International News

News from outside of Canada.

Belgian Catholics concerned about abuse of country's euthanasia law

January 12, 2018

OXFORD, England – Catholics in Belgium are concerned the country's euthanasia law is being abused to kill patients without legal checks and safeguards.

Trump comments 'harsh, offensive,' Vatican newspaper says

January 12, 2018

VATICAN – In its continuing coverage of the U.S. immigration debate, the Vatican newspaper noted media reports that President Donald Trump "used particularly harsh and offensive words about immigrants" from several countries.

German bishop urges church debate on blessing same-sex unions

January 12, 2018

OSNABRUCK, Germany – The vice president of the German bishops' conference has urged a debate on whether Catholic clergy should bless same-sex unions.

Christians in Middle East face risky year

January 11, 2018

OTTAWA – As the new year dawns, the prospect of a peaceful future for Christians in the Middle East seems as remote as ever.

Middle East leaders increase efforts to fight U.S. decision on Jerusalem

January 11, 2018

AMMAN, Jordan – Church and political leaders in the Middle East are intensifying efforts to combat U.S. President Donald Trump's unilateral decision declaring Jerusalem as Israel's capital and plans to move the U.S. embassy there.

Understanding the fierce devotion behind the Black Nazarene

January 9, 2018

MANILA, Philippines – For over four centuries, a historical and iconic miraculous statue of Jesus Christ carrying his Cross has become an emblem of passion, struggle and faith for Filipino Catholics.

Zambia bans church services as cholera epidemic hits nation

January 9, 2018

LUSAKA, Zambia – As a cholera epidemic threatens the lives of more than 14 million Zambians, the country has banned church services and other gatherings in the Lusaka's high-density residential areas.

Pope to diplomats: World peace depends on right to life, disarmament

January 8, 2018

VATICAN – Because everyone has a right to life, liberty and personal security, nations must find nonviolent solutions to conflict and difficulties, Pope Francis said.

Venezuelan cardinal calls for transparent elections to resolve crisis

January 5, 2018

CARACAS, Venezuela – In his New Year’s message, the Archbishop of Caracas encouraged transparent elections the results of which the citizenry could trust, in order to alleviate the grave crisis affecting the country.

Parents must be involved in child's education, Pope Francis says

January 5, 2018

VATICAN – On Friday Pope Francis said education is a family matter, and rather than contradicting one another, parents and teachers must collaborate openly and constructively to form children in core values which enable them to face modern challenges.