While presented as missionary work, the operation of residential schools by Catholics in Canada was actually an attempt to impose European culture on Canada’s Indigenous people, Pope Francis said.
International News
Holy Father to Indigenous in Canada: ‘I Beg Forgiveness’
The first step of Pope Francis’ “penitential pilgrimage” to Canada involved him returning two pairs of children’s moccasins.
Top Canadian Prelate Hopes Papal Trip Can Help Country ‘Turn a Page’
Canada’s leading Catholic prelate has voiced hope Pope Francis’ visit to the country this week will strengthen efforts at reconciliation with Indigenous communities, and help “turn a page” in order to move forward together.
Pope Francis Arrives in Canada Focused on Elders and on Repentance
After a flight of more than 10 hours from Rome, Pope Francis landed in Edmonton and met briefly at the airport with Indigenous leaders, Canada’s governor general and prime minister before heading to the local seminary for a rest.
Nigerian Priest Who Was Found Dead Is Most Recent to be Kidnapped, Killed
The body of a priest was discovered July 19, four days after he was abducted from a parish rectory in central Nigeria, an official with the Diocese of Kafanchan reported.
Lithuanian Archbishop Urges Firmer Church Stance on War in Ukraine
The top representative of Europe’s Catholic bishops said the Vatican is changing its approach to the war in Ukraine because of the unlikelihood of a mediated settlement, and praised the resilience of Ukrainians in withstanding Russian aggression.
Religious Freedom Under Fire Worldwide, Experts Warn
Experts gathered in Rome this week for a conference organized by the University of Notre Dame contend that religious freedom is under attack all over the world.
Pope Francis’ Words In Canada May Have Broader Reach, Official Says
Pope Francis’ July trip to Canada was born out of his meetings with the nations’ Indigenous people and was planned around encounters with them, and if the pontiff’s words “have value elsewhere,” like throughout the Americas, all the better, said the director of the Vatican press office.
Myanmar Archbishop Urges Respect for Human Dignity After Military Attacks
Archbishop Marco Tin Win of Mandalay has called for human dignity and property to be respected following attacks on civilians in several villages by Myanmar’s military junta.
Eastern Africa Bishops Explore Consequences of Climate Change on Daily Life
Eastern Africa Catholic bishops acknowledged that the climate crisis is real and that it is causing adverse effects on people throughout the region.