The president of the country's bishops’ conference said, “We ache for our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives."
Plans to declare Rachel’s Tomb in Bethlehem and the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron Jewish heritage sites have generated outrage.
"We condemn the offenses committed by monks, priests and their colleagues in our dioceses,” the bishops said in a statement on Feb. 25.
If King Juan Carlos of Spain signs a new law easing abortion restrictions, a church official said that no action would be taken against him.
Recession-driven prison closings may provide state lawmakers an opportunity to promote a more rational approach to criminal justice.