Details have begun to emerge of how votes swiftly coalesced to make Pope Leo XIV history’s first American pope. Freed from their conclave, cardinals began describing the hours and days leading up to the final ballot Thursday afternoon that brought Leo past the two-thirds majority needed. Man… Read morePope Leo XIV celebrates first Mass as details emerge of how votes coalesced in the conclave

Russia has celebrated the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, with President Vladimir Putin presiding over a massive parade of tanks, missiles and troops through Red Square. He welcomed over two dozen world leaders — the most since Moscow sent troops into Ukraine.… Read moreVictory Day parade in Russia celebrates the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany

Retired Supreme Court Justice David H. Souter has died at age 85. The ascetic bachelor and New Hampshire Republican became a favorite of liberals during his nearly 20 years on the bench. The court says Souter died Thursday at his home in New Hampshire. Souter retired from the court in June 2… Read moreFormer Supreme Court Justice David Souter, a Republican who became a liberal favorite, dies at 85

Catholic Chicagoans gathered in churches, cheered from classrooms and celebrated from their homes as the historic decision was announced that a native son, Cardinal Robert Prevost, had been elected pope. The first American elected pontiff, Pope Leo XIV was born and raised in Chicago before h… Read moreCatholic Chicagoans celebrate as native son Pope Leo XIV becomes first American pope

When white smoke poured out of the Sistine Chapel revealing that a new pope had been chosen, John Prevost turned on his television in Illinois and watched in awe as his brother’s name was announced. He said Thursday that he was in “disbelief” and then felt an incredible sense of pride that h… Read moreLeo XIV's brother recalls feeling of 'disbelief' over his sibling becoming pope