The Latest News & Updates

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.

Pope Leo XIV has made a heartfelt plea for an end to the cycle of violence in Sudan and Ukraine. During his Angelus address on August 9, the Pope appealed for peace, particularly in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. His call for tranquility underscores the Church’s commitment to promoting peace and understanding in regions affected by conflict.

Bishop Gerald Mamman Musa, speaking at the SIGNIS World Congress, has outlined a mission for the young Katsina Diocese in northwestern Nigeria. The region, which is predominantly Muslim, presents unique challenges for Christians. However, Bishop Musa stressed that the diocese’s focus will be on transforming society, positioning Christians as a ‘creative minority’ rather than dwelling on the difficulties they face.

In Denver, an alleged healing could pave the way for the canonization of Blessed Zdenka Schelingová, a nun imprisoned by communists. The postulator of her cause has submitted the dossier detailing the Denver healing to the Archbishop of Bratislava. This significant step forward could potentially lead to her recognition as a saint.

A recent study has revealed that a society’s religious norms can have a significant impact on children’s anxiety levels. The research, which analyzed data spanning three decades, suggests that a country’s religious values can act as a protective factor against anxiety issues in children and adolescents. This finding adds to the understanding of the role religion plays in mental health.

The Hillbilly Thomists, a music group, have released their latest album ‘Strange Land’ during their summer tour. The surprise drop of the album has been well received by fans and continues the group’s tradition of sharing their faith through music. The album’s release marks another milestone in the group’s journey, bringing their unique blend of music to a wider audience.

The Hillbilly Thomists, a music group known for their unique blend of bluegrass and Catholic theology, have released a new album titled ‘Strange Land’. The album was unexpectedly released just a few days into their summer tour. The group, composed of Dominican friars, has been praised for their ability to merge traditional music with deep theological themes.

The beatification process for American missionary Juan Tomis has officially begun. Pope Leo XIV has often mentioned Tomis, a native of Bridgeport, Connecticut, as a significant inspiration for his own religious calling. The process of beatification is a significant step towards sainthood in the Catholic Church, and it recognizes the individual’s holy life and miracles attributed to their intercession.

Dan Brown, a Catholic leader involved in homeless outreach, has emphasized that efforts to address homelessness must extend beyond providing housing. In an interview with “EWTN News Nightly”, Brown pointed out that mental illness has emerged as a significant factor in homelessness. This insight has led to a shift in approach, with a greater focus on mental health support alongside housing solutions.

Bishops in Australia have expressed their concern over the rising antisemitism in the country. In a message addressing social division, they warned against the increasing instances of antisemitism and called for unity and respect among different faiths. In related news, Canada’s military bishop has also voiced his worries over the latest prayer restrictions, highlighting the need for religious freedom.

Contrary to popular belief, the feast of St. Dominic is not the primary feast day for the Dominicans. While the August feast is indeed a significant celebration for the order, it is not their biggest feast day. The Dominicans, also known as the Order of Preachers, have a rich history and tradition that includes several important feast days throughout the year.

The Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC) has expressed concern over an executive order aimed at birthright citizenship. The order is currently under review by the U.S. Catholic bishops, who are closely monitoring its development and potential impacts.

In Texas, the Children’s Hospital has been fined for conducting illegal procedures on minors. The hospital has agreed to pay $10 million to settle the claims, with $8,576,000 of this amount going to the state of Texas. Additionally, the hospital will fund a detransition clinic for the next five years, which is the first of its kind.

Archbishop Hicks of New York has resumed his public ministry following a successful eye surgery. He returned to St. Patrick’s Cathedral to celebrate Mass for the profession of vows of the Sisters of Life, marking his first public appearance since his surgery.

In political news, U.S. attorney general nominee Todd Blanche has pledged to protect pro-life state laws. This commitment was part of a roundup of recent news related to pro-life and abortion issues, demonstrating the ongoing debate on these topics within the country.

Finally, August 7th marked the 90th anniversary of the Spanish ‘execution’ of the Sacred Heart of Jesus statue. The site where this event took place was retaken by Nationalist forces on November 6, 1936. A Mass of reparation was held at the site, officiated by a military chaplain under the command of General José Enrique Varela.

In Oklahoma, the Statewide Charter School Board’s efforts to approve religious charter schools are being thwarted by a ruling from the state’s Supreme Court and the state attorney general. The board’s attempts to incorporate religious education into the charter school system are currently under review by a federal court. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the future of religious education in the state.

In Canada, a family’s struggle to secure hospice care for their father ended in his assisted suicide. This tragic case has sparked a debate about the availability of end-of-life care and the ethics of assisted suicide. Catholic ministries are currently challenging New York’s assisted suicide law in court, arguing for the sanctity of life and the need for comprehensive palliative care.

In France, the government has closed a mosque in the Paris area due to alleged support for terrorism. This action comes amid growing political debates concerning the expansion of Islam in the country. The French government’s decision to shut down the mosque underscores the ongoing tension between religious freedom and national security.

In the United States, Florida’s bishops are urging senators to support a bill that would extend temporary protected status (TPS) for Haiti through 2029. The U.S. House of Representatives advanced the bill in April, but it has since stalled in the Senate. The bishops are advocating for the rights of Haitian immigrants, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis in Haiti and the need for compassionate immigration policies.

In Spain, Bishop Ramón Valdivia, the apostolic administrator of Ceuta, has described the city as a “bastion of faith.” He believes that the faith plays a crucial role in the development of a country. His comments reflect the significant influence of the Catholic Church in Spain and its ongoing commitment to promoting faith-based values in society.