International News

News from outside of Canada.

Amid cover-up allegations, German prelate steps down from lay organization

November 20, 2020

BONN, Germany -- Hamburg Archbishop Stefan Hesse has stepped down from his post as spiritual assistant to the Central Committee of German Catholics, the most important laypeople's organization of the church in Germany, pending clarification of all the allegations about his possible role in covering up sexual abuse cases during his time in Cologne.

Thirty-one years later, ‘vindication’ for murder victims

November 18, 2020

VATICAN CITY -- The September conviction of a former Salvadoran colonel for the murder of five Spanish Jesuit priests during El Salvador’s civil war is a major step forward on the path to gaining justice and healing old wounds, Canadian Cardinal Michael Czerny said.

Bishops, in abuse report’s wake, ponder ‘predator’ prevention

November 18, 2020

WASHINGTON -- The recently released report on former cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, describing his ascent to highest rungs of the Church, even amid rumours of abuse, reads like a list of the seven deadly sins, a bishop told the U.S. Conference Catholic Bishops’ fall assembly.

Fifth storm in three weeks leaves people trapped in houses in Philippines

November 13, 2020

MANILA, Philippines -- Filipinos appealed for help as a fifth tropical storm or typhoon hit their country in a three-week period. These included the strongest typhoon since 2013 and the biggest floods since 2009.

Political dialogue begins with humility

November 13, 2020

As U.S. President-elect Joe Biden puts healing front and centre in his plans, he may soon discover that his Jesuit friends got there before him.

Alex Trebek dies at 80; host of 'Jeopardy!' was educated in Catholic schools

November 10, 2020

WASHINGTON -- When the death of Alex Trebek -- beloved longtime host of "Jeopardy!" -- was announced, celebrities and fans around the country took to social media to express their grief.

Eta deluges Central America, Mexico, leaving scores dead, thousands homeless

November 9, 2020

MEXICO CITY -- Pope Francis offered prayers for the victims of Hurricane Eta, which deluged Central America, claimed at least 50 lives and caused widespread flooding and property damage.

Polish cardinal banned from public ministry over sex abuse

November 6, 2020

WARSAW, Poland -- A retired Polish cardinal has been banned from all public appearances, and ordered to compensate his alleged victims, after being investigated for sexual abuse.

McCarrick report expected next week

November 6, 2020

WASHINGTON -- Vatican officials announced Nov. 6 that the Holy See will release Nov. 10 a long-awaited report on the investigation about the ascent to power of now-disgraced former U.S. Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick.

Pope Francis, Austrian church leaders urge end to hatred after Vienna attacks

November 3, 2020

Pope Francis and Austrian church leaders expressed dismay and sorrow after terrorists attack that left at least five dead in central Vienna, and they urged citizens to uphold key values of tolerance and respect.