When Pope Francis formally opens the Holy Year, he will launch a dizzying 12-month calendar of events that include special Jubilee masses for the faithful from all walks of life.

The Holy Father recalled the popularity of the sport in rural villages in the past and its tendency to help foster a sense of community.

Gossip causes destruction while family life and humble service strengthens relationships and brings people closer to Christ, Pope Francis told visitors on Saturday.

ANALYSIS: Typically, cardinals are assigned to a diocese or a role in the Roman Curia. But due to a variety of circumstances, others may wait years before they’re given some work to do.

Pope Francis has told Vatican bureaucrats to stop speaking ill of one another, calling gossip "an evil that destroys social life."

In a statement, Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Chicago's archbishop, expressed gratitude to Pope Francis for the "gift of these new auxiliary bishops."

The claim stems from the celebration of the 2025 Jubilee, a Roman Catholic tradition that happens every 25 years.

Pope Francis reflected on the devastating consequences of the Gaza war in an address at the Vatican on Saturday, expressing deep sorrow over the bombing of children in the Gaza Strip the previous day.

According to the Vatican, the tradition began in 1300 when Pope Boniface VII announced the first Jubilee. Later, Jubilees came to be celebrated every 25 years.

According to Pope Francis, a bid to kill him during a 2021 visit to Iraq was foiled following a tip from British intelligence.

The White House announced that President Joe Biden will head to Italy early next month for a public meeting with Pope Francis in Vatican City. During the trip he will also hold meetings with Italy's Prime Minister and President.