This Week in History: German Government Surrenders to the Allies: May 7, 1945

This Week in History: German Government Surrenders to the Allies: May 7, 1945

This week in history — Though the Allies had driven the Germans from France, they bogged down along the fortifications that guarded the German fatherland. By mid-October 1944, the allies had taken Aachen, Metz, and Strasbourg; in November and early December, fierce German resistance halted their advance into the Saar region. For fear of unconditional…

A look back at Queen Elizabeth II’s encounters with Five Popes

A look back at Queen Elizabeth II’s encounters with Five Popes

(CNA)—Queen Elizabeth II passed away today, on the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  The Royal Family already had gathered in Balmoral Castle Thursday amid concerns for Queen Elizabeth II’s health, Catholic bishops in England and Wales have offered their prayers for her and her family. Queen Elizabeth, who turned 96 in…

Vatican to open WWII secret archives of Pope Pius XII

Vatican to open WWII secret archives of Pope Pius XII

Pope Francis announced Monday that the Vatican will open its archives on the pontificate of Pope Pius XII. Confidential files of the pope who led the Church during World War II will be made available next year. “Serious and objective historical research” will be able to evaluate Pius XII’s “hidden but active diplomacy” “in its…