Fides News - English

VATICAN/GENERAL AUDIENCE - Pope Francis: "Hope is the most beautiful gift that the Church can give to all of humanity"

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:58:59 +0100

Vatican City - "The Holy Spirit is the ever-gushing source of Christian hope ". And "if the Church is a boat, the Holy Spirit is the sail that propels it and lets it advance on the sea of history, today as in the past!". Hope is precisely "the most beautiful gift that the Church can give to all of humanity, especially at times in which everything seems to be dragging down the sails".

This is what Pope Francis said this morning in the Paul VI Hall, concluding the cycle of catechisms of the general audience on the theme "The Spirit and the Bride", focusing on the theme "The Holy Spirit and Christian hope". A theme that also coincides with the theme chosen by the Pope for the upcoming Jubilee Year.

In introducing the catechesis, the Pope explained the reference to the title given to the entire cycle, which refers to one of the last verses of the Bible, in the Book of Revelation, which says: “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come’” . An invocation, explained the Bishop of Rome, "addressed to the risen Christ". Both Saint Paul and the Didaché, a text from apostolic times, "attest that in the liturgical meetings of the first Christians there resounded the cry in Aramaic, “Maràna tha!”, which indeed means “Come, Lord!”. A prayer to Christ, for Him to come.

Saint Paul and the Didache, a writing from apostolic times, testified "that in the liturgical assemblies of the first Christians the cry 'Maràna tha!' was shouted in Aramaic, which means 'Come, Lord!'"

A prayer, the Pope stressed, with an "eschatological" background, which "expressed the ardent expectation of the glorious return of the Lord. And this cry, and the expectation it expresses, have never been extinguished in the Church". But this expectation of the final coming of Christ "has not remained the one and only". "To this," explained Pope Francis, "has also been joined by the expectation of his continuous coming in the present and pilgrim situation of the Church."

From this perspective, the call "Come!" is not habitually "addressed only to Christ, but also to the Holy Spirit Himself! He who cries out is now Him to whom we cry out." After the Resurrection "the Holy Spirit is Christ’s true “alter ego”, He who takes His place, who makes Him present and operative in the Church," the Pope continued. "The Holy Spirit is the ever-gushing source of Christian hope."

Hope, the Bishop of Rome stressed, "is not an empty word, or a vague desire of ours that things may turn out for the best; hope is a certainty, because it is founded on God’s fidelity to His promises. And this is why it is called a theological virtue: because it is infused by God and has God as its guarantor.

It is not a passive virtue, which merely waits for things to happen. It is a supremely active virtue that helps make them happen”. For the Pope, however, the Christian “cannot be satisfied with having hope”, he or she must also radiate hope. Therefore, hope is “the most beautiful gift that the Church can give to all of humanity, especially at times in which everything seems to be dragging down the sails”.

The Bishop of Rome recalled how the Apostle Peter exhorted the first Christians: “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope”. But he added a recommendation: “But do it with gentleness and reverence” . And this is because it is not so much the strength of the arguments that will convince people, but rather the love that we know how to put in them. This is the first and most effective form of evangelization. And it is open to everyon!”

Before the final blessing, Pope Francis' thoughts turned to the Middle East: "I am following what is happening in Syria, in this moment that is so delicate in its history. I hope that a political solution may be reached that, without further conflicts or divisions, may responsibly promote the stability and unity of the country. I pray, by the intercession of the Virgin Mary, that the Syrian people may live in peace and security in their beloved land, and that the different religions may walk together in friendship and mutual respect for the good of the nation, afflicted by so many years of war."

Pope Francis also called for peace in the Middle East, in Myanmar and the "tortured Ukraine" "which is suffering so much from this war". "Let us pray that a way out can be found. And I think of Palestine, Israel, Myanmar. May peace return, may there be peace! War is always a defeat. Let us pray for peace".

