Rosie Scammell
Rosie Scammell is a British journalist with extensive experience reporting for leading international news organizations. She has been based in Italy since 2012 and covers the Vatican for RNS.
All Stories by Rosie Scammell
Slain Pakistani Christian’s brother campaigns against blasphemy law
By Rosie Scammell — January 13, 2016
ROME (RNS) On March 2, 2011, Shahbaz Bhatti was assassinated by a militant group that called him “a blasphemer.”
Comedian Roberto Benigni pitches Pope Francis’ book on mercy
By Rosie Scammell — January 12, 2016
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The actor who won an Oscar for an improbable comedy about the Holocaust brought his signature blend of humor and seriousness to the Vatican to help his hero, the pope.
Pope Francis renews call to welcome refugees while ensuring security
By Rosie Scammell — January 11, 2016
VATICAN CITY (RNS) In his annual address to diplomats at the Holy See, Francis said governments have a “two-fold moral responsibility” to protect both citizens and migrants.
Pope talks about gays, annulments in new book
By Rosie Scammell — January 10, 2016
(RNS) Of gays, the pope said. "...Let us not forget that God loves all his creatures and we are destined to receive his infinite love."
Pope Francis: Will you have tequila for me when I’m in Mexico?
By Rosie Scammell — January 8, 2016
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The pontiff is no party animal but he loves to swap one-liners with the crowd.
Vatican newspaper denounces ‘blasphemous’ Charlie Hebdo cover
By Rosie Scammell — January 6, 2016
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo, target of a terrorist attack a year ago, depicts God as a Kalashnikov-carrying killer.
Forget the Magi. Why Italian children await gifts from the good witch
By Rosie Scammell — January 5, 2016
ROME (RNS) While the Western church focuses on the gospel story of the three kings, or Magi, bringing gifts to the baby Jesus, a different tradition is marked outside the Vatican walls.
Pope Francis: ‘I don’t know how to sing. I don’t even know how to speak well.’
By Rosie Scammell — December 31, 2015
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The give-and-take included insights from Francis about growing up in Argentina and his thoughts on media and anger.
Eritrean gospel singer Helen Berhane was tortured for her beliefs. Now she’s speaking up.
By Rosie Scammell — December 29, 2015
ROME (RNS) Berhane spoke recently at a Rome conference on Christian persecution in the hopes others might learn of the grievous human rights violations in her native land.
Pope Francis warns pilgrims: ‘Don’t get conned — salvation is free!’
By Rosie Scammell — December 16, 2015
(RNS) “Be careful that there’s not someone a bit quick and too cunning that tells you that you must pay," Pope Francis said at his Wednesday public audience in St. Peter's Square.
Vatican told to get tough on those caught laundering money
By Rosie Scammell — December 15, 2015
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The Vatican has taken many steps to atone for its shady financial past, but the European Union's financial watchdog said the Holy See now has to get tough with those suspected of wrongdoing.
Mexico trip: Pope to visit Ciudad Juarez prison, address border issues
By Rosie Scammell — December 14, 2015
VATICAN CITY (RNS) The pope’s visit to Ciudad Juarez will conclude his six-day tour of Mexico, starting on Feb. 12. The stop will draw attention to drug-related violence and the U.S. policy on migration.
Pope calls on world leaders to adopt Paris climate deal
By Rosie Scammell — December 14, 2015
VATICAN CITY (RNS) Pope Francis hailed the “historic” climate change agreement signed in Paris, urging the international community to swiftly implement the deal.
US religious freedom envoy blasts campaign rhetoric against Muslims
By Rosie Scammell — December 11, 2015
ROME (RNS) During a trip to Rome for a conference on Christian persecution, David Saperstein, the U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom, did not cite Donald Trump by name but took aim at recent controversial comments by presidential candidates.
Priest who survived ISIS: ‘My interfaith work saved my life’
By Rosie Scammell — December 11, 2015
ROME (RNS) Speaking in detail for the first time since his escape, the Rev. Jacques Mourad admitted he didn't always think he would make it: “It was very difficult above all when they said, ‘Become Muslim or we’ll cut your head off.'"
