Behind the Scenes: The Making of the Vatican Nativity Scene

The Vatican is readying itself for Christmas, and as always, the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square, along with the grand Christmas tree, is a highlight. This year, these festive icons were inaugurated on December seventh. Continuing tradition, the Pope invited an Italian town to contribute its artistic heritage to the Nativity. For 2023, the honor fell to Grado, a picturesque seaside town between Venice and Trieste.

The Venerable English College: A Testament to Martyrs and Mission

Nestled in the heart of Rome, the 450-year-old Venerable English College continues its inspiring mission as a school for missionaries.

Fr. Christopher Warren, Vice-Rector of the Venerable English College, describes the peril faced by Catholics during the English Reformation: “For priests and those who supported them, it was a matter of life and death.” This danger necessitated the establishment of priestly formation on the continent, leading to the foundation of the Venerable English College.

How Pope Francis' 10th Consistory Is Shaping the Future of the Church

Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has shaped the Catholic Church's future by creating 142 cardinals from 70 countries across nine consistories. On December seventh, he held his tenth consistory, elevating 21 new cardinals and highlighting the Church’s global diversity. Of these, 18 are under 80 and eligible to vote in a future papal conclave.

Among the new cardinals are five Italians, four of whom are under 80 and eligible to vote in the next conclave: