News in the Church | Evening News July 7, 2024

By Pål Johannes Nes

“Welcome to News from the Church, your source for Catholic news and updates from around the world. The news is edited by Pål Johannes Nes, and you’re listening to EWTN Norway. This is the Morning News for July 7, 2024. Let’s begin with the Saint of the Day.”

Saint of the Day: St. Pope Benedict XI

“Today, we honor St. Pope Benedict XI, who served as Pope from 1303 to 1304. Known for his humility and devotion, he worked to heal the Church after the turmoil of Pope Boniface VIII’s papacy. He was instrumental in restoring peace between the Church and the French monarchy. His commitment to reconciliation and peace continues to inspire the faithful.”

News Stories:

“Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani Thorne celebrates 36 years as a bishop, expressing gratitude to Opus Dei founder, St. John Paul II, and Benedict XVI. Reflecting on his long service, the Cardinal acknowledged the guidance and support he received from these significant figures in the Church. His remarks highlight the importance of mentorship and inspiration in a bishop’s vocation.”

“Our next story delves into a complex marriage nullification case where a spouse’s OnlyFans account was a significant factor. The Vatican’s tribunal reviewed the case, concluding that the online activities were incompatible with the commitments of marriage. This case underscores the challenges modern digital behaviors pose to traditional marriage values and the Church’s stance on marital fidelity. The tribunal’s decision reflects the Church’s ongoing efforts to address how evolving digital lifestyles intersect with its teachings on marriage and fidelity. This ruling may set a precedent for how similar cases are approached in the future, emphasizing the importance of upholding marital vows in the digital age.”

“The Holy See has encouraged Catholics in the Philippines to listen to their pastors regarding the divorce bill. As debates continue, the Church urges the faithful to adhere to its teachings on the sanctity of marriage. The Vatican’s guidance comes at a critical time as the country deliberates potential changes to its family laws.”

“The Vatican has prohibited the traditional Latin Mass during a youth pilgrimage in Spain. The decision aims to ensure liturgical uniformity and adherence to current guidelines. This prohibition has sparked discussions about the place of traditional liturgical practices within the modern Church, reflecting ongoing tensions between tradition and contemporary reforms.”

“Pope Francis has appointed Monsignor Paolo Vian as the new prefect of the Vatican Archives. This significant appointment is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the management and preservation of the Church’s vast historical documents. The new prefect’s background and vision will play a crucial role in how the Archives adapt to future challenges and advancements.”

“Cardinal Müller has condemned a controversial statue of the Virgin Mary giving birth in the Linz Cathedral in Austria. The Cardinal described the statue as inappropriate and not in line with traditional depictions of Mary. This controversy highlights the broader debate within the Church regarding contemporary religious art and its boundaries. Supporters argue that modern art can offer new insights into religious experiences, while critics stress the importance of maintaining reverence and tradition in depictions of sacred figures.”

“After the Malawian court rejected same-sex marriages, Catholic pro-lifers in the UK have praised the wisdom of Africa. They see this decision as a victory for traditional family values and an affirmation of the natural law. The ruling has been welcomed by those advocating for the preservation of traditional marriage definitions. This decision underscores the global divide on the issue of same-sex marriage, with various regions upholding different cultural and legal perspectives.”

“In South Sudan, Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala has described the proposed extension of the transitional government as an extension of the people’s suffering. The bishop emphasized the need for genuine progress and stability rather than prolonged interim measures. His comments reflect the frustration of many South Sudanese with the slow pace of political resolution.”

“A debate has arisen in various Catholic communities worldwide over whether women should receive the Eucharist during their menstrual period. This issue has sparked discussions about purity, tradition, and the inclusivity of Church practices. The Church has traditionally taught that menstruation is a natural biological process and does not impede a woman’s participation in the sacraments. However, cultural practices and interpretations vary, leading to differing views within the global Catholic community. Church leaders, including local bishops and theologians, are working to address these concerns with sensitivity and doctrinal clarity, ensuring that the teachings align with the dignity and inclusion of all faithful.”

“That brings us to the end of today’s episode. Thank you for joining us on News from the Church. Remember to tune in this evening for the Evening News, where we’ll bring you more updates and stories from the global Catholic community. God bless you all, and may your faith continue to inspire and guide you. This is EWTN Norway, wishing you a peaceful and blessed day.”

Photo credit:
Documents from the Pontificate of Pius XII released by the Vatican Apostolic Archive. | Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA

Sources:

• St. Pope Benedict XI
• Cardinal celebrates 36 years as a bishop, thanks Opus Dei founder, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI
• Spouse’s OnlyFans account factors into marriage nullification case
• Holy See encourages Catholics in Philippines to listen to their pastors regarding divorce bill
• Vatican prohibits traditional Latin Mass during youth pilgrimage in Spain
• Pope Francis appoints new prefect of Vatican Archives
• Cardinal Müller condemns controversial statue of Virgin Mary giving birth in Linz Cathedral, Austria
• Catholic pro-lifers in UK laud wisdom of Africa after Malawian court rejects same-sex marriages
• Catholic bishop in South Sudan on proposed extension of transitional government
• Debate over women receiving the Eucharist during menstrual period