate God’s beauty in creation.

MAY

That there be job opportunities for everyone. Let us pray that technological development might open dignified work opportunities, and that intergenerational collaboration might bring a future in which every person can put their talents at the service of the common good.

JUNE

For the good use of artificial intelligence. Let us pray that artificial intelligence might always be developed to serve human dignity and that we might know how to use it wisely.

JULY

For grandparents and the elderly. Let us pray that members of the Church might always appreciate the treasure of faith and wisdom offered to us by grandparents and the elderly, and be willing to learn from their experience.

AUGUST

For the vocation of young people. Let us pray that young people in search of their own vocation might recognize in Jesus Christ a companion on the way to whom they can open their hearts.

SEPTEMBER

For integral ecological conversion. Let us pray that we might learn how to live in a new relationship with creation, protecting it with justice, and that, in contemplating creation, we might find the path toward a more harmonious and grateful existence.

OCTOBER

For Christian communities. Let us pray that each parish, community, or Christian group might be a center of missionary outreach that forms new disciples at the service of the Gospel.

NOVEMBER

For the integration of migrants. Let us pray that, accompanied and comforted by the Holy Family on their own journey of being uprooted, migrants and displaced persons might find communities that welcome them with dignity, solidarity, and true integration.

DECEMBER

For the Christian vocation of the family. Let us pray that Christian families might be living witnesses of the Gospel in society, and that they might learn more and more how to be hearths where faith, hope, and love are cultivated.

 

 

LEO XIV GREETS PARTICIPANTS IN OLYMPIC WELCOME MASS IN ST. BABILA CHURCH

LEO XIV GREETS PARTICIPANTS IN OLYMPIC WELCOME MASS IN ST. BABILA CHURCH

The Vatican just released a telegram sent by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin from Pope Leo for those attending Mass in Milan as part of a welcome celebration for the Olympic games: “Pope Leo XIV addresses warm greetings to all those taking part in the Olympic welcome celebration in the church of San Babila della Croce at the opening of the Olympic and Paralympic games in Milan-Cortina.  He hopes that this important event will energize feelings of friendship and fraternity, strengthening awareness of the value of sport in the service of the integral development of the human person. The Holy Father assures his prayers that these days of healthy competition contribute to building bridges between cultures and peoples, promoting welcoming, solidarity, and peace. With these wishes, the Supreme pontiff is pleased to send the desired apostolic blessing, as a pledge of His Holiness’ constant assistance.”

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of His Holiness

ATHLETICA VATICANA, THE OLYMPICS AND ST. BABYLAS – ATHLETICA VATICANA TO BRING OLYMPIC CROSS TO MILAN FOR WINTER GAMES

ATHLETICA VATICANA, THE OLYMPICS AND ST. BABYLAS

Until I read the Vatican News report about Athletica Vaticana delivering the Olympic and Paralympic Cross at a Mass this evening (as I am writing this column, to be honest) at the Basilica of San Babila, which will serve as the “Church of Athletes” throughout the Winter Games, I had never heard of St. Babila, also called Babylas! Naturally I did some research and came across a wonderfully edifying tale of a third century bishop who defied an emperor for his faith, joining so many martyrs, men and women of the early centuries of Christianity, who died rather than renounce their faith in Jesus Christ.

I also came across a website about Milan’s St. Babila Basilica, dubbed the “Church of Athletes” during the February winter Olympic games. It suggested that I download SmartGuide: Digital Tour Guide. I did so and it is amazing!  If you are a traveler, you’ll enjoy this site (unless you already found it well before I did!)

According to New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia and other sources, St. Babila (or Babylas) of Antioch was a 3rd-century bishop and martyr who served as the Patriarch of Antioch from roughly 237 until his death in 250 AD during the persecution by Emperor Decius. Known for his uncompromising faith, he is famously remembered for denying the emperor entrance to a church following a grave crime, demanding public repentance.

22.01.2022. Festa patronale della basilica di San Babila

Key details about St. Babila:

Martyrdom: He died in prison around 250 AD, sometimes reported as being in iron fetters, along with three children, young disciples, he had instructed: Urbanus, Prilidanus, and Epolonus.

Significance: He is regarded as the first saint to have his remains translated (moved) for religious purposes.

Veneration: He is revered in both the Eastern Orthodox Church (4 September) and the Roman Rite (24 January).

Legacy in Italy: He is a prominent figure in Milanese history, with the ancient Basilica of San Babila in Milan dedicated to him.

Symbolism: He embodies moral integrity and the defense of evangelical values against earthly authority. The saint’s life and courage, particularly in confronting the emperor, was often likened to John the Baptist’s confrontation with King Herod

About Athletica Vaticana

In 2017, the Pontifical Council for Culture gave patronage to Athletica Vaticana, which began as a community of runners, and since then it has grown into a significant company of individuals from many different nationalities, working in or for offices connected to the Holy See. In 2019, Athletica Vaticana received recognition as the first official Vatican sports association.

Athletica Vaticana has a concrete goal: To be a symbol in the heart of the Vatican and the Catholic Church as a Christian witness using spiritual, supportive, and cultural initiatives to dialogue with the worldwide sporting community.  Its members are Vatican employees and citizens, young and old, lay and clergy, male and female, who seek to build community through passion for sport.  Athletes have participated in  cycling, taekwondo, cricket and Paralympic sports teams, and have future plans for other ports. (source Vatican News)

ATHLETICA VATICANA TO BRING OLYMPIC CROSS TO MILAN FOR WINTER GAMES

Today, January 29, Athletica Vaticana will deliver the Olympic and Paralympic Cross at a Mass at the Basilica of San Babila, which will serve as the “Church of Athletes” throughout the Winter Games.

By Giampaolo Mattei (Vatican News)

Since the London 2012 Games, the Olympic and Paralympic Cross has accompanied athletes. The upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Games will be no different.

Archbishop Mario Delpini of Milan will preside with Bishop Paul Tighe, secretary of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, and the president and vice-president of Athletica Vaticana will also be present.

The “Church of Athletes”

The Mass marks the eve of the Olympic Truce, which—according to the resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on November 19—will last from one week before the Olympic Games (starting February 6) to one week after the Paralympic Games (the closing ceremony on March 15).

During this entire period, the Basilica of San Babila will be transformed into the “Church of Athletes,” hosting various celebrations and events linked to the Games.

Bringing the Cross through the Holy Door

The Cross of Athletes was entrusted to Athletica Vaticana on June 14 during the Jubilee of Sport with Pope Leo XIV. It is a spiritual symbol at the heart of global sports.

Thomas Bach, the President of the International Olympic Committee, together with Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, prefect of the

Dicastery for Culture and Education, carried the Cross through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Athletica Vaticana then received the Cross from a delegation from Paris, who had been sent particularly for the Jubilee, in connection with the 2024 Games. The moment of prayer marked the beginning of the Jubilee pilgrimage from Piazza Pia along the Via Conciliazione to the Holy Door of St. Peter’s.

One cross with wood from around the world

The Cross of Athletes was made by English artist Jon Cornwall specifically for the 2012 London Games. This was at the request of the coordination of Catholic initiatives in the Joshua Camp, an international Catholic Olympic gathering.

Fifteen different pieces of wood (including the podium that supports it) make up the Cross. Each piece has been carefully chosen from regions across the world: the Holy Land, China, Russia, North Africa, South Africa, India, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Jamaica, North America, and the United Kingdom.

From London to Milan

At the closure of the 2012 London Games, the Cross was entrusted to the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Olympics and Paralympics.

During the 2013 World Youth Day (WYD) in Brazil, Pope Francis blessed the Cross, which was later present at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Rio.

Due to the COVID pandemic, no events were held for the Tokyo 2020 Games. Instead, the Cross was brought to Lisbon for the 2023 WYD before being placed in Paris in the “Chapel of Athletes” at the Church of La Madeleine.

