Development and Peace say proper authority to investigate rights violations abroad lacking
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterA leaked memo providing legal advice to the Canadian government only proves that the government broke its promise to provide for effective, independent investigations when Canadian mining companies are accused of human rights violations abroad, according to Canada’s Catholic development and aid organization.
Martyrs’ Shrine in Midland cancels 2021 season
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterFor the second year in a row, Martyrs’ Shrine in Midland, Ont., won’t be open to the public this summer.
Archdiocese of Toronto urging Catholics to call on MPPs for ‘equitable’ approach to a return to worship
By Catholic Register StaffToronto’s Cardinal Thomas Collins wants Catholics to send a clear message to Queen’s Park: It’s time for a “fair and equitable approach to the return to worship.”
Johnson & Johnson vaccine ‘morally acceptable’ despite fetus origins
By Wendy-Ann Clarke, The Catholic RegisterThe approval of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine for use in Canada has heightened the discussion over whether Catholics should receive the vaccine, though Church teaching remains clear that it is “morally acceptable.”
Canadian bishops call out governments over unfair treatment in COVID regulations
By Quinton Amundson, The Catholic RegisterAs Quebec movie theatres welcome up to 250 patrons as pandemic protocols begin to loosen, churches remain limited to only 10 people — including the presiding priest — at worship services.
Safe Third Country appeal rests in court’s hands
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterThe decision on whether to overturn a July 2020 court decision rendering the Safe Third Country Agreement between Canada and the United States invalid is now in the hands of three judges of the Federal Court of Appeal.
B.C. health authority evicts Delta Hospice Society
By Agnieszka Ruck, Canadian Catholic NewsVANCOUVER -- The Fraser Health Authority has given the Delta Hospice Society 30 days’ notice to vacate the Irene Thomas Hospice in South Delta, B.C.
Ethics Bowl shows what is missing in political discourse
By Wendy-Ann Clarke, The Catholic Register“We look forward to hearing what you have to enrich the discussion,” said one student to an opponent at the second annual Ethics Bowl Feb. 27 in discussing whether or not pardoning criminals gave justice to the victims. “I’m excited to hear what team B has to say,” said another young competitor with a smile.
COVID won’t stop annual Ordinandi Dinner in Toronto
By Quinton Amundson, The Catholic RegisterThe annual Ordinandi Dinner last year went off without a hitch, celebrated just before COVID put Canada and the world in lockdown. But there was no such luck for this year’s event.
Teacher, track coach pays it forward
By Wendy-Ann Clarke, The Catholic RegisterIf Kurt Downes’ sixth grade students or fellow teachers are ever looking for him during his lunch break, they can usually find him where they can the rest of the school day — in his classroom.
At-home Ash Wednesday services include inter-church provisions
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterThis year Lent began with ashes in Northern Ontario, just as it does every year and everywhere. But this year’s ashes up north are a little different because they’re likely the most ecumenical ashes in Canada.