News in the Church: Morning News July 24, 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, and broadcasted by EWTN Norway, this is the Morning News for July 24, 2024. Let’s begin with the Saint of the Day.

Saint of the Day: St. Charbel Makhlouf

Today, we honor St. Charbel Makhlouf, a Lebanese Maronite monk and priest known for his piety, asceticism, and miraculous healings. St. Charbel’s life of solitude and prayer in the mountains of Lebanon has inspired countless faithful worldwide. His deep devotion to the Eucharist and his reputation as a healer have made him a beloved saint in the Maronite Church and beyond.
Read more: St. Charbel Makhlouf

Knights of Columbus Covers Rupnik Art at John Paul II Shrine Pending Sex Abuse Investigation

The Knights of Columbus have decided to cover the artwork of Father Marko Rupnik at the John Paul II Shrine in Washington, D.C., amid an ongoing sex abuse investigation. This measure aims to maintain the integrity of the shrine while respecting the ongoing legal and ecclesiastical processes. The investigation into Rupnik’s actions continues as the Church seeks justice and healing for the victims.
Read more: Knights of Columbus Covers Rupnik Art

Open Doors Calls on US to Recognize Persecution of Christians in Nigeria

The Christian watchdog organization Open Doors is urging the United States to officially recognize the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. The call comes in response to increasing violence and discrimination faced by Christians in the country, including attacks on churches and communities. Open Doors hopes that official recognition will lead to stronger international efforts to protect religious freedom and support persecuted Christians in Nigeria.
Read more: Persecution of Christians in Nigeria

Cardinal Lacroix Returns to Ministry After Vatican Investigation Finds No Abuse

Cardinal Gérald Cyprien Lacroix of Quebec has returned to ministry following a Vatican investigation that found no evidence of abuse. The investigation was launched in response to allegations made against the Cardinal. The Vatican’s findings have been welcomed by the Cardinal’s supporters, who expressed relief and reaffirmed their trust in his leadership. Cardinal Lacroix has pledged to continue his pastoral work with renewed dedication.
Read more: Cardinal Lacroix Returns to Ministry

Vatican Secretary of State Meets Ukrainian President Zelensky

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the humanitarian efforts to support those affected. The meeting underscored the Vatican’s commitment to promoting peace and providing aid to war-torn regions. Both leaders emphasized the need for dialogue and reconciliation to resolve the conflict and alleviate the suffering of the Ukrainian people.
Read more: Vatican Secretary of State Meets Zelensky

Faith Leaders in Africa Appeal for Debt Forgiveness Ahead of 2025 Jubilee Year

Faith leaders in Africa are appealing for debt forgiveness ahead of the 2025 Jubilee Year. They argue that debt relief is crucial for the continent’s economic stability and development. The appeal, backed by various religious organizations, calls on international creditors to consider the economic hardships faced by African nations and to support initiatives that promote sustainable growth and poverty reduction.
Read more: African Debt Forgiveness

Newly Ordained Cape Verde Priest Urged to Promote Peace and Unity

A newly ordained priest in Cape Verde, Father José António da Cruz, has been encouraged to live out his priestly identity as a man of peace and a promoter of communion. During his ordination ceremony, Church leaders emphasized the importance of embodying the values of the priesthood in service to the community. They highlighted the role of a priest in fostering unity and understanding among people. Father José António’s commitment to these principles reflects the broader mission of the Church to promote harmony and spiritual growth within the community.
Read more: Newly Ordained Priest in Cape Verde

Namibian Minister’s Proposed Divorce Bill 2024 Compromises Foundational Marriage Principles, Catholic Official

A Catholic official has criticized the proposed 2024 divorce bill in Namibia, arguing that it compromises the foundational principles of marriage. The bill, which aims to make divorce more accessible, has sparked debate on the sanctity of marriage and the implications of easier dissolution. The Church’s stance highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of marriage as a lifelong commitment.
Read more: Namibian Divorce Bill

Pope Francis Honors Deceased Vietnamese Communist Leader

Pope Francis has honored the memory of Trần Đại Quang, a deceased Vietnamese communist leader, acknowledging his contributions to the country’s development and expressing condolences to his family. The gesture reflects the Pope’s commitment to building bridges and fostering dialogue, even with those of different political ideologies. This act of respect aims to promote mutual understanding and reconciliation.
Read more: Pope Francis Honors Vietnamese Leader

Kimberly Cheatle: Secret Service Failures

An investigation has revealed failures within the Secret Service in relation to the recent security breach involving former President Donald Trump. Kimberly Cheatle, the new head of the Secret Service, has vowed to address these issues and implement measures to prevent future lapses. The report highlights the need for rigorous security protocols and accountability within the agency.
Read more: Secret Service Failures

Prayer and Willingness to Serve are Fruits of WYD 2023, Says Patriarch of Lisbon

“Cardinal Manuel Clemente, the Patriarch of Lisbon, has highlighted prayer and availability for service as the key fruits of World Youth Day (WYD) 2023. In his reflections, Cardinal Clemente emphasized the transformative impact of the event on young participants, encouraging them to continue living out these virtues in their daily lives. He noted that WYD has inspired a renewed commitment to faith and service among the youth, fostering a deeper sense of community and dedication to the Church’s mission​.
Read more: Patriarch of Lisbon on WYD 2023

Truth and Beauty Project Offers Unique Christian Experience in Rome

While a visit to Rome is truly a unique experience, one program aims to offer Christians something even more extraordinary. The Eternal City is famous for its architecture, culture, and religion, having been home to hundreds of popes, saints, and clergy. It is the cradle of Christendom. The Truth and Beauty Project, founded seven years ago, seeks to highlight these qualities. This Catholic non-profit organization sees itself as a school of Christian living, using experiences, encounters, and education to deepen faith. The project’s goal is to instill a greater Christian faith and understanding of human dignity. EWTN Vatican Bureau Chief Andreas Thonhauser introduces us to the Truth and Beauty Project, showcasing its efforts to enrich the spiritual lives of participants.

That brings us to the end of today’s episode. Thank you for joining us on “News from the Church”. This is EWTN Norway, wishing you a peaceful and blessed day.

Sources:

• St. Charbel Makhlouf
• Knights of Columbus Covers Rupnik Art
• Persecution of Christians in Nigeria
• Cardinal Lacroix Returns to Ministry
• Vatican Secretary of State Meets Zelensky
• African Debt Forgiveness
• Newly Ordained Priest in Cape Verde
• Namibian Divorce Bill
• Pope Francis Honors Vietnamese Leader
• Secret Service Failures
• Patriarch of Lisbon on WYD 2023