Cardinal challenges Vatican cop over hostage payments

The Vatican's fraud and corruption trial took a dramatic twist on Oct. 12 when a once-powerful cardinal challenged the Vatican's police commissioner on the stand about one of the more peculiar tangents of the case: the Vatican's half-million euro payments to a self-styled security analyst who, with Pope Francis' blessing, helped arrange negotiations for the release of a nun held hostage by Islamic militants.

Gritty cult director Ferrara gets religion in 'Padre Pio'

Abel Ferrara, whose gritty New York exploitation films of the 1980s and 1990s delved into the soulless evils of drug addiction, corruption and sexual violence, pays homage to one of Italy's best-known and most revered saints in his newest film, "Padre Pio."

Pope invites cardinal on trial to attend Vatican meeting

Pope Francis has taken another step to rehabilitate Cardinal Angelo Becciu, inviting the once-powerful Vatican prelate to participate in an upcoming meeting of cardinals two years after Francis forced his resignation based on purported financial improprieties.

Pope Francis meets transgender guests of Rome church

Pope Francis has met with a fourth group of transgender people who found shelter at a Rome church, the Vatican newspaper reported on Aug. 11.

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