AFRICA/MOZAMBIQUE - Ongoing protests against election results have significant impacts on the economy

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:19:46 +0100

Maputo - Protests continue in Mozambique against the results of the presidential and parliamentary elections of October 9, won by FRELIMO .
Since the demonstrations began on October 21, at least a hundred people have been killed in clashes with security forces, according to the civil society election monitoring platform "Plataforma Decide".
Venancio Mondlane, the candidate of the opposition party PODEMOS, who came second in the presidential elections behind Daniel Chapo, the FRELIMO candidate, called for the demonstrations to continue "for at least another two or three months".
Last week, protesters managed to disrupt the operation of two power plants in the south of the country, which supply 30% of the region's electricity. The demonstration took place after Mondlane, who is in exile in an unknown location, claimed on social media that he had been the target of an assassination attempt for the second time after the one in South Africa .
The ongoing protests are having a significant impact on the country's economy. South Africa has once again suspended operations at its main border crossing with Mozambique in Lebombo, which is an important hub for the export of coal and chromium, with a significant impact also on the South African economy.
The economic situation is so tense that the Mozambican Business Association has asked outgoing President Filipe Nyusi to enter into negotiations with Venancio Mondlane to find a way out of the crisis.
The Constitutional Court is expected to rule on December 23 on the lawsuits filed by the opposition parties against the October 9 elections.
The new president is expected to be sworn in by January 15, while Mondlane will claim the office for himself.

ASIA/INDIA - A symposium 25 years after “Ecclesia in Asia”, for a synodal and missionary Church

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:14:18 +0100

Bangalore - "Twenty-five years after the publication of the post-synodal apostolic exhortation 'Ecclesia in Asia', we want to deepen, reread and revisit this document in the light of today's changed social and cultural context, on the path of an authentically synodal Church and with a view to the period of the Jubilee Year," said Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi, coordinator of the Holy Year programs in the Latin Rite Catholic Church in India, to Fides. The priest is also one of the organizers of the international symposium to be held in Bangalore on 13 and 14 December, entitled: "Twenty-five years of 'Ecclesia in Asia': towards a synodal and missionary Church in Asia. Rereading 'Ecclesia in Asia' in the Jubilee Year."
The Apostolic Exhortation "Ecclesia in Asia" was published in 1999 by Pope John Paul II at the conclusion of the Special Synod on Asia, which took place in Rome from April 18 to May 14, 1998.
The symposium which reflects on the document in Bangalore is being organized by the Pontifical Mission Societies of India, in collaboration with the International Secretariat of the Pontifical Missionary Union and the Conference of Bishops of the Latin Rite in India . The event, which will take place at St. John's Hospital Campus in Bangalore, will also be broadcast online via Zoom for a worldwide audience.
The opening session on December 13 will include a message from Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, and the introductory talk by Father Dinh Anh Nhue Nguyen , Secretary General of the Pontifical Missionary Union of Clergy in Rome, on “Overview of ‘Ecclesia in Asia’ in the Context of the Synod and the Holy Year 2025.”
This will be followed by a talk by Fr. Clarence Devadass on “Renewing the Divine Mission of Love and Service in Asia.” While Sister Patricia Santos will bring to the attention of the assembly the “Voices from the Margins,” and the family as a model for the Church in Asia and mission in the Jubilee Year will also be discussed.
The questions on the timeliness of the Apostolic Exhortation 'Ecclesia in Asia' particularly concern young people, women, priests and non-Christians: how would each of them "rewrite 'Ecclesia in Asia' today?" is the question asked in the panel discussion that aims to develop a document for the future of the Catholic Church in the vast and pluralistic Asian continent.
To this end, the session on December 14 will reflect on the role of the laity and on such important issues as respect for human dignity and social justice and evangelization in the digital continent with the help of new technologies . The conclusions will be presented by Fr. Christopher Vimalraj Hiruthya, of the General Secretariat of the Bishops' Conference of India .

AMERICA/BRAZIL - Parish worker shot dead on his way to Mass

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:02:31 +0100

Rio de Janeiro - On the evening of December 8, in the Penha district, in the north of Rio de Janeiro, 43-year-old architect Steve Maguerith Chaves do Nascimento was shot in the head while he was parking his car near the church of Nossa Senhora da Cabeça to go to mass.

Steve Maguerith Chaves do Nascimento, husband and father of a 6-year-old daughter, was an active member of the parish of Nossa Senhora da Cabeça, where he was particularly committed to preaching the Gospel and carrying out charitable works in the community. The murder occurred at 6:58 p.m., two minutes before the 7 p.m. mass that the architect usually attended.

