-   Pope Francis continues his treatment for pneumonia in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital

-   Marking the 3rd anniversary of the war in Ukraine, the apostolic nuncio to the country asks for prayers and laments a general desensitization to the tragedy

-   Fighting continues in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo where defenceless civilians pay the highest price

In the headlines this Friday 21st of February 2025:

-   Palestinian activists share the harsh reality for Christians in the West Bank,

and

-   We look at the efforts of Catholic relief organisations in providing a lifeline to those in need in Ukraine.

But first

-   An update on Pope Francis’ improving health

 - Pope Francis shows signs of improvement as he continues treatment in Rome’s Gemelli hospital  

 - Hamas releases the bodies of four hostages to Israeli as part of the ongoing ceasefire arrangement

 - Humanitarian aid organizations warn of the dire situation facing children in Haiti

-   Pope Francis continues to rest and recover in Rome’s Gemelli hospital

-   Hamas proposes the exchange of all Israeli captives and Palestinian prisoners in “one go” during the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal

-   The future of children in violence-wracked countries like DRC and Haiti is jeopardized by conflict and insecurity

- Thousands bid a final farewell to a Catholic priest brutally murdered in Myanmar.

- One organization receives an international prize for its work in gender equality in the Muslim world.

- Pope Francis continues to rest and recover in Rome’s Gemelli hospital.

In the headlines this Monday, February 17:

- Church leaders of Jerusalem appeal against Gaza deportations

- After brutal killing of Burmese priest, Myanmar's Cardinal Bo appeals for an end to the violence

- Pope Francis' complex clinical picture requires longer hospitalization

-   The European Union considers taking urgent measures amid deadly fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

-   Pope Francis remains in hospital in Rome receiving treatment for bronchitis.

-   The sixth round of prisoner exchanges takes place between Israel and Hamas.