 

 

POPE LEO: LET US RAISE OUR VOICES FOR PEACE – SCRIPTURE, TRADITION INTIMATELY BOUND TOGETHER, FORM ONE SACRED DEPOSIT OF FAITH

I am sure that EWTN’s Father Mitch Pacwa was delighted with Pope Leo’s catechism at today’s general audience as the Holy Father continues his teaching on the Vatican Council II document Dei Verbum, today highlighting Scripture and Tradition, which is precisely the name of Fr. Mitch’s weekly TV and radio show! Great minds think alike, as the saying goes!

POPE LEO: LET US RAISE OUR VOICES FOR PEACE

Tuesday evening as he was about to return to Rome from his weekly overnight stay at Castelgandolfo, Pope Leo spoke briefly to the media outside the papal residence about the situation in the Middle East, saying, “I’ll only say that we must pray very much for peace. … We little ones can raise our voices and always seek dialogue and not violence to resolve these problems, “especially on this day when we commemorate the Shoah.” Earlier, Leo XIV wrote on his X account: “Let us fight against all forms of antisemitism.” Pope Leo: Let us raise our voices for peace – Vatican News

SCRIPTURE, TRADITION INTIMATELY BOUND TOGETHER, FORM ONE SACRED DEPOSIT OF FAITH

The Paul VI Hall today was at full capacity, and then some, for Pope Leo’s weekly general audience as he continued his series of catecheses on Vatican Council II and a rereading of and reflection on its documents, having chosen the Dogmatic Constitution Dei Verbum, for his first reflection.

“Today,” Leo told the pilgrims present, “we consider the relationship between Scripture and Tradition. In the passage we just heard from John’s Gospel, Jesus says he will send the Holy Spirit to guide the Apostles to remember, apply and proclaim everything he taught. Sacred Scripture, the inspired word of God, and Sacred Tradition, the living memory of the Church, are intimately bound together and form the one Deposit of Faith. This deposit which contains the entirety of our faith –- doctrine, worship, morality, etc. –- is not static but dynamic for it develops and is more profoundly understood by the Church over the centuries, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

“Entrusted to the Church who preserves and interprets it in Jesus’ name,” stated the Pope, “this deposit helps us to navigate the complexities of life to reach our eternal home in heaven. May we become living and faithful witness to God’s word in Scripture and Tradition.”

Leo XIV explained that, “the apostle Paul repeatedly exhorts his disciple and collaborator Timothy: ‘O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you!’. The dogmatic Constitution Dei Verbum echoes this Pauline text when it says: ‘Sacred tradition and Sacred Scripture form one sacred deposit of the word of God, committed to the Church,’ interpreted by the ‘living teaching office of the Church, whose authority is exercised in the name of Jesus Christ’. ‘Deposit’ is a term that, in its original meaning, is juridical in nature and imposes on the depositary the duty to preserve the content, which in this case is the faith, and to transmit it intact.”

Pope Leo stressed that the “’deposit’ of the Word of God is still in the hands of the Church and all of us, in our various ecclesial ministries, must continue to preserve it in its integrity, as a lodestar for our journey through the complexity of history and existence.”

At the end of English-language greetings, Pope Leo said, “Yesterday was the International Remembrance Day for all victims of the Holocaust, which brought death to millions of Jews and to many other people. On this yearly occasion of painful remembrance, I ask the Almighty for the gift of a world without antisemitism and without prejudice, oppression, and persecution of any human creature. I renew my appeal to the community of nations to remain ever vigilant. May the horror of genocide never again be inflicted upon any people and that a society founded on mutual respect and the common good may be built.”

He also remembered the “beloved people of Mozambique,” struck by devastating floods, and expresses his prayers for the victims and reassures his closeness to loved ones, the displaced, and rescue workers.”

Pope Leo heads back to his apartment – See you next week, Holy Father!

 

RESTORATION OF BETHLEHEM’S GROTTO OF THE NATIVITY ‘A SIGN OF HOPE AND UNITY’

Jewel of the Day: Don’t confuse patience with indecisiveness.

RESTORATION OF BETHLEHEM’S GROTTO OF THE NATIVITY ‘A SIGN OF HOPE AND UNITY’

The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custody of the Holy Land announce that works are set to begin to restore the “cradle” of Christianity—the place where Jesus was born—in Bethlehem.

