News in the Church: Morning News July 20, 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, this is your Morning News for July 20, 2024. Let’s begin with the Saint of the Day.
Saint of the Day: St. Margaret of Antioch
Today, we honor St. Margaret of Antioch, a virgin and martyr of the early Church. According to tradition, she was the daughter of a pagan priest and converted to Christianity, for which she faced persecution. Known for her steadfast faith and courage, St. Margaret is often depicted with a dragon, symbolizing her triumph over evil. She is a patron saint of pregnant women and childbirth.
Read more: St. Margaret of Antioch
News Stories:
Famous French Priest Abbé Pierre Accused of Sexual Assault and Harassment
Abbé Pierre, a renowned French priest celebrated for his charitable work, has been accused of sexual assault and harassment. The allegations have shocked many, as Abbé Pierre, who passed away in 2007, was a prominent figure in the fight against poverty and homelessness in France. The accusations are part of a broader investigation into historical abuse cases within the Church. This development has prompted renewed calls for transparency and accountability in addressing past misconduct.
Read more: Abbé Pierre Accusations
Texas AG Appeals Decision in Case Against Catholic Nonprofit Accused of Facilitating Illegal Immigration
The Texas Attorney General is appealing a court decision in a case against a Catholic nonprofit organization accused of facilitating illegal immigration. The nonprofit, which provides humanitarian aid and legal assistance to migrants, has denied the allegations, stating that its actions are in line with Catholic social teachings and humanitarian principles. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the complex intersection of immigration law, humanitarian efforts, and religious obligations.
Read more: Texas AG Appeals
Scott Hahn Urges Priests at National Eucharistic Congress to Rekindle Eucharistic Amazement
At the National Eucharistic Congress, renowned theologian Scott Hahn delivered a powerful address urging priests to rekindle a sense of Eucharistic amazement. Hahn emphasized the importance of deepening faith in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist and fostering a renewed reverence for the sacrament. His speech was well-received, inspiring clergy and laypeople alike to approach the Eucharist with renewed devotion and awe.
Read more: Scott Hahn at Eucharistic Congress
Appeals Court Rejects Biden Admin Request to Enforce Gender Identity Title IX Rules
An appeals court has rejected a request by the Biden administration to enforce rules that would expand Title IX protections to include gender identity. The decision is seen as a significant setback for advocates of broader gender identity protections under federal law. Critics argue that such rules could infringe on religious freedoms and the rights of women and girls in sports and other areas. The ruling has sparked a heated debate about the balance between anti-discrimination policies and religious liberty.
Read more: Title IX Rules
Pope Francis’ Fervent Desire for the Olympics to Foster World Peace
Pope Francis has expressed his fervent desire for the upcoming Olympics to foster world peace, emphasizing that sports can serve as a powerful tool for promoting unity and understanding among nations. In a message to the International Olympic Committee, the Pope highlighted the serious threats to global peace and called on athletes and participants to be ambassadors of peace and solidarity. His message aligns with the Church’s longstanding support for the values of sportsmanship and international cooperation.
Read more: Pope Francis on Olympics
Girls in Africa Receive Education Inspired by St. Josephine Bakhita
Inspired by the life and legacy of St. Josephine Bakhita, girls in Africa are receiving education and support through various initiatives. These programs aim to empower young women by providing access to education, vocational training, and mentorship. The influence of St. Bakhita, who was a former slave and later became a canonized saint, serves as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for these girls. The initiatives reflect the Church’s commitment to promoting education and uplifting the marginalized.
Read more: Education for African Girls
Catholic Church in Africa Challenged to Send Pastoral Agents to Missionary-Poor Areas
The Catholic Church in Africa has been challenged to send more pastoral agents to missionary-poor areas on the continent. Church leaders have emphasized the need for increased missionary activity and pastoral care in regions that lack sufficient religious resources. The call to action highlights the importance of solidarity and support within the African Church, encouraging dioceses to share their resources and personnel to meet the spiritual needs of underserved communities.
Read more: African Church Missionary Challenge
Pope Francis’ Upcoming Trip to Luxembourg and Belgium
Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Luxembourg and Belgium, with a program that includes meetings with government officials, interfaith dialogues, and public Masses. The trip aims to strengthen the bonds between the Vatican and these countries, while also addressing key issues such as migration, social justice, and the role of the Church in a secular society. The visit is highly anticipated and is expected to draw large crowds of the faithful.
Read more: Pope’s Trip to Luxembourg and Belgium
Chaldean Synod Concludes in Baghdad with a Call for Justice and Unity
The Chaldean Synod has concluded in Baghdad, with Church leaders calling for justice and unity among the faithful. The synod addressed various challenges facing the Chaldean community, including displacement, discrimination, and the need for reconciliation. The final statement emphasized the importance of solidarity, urging the faithful to work together to build a more just and peaceful society. The synod’s outcomes are seen as a significant step towards strengthening the Chaldean Church and its mission.
Read more: Chaldean Synod in Baghdad
Pope Francis Expands Leadership at the Dicastery for Communication
Pope Francis has announced the expansion of the leadership team at the Dicastery for Communication, aiming to enhance the Vatican’s communication efforts. The new appointments include experienced media professionals and theologians, reflecting the Pope’s commitment to effectively sharing the Church’s message in the digital age. The move is part of broader reforms to improve transparency, outreach, and engagement with the global Catholic community.
Read more: Dicastery for Communication
Thank you for joining us on News from the Church. This is EWTN Norway, wishing you a peaceful and blessed day.
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