“It is a catastrophe for Christianity and for the faithful throughout the world. It shakes us hard. And it calls us to put aside the divisions that are afflicting the Church”. French Cardinal Paul Joseph Jean Poupard, historian of religions, president emeritus of the Pontifical Council for Culture and of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, is desperate. A leading figure in the Roman Curia. "I can't get my eyes off the distressing scenes on TV", says the 88 year old Cardinal from his Vatican home.

In the wake of September 11, newspapers around the world carried some version of the headline, “We’re All Americans Now.” The idea was that the destruction of the Twin Towers wasn’t just an assault on the United States but on civilization itself, and everyone had a stake in defending it.

That solidarity dissipated fairly quickly amid political debates over post-September 11 foreign policy, but for a brief, shining moment the world was one.

As fire has devastates the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, the building is as much a symbol of the recent history of the Catholic Church in Europe as it once was a symbol of the Church’s power and cultural supremacy. The Church had been in disrepair for decades. Calls for its restoration went mostly ignored until too late. Now that it is in ashes, people weep for its loss.

During this Passiontide, the Church takes us to Jerusalem. After completing his three-year ministry, the Lord Jesus enters the Holy City in triumph. Imitating King Solomon, who rode on an ass into the city of his father for his coronation, Jesus also enters the City of David on a donkey.

The people hail him as king, announce him with messianic chants of hosanna, and throw their clothing and palms at his feet. It was a startling experience, especially to the religious elders who sought to preserve an equilibrium with the occupying Roman authorities.

On Passion Sunday and Good Friday many, perhaps most, churches have a dramatic presentation of the Gospel depictions of the Passion of Jesus. The congregation is forced to identify with the enemies of Jesus 2,000 years ago by crying out, "Crucify him!"

When I have been the celebrant at those Masses, I have felt relieved that my role exempts me from that call, since the priest gets to play Jesus.

The life at the Shrine and the meaning of this 2019 dedicated to the young Soubirous in the interview with Father Nicolas Brouwet as the pilgrimage season officially takes off.

The activities and challenges of the small Catholic community, the prospects opened up by the Abu Dhabi Declaration, the Church's commitment in favor of young people in the interview with the Archbishop of Karachi.

Following is the full transcript of the Pope's March 31 in-flight press conference from Rabat to Rome:

Pope Francis: I am thankful for your company, the trip, your work. It was challenging because one day and a half and so many things, right? And thank you for your work and now I am at your service.

Alessandro Gisotti: Clearly, as always, as is tradition, we start with the local media. Siham Toufiki, do you want to ask the question in English, as you like.

As Francis’ trip to Morocco approaches, the expectations of the Catholic community and of the local people, the coexistence with Muslims, the future of inter-religious dialogue, the care of the poorest, in the interview with Cristobal Lopez Romero.

Today, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord.