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**Pope Leo XIV Begins Summer Retreat Amidst Pressing Church Issues**

**Vatican City -** Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected pontiff, has begun a six-week summer retreat at Castel Gandolfo, the traditional papal summer residence. This marks his first break since his historic election on May 8th and a return to a tradition eschewed by his predecessor.

Sources within the Vatican suggest Pope Leo will use this time away from the public eye to delve into pressing matters facing the Catholic Church. Known for his methodical approach, the Pope is expected to pore over reports and prepare for critical decisions awaiting him upon his return on August 17th.

Key issues on his agenda include:

* **Vatican Appointments:** Filling key positions, including his replacement as prefect of the office that vets bishop nominations, and most importantly, determining his Secretary of State, currently held by Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
* **Financial Challenges:** Addressing the Vatican’s structural deficit, estimated at €50 million to €60 million, and a significant shortfall of €1 billion in its pension fund.
* **Clergy Abuse Cases:** Handling a backlog of unresolved clergy sex abuse cases, including the controversial case of Rev. Marko Rupnik, amid calls for a zero-tolerance policy.
* **The Becciu Trial:** Navigating the appeals phase of the “trial of the century” involving Cardinal Angelo Becciu and allegations of financial crimes, complicated by accusations of procedural impropriety.
* **Liturgical Unity:** Addressing divisions over the Latin Mass, with conservatives hoping for a reversal of Pope Francis’ restrictions on its celebration.
* **Artificial Intelligence:** Formulating the Church’s stance on artificial intelligence and its impact on humanity.

In addition to these internal matters, Pope Leo is also considering travel plans, including a potential visit to Turkey to mark the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea. Invitations from the United States and Ukraine are also under consideration.

Meanwhile, residents of Castel Gandolfo eagerly anticipate the Pope’s presence, hoping for a return to the tradition of papal summers in their town.

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