By Cecilia Seppia (Vatican News)

In Bethlehem, everything is ready to begin the restoration works of the Grotto of the Nativity, occurring for the first time in 600 years.

The announcement was made jointly by the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custody of the Holy Land. They expressed their joy at the initiative, which also involves the cooperation of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Patriarchate and is carried out under the auspices of the Presidency of the State of Palestine.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas had referred to the restoration works while visiting Rome in November 2025, both during his meeting with Pope Leo XIV and at the inauguration of the exhibition “Bethlehem Reborn.” He said that the renovation of the place where Christ was born was “a sign of great hope and rebirth for the whole Holy Land.”

Thus, in compliance with the presidential decree on the restoration of the site already issued in 2024, and with the historic status quo governing the holy places, the Grotto—venerated across Christian faiths—will finally receive the care it needs.

Project entrusted to an Italian company

The works will be carried out by an Italian company from Prato, which only two years ago restored the Basilica of the Nativity, according to a major and meticulous rehabilitation project.

The choice is based on the need to ensure continuity of method, craftsmanship, and artistic sensitivity toward a site of unparalleled sacred value. According to the Custody’s website, the preliminary preparations have been completed, and the works are now about to begin.

In addition to interventions in the Grotto itself—on the bare rock, the marble floors, columns and decorations, and the star marking the exact spot where Jesus was born—the project includes technical reinforcement measures in adjacent sections. This reflects both the architectural unity of the sanctuary and the spirit of cooperation that preserves it for all humanity.

The restorations will also provide support for many local families of workers (trained in restoration) who will be employed in this important project, and consequently will have an impact on Bethlehem’s economy.

The economic situation has been difficult due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the halt in pilgrimages, which are now slowly resuming as “Phase 2” of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan gets underway.

In the sign of unity

A sign of rebirth, therefore, but also a strong ecumenical initiative, marked by collaboration between Greek Orthodox Christians and the Franciscans, custodians of the Grotto.

“This project,” the statement continues, “embodies a unified Christian commitment to preserve the spiritual, historical, and cultural patrimony of the Holy Grotto for future generations, and to uphold the dignity of a site where the Christian proclamation took visible form and where the faithful of every nation have gathered in pilgrimage throughout the centuries.”

“In the Grotto, the mystery of the Incarnation entered history, and the Christian confession received its earthly beginning. To restore this holy place is to safeguard the continuity of faith, memory, and devotion in the land of the Nativity,” the statement explains.

“Through this collective effort, the Churches of Jerusalem protect the Gospel heritage entrusted to them and ensure that the faithful of all traditions may continue to venerate the birthplace of Christ with reverence. From Bethlehem, the light of the Nativity continues to illuminate the world, bearing witness to the enduring Christian presence in the Holy Land and to the hope that radiates from the sacred cave where the Savior was born.”

TRADITIONAL WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY ENDS – PHOTOS AND A VIDEO

TRADITIONAL WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY ENDS – PHOTOS AND A VIDEO

Photos and a video about yesterday’s liturgy in the basilica of St. Paul:

If you visit my FB page you can see some of the photos I just posted that I took last night at Vespers at St. Paul’s Basilica at the end of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. January 25 is the feast of the Conversion of St. Paul. His remains are buried in the basilica below the main altar. Pope Leo prayed in front of the tomb before the start of Vespers.

ALSO ON MY FACEBOOK PAGE: I Posted a video of the segment I taped for today’s edition of “At Home with Jim and Joy.” At Home did not air as studios were closed today for weather concerns but a producer sent me the link and that is also on my FB page.

CLICK HERE OR COPY LINK to see those pictures and the video: http://www.facebook.com/joan.lewis.10420)

 

 

VATICAN INSIDER: CARDINAL NEWMAN’S IDEAS ON EDUCATION LIVE ON AT HIS NAMESAKE UNIVERSITY

VATICAN INSIDER: CARDINAL NEWMAN’S IDEAS ON EDUCATION LIVE ON AT HIS NAMESAKE UNIVERSITY

Join me again this week on Vatican Insider for a very special treat when Kathleeen Jagger, president of Newman University in Wichita, Kansas, returns to VI in Part II of our conversation as we further explore Newman University today. In particular, we talk about the mission of education as seen by Cardinal John Henry Newman, proclaimed last November 1^st as Doctor of the Church and co-patron with St. Thomas Aquinas of the Church’s education mission.

