International News

News from outside of Canada.

Poverty message lost among Synod's squabbles, cardinal says

October 30, 2014

MANILA, Philippines - Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of Manila said the Synod of Bishops on the family was more than a series of discussions on divorce and gay unions and that the impact of poverty on families, especially in Asia, was a major concern of participants.

Church leaders deplore European plans to reduce refugee rescues

October 30, 2014

OXFORD, England - Catholic bishops and aid agencies criticized a move by European nations to scale down the rescue of migrants and refugees in the Mediterranean Sea, where hundreds drown each month attempting to reach Europe.

Nuncio says 'unfair situation' in Middle East needs 'adequate response'

October 30, 2014

UNITED NATIONS - Peace in the Middle East "can only be sought through negotiated settlements and not through unilateral choices imposed with the use of force," said Archbishop Berardito Auza, the Vatican's UN nuncio.

Negotiations with Boko Haram a farce, says Catholic priest

October 29, 2014

NAIROBI, Kenya - While the Nigerian government negotiates with the Islamic militant group Boko Haram for the release of 200 abducted schoolgirls, some Church leaders in the country’s conflict-ridden north are expressing doubts about any impending resolution.

Observers see Ukrainian election as concrete step toward reform

October 29, 2014

VATICAN CITY - With international observers reporting largely free and fair parliamentary elections in Ukraine, hopes increased that promised reforms would follow, including an end to high levels of government corruption.

Mother of James Foley says faith, people's prayers kept her son strong

October 29, 2014

WASHINGTON - Prayers from around the world and an unwavering faith in God have continued to provide a strong foundation for John and Diane Foley after their son, journalist James Foley, was murdered in Syria by Islamic State militants Aug. 19.

Salvadoran youths find music provides path to escape cycle of violence

October 28, 2014

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador - Eleven-year-old Jamin Diaz is finding that music and his participation in a symphony orchestra are giving him the chance to steer clear of violence that plagues his country.

Mexican Church responds in case of missing students

October 28, 2014

MEXICO CITY - The Archdiocese of Mexico City called for a "reconstruction of the country" in response to the disappearance of 43 teacher trainees in an act that authorities allege was authored by a mayor and his wife and carried out by police working alongside an organized crime network.

Muslim leaders worldwide issue stern rebuke to ISIS

October 28, 2014

WASHINGTON - More than 100 Muslim leaders -- clerics and laypeople alike -- have signed on to a letter criticizing the Middle East Muslim military group ISIS, short for the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

Retired Sudanese bishop condemns ongoing bombing in Nuba Mountains

October 27, 2014

NAIROBI, Kenya - A bishop who served in Sudan until his retirement a year ago appealed to Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir to end a months-long bombing campaign that has killed and injured dozens of innocent civilians in the Nuba Mountains.