As reported by the local press, the police are working to reconstruct what happened and the reasons for the murder. The analysis of the images captured by the parish's security cameras provided the first clues to the dynamics of the events.

The video footage shows that two men on a motorcycle approached the car. When the man realized what was about to happen, he tried to flee, but the killer fired a shot that hit him in the head and killed him instantly.

The parish priest Eufrázio Morais, who heard the shot, reports: "He was one of our parishioners. His family is very committed, they are active members of the parish. He attended mass every Sunday at 7 p.m." According to the priest's report to the local media, violence and robberies are a constant occurrence in the area where the church is located. It is not uncommon for believers to be robbed on their way to church.

What happened, continued Father Morais, "is not uncommon. We are like hostages. Unfortunately, violence is common here. We suffer greatly from it. Unfortunately, it happens again and again. And the police are almost completely absent."

Yesterday, Steve Marghuerit Chaves do Nascimento was buried in the parish where he was killed and where he served, in the presence of the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro, Antônio Catelan. In a statement, the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro expressed its regret for the loss of this parishioner: "It is with deep regret that the Archdiocese of São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro reaches out to the family, the parish priest and all the parishioners of the parish of 'Nossa Senhora da Cabeça' following the loss of Steve Maguerith Chaves do Nascimento. In this time of mourning, we wish to express our sincere condolences and support. Steve was an active presence in our community, to which he always contributed with love and dedication. May the memories of his life and contributions inspire us to follow Jesus Christ."

"May God comfort the hearts of the bereaved and give peace to their souls. Let us remain united in prayer and seek the strength needed to overcome this difficult time. The Archdiocese stands by everyone in this time of grief. May the divine light illuminate Steve's path on his new journey," the statement concludes.

AMERICA/NICARAGUA - By the end of the year, religious sisters must also leave the Country

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 13:54:40 +0100

Managua - "You have until December to leave the country," was the warning to all religious sisters in Nicaragua, who will be forced to seek refuge in countries, mainly in Latin America, where their respective Congregations are already established.

After the recent arrest and expulsion of the President of the Episcopal Conference of Nicaragua and Bishop of Jinotega, Carlos Enrique Herrera Gutiérrez, on the evening of November 13 , the Ortega government is now also issuing an ultimatum to the few religious sisters still remaining in the country.

"The nuns have already been banned from working in non-profit organizations , now all their property is being confiscated and most of them have already left Nicaragua," complains Nicaraguan lawyer Martha Patricia Molina, who documents the attacks against the Catholic Church from her exile in Texas.

Most recently, in November, three priests were denied entry into the country. Among them, Father Asdrúbal Zeledón Ruiz from the diocese of Jinotega and Father Floriano Ceferino Vargas, who was arrested by agents of the regime after a mass in the church of San Martín in the diocese of Bluefields, a suffragan of the archdiocese of Managua, and exiled to Panama.

“The loving providence of the Lord is the only sure guide,” writes Pope Francis in a letter to the “pilgrim people of God in Nicaragua”, on the occasion of the novena for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception . “It is precisely in the most difficult moments, when it becomes humanly impossible to understand what God wants from us, that we are called not to doubt his care and mercy. The trust you place in him as children of God and your fidelity to the Church are the two great beacons that illuminate your existence,” said Pope Francis.

According to estimates in a report prepared by Martha Patricia Molino entitled “Nicaragua: ¿Una Iglesia perseguida?”, more than 250 religious have been expelled from the country or forced into exile since April 2018.

ASIA/SYRIA - Aleppo, new meeting between Christian representatives and Islamist groups. Bishop Audo: "they show respect for our traditions"

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 16:01:04 +0100

by Gianni Valente

Aleppo - On Monday, December 9, the leaders of all the Churches and ecclesial communities present in Aleppo met for the second time with representatives of the armed groups that have taken control of the Syrian city. It was the first meeting after President Bashar al Assad fled and the rebels also took Damascus. "We were all present: bishops, priests and religious," said Jesuit Antoine Audo, Chaldean Bishop of Aleppo, in an interview with Fides. It was a "very positive meeting".

