World

JUBILEE YEAR FOR INDIA’S UNDERPRIVILEGED – Recognition of their Human Dignity

February 8, 2025February 8, 2025 adminAll Categories, World

For the untouchable caste of southern India, known as Dalits, this Jubilee Year represents renewed hope in the recognition of their human dignity and another attempt to break the spiral of discrimination and exclusion to which they are usually subjected. Perhaps during this Jubilee period, they could try to counter the caste mentality embedded in Indian culture and seize the opportunities that may arise within society and the Church, on an equal footing with other citizens. At least, this is the opinion of Franciscan priest Fr. Nithya Sagayam OFM Cap, secretary of the Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCST) of the Catholic Bishops’ Council of Tamil Nadu.

“The Catholic Church in Asia is today at an important crossroads”

December 22, 2024December 22, 2024 adminWorld

On the 25th anniversary of Ecclesia in Asia, Father Dinh Anh Nhue Nguyen reminds us of its continued relevance in addressing the challenges of the Asian Church. Rooted in humility and cultural respect, this Apostolic Exhortation calls the Church to embrace a missionary identity that listens, dialogues, and promotes hope amidst diversity.

Singing is a form of prayer

December 14, 2024December 14, 2024 adminWorld

In the face of grief and the turmoil of war, Lea Akoury turned tragedy into a mission of unity and hope. Following the loss of her husband in an anti-terrorist operation, Lea founded a choir that brings together Lebanese orphans of fallen soldiers, transcending religious boundaries. Through music, these children heal, honor their fathers, and share a powerful message of peace and resilience with the world. As they prepare to perform in Italy, Lea reminds us that even in dark times, singing can be a prayer—a call for harmony and hope.

The difficult management of a health center

December 10, 2024December 10, 2024 adminWorld

In the heart of a conflict-ridden neighborhood in Lebanon, the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd courageously manage the Saint Antoine Health Center, a lifeline for those suffering amid the chaos. Despite a collapsing healthcare system, shortages of medicine, and the constant threat of violence, Sister Hanane Youssef and her companions embody resilience and compassion. Their mission transcends divisions, offering medical care, refuge, and hope to Shiites, displaced families, and anyone in need, rooted in the belief that “a better day will come.”

The Power of the Rosary: Praying Together, Bringing People Together

December 2, 2024December 2, 2024 adminFaith & Life, Local, World

Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P., the General Promoter of the Rosary for the Dominican Order, will visit Macau from December 19–22. Known for his passion for the Rosary as a tool of personal devotion and community prayer, Fr. Lew will conduct sessions across English-speaking communities in Macau. With a background in theology, sacred art, and a deep love for Marian devotion, he has inspired a global resurgence in praying the Rosary, emphasizing its relevance in modern times.

“Rereading the history of the two countries through the eyes of Faith”

November 22, 2024November 22, 2024 adminWorld

The 26th Korean-Japan Episcopal Meeting, held in Seoul from November 11-14, celebrated nearly three decades of synodal unity. Bishops from both nations gathered for dialogue, prayer, and reflection on their shared faith, history, and future. The event emphasized reconciliation, fraternal unity, and hope, especially as they look forward to hosting World Youth Day 2027 in Korea.

The letters of the alphabet

November 19, 2024November 22, 2024 adminOpinion, World

Gender ideology has evolved into a complex web of contradictions, challenging the balance between individual freedom and societal norms. From fluid identities to controversial policies, its impacts on law, science, and culture demand thoughtful examination.

Three Decades of Dialogue: Catholic and Assyrian Churches Stepping Towards Unity

November 15, 2024November 15, 2024 adminWorld

Thirty years ago, the Common Christological Declaration between the Catholic Church and the Assyrian Church of the East marked a milestone in ecumenical dialogue. Signed by Pope John Paul II and Catholicos-Patriarch Mar Dinkha IV on November 11, 1994, this document reaffirmed shared beliefs about Christ’s nature and paved the way for unity between these ancient Churches. Celebrations of this historic event, as well as the progress made since, took place recently in Rome, with Pope Francis and His Holiness Mar Awa III, the current Catholicos-Patriarch, emphasizing the ongoing journey toward full communion.

Appointment of Patriarch and discovery of ancient church

November 9, 2024November 9, 2024 adminFaith & Life, World

The discovery of a 4th-century church in Artaxata by a team of Armenian and German archaeologists coincides with Pope Francis appointing Patriarch Raphaël Bedros XXI Minassian of the Armenian Catholic Church to the Dicastery for the Oriental Churches. This unearthed octagonal structure, likely one of Armenia’s earliest churches, dates back to a period shortly after Armenia embraced Christianity in 301 AD, making it the oldest Christian kingdom.

Walking together as witnesses of peace

October 31, 2024October 31, 2024 adminWorld

In light of his upcoming ordination as Cardinal, Archbishop Dominique Joseph Mathieu of Tehran calls for a renewed commitment to peace. Reflecting on the warmth and resilience of the Iranian people, Archbishop Mathieu urges the global community to seek unity through genuine dialogue. He emphasizes that true reconciliation requires courage, as well as the abandonment of divisive ambitions, to foster fraternity and peace, especially in a region scarred by ongoing conflict.