Latin Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa says incident was a 'disproportionate use of force' and 'severe violation' of fundamental human right of freedom of religion

Fallout from independent audit continues to reverberate as church officials digest findings ex-pope mishandled cases earlier in career when archbishop of Munich

Long-awaited report on German diocese finds that while serving as archbishop, future pontiff Benedict XVI took steps over which he can be 'accused of misconduct'

Catholic leaders denounce procession at local church, which included mourners making fascist salute, as 'offensive and unacceptable'

Foreign Ministry condemns 'false and dangerous' allegations that came after Birthright groups given special permission to enter country, unlike Christmas pilgrims

Churches asking Tourism Ministry for Christmas tourists to be allowed in as well as Jewish group, as Bethlehem and other cities ready for second yuletide season without visitors

Church forced to apologize, says Sicily's Bishop Antonio Stagliano was only trying underline the true meaning of Christmas

Leader of Catholic Church responds to resignation of Paris archbishop over 'little caresses and massages' he gave to his secretary

An estimated 330,000 children in France were abused by clergy and other officials in a 'systemic manner' since 1950, commission uncovers

Head of French bishops' conference asks forgiveness from the victims, who welcome publication of document they say was long overdue