Daily Catholic News:
In a bid to encourage a more balanced lifestyle, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has called upon the faithful to begin a ‘digital media fasting’. This initiative aims to help individuals reclaim their inner peace, deepen their relationships, and rediscover the presence of God in their everyday lives by reducing their digital consumption.
In international news, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, has announced that the Holy See will not be participating in the ‘Board of Peace’. This board, promoted by the U.S. president, was created to address conflicts such as the ongoing issues in Gaza.
In the world of Catholic media, EWTN Studios is launching a behind-the-scenes series of the musical ‘Bernadette’. This series will be available on various platforms including EWTN+, EWTN.com, EWTN’s YouTube Channel, and EWTN’s broadcast channel. This comes ahead of the musical’s U.S. premiere.
In Ireland, the traditional Confirmation Pledge has been updated to include vaping and smoking. Auxiliary Bishop Michael Router of the Armagh Archdiocese welcomed the rewording of the pledge, which was announced to mark Temperance Sunday and the Lenten season.
Lastly, as part of the 400th anniversary celebrations of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican has announced the opening of new areas of the basilica, including the full terrace. Additionally, a new ‘SmartPass’ digital entry system will be introduced to improve visitor access.