News
Thieves break into castle, steal rosary used by Mary, Queen of Scots
A set of golden rosary beads belonging to the 16th century British royal, and valued at $1.4 million, were stolen from a castle. They have "immeasurably greater and priceless historical importance," said an official.
Congress mulls boycott of Olympics over China’s human rights record
A congressional panel weighed finding an alternate city or boycotting the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, objecting to China's long-standing human rights abuses. Two administrations have termed its treatment of Muslims genocide.
Texas governor signs ‘heartbeat’ abortion law
The measure bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detectable, as early as six weeks of pregnancy. One of the nation's strictest abortion laws has no exception for rape or incest.
Germany seeks church reform, worrying some Catholics
Catholics around the world have their eyes on Germany as it pursues its "Synodal Path," which is debating the issues of power, sexual morality, priestly life and the role of women in the church.
Madagascar drought leads to starvation; pandemic complicates aid
The utter silence of a room filled with young children "overwhelmed me," said a U.N. director in the island nation off the coast of Africa. More than 1 million residents are starving, eating a mix of cactus leaves and clay.
Pope asks all Catholics to commit to saving creation
Seeking a new approach "that can transform our way of dwelling in the world," Pope Francis asked everyone to join a new global grassroots movement to create a more peaceful and sustainable world.
Authorities in northern China arrest underground bishop, priests
A Vatican-appointed Catholic bishop, his seven priests and 10 seminarians were arrested in what is seen as part of a renewed crackdown on the underground Catholic Church in the communist country.
Federal money will help Catholic schools’ virtual learners
The FCC established the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program this month, through which nonpublic schools may apply for grants to outfit millions of students with computers and internet connectivity.
Pope sends condolences for deadly cable car disaster in Italy
After a cable car plunged down a mountainside in Italy, killing 14 people and leaving one child in serious condition, Pope Francis prayed for everyone affected by the tragedy.
Synod process must begin ‘from bottom up,’ pope tells bishops
Welcoming the Italian bishops' decision to begin planning a national synod, Pope Francis told them that it must begin at the grassroots with "the smallest parish, the smallest diocesan institution."