On January 7 (Tuesday), Pope Francis accepted the early resignation of Bishop Dominique Rey of Fréjus-Toulon, following years of Vatican scrutiny regarding his ordination practices using pre-Vatican II liturgical books and other concerns.
During his General Audience, on January 8, Pope Francis dedicated his catechesis to the "scourge" of child labour, urging Christians to reject indifference toward the exploitation and suffering of children.
Pope Francis will lead special Jubilee Masses, alongside liturgies for major feasts, honoring the World of Communications and the Armed Forces, Police, and Security Personnel, according to the liturgical agenda released by the Vatican on January 8.
Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar (CBCM), has called for an immediate end to violence in the nation, urging all parties to prioritize peace as Myanmar continues to grapple with the devastating impact of nearly four years of civil war.
Pope Francis presided over Mass on the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, reflecting on the star that guided the Magi to Jesus as a symbol visible to all, inviting everyone to seek Him in all things.
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) and Archbishop of Goa, officially assumed office as the President of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) on January 1, 2025.
Pope Francis has expressed his “spiritual closeness” to those affected by the recent terrorist attack in New Orleans in a message sent to Archbishop Gregory Aymond of the city.
Pope Francis concluded 2024 by leading the Church in thanksgiving through the chanting of the Te Deum hymn at the end of First Vespers for the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God.
The Holy Door of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major was officially opened on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, marking the beginning of the Jubilee Year.