The bishops from Illinois’ six dioceses March 28 made a decisive stand against state legislators’ efforts to remove all abortion restrictions in the state, as well as the right of physicians to object to the practice.
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Pope Francis explains reluctant ring kiss: Fear of spreading germs
Given how the video of his refusing to extend his hand for his ring to be kissed by the faithful went viral on social media, Pope Francis gave a simple explanation: hygiene–he doesn ‘t want people to get ill from possible spreading of germs.
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Vatican expert sees progress on abuse, but also resistance in some ‘quarters’
The clergy abuse crisis will not be over in our lifetime, particularly in countries where it is just being acknowledged, according to Jesuit Father Hans Zollner.
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Five Quebec dioceses to allow external audit of sex abuse cases
Five dioceses from the province of Quebec will allow an external audit of their files regarding sex abuse cases, the Archdiocese of Montreal announced March 27.
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In battle for Amazon, church officials unite with indigenous communities
“Now, there’s been a change, a conversion to try to learn from indigenous communities about how to live in harmony with others and with a transcendent being. It’s important for us to learn from those who have lived there.”
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Call to end Affordable Care Act is ‘immoral,’ says C.H.A. president
For now, the Justice Department’s letter won’t change anything for those insured through the ACA, but the issue will likely gain political attention as it works its way through the courts.
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African floods ‘wiped out entire villages’ after cyclone, says Jesuit
A Jesuit from the Zimbabwe-Mozambique province has said that the recent cyclone that hit Africa has “wiped out entire villages”; 2 million people have been affected and more than 700 people have been killed by the storm.
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As Mississippi governor signs ‘heartbeat’ bill, opponents pledge legal battle
The state of Mississippi has become the latest state to enact a “heartbeat bill” which would prohibit abortions after a fetal heartbeat has been detected. Gov. Phil Bryant signed the bill on March 21, admitting that he did so, “even under threat of legal action” by those who opposed the measure.
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Pope Francis allows ring kissing after earlier controversy
Among those watching how Francis would act was Archbishop Mark Coleridge of Brisbane, who tweeted: “She kissed his ring!”
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Pope urges officials to preserve Rome’s historic and spiritual traditions
As the capital of Italy and center of Catholicism, the city of Rome must work with the Catholic Church to preserve and defend its rich historical and spiritual traditions, Pope Francis said.