EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY

Google reports a 373% spike in searches for "How to Become Catholic." Meanwhile, Spirit Catholic Radio is placing billboards featuring the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Nebraska for the month of June. And, as Pope Leo XIV faces a physically demanding role, we learn how he can stay healthy as pontiff.

St. Peter's Square was filled with tens of thousands of families for the closing Mass of the Jubilee of Families. Meanwhile, a new study reveals that one-third of American adults engage in "New Age" spiritual practices. And, in an unexpected move, Ukraine launched a drone attack into Russia.

The Jubilee of Families, the 16th major Jubilee event, kicked off in Rome. Meanwhile, lay Catholic leaders gathered at the Regina Caeli Academy's gala to spotlight parental rights. And, Church leaders are speaking out as lawmakers in New York consider a measure to legalize assisted suicide.

Catholic organizations in Rome remain committed to the legacy of Pope Francis, who placed the poor and homeless at the heart of his papacy. Meanwhile, tensions escalate between Harvard & the Trump administration. And, EWTN is calling young filmmakers to participate in the Lux Student Film Contest!

EWTN's hit series, "James the Less" returns for Season 2. Meanwhile, EWTN spoke with a South African Church Leader on Trump's tense meeting with his South African counterpart over claims of white genocide. And, Senate Republicans push back on the House-passed spending bill.

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass at the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, officially assuming his role as Bishop of Rome. Meanwhile, the U.S. was ready to hold peace talks at the Vatican, but Russia declined. And, Pope Leo XIV appointed a new leader for the Pontifical Academy for Life.

In keeping with tradition, Pope Leo XIV will take possession of the major Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome. Meanwhile, over 30,000 faithful gathered in Croatia for one of Europe's largest Catholic concerts. And, a new worship song, “Son of Man,” draws inspiration from Pope Leo XIV's first homily.

The Vatican's music school launches “Let's Sing with the Pope” to teach Gregorian chant around the world. Meanwhile, SCOTUS blocks the U.S.'s first taxpayer-funded religious charter school. And, two Israeli Embassy staffers in D.C. are tragically killed by a gunman shouting, “Free, free Palestine.”

Today marks one month since the passing of our late pontiff, Pope Francis, as the Church continues to pray for him and honor his legacy. Additionally, Pope Leo XIV led his first General Audience, continuing Pope Francis' Jubilee series on the theme of "Jesus Christ, Our Hope."

A tech company is helping the faithful speak to Pope Leo XIV—without traveling to Rome. Meanwhile, we explore the origins of Pope Leo XIV's deep devotion to Our Lady of Good Counsel. And Catholic Charities responds to severe weather that has devastated the central U.S.

Pope Leo XIV formally began his ministry as head of the Catholic Church with his inaugural Mass. Lastly, the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage kicks off as pilgrims embark on a cross-country journey.

Pope Leo XIV met with ambassadors to the Holy See, emphasizing peace and human dignity. Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine held their first direct peace talks since the early days of the war. And, the Catholic Information Center in Washington, D.C., will host its 3rd annual Eucharistic Procession.

One week after his election, Pope Leo XIV is making his mark with appeals for peace and concern for persecuted nations. An international group examines concerns over religious liberty in Catholic schools. And, EWTN announces the book, "Pope Leo XIV: Portrait of the First American Pope."

Pope Leo XIV signals that AI will be a major concern for humanity, saying its revolution is a reason behind choosing his papal name. Meanwhile, the Angelicum rejoices over the election of alumnus Pope Leo XIV. And, Trump faces scrutiny over his plan to accept a $400 million plane as a gift.

The Current Prior General of the Augustinian Order shares personal memories of Pope Leo XIV. Meanwhile, Planned Parenthood reports a record number of abortions in 2023, and House Republicans push for major cuts to the federal budget that could affect Medicaid.

Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy meeting cardinals, visiting papal tombs, and praying for peace. And, he shares the meaning behind his name and addresses the digital revolution and its threats to human dignity. Meanwhile, Hamas releases a hostage held in Gaza for over 19 months.

Pope Leo XIV has officially begun his papacy, celebrating his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel. Meanwhile, Villanova University is marking the historic election of its alumnus, Pope Leo XIV. And, we reflect on the memorable events that unfolded this week at the Vatican.

White smoke signals the election of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th leader of the Catholic Church and the first American and Augustinian pontiff. Meanwhile, we examine the symbolism and significance of the name he has chosen and reflect on his powerful first address, emphasizing unity and peace.

Black smoke rises above the Sistine Chapel, signaling that no pope has been elected yet. Meanwhile, as thousands gather in St. Peter's Square awaiting news of a new pope, we learn what the atmosphere is like among the faithful. And, Republicans continue their push to address antisemitism.

With less than 24 hours until the start of the conclave, we break down the rules and the process of the papal election. Meanwhile, as final preparations are made, cardinals have concluded their final meeting before the election begins, and the city of Rome is intensifying its security measures.

As cardinals prepare for a conclave, predictions arise about what they are looking for in the next pope. Meanwhile, Church leaders urge others to contact lawmakers in opposition to a measure that would legalize physician-assisted suicide. And, questions emerge about Trump's national security team.

Before a newly elected pope is presented to the world, he spends a prayerful moment in "the Room of Tears." Meanwhile, we reflect on the solemn week of Masses held for Pope Francis and the preparation of a conclave. And, the Trump administration continues to deliver victories for pro-life advocates.

