The LOOP
The Saturday Loop - April 11, 2026
NEGOTIATIONS TO END IRAN WAR BEGIN TODAY
Vice President JD Vance told reporters that he expects a “positive” outcome as he departed for Islamabad, Pakistan, where he will lead the U.S. delegation in peace negotiations with Iran. Tensions remain high amid a fragile ceasefire that began April 8, with Iranian officials expressing distrust of the U.S. and President Donald Trump brusquely reminding Iranian officials they are only alive at his pleasure.
POPE ISSUES NEW REBUKE OF WAR, PLANS PRAYER VIGIL
Pope Leo XIV yesterday gave his sharpest rebuke of the war yet, stating that “God does not bless any conflict" and decrying the “senseless and inhuman" violence and "blasphemy" of war. “No cause can justify the shedding of innocent blood," he said. He has called on the faithful worldwide to participate in a prayer vigil today starting at noon Eastern, coinciding with peace talks between the U.S. and Iran.
VANCE ANTI-FRAUD TASK FORCE NABS ALLEGED HOSPICE SCAMMERS
Federal prosecutors have charged 15 people in Southern California in connection with a wide-ranging scheme that allegedly defrauded Medicare of more than $50 million through sham hospice operations.
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RUBIO: CATHOLICISM IS INTEGRAL TO THE US
Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a virtual address to a conference at the Catholic University of America arguing that Catholicism is not a late addition or outlier in the American story, but one of its deepest civilizational roots – and one that will remain essential as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
NEW DETAILS ON POPE'S VISIT TO AFRICA
The Vatican has unveiled new details on Pope Leo’s April trip to Africa, his longest journey yet, with stops in four countries. The tour will focus on peace, migration, and the Church’s role across a region facing conflict and change.
HERO: PRINCIPAL SHOT TACKLING GUNMAN, SAVES STUDENTS
Kirk Moore, an Oklahoma high school principal, was shot in the leg after tackling a gunman who opened fire on campus, helping stop the attacker and preventing any students from being injured. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt praised Moore for his bravery.
JUDGE PAUSES CASE FOR IN-PERSON ABORTION PILL SAFEGUARDS
A federal judge has paused Louisiana’s lawsuit seeking to restore in-person safeguards for abortion pills. The move keeps mail-order access in place for now, but the judge signaled the state is “likely to succeed,” setting up a legal fight.
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THE FIRST COMMUNION GIFT EVERY CHILD NEEDS
Before they receive Jesus, give them wonder. “The Glory of God” calms fears about Confession and fills children with excitement for the Eucharist. Joyful, faith-filled, and powerfully endorsed by Relevant Radio CEO Fr. Rocky and Bishop Gruss — this is more than a book. It’s a foundation for holiness.
GET A PLENARY INDULGENCE THIS WEEKEND
Since 2000, the Catholic Church has celebrated Divine Mercy Sunday on the first Sunday after Easter. A reminder to the faithful that God is constantly calling humanity to reconciliation with Himself, the feast gives the faithful an opportunity to gain a plenary indulgence. Here's what you need to know.
WHAT THE DIVINE MERCY IMAGE CAN TEACH US
An Archdiocese of Los Angeles auxiliary bishop says the Divine Mercy image sheds light on why St. John the Evangelist “saw and believed” at Jesus’ empty tomb.
HOW TO CELEBRATE EVERY SUNDAY OF EASTER
Easter isn’t just one day. It’s a 50-day celebration! This guide walks through each Sunday of Eastertide with simple ways families can keep the joy going, from Divine Mercy devotions to Pentecost celebrations.
SAINT OF THE DAY
After confronting a tyrant king over grave moral abuses, St. Stanislaus of Kraków was murdered at the altar while celebrating Mass. His death helped shape Poland’s Catholic identity and remains a powerful example of courage in the face of corruption.
SATURDAY'S PSALM
"I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me." (Psalm 118)
SATURDAY'S READINGS
Today's Mass readings.
SUNDAY'S PSALM
"Give thanks to the LORD for he is good, his love is everlasting." (Psalm 118)
SUNDAY'S READINGS
Sunday's Mass readings.
ANSWER TO TRIVIA
The Second Sunday of Easter has several names: Low Sunday, Divine Mercy Sunday, Quasimodo Sunday, and Bright Sunday or White Sunday.
DON'T MISS
179,000 sisters… down to just 33,000. What happened? On the latest episode of The Deep, Erika uncovers the shocking 82% collapse of America’s Catholic sisters, exploring the hidden forces behind it and why there's hope. Check it out now on Zeale.
