News from the Church: Morning News – July 25, 2024
By Pål Johannes Nes
Welcome to “News from the Church,” your source for Catholic news and updates from around the world, edited by Pål Johannes Nes for EWTN Norway. Here is the Morning News for July 25, 2024.
Saint of the Day: St. James the Greater
Today, we honor St. James the Greater, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles and the first apostle to be martyred. Known for his zeal and dedication, St. James is a significant figure in Christian history. Pilgrims worldwide visit the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, where tradition holds that his remains are buried.
Read more: St. James
News Stories:
Kamala Harris’ Record on Catholic Issues: What You Need to Know
With Kamala Harris endorsed by President Joe Biden for the 2024 presidential race, it’s essential to examine her record on Catholic issues. Harris has had a complex relationship with the Catholic Church, particularly on matters such as abortion rights and religious freedom. Her policies and actions as Vice President and previously as a senator have often sparked debate within the Catholic community. Understanding her stance on these critical issues will be crucial for Catholic voters in the upcoming election.
Read more: Kamala Harris on Catholic Issues
Carmelite Convent in Spain Closes After 400 Years
The Carmelite convent of San José and Santa Teresa in Burgos, Spain, known for its close relationship with Pope Francis, has been forced to close after 400 years due to a lack of vocations. This closure reflects a broader trend of declining religious vocations in Europe. The convent, a historical and spiritual landmark, has been a place of deep prayer and contemplation. The departure of the nuns marks the end of an era and raises questions about the future of religious life in the region.
Read more: Carmelite Nuns Leave Convent
Vatican Approves Spiritual Experience Connected to Trinity Shrine of Maccio in Italy
The Vatican has approved a unique spiritual experience connected to the Trinity Shrine of Maccio in Italy. This initiative aims to deepen the faith of pilgrims through a series of retreats, prayers, and meditations centered around the mystery of the Holy Trinity. The approval highlights the significance of the shrine and its role in fostering spiritual growth among the faithful.
Read more: Trinity Shrine Spiritual Experience
New Zealand Commission Finds Catholic Church Guilty of Inadequate Responses to Abuse and Neglect
A commission in New Zealand has found the Catholic Church guilty of inadequate responses to abuse and neglect cases. The investigation revealed systemic failures in handling complaints and providing support to victims. Church leaders have acknowledged these shortcomings and committed to implementing comprehensive measures to prevent future abuse and ensure justice and healing for survivors.
Read more: New Zealand Abuse Report
Indian Christians Mount Pressure on Government to Curb Atrocities
Led by bishops, Indian Christians are mounting pressure on the government to curb atrocities against their community. Recent incidents of violence and discrimination have heightened fears among Christians in India. The Church is calling for stronger legal protections and government actions to safeguard religious freedom and human rights. This movement underscores the ongoing struggles faced by religious minorities in the country.
Read more: Indian Christians Pressure Government
Priest Partners with PETA to Condemn Bullfighting, Calls on Pope Francis to Denounce Sport
A Catholic priest has partnered with PETA to condemn bullfighting, urging Pope Francis to denounce the sport. The priest argues that bullfighting is a cruel practice that contradicts the Church’s teachings on the dignity of all creation. This partnership with an animal rights organization represents a unique alliance aimed at promoting compassion and ethical treatment of animals.
Read more: Priest Condemns Bullfighting
Argentina’s Primatial See Moves from Buenos Aires: What Does the Change Entail?
The Primatial See of Argentina is moving from Buenos Aires to La Plata. This significant change reflects administrative and pastoral considerations, aiming to better serve the growing Catholic population in the region. The move is expected to bring logistical and operational benefits, allowing for more effective pastoral care and community engagement.
Read more: Argentina Primatial See Move
J.D. Vance is a Catholic Post-Liberal: Here’s What That Means and Why It Matters
J.D. Vance, recently announced as Donald Trump’s vice-presidential pick, identifies as a Catholic post-liberal. This term describes his approach to integrating Catholic social teachings with a critique of both modern liberalism and conservatism. Vance’s perspective emphasizes the importance of community, family, and faith in political and social life, marking a significant ideological stance in the current political landscape.
Read more: J.D. Vance as Post-Liberal Catholic
African Edition Book Launch: US Author Shares Four Foundational Pillars of Great Leaders
In a newly launched Africa edition of his book, a US author shares four foundational pillars that characterize great leaders. These pillars include integrity, vision, empathy, and resilience. The book aims to inspire current and future leaders in Africa to adopt these principles to create positive change and foster sustainable development in their communities.
Read more: African Leadership Book
Hearing on Religious Freedom in Nicaragua
In Washington DC, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) held a hearing today discussing Nicaragua and the deterioration of religious freedom in the country. According to USCIRF, freedom of religion or belief has been severely restricted since 2018 in Nicaragua under the Ortega regime. Catholics in particular have been targeted in the majority Catholic country, with Catholic laypeople and clergy being arrested, imprisoned, and exiled. This includes the case of Bishop Rolando Alvarez, who is now living in exile in Rome.
57 Years After Pope Paul VI’s Visit to Turkey: Building Bridges Between East and West
Marking 57 years since Pope Paul VI’s visit to Turkey, efforts continue to build bridges between the Eastern and Western Churches. This anniversary highlights the ongoing dialogue and cooperation aimed at achieving greater unity among Christian denominations. The legacy of Pope Paul VI’s visit serves as a reminder of the importance of ecumenical efforts in promoting understanding and reconciliation.
Read more: Pope Paul VI’s Visit to Turkey
Lebanese Patriarch Douaihy Celebrates Amid Sounds and Songs of Lebanon
In Lebanon, the faithful gathered to celebrate with Patriarch Bechara Boutros Rai amid the sounds and songs of their rich cultural heritage. The event, filled with traditional music and prayers, highlighted the resilience and spirit of the Lebanese Christian community. Patriarch Rai’s leadership continues to inspire hope and unity among the faithful during challenging times.
Read more: Lebanese Patriarch Celebrates
Study on Abuse During Bishop Spital’s Tenure in Trier Released
A study on abuse during the tenure of Bishop Hermann Spital in the Diocese of Trier has been released. The findings reveal significant instances of misconduct and inadequate responses by Church authorities. The report calls for accountability and comprehensive measures to address past abuses and prevent future occurrences. Church leaders have pledged to take necessary actions based on the study’s recommendations.
Read more: Abuse Study in Trier
This concludes today’s updates. This is EWTN Norway, wishing you a peaceful and blessed day.
Sources:
- St. James
- Kamala Harris on Catholic Issues
- Carmelite Nuns Leave Convent
- Trinity Shrine Spiritual Experience
- New Zealand Abuse Report
- Indian Christians Pressure Government
- Priest Condemns Bullfighting
- Argentina Primatial See Move
- J.D. Vance as Post-Liberal Catholic
- African Leadership Book
- Pope Paul VI’s Visit to Turkey
- Lebanese Patriarch Celebrates
- Abuse Study in Trier
