Many cardinals have had books written about them, but few have become the fictionalized heroes of best-selling novels. Cardinal Francis J. Spellman, archbishop of New York from 1939 to 1967, was one — possibly the only one.

As supporters of Maryknoll Father Vincent Capodanno’s canonization cause marked the 60th anniversary of the late Navy chaplain’s arrival in Vietnam in 1966, there was renewed hope that the effort was gaining momentum.

Archbishop Jorge García Cuerva of Buenos Aires rebuked the country’s political class for ignoring Pope Francis’ magisterium on unity by bickering among themselves at a Mass celebrated on the anniversary of the late pope’s passing.

“Fill these rooms with your peace and make it a place of refuge for all who find their way here,” Archbishop Lori said in his prayer.”Open the hearts of those who come here so that they may receive not only material help but also the dignity of being seen and being loved.”

Pope Leo XIV, who has repeatedly called for peace and dialogue in the Middle East, went a step further April 23, condemning the unjust taking of life by governments as violence continues in Iran.