The Latest News & Updates

In recent news, former U.S. ambassador Alberto Fernández, who is also a contributor to EWTN News, responded to claims made by Prime Minister Netanyahu. Netanyahu stated that unnamed Lebanese Christian villages had sought annexation, a claim that Fernández suggests is aimed at appealing to the Israeli audience.

In the United States, bishops with Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) locations in their jurisdictions are discouraging Catholics from attending SSPX services. The bishops are urging both attendees and SSPX priests to return to the Catholic Church, following the excommunications of the SSPX leadership.

In China, Christian pastor Ezra Jin Mingri, who was arrested by Chinese authorities on October 10, 2025, has been released. The circumstances surrounding his arrest and subsequent release have not been detailed.

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to consider a case involving the exclusion of Catholic preschools from Colorado’s universal preschool program. The U.S. solicitor general has urged the Court to halt this exclusion, arguing that it violates the First Amendment.

In Pakistan, approximately 500 pilgrims from Punjab braved a summer heatwave to pray at an ancient site where St. Thomas the Apostle is traditionally believed to have preached. This gathering took place under the scorching sun to mark the feast of St. Thomas.

Pope Leo XIV recently praised U.S. Eucharistic pilgrims, noting the country’s strong Eucharistic heritage. The Holy Father’s comments came at the conclusion of the 2026 National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, which ended in Philadelphia on July 5. The event saw Catholics from across the nation gather to honor and celebrate the Eucharist, a central part of Catholic worship.

In a separate event, Pope Leo XIV celebrated Independence Day with U.S. Ambassador Brian Burch. The pope visited the ambassador’s private residence after returning from a trip to Lampedusa. The meeting underscored the ongoing relationship between the Vatican and the United States, as well as the pope’s personal connection with international diplomats.

In a message of hope and peace, Pope Leo XIV reminded the faithful that Christ is our hope amid the scourge of war. The pontiff shared these words during the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square, before departing for a three-week vacation in Castel Gandolfo. His message served as a call for peace and reconciliation in a world often marked by conflict.

In a touching tribute, the daughter of Jérôme Lejeune, a close friend of John Paul II, shared how the late pope had inspired her father to keep hope alive. Both Lejeune and John Paul II were known for their shared commitment to defending the right to life, particularly for those with intellectual disabilities. This enduring friendship continues to inspire many in the Catholic community.

As America marks 250 years, Catholic historians are reflecting on the Church’s role in the country’s history. Dr. Kathleen Sprows Cummings of the University of Notre Dame and Dr. Christopher Shannon of Christendom College offered insights into the complex history of Catholicism in the United States. Their reflections provide a nuanced understanding of the Church’s influence on American society over the centuries.

Dr. Kathleen Sprows Cummings of the University of Notre Dame and Dr. Christopher Shannon of Christendom College recently shared their insights on the complex history of Catholicism in the United States. As America marks 250 years, these Catholic historians have been reflecting on the Church’s role in the nation’s past and present. Their analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the Catholic Church’s influence on American society and culture.

A team of nine perpetual Eucharistic pilgrims is nearing the end of their journey, having taken the Blessed Sacrament across 18 dioceses as part of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage. The pilgrimage will conclude in Philadelphia on July 5. The team has been reflecting on their experience of ‘being with Christ 24/7’, sharing their unique spiritual journey with the Catholic community.

In the United States, numerous Catholic Americans have made significant contributions to the nation’s history. A recent article has compiled a list of 12 such individuals, whose lives and legacies have left a lasting mark on the country. These figures have influenced various aspects of American society, from politics and education to art and culture, demonstrating the diverse ways in which Catholicism has shaped the nation.

A 23-year-old man has completed a cross-country run to support pregnant women before he enters a monastery. His journey aimed to raise money for his local pregnancy help center and to pray for women, babies, and the people he met along the way. His actions have inspired many, showcasing the power of faith in action and the Catholic Church’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.

The Eucharist has played a pivotal role in shaping nearly five centuries of Catholic life in America. From the first Masses in the New World to today’s Eucharistic Revival, the Real Presence has been a cornerstone of the nation’s Catholic identity. This history provides a deeper understanding of the significance of the Eucharist in American Catholicism and its enduring influence on the faith community.

The Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) has rejected the Vatican’s excommunication, deeming it ‘objectively’ unjust and invalid. In a letter addressed to Pope Leo XIV, Father Davide Pagliarani, the superior general of the SSPX, defended the episcopal consecrations that led to the Vatican’s decree. The SSPX has been declared in schism with the Catholic Church following an illicit “ordination” of bishops. The question of whether Catholics can attend an SSPX Mass has been raised, with EWTN News providing an explanation on the matter.

Pope Leo XIV has accepted the Constitution Center’s 2026 Liberty Medal, expressing his honor during a livestreamed speech. The Pope praised the values encapsulated in the Declaration of Independence, specifically the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This recognition comes as the Pope continues to advocate for these fundamental human rights on a global scale.

In addition to accepting the Liberty Medal, Pope Leo XIV also extended his congratulations to the United States on its 250th anniversary. In his letter, the Pope emphasized religious freedom, the right to life, and acknowledged the significant contributions of Catholics and immigrants to American history. This message aligns with his ongoing efforts to promote peace, unity, and respect for all individuals.

In a tragic incident in Pakistan, Amir Peter, a Catholic man accused of blasphemy, passed away while in custody. Peter, who was the younger brother of a Catholic priest in Lahore, died on July 1. His death comes months after doctors declared him mentally unfit to stand trial. This incident has raised concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in the country.

Bishop Abelardo Mata of Nicaragua was detained on June 29, following his plea for prayers for the persecuted Church during a Mass on June 28. He was released the same day but is reportedly under house arrest as of June 30. This incident is seen as a retaliation by the Nicaraguan dictatorship against the outspoken bishop.

In Catholic education news from the U.S., a student from Wyoming Catholic College has been recognized with the Presidential 1776 Award. This accolade is part of a White House civics competition that celebrates exceptional contributions to civic life. In other news, Benedictine College has unveiled its new library, further enhancing its academic facilities.

A Filipino bishop has publicly condemned government corruption, labeling it as a ‘grave sin’. This statement comes as part of a broader call for integrity and transparency in governance. In other global Catholic news, anti-trafficking leaders convened in Thailand for a crucial meeting, while Australian bishops have requested prayers for sea mariners.

The Diocese of Nkongsamba in Cameroon has announced the release of Father John Bosco Bihkong and Brothers Sylvester Sewong and Marie Rodrigue. The three religious figures were kidnapped on June 27, and their release has been met with gratitude and relief by the diocese.

In a rare occurrence, two bishops from the Society of St. Pius X, Bishops Galarreta and Fellay, have been excommunicated twice. The first excommunication took place in 1988 by Pope John Paul II, and the second one was announced on July 2 for the canonical offense of schism. This marks a significant event in the history of Church discipline.