The unprecedented summit took place in the Franciscan church and convent, where the Apostolic Vicariate of the Catholics of the Latin Rite is also located. "Their intention," said Bishop Audo, "seems to be to build trust." Expectations are good, especially considering that "we have reached a dead end: there is no electricity, everything is expensive, many people have difficulty feeding themselves."

At the moment, says Audo, the new forces that dominate the scene, of Islamist origin, show no desire to change or regulate the ordinary life of the ecclesial communities: "On the contrary, they are trying to build trust by respecting our traditions and our prayers. I told them that we, as Arab Christians, represent a unique reality in history and in the world. I recalled some examples of the history of Muslim Arabs with Christians and the contribution of Christians to this history. I added that the status of the "dhimmi" can be interpreted both negatively and positively, that Christians cannot be second-class citizens and that we must work together. They seemed very interested in these considerations."

During the meeting, the representatives of the Christian communities were assured that there would be no changes to the rules for the schools of the ecclesiastical communities, where boys and girls study together in mixed classes. "They have asked all the public officials," continued the Chaldean bishop, "to return to their duties and they have said that the military service that has lasted all these years has ended."

According to Bishop Audo, who is known for his sharp analysis of political contexts and processes, "there was an agreed international decision to secure this way out for Syria. It was not possible to continue in the impasse that had been reached." A solution that certainly involved Turkey and the United States, "but also Russia and Iran. Russia asked Assad to leave the country," and thus "further bloodshed was avoided." Now, says Bishop Audo, things are returning to "normality" in Aleppo, which also includes problems of existence and difficulties in obtaining essential goods. There are initiatives in parishes to give people at least one meal. And preparations are being made to celebrate Christmas on a small scale: "Perhaps," says Bishop Audo, "there will be no parades and spectacular moments. But anyone who wants to visit us in our churches and bishoprics during the holidays is mor5e than welcome."

AFRICA/NIGERIA - Bishop Doeme Dashe: "Maiduguri is more peaceful today thanks to Mary’s protection"

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:50:51 +0100

Abuja - "Our Mother Mary promises to protect her children and we have seen this come true in the diocese of Maiduguri," said the Bishop of Maiduguri, Oliver Doeme Dashe, on the anniversary of the consecration of the diocese to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
"Since we consecrated our diocese to the Immaculate Heart of Mary 13 years ago, we have experienced her wonderful protection, even in the most dangerous situations," stressed the Bishop of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, where the jihadist sect Boko Haram, which has been threatening the population of large parts of Nigeria for decades, was born.
At the height of the uprising, more than 25 parishes had to be abandoned and their members left the diocese. Today, almost all parishes are open again and most have priests again. Bishop Doeme attributes the reopening of these parishes and the return of the faithful to their homes "to the work of Our Lady."
"Maiduguri is more peaceful today and Our Lady has defeated Boko Haram," said Bishop Doeme. "Her protection is our strength and we remain committed to Marian devotion in her honor and in the honor of her Son." Bishop Doeme also recalls in this context that despite years of violent attacks by Boko Haram and other armed groups, no priest was affected by the attacks.
Although it is the largest diocese in Nigeria by area and is located in one of the most dangerous regions, Bishop Doeme and his auxiliary bishop, John Bogna Bakeni, are now out pastorally working in their area without putting themselves in danger, proving that intercession can protect the faithful even in the face of ongoing conflict.

AFRICA/EQUATORIAL GUINEA - Resignation of bishop of Bata

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:45:27 +0100

Vatican City - The Holy Father has accepted the resignation from the pastoral care of the diocese of Bata, Equatorial Guinea, presented by Bishop Juan Matogo Oyana, C.M.F.

