World News
British bishops note ‘tragic loss of life’ as abortions increase
Statistics released Sept. 10 show that abortions in England and Wales were at their highest recorded level, with close to 110,000 performed in the first six months of 2020.
Cardinal urges world to help restore Lebanon, not let it ‘fall into despair’
Maronite patriarch Cardinal Bechara Rai told an internet audience Sept. 10. that "the last Christian foothold in the Middle East" is facing "existential danger like never before."
Catholic social teaching has values the world needs, Dominican says
Individual rights are essential for human flourishing, but so is the broader common good, said Sister Helen Alford. Recent crises are the result of "too individualistic mindset," she said.
Report abuse learned in confession or go to jail, says Australian state
A new law requires priests in the state of Queensland to break the seal of confession to report child sex abuse to police or face three years in jail. A similar law is in place in four other states.
Pope Francis will sign new encyclical in Assisi Oct. 3
The letter on the social, political and economic obligations that flow from a belief that all people are children of God will be signed on the eve of St. Francis' feast day.
Economy must place people above ‘idols of finance,’ pope says
The pandemic should prompt a paradigm shift in economics that places the good of the many over the benefit of the few, Pope Francis said. He called for a slow down of the "inhuman pace of consumption and production."
Lack of respect for life, for nature have same root, pope says
Speaking to lay advisers of the French bishops on the environment, Pope Francis spoke of ecological conversion and decried indifference, selfishness and greed.
Pope calls for day of prayer, fasting for Lebanon Sept. 4
Following a deadly Aug. 4 explosion in Beirut, Pope Francis has asked all people of goodwill to pray for the distressed Middle East nation, which he called "an example of pluralism."
Bigger picture: Media can showcase overlooked sex-abuse survivors
In reporting historical and recent abuse of minors, the media should include portrayals of survivors as active agents of reform and not only focus on past events, said one survivor of abuse in Ireland.
Pope applauds initiatives ahead of world day of prayer for creation
Pope Francis encouraged global initiatives to protect the environment, especially in Mauritius after an oil spill threatened the livelihood of the island nation's inhabitants and wildlife.