World News
Montreal rector released from hospital; suspect evaluated
UPDATED - Father Claude Grou, the rector of St. Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal who was stabbed during a Mass March 22, has been released from the hospital.
Right to access clean water must be defended, pope says
In a message marking World Water Day, March 22, the pope said that water "is an essential asset for the equilibrium of ecosystems and human survival, and it must be managed and cared for so that it is not polluted or lost."
Pope sends aid to southeast Africa after cyclone
UPDATED - Pope Francis has sent $50,000 each to Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi to assist with initial emergency relief efforts after a cyclone hit the region and caused massive flooding.
Bishop criticizes ‘faith-filled’ Catholics who spread fear of Muslims
"To define a whole category of people, or a whole nation, or a whole religious group as being in some way more prone to terrorism than any other group is irresponsible," said Bishop Kevin Doran.
Honor Christian heritage by promoting solidarity, pope tells lawmakers
Pope Francis urged legislators from the Czech Republic and Slovakia to honor their nations' Christian heritage by working to increase "mutual acceptance and solidarity."
In divisive times, Chesterton inspires unity among Catholics, author says
At a time when Catholics seem to be split between conservative or progressive factions, the life and works of English writer G. K. Chesterton can inspire men and women in the church to rise above conflict, said U.S. scholar Dale Ahlquist.
Austrian bishops become third conference to divest from fossil fuels
Cardinal Christoph Schonborn of Vienna, conference chairman, said in a March 22 statement announcing the decision that church finances "must not exert a destructive influence on our planet's climate."
Pope praises Catholic tourism group dedicated to young people
Tourism offers a chance to get to know people and places, to increase mutual understanding and respect, Pope Franci said March 22 in a speech to members of Italy's Youth Tourist Center.
More help needed for those who feel cursed, possessed, says exorcist
Even if those seeking help do not show signs of demonic influence or possession, "do not deny them spiritual assistance," said Father Benigno Palilla, an exorcist for the Archdiocese of Palermo.
Belarus bishop cites government curbs on foreign priests, nuns
A Catholic bishop in Belarus has accused officials of arbitrarily denying residence and work permits to visiting Catholic priests and nuns, when the country still lacks enough people to serve in ministry.