Scottish Catholic Observer

Vatican: Papal biographer Peter Seewald (above) ‘never saw Benedict looking so tired.’

First Minister Alex Salmond is facing a frosty meeting with Catholic leaders  furious at being ‘ignored’ over the same-sex ‘marriage’ row. (Tabloid report).

John Deighan, parliamentary officer for Scotland’s bishops, on Scotland Tonight decrying schools as distribution points for contraceptives. (Video)

Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi holds centre stage by leading Lenten retreat for Pope Benedict XVI.

Israeli PM Netanyahu thanks Pope for deepening Christian-Jewish ties.

Polish Christianity first: the Polish Ecumenical Council, together with the president of the Bishops’ Conference of Poland, signed a document on the protection of creation.

Archbishop implores US Congress to protect conscience rights.

Knights of Columbus launch Twitter prayer campaign for Pope.

Priest conceived in rape recounts journey to forgive father.

DAFTEST PAPAL STORY

Pope Election: Cardinals barred from Twitter. Dear Sky News, barring cardinals in the conclave from communicating with outside world is the norm.

AND FINALLY

Celtic and Rangers managers Neil Lennon and Ally McCoist are backing the Wee Box, Big Change Lent appeal run by the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF).

-Cross Wires is The Scottish Catholic Observer blog. Follow breaking news from the SCO through the day on Twitter at SCO_NEWS.