The Christmas season is a time to reflect on what life is all about, Pope Francis has told an international group of performers. “The time before Christmas calls us to ask ourselves, ‘What is it that I am waiting for in my life? What is the great desire of my heart?’ You too, with your…
The latest episode of Brazil’s comedy group Porta dos Fundos on Netflix has angered thousands of Brazilians from different religions. The group’s Christmas special, A Primeira Tentacao de Cristo (‘The First Temptation of Christ’) is a satire about a gay Jesus bringing his boyfriend home to meet Mary and Joseph. Reaction to the 40-minute show…
The Australian government has released its second “exposure draft” of its religious discrimination legislation, winning widespread praise from faith groups, including the Catholic bishops, following changes to the original legislation released in October. The bishops’ main criticism was the proposed laws did not extend to cover health and eldercare workers; the Catholic Church runs about…
As part of the celebrations for his 50th anniversary of priesthood, Pope Francis chose to personally present a multi-volume collection of writings by his long-time spiritual director, the late Jesuit Far Miguel Angel Fiorito. In addition to presenting the Spanish-language collection, Escritos (Writings), at a conference at the Jesuit headquarters on December 13, Pope Francis…
A British bishop said he was relieved by the election defeat of political parties committed to liberalising Britain’s abortion laws, but he was “not particularly enthused” by the Conservative Party agenda. In the December 12 general election, the Conservatives of Prime Minister Boris Johnson gained 47 seats, the largest increase for his party since Margaret…
Christians and Ghanaians are called to be apostles of the poor and abandoned by caring for those most in need, especially during the Christmas season, said Archbishop John Bonaventure Kwofie of Accra. “Let’s celebrate by thinking of what can be done to ease the situation of the abandoned, the marginalised, the forgotten, the sick, the…
Advent is a time to purify Faith – Pope Francis As Pope Francis blessed children’s nativity scene figurines Sunday, the Pontiff said that the Advent season is a time of conversion to make space in one’s heart for Christ to come and fill it with joy. “Advent, a time of grace, tells us that it…
Dear Editor, I read that according to a recent poll, most Americans support life in jail over the death penalty (IC 05/12/19). At its root, this perspective is based on the idea that every single person has intrinsic human dignity independent of their behaviour. It doesn’t matter if you’re a thief or a murderer; you…
Fr Bill Dailey CSC Love came down at Christmas, Love all lovely, love divine; Love was born at Christmas, Star and angels gave the sign. Worship we the Godhead, Love incarnate, love divine; Worship we our Jesus: But wherewith for sacred sign? Love shall be our token, Love shall be yours and love be…
Arsonist arrested after burning down US church After a fire destroyed Most Blessed Sacrament Church in Franklin Lakes in the early hours of December 11 the suspected arsonist was arrested. He was receiving burn treatment at a local hospital prior to his court hearing. “We are thankful for the efforts of the police, firefighters and…