Pope Leo XIV•Pro Life

The Death Penalty in the U.S.: On the Same Day, Pope Leo XIV and the Trump Administration Weigh In (With Opposing Views)

In 2025, 11 of those states carried out executions. In 2024, 9 states carried out the death penalty, and in 2023, 5

Apr 26, 2026 22:59

ZENIT Staff

Local Church•Young People

Here are the 5 themes for World Youth Day Seoul 2027: the major global gathering of young Catholics

The selection process began in late 2024 and included a nationwide survey of young people, youth ministers and pastoral workers, followed by a review of candidates and deliberation by the LOC

Apr 26, 2026 21:38

ZENIT Staff

Angelus•Pope Leo XIV

Which “thieves” have tried to break into our fold? The Pope’s thoughtful response

Address on the occasion of the Regina Coeli prayer on Sunday, April 26, 2026

Apr 26, 2026 20:31

ZENIT Staff

Holy Land•Justice and Peace•Persecuted Christians

Holy Land: Catholic Church denounces Jewish settlers’ encroachment on church-owned properties. Israeli government seeks to mend relations

The Patriarchate condemns «encroachments» in Tayasir, stressing that protecting Church properties is a «red line.» Following a formal report to Israeli civil and military authorities, action has been taken against those responsible. As violence escalates Pizzaballa appeals for support for the local population. Meanwhile, Israel appointed a special envoy for the Christian world to mend relations.

Apr 25, 2026 21:13

ZENIT Staff

Church and World•Pope Leo XIV

What does it mean to be a Christian in politics? Pope Leo XIV’s response during his first meeting with MEPs

The Pope’s Address to Members of the European People’s Party at the European Parliament

Apr 25, 2026 00:02

ZENIT Staff

Local Church

Legionaries of Christ and Regnum Christi Strengthen and Relaunch Their Christian Charity Initiatives

A study indicates that the total fertility rate has fallen to 1.57 births per woman, below the replacement rate of 2.1, which is necessary to maintain the population size.

Apr 24, 2026 23:16

ZENIT Staff

Church and World

Foundation Promoted by Pope Francis Proposes FIFA’s «Rag Ball» Award to Recognize Social Commitment

The goal is to create an award that, alongside the famous Ballon d’Or for elite players, recognizes the best social initiatives related to football.

Apr 24, 2026 23:11

ZENIT Staff

Vocations

Priestly vocations in the military? Record attendance at “military” vocational retreat

Of the 38, 15 are considering a vocation as chaplains in the U.S. Air Force, eight in the Navy, and seven in the Army. Another eight are still discerning which branch of service they hope to join if ordained as priests

Apr 24, 2026 20:57

ZENIT Staff

Good News•Local Church•Young People

A generation returns? New data suggest a surprising revival of Catholic identity among Spanish youth

The data do not necessarily indicate a uniform revival across all segments of youth, nor do they guarantee long-term retention. The history of religious affiliation in Europe suggests that identification does not always translate into sustained practice

Apr 24, 2026 20:49

ZENIT Staff

Justice and Peace

In the Spanish capital, the courts have authorized the designation of Jehovah’s Witnesses as a “destructive cult”

The court’s reasoning is notable not so much for endorsing a doctrinal judgment about a religious group, but for clarifying the legal scope of expression in matters of public interest

Apr 24, 2026 20:31

ZENIT Staff

Analysis Opinion•Religious Freedom

Christian Doctrine Threatens ‘Psychological Harm’ to Child, According to Maine Judge’s Ruling

As Maine District Court Judge Jennifer Nofsinger notes, Bradeen was horrified to discover that Ava heard sermons “about warfare, fallen angels, and eternal suffering.” The church—imagine this—“teaches that people can only be saved by meeting God on God’s terms.”

Apr 23, 2026 21:15

ZENIT Staff

Analysis Opinion

Mexico: Catholic Majority, Invisible Representation in Congress

In a representative democracy, one would expect that the fundamental characteristics of society (including its religious identity) would be reflected to some degree in its legislative bodies.

Apr 23, 2026 20:54

ZENIT Staff