Pope Leo at Religious Education Congress, New Mental Health Initiative, St. Francis Remains on Display, and More

Thanks for listening! Let us know what you think. God bless!Gina Christian of OSV News catches you up on the Catholic news of the day for Feb. 23, 2026. Tune in and visit us online at osvnews.com.Read the stories in this episode:The 2026 LA Religious Education Congress kicked off Feb. 20 with an emphasis on the healing power of mercy and self-forgiveness -- and a special message from Pope Leo XIV -- as the annual gathering marked its 70th year.A new initiative by the University of Mary and the Diocese of Phoenix promises to respond to today's rising mental health challenges by forming mental health professionals who are clinically trained and rooted in the Catholic teaching on human dignity.Mexico’s bishops are urging calm and caution after a deadly military operation sparked violence across several states. In a Feb. 22 message, the Mexican bishops' conference called on the faithful to follow safety protocols, avoid unnecessary travel, and shelter at home when needed. For the first time in 800 years, the mortal remains of St. Francis of Assisi are on extended public display. In his first reflection at the Lenten retreat with Pope Leo XIV and the Roman Curia Feb. 22 and 23, Norwegian Trappist Bishop Erik Varden urged Vatican officials to embrace Lent as a season of authentic Christian witness, not culture war combat.