The evening before meeting a group of conservative European politicians, Pope Leo XIV expressed disappointment at what appears to be a weakening alliance between the United States and Europe.

A Catholic bishop in South Sudan appealed for peace, respect of human life and the protection of civilians in Sudan, as the town of Kalogi, South Kordofan region, reeled from the deaths of over 100 people killed in drone strikes.

During Advent, traditional reflections remind us that our call to evangelize involves waiting and anticipation. As we move toward Christmas, we relive the long-expected coming of the Messiah by the Jewish people. The Mass readings and Liturgy of the Hours recall this Jewish expectation that was vaguely promised in Genesis 3:15: "I will put enmity between you (the serpent) and the woman." This yearning intensified with the prophets, especially Isaiah. The preaching of John the Baptist and Jesus' baptism brought it to a climax.

The White House Dec. 9 rejected a call from a national pro-life organization for U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary to be fired.