Vatican & World News

- Pope Leo releases his first message for the upcoming World Day of Peace on January 1. - After years of conflict, Azerbaijan says its state oil company has dispatched more than 1,200 metric tons of gasoline to Armenia. - The Archdiocese of New York in the United States will have a new archbishop.

- In a phone call with Israeli president Herzog, Pope Leo condemns antisemitism and calls for peace in the Middle East - Aid workers in Gaza warn that heavy rainfall is worsening what is already an unbearable humanitarian situation - At the weekly General Audience, Pope Leo reflects on the importance of preparation, prayer, and reflection in these last few days of Advent

- The Australian branch of the Pontifical Mission Societies condemns the antisemitic attack in Sydney - Ukrainian and US officials continue negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine - The UN says more than 100,000 children have been displaced in the Congolese province of South Kivu

- Pope Leo XIV grieves the victims of a shooting in Bondi, Australia, and denounces anti-semitic violence - Australian Church leaders express solidarity with the Jewish community and say the attack must be repudiated by every citizen - A participant in the weekend’s Jubilee of Prisoners reflects on the redemptive power of the event