Vatican & World News

- In his first public audience since being discharged from hospital, Pope Francis thanks doctors and hospital staff for their care - US foreign aid cuts severely undermine the efforts of Catholic agencies serving millions of people in need across the world - Israel confirms no aid will enter Gaza amid calls to lift its blockade of the Strip

- A school in India provides education, healthcare, and a haven for children infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS. - An Israeli airstrike on the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, severely damages critical medical infrastructure and forces the facility to close. - European Union leaders meet in Luxembourg to discuss their response after Russia’s Palm Sunday attack on the Ukrainian city of Sumy.

- United Nations humanitarian officials denounce Israel’s attacks on water systems in Gaza. - Iran and the United States begin high-level talks in Oman, aiming to revive negotiations over Tehran's advancing nuclear program. - Pope Francis makes a visit to the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.

In the headlines this Friday, April 11th: - Pope Francis continues his convalescence in the Vatican - Floods devastate and claim lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo - With the ramping up of military operations in the Gaza Strip, more than 85% of water and sanitation facilities in the area are now completely or partially out of service

- The death toll from flooding in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to rise as authorities race to evacuate people. - Ahead of the Australian federal election, the country’s bishops issue a statement urging Catholics to bring hope amid growing political polarization. - The Holy See Press Office offers some details on Pope Francis' recovery at his residence of Casa Santa Marta.

- Pope Francis invites Salesians to renew their passion for Christ and their dedication to educating the young - Israeli forces have reportedly struck targets near a hospital in Gaza - Malta’s bishops issue updated guidelines for care of the elderly, calling for respect for every stage of life

- Pope Francis highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as a source of communion, harmony, and fraternity - The International Theological Commission publishes a reflection on the Council of Nicea - The Bishops of Burundi and Rwanda call for peace as violence in Africa’s Great Lakes region escalates

- The Vatican marks 20 years since the death of Pope St John Paul II - A frontline Caritas worker in Sudan says that the situation has developed into the world’s worst humanitarian crisis - Vatican Radio’s website launches an Azerbaijani language page, bringing the total number of language editions up to 56

- Pope Francis clears the path for the canonization of three new saints. - Violence continues to rage on in Sudan as the leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces pledges to retake the capital. - Gaza faces worsening devastation as Israeli military operations continue.