The archbishop of Paris wore a hard hat as he celebrated the first Mass in Notre Dame Cathedral since a huge blaze devastated the landmark building in April.

S.B. 360 -- which passed in the California Senate May 23 in a 30-2 vote -- would force priests to disclose information about child sexual abuse that they learn when they are hearing another priest's confession or when hearing the confession of a co-worker.

The nation's largest Protestant denomination took new steps to expel member churches that cover up or mishandle sexual abuse allegations.

The Mexican bishops' conference issued a plea for peace and Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes asked priests to celebrate Masses "for all the victims of violence in the country" after a pair of kidnappings and killings in the national capital provoked outrage and worsened perceptions of insecurity.

Abortions in England and Wales have hit a record level, according to statistics released by the British government.

Paris archbishop Michel Aupetit will be wearing a construction worker's helmet in addition to his miter.