We spoke in my office and were joined by Sr. Maria of the Sisters Adorers of the Blood of Christ, the religious Order that founded Newman University’s predecessor in 1933

Newman University has come a long way since its founding in 1933 in the middle of the Great Depression. First known as Sacred Heart Junior College for women, it was helping transform the lives of children and their parents by educating Sisters and lay women to be certified teachers. According to Newman’s website, in 1973, the college’s name was changed to Kansas Newman College to reflect the continued growth of the institution, the expanded range of educational programs, and to honor St. John Henry Newman, the 19^th century theologian and scholar known for his writings on the liberal arts and education.  In 1998, it became Newman University.

The tapestry on St. Peter’s Basilica on November 1, 2025, the day Cardinal Newman was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church (the 38^th) –

From the office of the president: President’s Office:

HOW TO LISTEN TO VATICAN INSIDER: IN THE U.S. you can listen to Vatican Insider (VI) on a Catholic radio station near you (https://www.ewtn.com/radio/affiliates-map) or on channel 130 Sirius-XM satellite radio. OUTSIDE THE U.S., Go to ewtn.com, click = upper right corner, click LISTEN, then LISTEN NOW. VI airs at 5am and 9pm ET on Saturdays and 6am ET on Sundays. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR OWN TIME ZONE! For VI ARCHIVES: https://www.ewtn.com/radio/podcasts/vatican-insider

POPE TO US MARCH FOR LIFE: HEALTHY SOCIETIES PROTECT HUMAN LIFE

POPE TO US MARCH FOR LIFE: HEALTHY SOCIETIES PROTECT HUMAN LIFE

Pope Leo XIV sends a message to participants in the 2026 March for Life in Washington, D.C., encouraging young people “to continue striving to ensure that life is respected in all of its stages.”

By Kielce Gussie (Vatican News)

Extending a warm greeting to the thousands set to participate in the 2026 March for Life in Washington, D.C., in the United States, Pope Leo XIV assured them all of his spiritual closeness in a message.

He added his heartfelt appreciation for this “eloquent public witness to affirm that ‘the protection of the right to life constitutes the indispensable foundation of every other human right’.”

Referring to his address to members of the Diplomatic Corps Accredited to the Holy See early this month, the Pope outlined what a healthy and truly progressive society looks like—“it safeguards the sanctity of human life and works actively to promote it.”

With this in mind, he encouraged young people in particular to continue working to ensure that life is respected and protected in all its stages “through appropriate efforts at every level of society, including dialogue with civil and political leaders.”

Pope Leo prayed that Jesus will accompany all those who peacefully march on behalf of the unborn. “By advocating for them”, he said, “please know that you are fulfilling the Lord’s command to serve him in the least of our brothers and sisters.”

Closing his message, the Pope entrusted all the participants, and all who support them through prayer and sacrifice, to Mary Immaculate—the Patroness of the United States of America.

52 years of the March

The first March for Life took place in January 1974—solemnly marking the one-year anniversary of the United States’ Supreme Court decision to legalize abortion. Its goal: lobby Congressional leadership to find a legislative solution to the ruling Roe v. Wade.

50 years later, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade with the historic Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case. This gave states more freedom to enact pro-life laws.

With this, the focus of the March for Life has shifted. “The goal of the national March for Life is to not only change laws at the state and federal level, but to change the culture to ultimately make abortion unthinkable,” according to the March’s official website.

