International News

John Paul II still drives cause of freedom

Paulina Guzik · April 2, 2025

As the 20th anniversary of St. John Paul II’s death approached April 2, top world leaders and thinkers gathered here to discuss the legacy of a pope whose faith continues the drive for freedom in today’s world.

Lourdes bishop covering Father Rupnik's mosaics on sanctuary's basilica doors

Federica Tourn · March 31, 2025

Bishop Jean-Marc Micas of Tarbes and Lourdes has decided to cover mosaics by Father Marko Rupnik at the entrance of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a move aimed at making the basilica more welcoming for all, particularly victims of abuse.

Tragic earthquake hits war-torn Myanmar, with massive death toll and little aid

OSV News · March 31, 2025

On March 28, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the Mandalay-Sagaing region in southwestern Myanmar, causing multistory buildings to collapse and raising concerns about a significant death toll.

As Kansas Catholics pray, a Satanic group's 'black mass' turns violent, with arrests

Gina Christian · March 31, 2025

A Satanic group's effort to conduct a "black mass" at the Kansas Statehouse March 28 turned violent, leading to arrests, while across the street the state's Catholic archbishop led hundreds in peaceful prayer before the Eucharist for those who "seek to mock our merciful God."

Crushing municipal taxes threaten Jerusalem churches

Susan Korah · March 28, 2025

Churches in Jerusalem are in dire financial straits and Church-run institutions such as schools and hospitals are in danger of closing as they struggle with a renewed barrage of demands by the city to pay a tax called “Arnona.”

Turkey's Catholics 'left in fear' amid new nationwide unrest

Jonathan Luxmoore · March 27, 2025

Turkey's Christian minorities have been left in fear in the wake of nationwide disorders, which erupted following the March 19 arrest of a top opposition leader.

‘Silent negotiation’ UN’s new normal

‘Transparency’ silences too many voices at Commission on the Status of Women

Anna Farrow · March 26, 2025

As delegates made their final statements last week at the conclusion of the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women at UN headquarters in New York City, there was a sense of plus ça change – except “changes” now take place behind closed doors under the control of a select few.

Church urges protection of young after attack on Mexican youth group

David Agren · March 25, 2025

Mexican parishioners placed eight candles on church altars in memory of the eight young people shot dead in an attack outside a parish church.

Pope Francis knew he 'might not make it,' physician says

Cindy Wooden · March 25, 2025

For Pope Francis' medical team at Rome's Gemelli hospital, Feb. 28 was the worst day.

Kansas Satanists forced to admit under oath they don't possess Eucharist for 'black mass'

Gina Christian · March 24, 2025

A Satanic group planning a "black mass" at the Kansas Statehouse March 28 has sworn in court it is not in possession of a consecrated host and wine the group said it aimed to desecrate at the event.