The Vatican is introducing new norms to better manage the proliferation of reported miracles, particularly Marian apparitions, which have become widespread and viral in the age of social media. The new guidelines aim to streamline the process of evaluating these phenomena, giving the Vatican a more significant role in their assessment. The move comes in response to the rapid spread of reports and the potential for false mysticism and sect formation. The Vatican's department of faith will now provide quicker interim judgments on such matters, although the recognition of supernatural occurrences will only be made at the Pope's explicit request.

Dutch bishops are visiting the Vatican for an ad-limina visit to discuss the state of the Catholic Church in the Netherlands. Despite global growth, the Church in the Netherlands faces declining membership and increasing secularization. The bishops' report highlights the challenges, including the church's diminishing presence in public debate and the closure of church buildings. Pope Francis previously encouraged a positive societal role for the Church, and his current advice is awaited.

The first session of the bishops' assembly on church renewal concluded with a solemn mass at St. Peter's after nearly four weeks of intensive meetings. This historic event allowed not only bishops but also lower clergy, monks, nuns, and lay believers to participate and vote. The final document summarizes agreed points and topics needing further exploration, including the treatment of LGBTQ individuals and the role of women in the church. While the document does not address female priesthood, it opens the discussion on ordaining women as deacons. The church's governance structure is also set to change, with bishops being held more accountable and lay believers gaining co-responsibility in diocesan councils. Tensions and differences of opinion were evident, and Pope Francis intervened with a speech against clericalism. The groundwork is laid for the next session in October of the following year, aiming to keep the synodal momentum alive among participants and the broader Catholic community.

The Catholic Church's synod on church renewal concluded with a call for increased input and responsibility for ordinary believers in decision-making processes. The synod, initiated by Pope Francis, emphasized reducing Rome's power in favor of local bishops and highlighted the need for a more significant role for women in the church. Despite resistance, the proposal to consider ordaining women as deacons was approved. The synod's innovative approach to discussions, involving diverse participants, was praised. Pope Francis plans to implement the recommendations, marking a significant step in the church's ongoing reform process.

The verdict in a high-profile Vatican real estate trial is expected, marking a significant test for the Vatican's legal system. The trial, which began in 2021, centers on Italian Cardinal Angelo Becciu, accused of embezzling funds from the Pope's charity. The case involves a failed €350 million investment in London real estate, resulting in a €140 million loss. The trial has revealed internal Vatican conflicts and raised questions about the fairness of the legal process, with Pope Francis granting prosecutors special powers. Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences and fines for Becciu and other defendants.

Pope Francis embarks on a four-day visit to Luxembourg and Belgium, surprising many with his choice of destinations. The visit includes a tribute to Luxembourg's Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich and marks the 600th anniversary of KU Leuven in Belgium. The Pope will address issues like migration and climate change, rather than focusing on the Catholic roots of the university. Belgium's strong secularization and past clergy abuse scandals, particularly involving Roger Vangheluwe, have led to a decline in Catholic faith. The Pope plans to meet with abuse victims, but public enthusiasm remains low, except among Belgian bishops who strive for a modern church.

Pope Francis is driving a cultural shift in the Vatican, exemplified by the exhibition BOOK! BOOM! at the Apostolic Library, showcasing a collaboration between the library and Dutch graphic designer Irma Boom. Boom, who prefers the term 'bookmaker,' has gained international fame for her book designs. The exhibition, supported by the Dutch Embassy to the Holy See, features Boom's modern book designs alongside ancient manuscripts, highlighting a dialogue between old and new. The project reflects broader changes in the Vatican, including increased roles for women, though it faces resistance from conservative clergy.

Pope Francis has appointed 21 new cardinals, with 18 of them under 80 years old, granting them voting rights in the next papal conclave. This move is seen as a way for Francis to influence the selection of his successor. The appointments include key figures within the Church's administration and unexpected locations like Jerusalem and the United States. Francis has significantly diversified the College of Cardinals, reducing the dominance of Italians and Europeans, and including representatives from countries with smaller Catholic populations. This marks the ninth time Francis has refreshed the group of cardinals since his election in 2013, ensuring that his vision for a more open and merciful Church continues.

The synod at the Vatican marks a historic moment with 54 women granted voting rights, reflecting Pope Francis's push for inclusivity and reform within the Roman Catholic Church. The synod will address a wide range of topics, including the role of women, lay participation, local church responsibilities, and potential changes to church law, such as the celibacy requirement. The German Catholic Church's progressive steps, driven by sexual abuse scandals, serve as both a model and a cautionary tale. Pope Francis views the synod as a crucial opportunity for renewal, despite the inherent risks and high expectations.

Dutch bishops had a personal meeting with Pope Francis during their ad-limina visit to the Vatican. The meeting, held in the Apostolic Palace, lasted over an hour and a half, with the Pope encouraging the bishops to stay close to the people and persevere despite challenges. Cardinal Eijk requested the Pope to write a new encyclical on 'gender ideology,' to which the Pope responded that the Vatican is already working on something similar. The visit will conclude with a mass at the Friezenkerk in Rome.