 

 

FINAL COMMUNIQUE FROM 13 BISHOPS VISITING HOLY LAND HIGHLIGHTS CHALLENGES FACED BY CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES – CARDINAL PAROLIN: TENSIONS BETWEEN US AND EUROPE WORSEN INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE

FINAL COMMUNIQUE FROM 13 BISHOPS VISITING HOLY LAND HIGHLIGHTS CHALLENGES FACED BY CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES

What is life really like in the Holy Land? You will absolutely – and I mean absolutely – want to read this article from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales with the Final Communique of the Holy Land Co-ordination Committee January 2026 visit.  If you have ever heard the expression “read it and weep,” it applies here. The suffering and difficulties of our very own brothers and sisters in the land where Jesus walked, ate, slept, preached, fished in and rode boats on the sea of Galilee. Where He taught love and the beatitudes and sharing and caring for our neighbor. Where He told us we are all God’s children and therefore brothers and sisters. Where He, the Son of God, paid the ultimate price for our sins. What would He say if he could see the Holy Land that the 13 prelates representing 13 different countries who signed this communique just saw!  Final Communiqué of the Holy Land Co-ordination 17-21 January 2026 – Catholic Bishops’ Conference

CARDINAL PAROLIN: TENSIONS BETWEEN US AND EUROPE WORSEN INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE

Speaking to journalists, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin touches on the tensions between the United States and Europe, saying it is essential “to discuss the controversial issues, but without engaging in polemics and without creating further tensions.”

By Daniele Piccini

The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, spoke to journalists about tensions between the United States and Europe on January 21 on the sidelines of the event entitled, ‘An International Dialogue to Connect Young People to the Future’ in Rome.

He stressed that “tensions are not healthy and create a climate that worsens an international situation that is already serious. I believe the important thing would be to eliminate tensions, to discuss the controversial points, but without entering into polemics and without fueling tensions.”

The event held at the Auditorium Antonianum marked the 25th anniversary of the Observatory for Independent Thinking.

Invitation to the Board of Peace on Gaza

Turning to the topic of the Board of Peace for Gaza, the Cardinal reflected on how President Trump is inviting a number of countries to participate.

“I believe I read in the newspaper this morning that Italy, too, is considering whether or not to join,” he continued, “We also received the invitation to the Board of Peace for Gaza; the Pope has received it, and we are considering what to do.”

He argued, “It is an issue that requires some time to be properly assessed and to provide a response.”

Speaking about the Board of Peace for Gaza, the Cardinal said that the Holy See would not take part financially, noting, “We are not even in a position to do so.”

However, he pointed out that the Vatican is in a different situation from other countries, and therefore the analysis will be different. But, the Cardinal said, “I believe the request will not be for economic participation.”

Respect for international law

Commenting on the US President’s statement in Davos that he loves Europe but does not like the direction it is taking, the Vatican Secretary of State said: “That is his point of view. What matters is respect for international law. I believe this is the essential point, beyond personal feelings, which are legitimate, but what is important is respect for the rules of the international community.”

Freedom of the press and trust in journalism

When asked about freedom of the press, the Cardinal said that “trust in the media is extremely important.”

But, he said, it is equally important to ensure “responsible use of the press. I think that is the key: a responsible use of the media that seeks to build up rather than polarize or destroy.”

Venezuela, a beautiful country

“Venezuela is a beautiful country—I enjoyed it during the four years I served as Apostolic Nuncio in Caracas. It was an unforgettable experience,” Cardinal Parolin said, answering questions from journalists during the event at the Auditorium Antonianum.

Between 2009 and 2023, the Cardinal added, “there were major political difficulties. When I arrived, there was tension between the bishops and Chávez, because the bishops voiced criticism of the President’s political direction; then things got worse. Now we find ourselves in this new situation of enormous uncertainty, and it is hard to predict how it will develop. What matters is to respond to the needs of the people, who are living through a profound crisis,” he concluded.

Iran and a “Third World War fought piecemeal”

The Secretary of State then recalled the Church’s perspective in conflicts.

“A crisis brings unspeakable suffering for the population. This is the Holy See’s lens. First and foremost, our attention is on people—we must not think in terms of numbers, but of faces,” he said in response to a question about the protests in Iran.

He acknowledged that the expression Pope Francis used to describe the international situation—“a Third World War fought piecemeal”—has become a “reality.”

