World News
COVID pandemic should raise questions about faith, pope says
"The pandemic poses fundamental questions about happiness in our lives and about the treasure of our Christian faith," Pope Francis wrote about COVID-19 and its global impact.
Jesuits’ global leader warns of pandemic’s threat to democracy
The pandemic is an occasion to share the point of view of the poor and to protect democracy even as many governments "are taking the path of authoritarianism," said Jesuit Father Arturo Sosa.
German bishops continue debate over Vatican document on parishes
The Vatican instruction on the reform of Catholic parishes continues to stir debate in Germany, where some bishops say the current parish model with a priest in charge is no longer sustainable because of a lack of vocations.
Mexican bishops welcome Supreme Court abortion ruling
Mexico's Supreme Court ruled 4-1 against a proposal that could have paved the way for the decriminalization of abortion across the country.
Mexican bishops call for action ahead of Supreme Court abortion ruling
Mexico's Supreme Court may rule July 29 on a lower court decision decriminalizing abortion in one state during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, with potentially more states to follow.
Justice, dignity not just ‘privilege of the rich,’ Vatican official says
Prosecutors should go after the "big fish" perpetrators of human trafficking, a Vatican representative told the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
French police arrest cathedral volunteer who confesses to Nantes fire
A Rwandan man is facing up to 10 years in prison after he confessed to setting fire to the city's Gothic cathedral, considered to be a jewel of French architecture.
German abbess faces possible landmark trial on church asylum
Benedictine Mother Mechthild Thurmer said she "acted out of Christian spirit" to house female refugees and refused to pay a fine.
Manila bishop tests positive for COVID-19, says he’s asymptomatic
Bishop Broderick Pabillo confirmed the diagnosis July 23, noting that he will keep working while under quarantine, confident that "in whatever happens, God's love is always with us."
Pope thanks pilgrim with disability who walked along Spain’s ‘Camino’
In a July 21 letter, Pope Francis commended a Spanish teen who traveled more than 60 miles along the historic route, saying he had shown "the Lord always walks beside us."