News in the Church | Morning News July 3, 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 3, 2024. Let’s begin with the Saint of the Day.”

“Today, we honor St. Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Often remembered for his initial doubt about Jesus’ resurrection, St. Thomas’s skepticism earned him the moniker ‘Doubting Thomas.’ However, his doubt turned into profound faith when he encountered the risen Christ and proclaimed ‘My Lord and my God.’ Beyond this well-known story, St. Thomas played a significant role in spreading Christianity, particularly in India, where he is credited with establishing several churches. His legacy in India is commemorated by numerous Christian communities, and he is venerated as the patron saint of architects and builders. St. Thomas’s journey from doubt to faith serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of encountering the divine truth.”

“Our first story comes from Colombia, where the bishops have elected Mons. Francisco Javier Múnera Correa as the new president of the Episcopal Conference. Mons. Múnera, the Archbishop of Cartagena, will lead the conference for the triennium 2024-2027. This election is seen as a pivotal moment for the Colombian Church, which plays a significant role in addressing issues such as peacebuilding, social justice, and evangelization. The new vice president will be Mons. Gabriel Ángel Villa Vahos, Archbishop of Tunja, and the new secretary general will be Mons. Germán Medina Acosta, Bishop of Engativá.”

“In Brazil, the head coach of the national women’s basketball team has resigned due to his faith. The coach, a devout Catholic, cited irreconcilable differences between his professional responsibilities and his commitment to his religious beliefs as the reason for his resignation. His decision has sparked discussions on the balance between professional duties and personal faith, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals striving to live out their beliefs in public roles.”

“In Spain, the government has imposed additional fines on the organizer of the ‘Rosario de Ferraz’ event, bringing the total to 5,400 euros. The organizer was fined for allegedly violating public order regulations during the event, which was a public recitation of the Rosary. The fines have drawn criticism from various religious and civil rights groups, who argue that the penalties infringe on religious freedom and the right to peaceful assembly.”

“From Africa, the Vice President of the Cameroon Bishops’ Conference, along with two others, are out of danger following a car accident. The incident occurred as they were traveling for a Church-related mission. The Church community has expressed relief and gratitude for their safety and is praying for their speedy recovery. The accident has brought attention to the often challenging and dangerous conditions under which Church leaders operate in the region.”

“In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the newly elected president of the Congolese Bishops’ Conference has described his new role as a great responsibility and a significant challenge. The president emphasized the need for unity and collaborative efforts to address the country’s pressing issues, including peace, development, and the promotion of human rights. His election marks a new chapter for the Church in Congo, which continues to play a vital role in the nation’s socio-political landscape.”

“Lastly, from Germany, the General Secretary of the Central Committee of German Catholics (ZdK), Marc Frings, has called for the Church to strengthen its role as a defender of democracy. Frings highlighted the Church’s historical commitment to democratic values and the importance of continuing to advocate for human rights, social justice, and the common good. He emphasized that in times of increasing political polarization and threats to democratic institutions, the Church’s voice is crucial in promoting dialogue, tolerance, and respect for diversity.

Frings pointed out that the Church has a unique position to influence and educate the faithful on the principles of democracy and the importance of participation in democratic processes. He called on the Church to actively engage in public discourse, support democratic institutions, and work towards a society where every individual’s rights and dignity are upheld. This call to action is particularly relevant as the world faces various challenges to democracy, and the Church’s role in advocating for democratic principles and values is seen as more critical than ever.”

“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:
Jose Neto. | Creditt: A.PAES / Shutterstock.com

Sources:

• St. Thomas the Apostle
• Bishops elect new president of the Episcopal Conference of Colombia
• Brazil women’s basketball coach resigns due to faith
• Rosario de Ferraz: Spanish government imposes more fines, totaling 5,400 euros
• Vice President of Cameroon Bishops’ Conference and two others out of danger after car accident
• New president of Congolese Bishops’ Conference says task is a great responsibility, new challenge
• ZdK General Secretary: Church must strengthen role as defender of democracy