Pope Francis said on Saturday that he hoped an upcoming global encounter at the Vatican would be a propitious time of unity and fraternity and not cause further polarisation in the Catholic Church.
The 86-year-old pontiff spoke at an ecumenical prayer vigil attended by leaders of various Christian Churches in St. Peter's Square ahead of the opening on Wednesday of major month-long meeting in the Vatican, known as a synod, that could chart the Church's future.
About 18,000 people, mostly young Christians from around the world, attended, reading prayers for victims of war, injustice and sexual violence and calling for defence of the environment. Hundreds were later starting a three-day retreat north of Rome ahead of the opening of the synod. The synod has been controversial since Francis first announced it 2020. Various groups have arrived in Rome to hold news conferences, presentations and protests to illustrate their views, suggestions and demands.
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Pope Francis cements legacy, stamps Church future with new cardinalsPope Francis on Saturday further cemented his legacy, elevating 21 prelates to the high rank of cardinal and significantly raising the percentage of electors chosen by him who will have the right to vote for his successor.
Read more »
Pope Francis creates 21 new cardinals who will help him to reform the churchPope Francis is presiding over a ceremony to create 21 new cardinals
Read more »
Pope creates 21 new cardinals who will help him to reform church and cement his legacyPope Francis is presiding over a ceremony to create 21 new cardinals.
Read more »
Pope creates 21 new cardinals who will help him to reform church and cement his legacyPope Francis is presiding over a ceremony to create 21 new cardinals.
Read more »
Pope creates 21 new cardinals who will help him to reform church and cement his legacyPope Francis is presiding over a ceremony to create 21 new cardinals
Read more »
Pope creates 21 new cardinals who will help him to reform church and cement his legacyPope Francis is presiding over a ceremony to create 21 new cardinals. They include key figures at the Vatican and in the field who will help enact his reforms and cement his legacy.
Read more »