News in the Church: Morning News July 17, 2024
By Pål Johannes Nes
“Welcome to News from the Church, your source for Catholic news and updates from around the world. This is the Morning News for July 17, 2024, edited by Pål Johannes Nes. Let’s begin with the Saint of the Day.”
Saint of the Day: St. Leo IV
Today, we honor St. Leo IV, who served as Pope from 847 to 855. Known for his dedication to protecting Rome from Saracen invasions, he fortified the city and rebuilt churches that had been damaged. His leadership during turbulent times and his efforts to strengthen the faith of the people have left a lasting legacy in the Church. St. Leo IV is remembered for his courage, wisdom, and steadfast faith.
Read more: St. Leo IV
News Stories
Vatican Approves Our Lady of the Rock Shrine at Alleged Marian Apparition Site in Italy
The Vatican has given its official approval for the establishment of a shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Rock at an alleged Marian apparition site in Italy. This decision follows a thorough investigation and discernment process by Church authorities. The site has reportedly been a place of pilgrimage and devotion for many years. The new shrine is expected to further enhance the spiritual significance of the location, drawing pilgrims from around the world to seek comfort and deepen their faith.
Read more: Our Lady of the Rock Shrine
Faith Amid Bombs: Priests Minister to Christians in Border Towns of Lebanon and Israel
Priests in the border towns of Lebanon and Israel are continuing their ministry despite the dangers posed by ongoing conflicts. They are providing spiritual support, conducting Masses, and offering sacraments to the Christian communities in these areas. Father Elias Sleiman in Lebanon and Father Yacoub Zaarour in Israel have been particularly noted for their dedication. Their work exemplifies the Church’s commitment to standing with its people, even in the most perilous circumstances.
Read more: Faith Amid Bombs
Archbishop Gänswein on Baltic Appointment: ‘Ready for the Front’
Archbishop Georg Gänswein has expressed his readiness for his new appointment in the Baltic region, stating he is ‘ready for the front.’ Archbishop Gänswein, who was a close aide to Pope Benedict XVI, is expected to bring his extensive experience and strong leadership to his new role. His appointment comes at a time when the Church in the Baltic region faces numerous challenges, including secularism and declining church attendance.
Read more: Archbishop Gänswein on Baltic Appointment
Guadalajara Archbishop to Pope Francis on Latin Mass Ban: ‘Do Not Allow This to Happen’
Archbishop Francisco Robles Ortega of Guadalajara has made a passionate appeal to Pope Francis regarding the recent restrictions on the Latin Mass. In his letter, Archbishop Robles Ortega urged the Pope to reconsider the decision, highlighting the deep spiritual significance and long-standing tradition of the Latin Mass for many Catholics. This appeal underscores the ongoing debate within the Church about the role and preservation of traditional liturgical practices.
Read more: Guadalajara Archbishop on Latin Mass Ban
Cardinal Ruini Discharged After Leading Medjugorje Investigation Commission
Cardinal Camillo Ruini, who led the commission investigating the Medjugorje apparitions, has been discharged from the hospital after a recent illness. Cardinal Ruini’s leadership in the investigation was crucial in addressing the claims of apparitions and guiding the Church’s response. His recovery has been met with relief and gratitude from many in the Church who appreciate his dedicated service.
Read more: Cardinal Ruini Discharged
Argentina Online Gambling: A Growing Concern for the Catholic Church
The Catholic Church in Argentina has raised concerns over the rise of online gambling, emphasizing its potential social and moral implications. Church leaders, including Bishop Oscar Ojea, president of the Argentine Episcopal Conference, have called for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable individuals from the dangers of gambling addiction. This issue highlights the Church’s ongoing efforts to address contemporary societal challenges and promote moral values.
Read more: Argentina Online Gambling
Let’s Participate in God’s Mission No Matter How Hopeless the Situation May Be: Catholic Archbishop to Nigerians
Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith and continue participating in God’s mission, regardless of how dire the situation may seem. In his message, Archbishop Kaigama emphasized the importance of hope, resilience, and trust in God’s plan. His words aim to inspire the faithful to persevere through challenges and work towards positive change in their communities.
Read more: Archbishop Kaigama’s Message
New Archaeological Discovery Confirms Deep Christian Roots in Bahrain
Recent archaeological discoveries in Bahrain have confirmed the deep Christian roots in the region. Artifacts uncovered include early Christian symbols and relics, indicating a significant Christian presence in ancient times. This discovery, led by Dr. Khalid Al Khalifa, enhances the understanding of Bahrain’s religious history and its early Christian communities. The findings are expected to attract scholars and religious tourists interested in the historical significance of the area.
Read more: Christian Roots in Bahrain
Lebanese Maronite Patriarch Inaugurates Cultural Center in Alexandria
Lebanese Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rahi has inaugurated a new cultural center in Alexandria, Egypt. The center aims to promote cultural exchange and understanding between different communities. Patriarch al-Rahi emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering dialogue and unity among diverse groups. The new center is expected to become a hub for cultural and educational activities.
Read more:
First Jesuit Training House in Bangladesh Opens
The first Jesuit training house in Bangladesh has officially opened. This new facility will serve as a center for formation and education for Jesuits in the region. The establishment of the training house, overseen by Father Stanislaus D’Souza, president of the Jesuit Conference of South Asia, marks a significant milestone for the Jesuit community in Bangladesh. It will enhance their ability to serve and minister to the local population.
Read more: Maronite Cultural Center
Debate Over Father Marko Rupnik’s Art Following Abuse Allegations
There is an ongoing debate within the Church regarding whether to remove the art of Father Marko Rupnik from various locations following allegations of serial abuse. The controversy has sparked discussions about the separation of an artist’s work from their personal actions. Church authorities, including Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark, are deliberating on the appropriate response to these allegations and the future of Rupnik’s art.
Read more: Take down his art or not: Who is alleged serial abuser Father Marko Rupnik?
Top Catholic App Reportedly Removed from App Store in China
A popular Catholic app, Laudate, has reportedly been removed from the App Store in China. This move has raised concerns about religious freedom and the ability of Catholics in China to access digital resources for their faith. The app’s removal is seen as part of broader restrictions on religious expression in the country. This action highlights the challenges faced by religious communities in navigating government regulations.
Read more: Top Catholic app reportedly removed from app store in China
Where Does JD Vance Stand on Social Issues, the Economy, and More?
Mene Ukueberuwa, a member of the Wall Street Journal editorial board, joins us to discuss further JD Vance and his position on issues such as the economy, social matters, and foreign policy, as well as his recent conversion to Catholicism.
That brings us to the end of today’s news. 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.
Sources:
- St. Leo IV
- Our Lady of the Rock Shrine
- Faith Amid Bombs
- Archbishop Gänswein on Baltic Appointment
- Guadalajara Archbishop on Latin Mass Ban
- Cardinal Ruini Discharged
- Argentina Online Gambling
- Archbishop Kaigama’s Message
- Christian Roots in Bahrain
- Maronite Cultural Center
- Take down his art or not: Who is alleged serial abuser Father Marko Rupnik?
- Top Catholic app reportedly removed from app store in China