Yet, he added, slogans do not always capture complexity. “I’m sorry,” he continued, “that these phrases then become slogans with no impact on reality and without solutions being found. This is a great limitation of our world.”

Answering a question about the nuclear threat, the Cardinal reiterated that “the Holy See has always worked for disarmament. We must reduce armaments, because once they exist, they are used. The Holy See,” he stressed, “upholds the immorality not only of the use but also of the possession of nuclear weapons.”

The Israeli–Palestinian conflict

Cardinal Parolin said he was convinced that the resolution of the conflict between Israel and Palestine is the key to peace throughout the Middle East.

“Once that is resolved,” he commented, “the others will be resolved as well. For ten years now, the Holy See has recognized the State of Palestine.”

Finally, the Secretary of State reiterated what he called the “still viable” two-state solution supported by the Holy See.

“We still consider the formula of two peoples in two states feasible, but the important thing is to reach an agreement and offer hope to the Palestinian people,” he said. “We will see what happens with the Board of Peace on Gaza. What is needed is creativity—to find an approach that ensures Palestinians the right to live in peace in their own land.”

 

POPE AT AUDIENCE: WE ARE GOD’S BELOVED CHILDREN – JANUARY 21: ST. AGNES, BABY LAMBS AND THE PALLIUM

POPE AT AUDIENCE: WE ARE GOD’S BELOVED CHILDREN

During his weekly general audience, Pope Leo XIV reminded the faithful that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ, as he continues his catechesis on the Dogmatic Constitution ‘Dei Verbum’ on Divine Revelation. “Thanks to Jesus, Christians know God the Father and entrust themselves to Him with confidence.” Pope Leo XIV expressed this as he continued his catechesis series on the Second Vatican Council and concentrated again this week on the Dogmatic Constitution Dei Verbum on Divine Revelation, which last week he called “one of the most beautiful and important” documents of the Council.

READ POPE LEO’S FULL ADDRESS HERE

Full Vatican video of general audience here: Pope at Audience: We are God’s beloved children – Vatican News

EWTN summary and English-language video here: (8) EWTN Vatican on X: “Pope Leo continues his catechesis on the documents of Vatican II, concentrating his focus on Dei Verbum, the Council’s document on Divine Revelation, reminding us that the Incarnation is the fulfilment of God’s revelation of himself. “The Son,” the Pope said, “through his https://t.co/Wh1tZLmGJT” / X

JANUARY 21: ST. AGNES, BABY LAMBS AND THE PALLIUM

Traditionally, on the morning of January 21, the liturgical memory of St. Agnes, two lambs, blessed earlier in the morning in the Roman basilica named for this saint, are presented to the Pope for a blessing and prayer. This annual event was sidelined a few years ago because of Covid, and the last time lambs were brought to Pope Francis was January 21, 2021.

Thus, today’s ceremony was a first for Pope Leo as pontiff and as also the first one in five years, although the blessing of the lambs took place this morning in the Mausoleum of Saint Constantina, as the basilica of St. Agnes is undergoing renovations.

As you can see in the video ((8) EWTN Vatican on X: “Pope Leo XIV was presented with two lambs on Wednesday morning on the liturgical feast of St. Agnes (Jan. 21), in keeping with an ancient tradition of the Church in Rome. The lambs were subsequently blessed in the Mausoleum of Saint Constantina, a rite that usually takes place https://t.co/PN5IyXT2eX” / X),  Pope Leo, wearing special liturgical vestments, seemed to enjoy this ritual. He will have another link to these lambs, whose wool is shorn and woven into palliums, when he presents the palliums to new archbishops on the June 29^th feast of Sts. Peter and Paul.

Vatican News looked back at this tradition today: “The first mention of the tradition of blessing two lambs on the feast of St. Agnes dates back to the 6th century. It is tied to an ancient legend about her life that says that she appeared to her parents after her death when they came to pray at her tomb. They saw her surrounded by a choir of virgins and holding a pure lamb in her arms. Historical records also indicate that two lambs were once considered the “rent” paid by the monks of the Basilica of St. Agnes Outside the Walls to the Basilica of St. John Lateran. Members of the Lateran Chapter would present these lambs to the Pope for his blessing.”

