The bishops' call in late November came after two priests and at least 60 civilians were killed Nov. 15.

Prosecutors investigating a sexual abuse case against a Houston-area priest searched the offices Wednesday of the local archdiocese, which is led by the cardinal who is heading the Roman Catholic Church's response in the U.S. to sexual misconduct.

Such discussions must never become "a public controversy with attacks that end up calling into question the credibility of the church and her mission," the cardinal said.

"The forces of evil are on a rampage against the church of God but, as Christians, we believe in the promise of Christ that the gates of underworld will never prevail over the church."

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is urging Filipinos to stop going to church altogether.

Addiction is "a net" people can fall into during "a moment of weakness, of depression. It is very easy for one to fall. But it is also a net that can be torn away," said Msgr. Segundo Tejado Munoz.