Michael Kelly, author of a new book on Pope Leo, sets out the challenges ahead and shares his hope that Northern Ireland will be on the American Pontiff’s itinerary

Pope Leo XIV has declared himself a Roman as he completes the final ceremonial steps cementing his role as the bishop of Rome. Leo formally took possession of the St.

The Vatican doesn’t tax its residents or issue bonds. It primarily finances the Catholic Church's central government through donations that have been plunging, ticket sales for the Vatican Museums, as well as income from investments and an underperforming real estate portfolio.