ASIA/SOUTH KOREA - President Yoon expelled "de facto" from his party

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:42:47 +0100

Seoul - The People Power Party , the ruling party of Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, is discussing internally the possibility of Yoon's resignation next February, in the face of popular reactions and the efforts of Parliament, which is trying to organize an impeachment process against the President. The PPP is talking about possible early elections in April or May 2025 and, in order to allow a "smooth" transition, has placed the President "under guardianship", meaning that he will no longer participate in state affairs.
The opposition parties, on the other hand, are submitting motions to impeach the President in Parliament, and a new vote of no confidence in Parliament is scheduled for December 14. Meanwhile, on December 3, the Korean Public Prosecutor's Office issued an arrest warrant for Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, accused of having conspired with President Yoon Suk Yeol to impose martial law on December 3. The minister is accused of having ordered the army to block parliament militarily, which, according to the constitution, should have been informed of the imposition of martial law: Parliament could then have demanded the end of martial law by majority decision.
Meanwhile, Catholic community, groups, associations and parishes are also publicly supporting the impeachment process: the "Catholic Climate Action" movement invited people to a prayer and information campaign in front of the National Assembly building, in which around 200 believers took part, and called for the impeachment process and the comprehensive commitment of Christians "to the common good". Father Lim Hyeon-ho, deputy chairman of the Department of Environmental Pastoral Care of the Archdiocese of Seoul, explained: "Politics is about love and service to the common good, but current politics actually causes pain and suffering." Father Park Joo-ryung, another priest present, stressed: "The current situation may also be the result of our negligence, indifference and irresponsibility: we are now called upon to reflect on this and act together." Citizens present called on the MPs, especially members of the People Power Party, Yoon's own party, to vote for impeachment.
Fr. Cho Seung-hyeon, priest and journalist in the media service of the Korean Bishops' Conference, explains: "This illegal martial law has shaken the people's trust in President Yoon in our democratic republic. Who would follow a president who sends soldiers to the National Assembly just because he does not get what he wants?" He continued: "Calls for the president's resignation are coming from all walks of life and from the political world. The six opposition parties accuse him of treason. The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions has started an indefinite general strike and is demanding his resignation."
The National Commission for Justice and Peace and the Association of Superiors of Male and Female Religious Congregations have also spoken out in this sense. In a joint statement, signed also by other bodies such as all the “Justice and Peace” Commissions of the Korean dioceses, it is stated: “We call on the National Assembly, the representatives of the people, to impeach the president as soon as possible.” “What the president must do is resign, and if not, the National Assembly and the Constitutional Court must appeal and approve the impeachment measure as soon as possible.” This step, it is stated, is necessary “to avoid national chaos.” “Now is the time to show that the people rule, and that the president is not the master of the country,” it concludes.
Meanwhile, speculation is growing among analysts about the motives that led the president to act as he did. The president was under intense pressure from the Democratic Party and the other oppositions that control the majority in the National Assembly, obtained in the parliamentary elections of April 2024: the political scenario was therefore a legislative majority against the administration of the president in power in the Blue House . Opposition members questioned many of the president's decisions, and Yoon himself was quite unpopular: according to some polls, only 20% of South Korean citizens appreciated his policies. But can a political stalemate, a standoff over the budget law or other social issues justify such an act?
South Korea has a long history of authoritarian military governments and dictatorships, and the political consciousness of South Koreans is shaped by this historical memory. What happened on December 3 with martial law and the intervention of the army brought this memory back into the consciousness of citizens.
At the level of international balances, one also wonders: what did the United States know about the president's intentions? An American spokesman has denied that Washington knew of these intentions. South Korea is a country formally still at war with the North, interrupted by an armistice agreement. And there are dozens of American bases and more than 28,000 American soldiers in South Korea. All previous military coups - recalls the American magazine "National Review", from the "conservative" area - have received the "green light" from the United States, and this because the United States has control of all the troops in South Korea. It therefore seems unlikely, if not impossible, that Washington was unaware of the Korean president's act.

AFRICA/GHANA - Bishops: "Democracy is a gift that we must respect and preserve"

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 15:23:24 +0100

Accra - "Democracy in our country is a gift and we must continue to respect and preserve," write the Bishops of Ghana after the announcement of the official results of the presidential and parliamentary elections held on December 7 .
In their message, the Bishops praise the Electoral Commission for the peaceful and for the management of the electoral process. "We encourage you, who are the guardians of the electoral process," the Bishops write to the members of the Commission, "to maintain a constant dialogue with all parties, especially political parties, civil society and voters, to address all problems and ensure the integrity of the results."
The political parties are reminded "of the importance of unity in diversity. Political competition must be an instrument to promote national progress and not division." It is therefore necessary to take action to "address the challenges faced by the most vulnerable among us, especially the poor and marginalized."
Regarding the "fundamental role" of the media, the bishops ask media professionals to "remain objective, accurate and responsible in their reporting. It is crucial that the media serve as a forum for constructive dialogue, for the promotion of peace, unity and national cohesion."
Finally, in their message, the bishops call on Ghanaians to look beyond the election result and "to actively participate in nation building beyond the electoral process."
According to the official results published yesterday, December 9, former President John Dramani Mahama won with 56.5% of the votes cast, about 6.3 million votes.

