Lourdes remains a Pyrenees town famed for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and its Marian apparitions in 1858, drawing religious tourism and history.
A Vatican canonical trial into Rev. Marko Rupnik remains ongoing after a blog report suggested an acquittal; the Vatican says the report is unfounded and judges are examining documents from dioceses, the Jesuits, and others. Victims’ lawyers criticize secrecy while awaiting status updates.
Public mourners gathered at Buckfast Abbey for Ann Widdecombe’s private requiem, following her death on 8 July at 78 after a fatal assault. The service featured tributes from family, political figures and clergy. A public memorial is planned later this year, with donations split between Leprosy Mission and Abound India.
The Vatican has announced Pope Leo XIV's extensive travel itinerary across Latin America and Europe, with Peru and Argentina featuring prominently. The trip spans late October to mid-November, including Masses, private dinners, and meetings with bishops and indigenous communities. The pope has previously emphasized the dignity of life and social outreach, while the trip will highlight ties to Chiclayo, Peru, and Lourdes appeals in France.