Kasmir Nema, RVA News

In a vivid continuation of ecclesial history, the Vatican Mosaic Studio has completed the official mosaic medallion of Pope Leo XIV.

In this short reflection, Fr. Kasmir Nema, SVD, a former student of Fr. Eilers and currently the Coordinator for Communications at the SVD Generalate in Rome, shares how Fr. Eilers deeply influenced his life.

It wasn't business as usual at the Vatican last week. As the Holy See Press Office filled with journalists on the evening of January 8, 2026, the atmosphere was one of candid reflection rather than formal proclamation.

"If you were to compare us to cellular phones, we are 'low bat' (low battery) already," quipped Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, Bishop of Kalookan (Philippines), describing the atmosphere at the close of a marathon day at the Vatican.

The first Extraordinary Consistory of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate opened with a profound meditation by Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, O.P., reflecting on the Gospel passage of Jesus walking on the water (Mark 6:45–52).

Opening the first Extraordinary Consistory of his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV issued a stirring call for unity to the College of Cardinals, reminding the Church’s highest prelates that the Gospel is spread not through proselytism, but through the irresistible power of "attraction."

In a solemn ceremony marking the conclusion of the Ordinary Jubilee of 2025, Pope Leo XIV officially closed the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica on the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6, 2026.

Addressing a sea of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square representing nations from every corner of the globe, Pope Leo XIV delivered his Christmas 2025 Urbi et Orbi message.

"There is no room for God if there is no room for the human person," the Pope declared to the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Thousands of Filipino faithful transformed the solemn atmosphere of St. Peter’s Basilica into a vibrant celebration of faith as they gathered for the Simbang Gabi (Dawn Mass) on December 21, 2025.