In choosing Italian Bishop Mariano Crociata of the small Diocese of Latina as their new leader, the European bishops, whether intentionally or not, have opted for a seemingly significant course change.
For the first time in its modern history, the Catholic Church buried a retired pontiff, following a stripped down and solemn ceremony Thursday that included a final, indelible gesture: Pope Francis bowing his head and placing his hand on the casket of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI before it was carried away.
According to a source, Pope Francis was aware of the preparation of a liturgy for the blessing of homosexual couples by the Dutch-speaking episcopate of Belgium, which was published on September 20, 2022, together with a letter of explanation.
Cardinal Mario Grech is being mentioned among a number of cardinals who stand a chance of succeeding Pope Francis at the next conclave.
Concern has been mounti