I’ve always loved this story and this feast day and write about it every year on this day. This might be a good time to gather some young ones around for a fun story!

The baby lambs are raised by the Trappist Fathers of the Abbey of the Three Fountains. When their wool is shorn, the Sisters of St. Cecelia weave it into the palliums that, on the June 29th feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, Apostles, are given to new metropolitan archbishops as signs of their office.

The pallium is a white woolen circular band embroidered with six black crosses which is worn over the shoulders and has two hanging pieces, one in front and another in back. Worn by the Pope and by metropolitan archbishops, it symbolizes authority and expresses the special bond between the bishops and the Roman Pontiff. In a 1978 document, “Inter Eximina Episcopalis,” Pope Paul VI restricted its use to the Pope and metropolitan archbishops. Six years later, Pope John Paul decreed that it would be conferred on the metropolitans by the Pope on the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul.

In the past, among those usually in attendance at the January 21 ceremony in the Apostolic Palace were 21 people, including two Trappist fathers, several nuns, two canons of the Chapter of St. John, the dean of the Roman Rota, and two officials from the Office of the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff, and a number of other invited guests.

The baby lambs, under one year of age, are normally tucked into wicker baskets, and both lambs and baskets are adorned with red and white ribbons and flowers, white to symbolize purity and red to signify the blood of a martyr. In 2004 St. John Paul II blessed the lambs during a general audience in the Paul VI Hall as both the audience and St. Agnes’ feast day occurred on a Wednesday, just like this year.

Agnes died about 305 and is buried in the basilica named for her on Rome’s Via Nomentana. Historical accounts vary about the birth, life and manner of death of Agnes but generally it is recounted that, in order to preserve her virginity, she was martyred at a very young age, probably 12. She is usually depicted with a lamb because the Latin word so similar to her name, agnus, means “lamb.” The name Agnes is actually derived from the feminine Greek adjective hagné meaning “chaste, pure.”

A number of years ago I was intrigued by the January 21 press office communiqué about this event. It had been slightly altered since the announcement the previous day that the Pope would bless “two live baby lambs.” Naturally it was the word “live” that intrigued me – as if he might bless lambs that were no longer alive! That word did not appear the day of the blessings!

In 2011, the Vatican newspaper, carried an interview with Sr. Hanna Pomniaowska, one of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth who prepares the lambs every year for their Vatican visit. This order of nuns has been preparing the baby lambs for over 140 years and it was their founder, Blessed Frances Siedliska, who started this custom in 1884. Up to that date another order of nuns had prepared the lambs but it became difficult when the nuns began to age. At that time the Sisters of the Holy Family took over the duties.

Two lambs are brought to the sisters on January 20 by the Trappist Fathers of Tre Fontane (Three Fountains). The nuns then bring the lambs to the top floor of their residence where there is a terrace with a laundry room where the lambs are washed with delicate soap usually used for children until their wool is white as the driven snow and they are dried with a hair dryer that, in recent years, has replaced the towels they once used. (Vatican News photos)

The nuns are careful to completely dry the lambs so that, at their tender age, they do not fall sick. The room is well heated. After the lambs are dried they are placed in a tub that is covered with straw and closed with canvas so they don’t catch cold. A meal of straw is fed to the lambs who then spend the night in the laundry.

The morning of January 21, the nuns place two small capes on the lambs, one is red to indicate St. Agnes’ martyrdom and the other is white to indicate her virginity. There are also three letters on each mantle: S.A.V. (St. Agnes Virgin) and S.A.M. (St. Agnes Martyr). The sisters weave crowns of interlocking red and white flowers, place them on the baby lambs’ heads, and then put the lambs in a decorated basket. The lambs are tied so they don’t escape. In fact, one of them did escape a few years back, jumping up and running from the altar at St. Agnes Basilica where they had been placed on the altar and blessed.

Following this ceremony, two papal assistants bring the lambs in a van to the Vatican where they are presented to the Holy Father. It is usually the sisters who are celebrating a jubilee of religious vows who are present in the papal residence.