Daily Catholic News:
The Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in France is seeking donations as it prepares for an upcoming visit from Pope Leo. The funds will be used for various upgrades to the shrine, which will remain in place for the benefit of future pilgrims. The shrine views these donations as a long-term investment in its future.
A recent report has raised concerns about a perceived shift in U.S. policy away from prioritizing international religious freedom. The report suggests a change in focus, while the State Department maintains that under President Trump, the U.S. has become a global leader on the issue of religious freedom.
In Spain, Bishop Ramón Valdivia has called for a vigil for peace, justice, and stability in Ceuta following an immigration crisis. The bishop addressed a letter to priests, religious, and the faithful of Ceuta, inviting them to pray on the eve of the solemnity of the Assumption of Mary.
In the United States, Massachusetts has become the 11th state to remove all restrictions on abortion after 24 weeks. Governor Healey signed a bill allowing elective abortion through all nine months based on the judgment of the physician. This makes Massachusetts one of a growing number of states with no abortion limits.
In Colombia, an earthquake has caused at least 20 deaths and led to the partial collapse of a neo-Gothic cathedral. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed by authorities, but several cities in the western part of the country have been affected.