The pope's death will automatically trigger a nine-day mourning period known as the Novendiale. Daily prayers and requiem ...

The pope is continuing with physical and respiratory ... While Francis’ fate is still unclear, what is more certain are the time-honored rituals drafted and refined over the centuries to ensure ...

With Pope Francis reported to be in a critical condition , the Catholic church will be preparing for a set of elaborate and ancient rituals in the event of the 88-year-old's death. The Vatican ...

Pope Francis spent his 20th day in hospital on Wednesday in an armchair, participated in the "ritual blessing of the Holy ...

(Agenzia Fides) The Buddhist monks of a temple in Colombo spontaneously gathered for a special “Puja” ritual to pray for the health of Pope Francis and his speedy recovery. During the Puja ritual, the ...

The pope "rested well" and woke shortly after 8 a.m. Wednesday morning, his 20th day in the hospital, the Vatican said.

The camerlengo, currently Irish-born Cardinal Kevin Farell, will visit the Pope’s body and calls out his name to rouse him, a ceremonial part of the ritual once doctors have medically confirmed ...

Pope Francis spent his 20th day in hospital on Wednesday in an armchair, participated in the "ritual blessing of the Holy Ashes that were imposed on him by the celebrant" and received the ...

Pope Francis spent his 20th day in hospital in an armchair, participated in the "ritual blessing of the Holy Ashes that were imposed on him by the celebrant" and received the Eucharist ...

Pope Francis “remained stationary” on Wednesday, “without showing any episodes of respiratory failure,” but rested peacefully ...

Pope Francis has suffered a serious setback in his two-week battle with double pneumonia. Newsweek's live blog is closed.