"The truth about violations of international human rights and humanitarian law ... must be publicly acknowledged," the Sri Lankan bishop of Mannar told a special government commission.

In the January 24-31 issue of America, four editors recount spiritual encounters they experienced while traveling. Here we offer additional reflections from Maurice Timothy Reidy, Fr. Raymond Schroth and Kerry Weber.

Monks' Walls

Every year the editors are asked to submit their nominations for the Catholic Press Association magazine awards. This year, we decided to share some of our choices with our online readers. Here are some (but by no means all!) of our favorite pieces from last year:

Editorial

"Housecleaning" (February 22): Working class families should not have to abandon their dream of a new home because of the housing market debacle, the editors argue.

Christians in the Holy Land face "two extremisms," said one observer: "the Muslim one.. and the Israeli right wing."

Christians and other minority groups have been warned to be on their guard in the wake of the killing of the governor of Punjab Province.

In Prague, many of the stops on the tourist trail left us dissatisfied, but we found what we needed.

A new survey documents the problem of migrants being preyed up on as they travel to Mexico. Critics allege it undercounts the number of victims.

Brazil's bishops launched a campaign to aid victims of severe flooding that has left more than 500 people dead. 

Gear Up and Go

Every extra ounce counts so keep it light. Here are the must haves: water; bike repair kit with air pressure gauge, tire irons and spare tube; small pump; money, ID and insurance card; cell phone.

What to Wear

This is not a fashion show. Safety and comfort come first. Always wear a helmut; bike shorts with gel padding; fingerless gloves; bike jersey—not essential but the back pockets are handy.

Check Out Your Bike

Check out your bike to make sure it’s ready to roll. Tires—be sure your tires are properly inflated. Brakes—see that the brake pads, front and rear, are hitting the tire, not the rim. Seat and handlebar posts—be sure they are properly adjusted and securely locked. Chain and gears—lubricate the chain regularly, and run through the gears.

Cycling Organizations