Pope says memorize the beatitudes, assess your care for the needy
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Christians should memorize not only the Ten Commandments but also the beatitudes, which Jesus taught as the path to true happiness, Pope Francis said.
Knights convene to celebrate their charitable works, fraternal programs
ORLANDO, Fla. (CNS) -- Setting the tone for the 132nd annual Supreme Convention of the Knights of Columbus, Orlando Bishop John. G. Noonan noted shifting social trends and the turbulence of world events but also emphasized the hope of faith and fraternity among Christians.
Bishop hopes Hawaii cathedral will be ‘spiritual destination’ for many
The Vatican has designated Honolulu's Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace as a minor basilica in recognition of its historic and spiritual significance. The bishop hopes the place of "prayer, worship and celebration of the sacraments for generations," will now bring in more pilgrims.
Chinese bishop urges Catholics to hold firm as religious symbols removed
HONG KONG (CNS) -- Bishop Vincent Zhu Weifang of Wenzhou has written an open letter to Catholics in the diocese, asking them to defend their "rights and dignity" during a campaign by the local government to demolish religious symbols.
On eve of pope’s visit, Americans in South Korea build Catholic faith
A Maryknoll sister's ministry in South Korea began more than 50 years ago — after the Korean War ended. Her ministry symbolizes the strong bonds that have been built over the decades between Americans and South Koreans.
Indian cleric blames loss of moral values for surge in sexual violence
The decline of moral and spiritual values in Indian society is largely to blame for the surge in rape and sexual violence, said the secretary-general of the Indian bishops' conference. A young religious novice and a 6-year-old are among the victims.
Church workers fight fear, myths as Ebola worsens in Sierra Leone
It is hard for people in Sierra Leone not to lose hope as the death toll rises and worldwide fear grows over the worst Ebola outbreak on record, said the head of Caritas in the Archdiocese of Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Church aid agencies coordinate relief for Gazans, plan for future need
With close to a quarter of a million Palestinians rendered homeless by the continuing and intensifying fighting between Hamas and Israel in Gaza, the Coordinating Catholic Aid Organizations met three times in as many days to organize action to confront the humanitarian crisis.
Changing needs, changing names: Reform of Curia is Vatican tradition
Currently the principal offices of the Roman Curia are the Secretariat of State, nine congregations headed by cardinals and 12 pontifical councils led by cardinals or archbishops. The offices share the mission of helping the pope carrying out his ministry "for the good and service of the whole church and of the particular churches."
Campaign against human trafficking must focus on victims, speakers say
A digital video conference with priests and religious, ambassadors accredited to the Holy See and journalists on the eve of the first U.N. World Day Against Trafficking in Persons fostered a discussion on the issue and efforts to combat this "crime against humanity."