"This is not a Christian crisis of concern only to Christians," Cardinal Wuerl said. "This is a human crisis."

Russia's Supreme Court on Thursday banned Jehovah's Witnesses from operating anywhere in the country, accepting a request from the justice ministry that the religious organization be considered an extremist group.

Noonan was a prolific writer, authoring books on topics of concern to the church such as contraception, abortion and religious freedom, as well as legal subjects.

Arkansas has executed an inmate for the first time in nearly a dozen years as part of its plan to execute several inmates before a drug expires April 30, despite court rulings that have already spared three men.

The A.P. owes its uniqueness and stature in no small part to its business model.

“People listen to those who are talking the talk and walking the walk. You become influential when you relentlessly and unwaveringly pursue what's right.”