International News

News from outside of Canada.

Gazans more desperate than ever after border clashes, says CRS official

May 24, 2018

JERUSALEM – Already in a precarious state, Gaza's health system faces a medical emergency, with more than 1,000 people injured in the recent Gaza border demonstrations that flared up since March 30.

Jesuit radio is at forefront of human rights battle in Honduras

May 24, 2018

WASHINGTON – A surprising item appears in a proposal requesting donations on behalf of a Jesuit-run radio station in Honduras: bullet-proof glass for the front office.

Pope prays that Catholics in China may live their faith in peace

May 23, 2018

VATICAN – Pope Francis asked people to pray for Catholics in China so that they may be able to live their faith with serenity and in full communion with the Pope.

Nigerian bishops lead thousands in peaceful protests against killings

May 23, 2018

LAGOS, Nigeria – Catholic bishops in Nigeria led thousands of people across the country in peaceful protests against repeated killings by herdsmen in a conflict over fertile land.

Nicaraguan bishops denounce death threats against one of their own

May 23, 2018

MEXICO – The Nicaraguan bishops' conference has denounced death threats against an outspoken bishop, whose comments on corruption and support for students in the protests consuming the country have been poorly received by those in power.

Confirmation gives Catholics strength to be led by God, Pope says

May 23, 2018

VATICAN – Everyone who has received the sacrament of confirmation has received the gift of the Holy Spirit, who guides them and gives them the strength to follow God's will, Pope Francis said.

Pope grants indulgences for World Meeting of Families in Dublin

May 23, 2018

VATICAN – Catholics who participate in the World Meeting of Families in Dublin in August or pray with their families during the Aug. 21-26 event can receive a plenary indulgence, the Vatican announced.

Germany’s communion discussion ‘puzzling,’ says Canadian archbishop

May 23, 2018

Even a consensus among German Catholic bishops allowing intercommunion with Protestants cannot change Catholic teaching, says a Canadian archbishop.

Australian archbishop, convicted of abuse cover-up, will stand aside for now

May 23, 2018

ADELAIDE, Australia – Archbishop Philip Wilson of Adelaide, who faces a maximum penalty of two years in jail for failing to inform police about child sexual abuse allegations, said he will stand aside from his duties as archbishop while he considers how to proceed legally.

Vatican bank sees profit while making ethical investments, report says

May 22, 2018

VATICAN – The Institute for the Works of Religion, commonly known as the Vatican bank, seeks to follow Catholic ethical practices in investments, according to its latest annual report.