With the conclave just days away, attention turns to protocols governing the secretive process of electing a pope. Meanwhile, as the economy records its worst quarter in 3 years, the divide over Trump's economic policies deepens. And, Democrats speak out against Trump's mineral deal with Ukraine.

The College of Cardinals prepares for the conclave during the seventh General Congregation. Meanwhile, speculation grows about who will succeed Pope Francis as the next pope. And, the Supreme Court is hearing a case on whether tax dollars can fund what would be the nation's first religious charter school. Don't miss out on the latest news and analysis from a Catholic perspective. Get EWTN News Nightly delivered to your email: https://ewtn.com/enn

Thousands of people with disabilities gather in Rome for the Jubilee of Hope. Meanwhile, as Trump reaches the 100-day mark of his second term, lawmakers push to pass 'one big beautiful bill.' Additionally, a new study suggests a religious divide in how people are responding to Trump's performance.

More than 250,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square for Pope Francis' funeral. Meanwhile, a groundbreaking study released today reveals alarming findings about the abortion pill, mifepristone. And, Trump's border adviser told reporters that federal agents are keeping America 'safe again.'

Pope Francis's coffin was sealed today, ahead of the funeral set to take place in St. Peter's Square. Meanwhile, we take a closer look at the Holy Father's impact in the U.S.—especially in Oklahoma. And, as Congress returns from its break, lawmakers face aggressive questioning at town halls.

Pope Francis will be laid to rest in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, honoring his personal wish. Meanwhile, a priest found a creative way to raise money for charity by utilizing Pope Francis's signature. And, the 9/11 attacks, which claimed nearly 3,000 lives, are once again under scrutiny.

Pope Francis is now lying in state in St. Peter's Basilica as pilgrims pay their final respects. Meanwhile, Pope Francis is being remembered as the "Pope of Firsts." And, the Secretary of Defense is facing fallout after reports emerged that he shared sensitive military plans for the second time.

The Vatican has released the first images of Pope Francis lying in state at Casa Santa Marta. Meanwhile, faithful from around the world gather in prayer for Pope Francis. And, the Supreme Court hears a case on whether parents can opt their children out of reading LGBTQ-themed books.

Thousands have been gathering at Saint Peter's Square all day to mourn the Holy Father's passing. President Trump spoke to Catholics, and US lawmakers and world leaders have been reacting to the news of the pope's death all day. All while, US Cardinals held a memorial for the late pope at the National Shrine.

There is no indication yet to what extent Pope Francis will participate in the Easter liturgies at the Vatican. Blessed Carlo Acutis will be canonized on April 27, 2025, making him the first millennial saint. And at the Museum of the Bible, a historic archaeological find is being featured for a limited time.

Sudan marks two years since its civil war, as leaders gather to seek a solution to the humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, a new article says Trump has an opportunity to remind the country that Christ is King. And, the Vatican is making preparations for the most important time of the year—Easter. Don't miss out on the latest news and analysis from a Catholic perspective. Get EWTN News Nightly delivered to your email: https://ewtn.com/enn

The USCCB urges Congress to support the “Religious Workforce Protection Act.” Meanwhile, Pope Francis made another unexpected appearance for Palm Sunday Mass at St. Peter's Square. And, Msgr. Landry shares his experience after celebrating Mass at a leprosy colony in Vietnam.

Envoy Steve Witkoff meets with Putin to discuss a ceasefire. Meanwhile, Trump nominates Mark Walker to serve as U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom. And, In Rome, a conference titled “Rebuilding Lebanon While Preserving Its Religious and Cultural Diversity” is held.

House Republicans have passed the budget blueprint for next year by a narrow vote. Meanwhile, judges have temporarily halted the deportation of several Venezuelans. Additionally, every year on Good Friday, Catholics are invited to contribute to a collection that directly supports the Holy Land.

Trump announces tariffs on China to 125% Meanwhile, doctors in the U.K. are calling the birth of a baby girl via a donated womb a "miracle." And, the Vatican will participate in the Venice Biennale of Architecture under the theme, "Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective."

A Supreme Court ruling allows the Trump administration to keep using the Alien Enemies Act to deport. Meanwhile, the Trump administration may soon appoint its chief diplomat to the Vatican. And, the Pope remains in stable condition as questions arise about his participation during Holy Week.

Trump welcomes Israeli Prime Minister to the White House. Meanwhile, Pope Francis made a surprise appearance at the Jubilee of the Sick and Healthcare Workers. And, a first-of-its-kind Eucharistic Congress for the Deaf was held in Maryland, attracting over 200 participants from around the world.

China responds to Trump's “Liberation Day” by imposing a 34 percent tariff. Meanwhile, a report shows that most countries are now below the replacement rate of 2.1 children per woman. And with Holy Week approaching, there are questions about the Pope's participation in the upcoming events.

New tariffs spark debate over their potential impact on U.S. manufacturing. Meanwhile, severe storms have caused at least six deaths and left thousands without power. And, Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev is set to meet with Trump official Steve Witkoff to discuss U.S.-Russia relations.

Today marks 20 years since the passing of Pope St. John Paul II as the Church honors his legacy. Meanwhile, despite holding 2 House seats in Florida's special election, Republicans face claims of dissatisfaction with Trump & Musk. And, Lebanon offers pilgrims a new way to explore its sacred sites.