World

Advancing religious freedom abroad starts at home
(RNS) — On this Religious Freedom Day, we are concerned about the rising threats around the world, but we are hopeful for progress in the years ahead.

Cardinal Pell calls for more laity involvement in Vatican financial reform efforts

Israel hopes to vaccinate Holocaust survivors to save and repay ‘treasured’ population

Pakistan attempts to prosecute Ahmadi US citizens for digital blasphemy
(RNS) — In 2016, Pakistan enacted digital regulations that allow authorities to block online content in the ‘interest of the glory of Islam.’

What Christians can learn from Indian Sikh farmers’ desperate protests
(RNS) — The protesters’ cause and community have shown a way for people of all faiths to go forward in a post-pandemic world.

Priest accused of abetting alleged sex abuse ring is hired by diocesan charity
(RNS) — The mother of an alleged abuse victim claims the priest broke the confidence of the confessional to warn church officials of a coming investigation.

Cardinal Parolin asked Vatican bank for loan to exit troubling London realty deal
(RNS) — Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, said he intended to use the loan to pay off a mortgage on the property that was weighing heavily on the Vatican coffers.

Pope Francis’ personal doctor has died of COVID-19
(RNS) — Soccorsi was being treated for cancer at a Rome hospital when he contracted COVID-19, according to reports.

Pope says women can read at Mass, but still can’t be priests
(RNS) — Francis amended the law to formalize and institutionalize what is common practice in many parts of the world.

Pope Francis calls for unity after ‘shocking’ Capitol attack
(RNS) — ‘Nothing is earned through violence, and everything is lost,’ the pontiff said, offering prayers for the five people who lost their lives during the protests.

New cookbook celebrates the strong bond between Swiss Guards and popes
VATICAN CITY (RNS) — A new book of recipes, The Vatican Christmas Cookbook, presents a collection of meals enjoyed by the Swiss Guards, who often dine with the pope.

Italy’s Epiphany witch is a needed sign of pandemic-era hope
(RNS) — The pandemic showed us that our seemingly secure routines can disappear in a few days. Le Befana shows us how to adapt with grace.

The US can help Israel and Palestinians reach a just peace
(RNS) — Our newly elected leaders need to take such constructive steps if we are ever truly going to find lasting peace.

Israel’s recognition of Utah marriages gives hope to ineligible couples
(RNS) — Mixed-faith, LGBTQ and nonreligious couples have had to travel abroad and obtain a civil marriage certificate.

Armenian Christian community caught between Israelis and Palestinians
(RNS) — The controversy has taken on added significance because of a recent rise in anti-Christian sentiment among Palestinians.