Skip to main content

Featured

Market Volatility: Stocks Flatten as Powell's Remarks Weigh on Gains

The stock market experienced a turbulent session on Wednesday, ultimately closing near flat after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's comments on monetary policy and inflation concerns. The S&P 500 ended nearly unchanged , giving back earlier gains as investors digested Powell’s remarks on the Fed’s stance regarding interest rates and economic restraint. Powell reiterated that the central bank remains cautious about inflation, particularly in light of tariff-driven price increases expected over the summer. While the Fed signaled that borrowing costs are likely to decline this year, the pace of future rate cuts appears to be slowing.  Following Powell’s speech, U.S. Treasury yields reversed their earlier declines , influencing market sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 43.83 points (0.10%) , while the Nasdaq Composite managed a slight gain of 23.66 points (0.12%).  Investors also kept a close eye on geopolitical developments, particularly tensions in the Midd...

article

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Unity in Historic Inaugural Mass

In a momentous event that marked the beginning of his papacy, Pope Leo XIV, the first American to ascend to the papal throne, delivered a powerful plea for peace and unity during his inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square. The ceremony, attended by an estimated 200,000 faithful, including world leaders, dignitaries, and religious figures, underscored the pontiff’s vision for a reconciled world.

Leo XIV, a 69-year-old Augustinian missionary from Chicago, emphasized the need for harmony within the Catholic Church and beyond, urging the faithful to reject hatred, division, and economic exploitation. “I would like that our first great desire be for a united church, a sign of unity and communion, which becomes a leaven for a reconciled world,” he declared during his homily.

The Mass was steeped in tradition, with Leo XIV receiving the two potent symbols of the papacy—the pallium, a lambswool stole representing his pastoral duty, and the Fisherman’s Ring, signifying his role as the successor of St. Peter. The pope appeared visibly moved as these symbols were placed upon him, clasping his hands in prayer as the weight of his new responsibility settled in.

Among the distinguished guests were U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, reflecting the global significance of the event. The Vatican confirmed that Leo XIV would hold private meetings with several leaders, including Zelenskyy, to discuss pressing international issues.

Leo XIV’s message of unity resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom waved American flags in celebration of the historic moment. As the Mass concluded, jubilant cheers of “Papa!” echoed through the square, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church under its first American leader.

Comments