By Courtney Mares Rome Newsroom, Jun 26, 2020 / 08:30 am MT (CNA).- Scientists confirmed this month that a crucifix in the Italian city of Lucca is the oldest wooden statue in Europe. A radiocarbon dating study conducted by the National Institute for Nuclear Physics in Florence dated the 8-foot …

by Courtney Mares Rome, Italy, May 18, 2020 / 09:30 am MT (CNA).- As Rome reopened shops and restaurants on Monday, Catholics rejoiced in being able to attend Mass again for the first time in 10 weeks after Masses were first closed to the public. “To receive Communion again as …

by Hannah Brockhaus Rome, Italy, May 7, 2020 / 11:00 am MT (CNA).- Dioceses in Italy can resume the celebration of public Masses beginning Monday, May 18, under conditions issued Thursday by the head of Italy’s bishops and by government officials. The protocol for Mass and other liturgical celebrations states …

by Courtney Mares Rome Newsroom, May 3, 2020 / 08:30 am MT (CNA).- The liquefaction of the blood of the early Church martyr St. Januarius occurred Saturday amid the coronavirus lockdown, leading the Archbishop of Naples to bless the city with the miraculous relic. “Dear friends, I have a big …

by Courtney Mares Rome Newsroom, Apr 30, 2020 / 11:45 am MT (CNA).- After eight weeks without funerals, Italian families will be able finally to gather together to mourn and pray at funeral Masses for the victims of the coronavirus starting May 4. In Milan, the largest city in Italy’s …

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service  VATICAN CITY — Using a newly simplified rite, Pope Francis proclaimed six new saints and praised them for the love and self-giving with which they served God and built up his kingdom by serving the poor and needy. Creating the two Indian and four …