VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Since the end of the Oct. 5-19 Synod of Bishops on the family, news outlets have portrayed the outcome as a “setback” or “loss” for Pope Francis – even a “rebuke” to him.
International News
Bishop Mansour: Defy Terror in Middle East
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (CNS) – Maronite Bishop Gregory J. Mansour of Brooklyn spoke to Belmont University students Oct. 22 about the need for all Christians to respond to persecution with “profound defiance,” which is markedly different from vengeful retaliation or submissive inaction.
Migration Services Gains Coveted Grant
The diocese’s Catholic Migration Services is one of only 40 organizations nationwide chosen to receive a citizenship grant from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Fleeing Christians Face An Early Harsh Winter
AINKAWA, Iraq (CNS) – Sister Habiba’s kindly face is etched with sadness as she surveyed the muddy field where dozens of tents sheltering displaced Iraqi Christians once stood.
Vatican Will Sponsor Interreligious Meeting on Traditional Marriage
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – A month after closing a Synod of Bishops on the family stirred by controversy over divorce, same-sex unions and other nonmarital relationships, Pope Francis will open an interreligious conference dedicated to traditional marriage.
Pope Preaches About Hope at Cemetery Mass
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – The early November feasts of All Saints and All Souls call Catholics to contemplate their ultimate destiny, hope in the eternal happiness of their beloved dead and remember the thousands of innocent people dying each day because of human evil and selfishness.
Cremation Gaining Ground in Mexico
The tradition of praying for the dead in graveyards is gradually being threatened in Mexico City, because cemetery space is becoming scarce and the local government is promoting cremation as an alternative.
Colombian Prelate Visits Flock in Jackson Heights
The bishop of Quibdo, Colombia, warned against the dangers of a falsely confident outlook on the progress of the South American country during his recent visit to the U.S.
Miss USA Talks About Faith to St. Agnes’ Girls
When the principal of St. Agnes A.H.S. introduced the reigning Miss USA to students Oct. 30, she said the pageant winner “shows qualities that we ask you to strive for this year.” Miss USA spent the afternoon recounting her story to the teenage girls. She finished her talk with a demonstration of Tae-Kwon-Do self-defense moves, which can be done in high heels and a dress.
R U Texting During Mass? Put the Phone Down
ALBANY, N.Y. (CNS) – Families navigate their smartphones while doing everyday activities, so it’s no surprise that cellphones affect even church.