Vatican Dispatch

Leo’s diplomatic approach tested by Mullally’s reception

The Vatican’s welcome for Sarah Mullally has sparked fresh questions about the balance between ecumenical outreach and doctrinal clarity

Renewing Benedict XVI’s theological inheritance

Academics and clergy in Rome have established a society dedicated to deepening engagement with Benedict XVI’s thought and legacy

Misreading Leo XIV: Africa, not America, is the focus

The Pope’s African itinerary reveals a broader mission than the US-centred debate suggests

From Holy Week to world stage: Leo XIV’s call for peace

The Pope’s Easter addresses and later remarks reveal a cautious but clear engagement with conflict and diplomacy on the world stage

Leo XIV returns to the Apostolic Palace as tensions rise elsewhere

The move back into the papal apartments comes amid renewed strain from the Becciu case and questions surrounding Amoris Laetitia

Leo XIV’s first curial moves begin to shed light on his pontificate

A run of appointments, resignations and diplomatic signals has offered some of the first real clues to how the Holy Father intends to govern

Leo XIV repeats his call for peace amid mounting tensions

From his first words on the loggia to his latest Angelus appeal, Leo XIV has returned again and again to a single message: peace

Fresh challenges as Pope Leo XIV concludes his Lenten retreat

A week of reflection in the Pauline Chapel has unfolded against the backdrop of German synodal ambitions and an imminent papal journey to Africa

Diplomatic tensions and doctrinal tests in Leo’s first Lent

Sharp diplomatic exchanges and renewed tensions with the Society of Saint Pius X present Pope Leo XIV with defining challenges

Signs of dialogue in a pivotal week for the Vatican

As Rome presses the SSPX to delay controversial consecrations, questions over Jimmy Lai, Fulton Sheen and the Pope’s travel plans frame a week of waiting