ASIA/SYRIA - After Assad's escape, Bishops and Patriarchs ask for prayers for a peaceful phase of transition

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 13:02:25 +0100

Damascus - Prayers and requests for "this phase of transition in Syria may be safe and peaceful" were the requests made by Syrian Catholic Patriarch Ignace Joussif III Younan during the Mass he presided over on Sunday 8 December at the Shrine of Saints Behnam and Sarah in Lebanon.

In his homily, the Patriarch referred to "this wave of revolution against the government and the regime, which has been going on for many years" and which has turned into "a terrible war, whose security and economic impacts have been terrible for everyone".

Patriarch Younan, who is from Lebanon, stressed that in recent days he has been in contact with the bishops of Aleppo, Homs, Damascus and Qamishli to obtain information and to assure them of his closeness "in prayer and in asking for the peace that we all need."
The Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate, led by Patriarch Mor Ignatios Aphrem II, also issued a statement asking for the gift of "divine wisdom" to find "inspiration, strength and steadfastness in love for the homeland" and reaffirming the Church's mission to "spread the values of justice, peace and harmony among all citizens" while respecting Syria's cultural identity and long history.

In the uncertain period that began after Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia, the official statements of the churches express caution in assessing the development of events, recalling the "reassuring" public statements of the Islamist-led groups that played a key role in the collapse of the Syrian regime.

"We call on everyone," says the communiqué of the Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate, "to play their national role in preserving public and private property and to avoid the use of weapons and the exercise of violence against others." The bishops of the Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate also call for "the equality of all social groups and all Syrian citizens, regardless of their ethnic, religious and political affiliation, on the basis of a citizenship that must guarantee the dignity of every citizen."

According to the news portal "SiriacPress", in the cities of Qhamishli and Hassakè in northeastern Syria, dozens of activists from Christian-led political parties took to the streets to celebrate the end of the Assad regime, chanting slogans in support of a hoped-for "new beginning" for the Syrian nation.

AMERICA/HAITI - 184 people killed last weekend: the Bishops call for an end to the violence that destroys society

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:53:04 +0100

Port-au-Prince - At least 184 people were killed in Port-au-Prince last weekend alone, according to Volker Türk, UN Human Rights Commissioner for Haiti. "Last weekend alone, at least 184 people were killed in the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince in acts of violence carried out on the orders of a powerful gang leader in the Cité-Soleil district," Türk said, without giving any further details, but stressed that "these latest murders bring the death toll in Haiti this year to the incredible number of 5,000 people."
Previously, the National Network for the Defense of Human Rights reported that at least 100 alleged voodoo practitioners were killed on the orders of Monel Felix, a local gang leader who believed that voodoo practices were responsible for the illness of his son, who died on December 7. Just earlier this month, Haitian bishops had launched a new appeal to stop the violence of armed gangs. "Let us stop fueling this blind violence that plagues our society every day," the bishops wrote in their message, which concluded their 142nd Plenary Assembly.
Addressing gang members, the bishops urge: "Stop these cruel acts. They are not good for the country, nor for the people, nor for you who commit them." The message calls on local authorities and the international community to stop the arms trade, which further fuels the spiral of violence.
The bishops propose the upcoming Jubilee Year, which begins in Haiti on December 29, as a sign of hope. Under the motto "Pilgrims of Hope", the bishops invite Haitians to become "witnesses of hope" and not to be discouraged by the dramatic situation in the country.

AFRICA/GHANA - Former President Mahama wins presidential election of December 7

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:04:05 +0100

Accra - Former President John Dramani Mahama won the presidential election in Ghana on December 7. While the final result of the election is not yet available, outgoing Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party , confirmed Mahama's victory yesterday, Sunday, December 8.
The candidate of the National Democratic Congress thus returns to the highest office in the country after eight years. Mahama was already President of Ghana from July 2012 to January 2017. At that time he was defeated twice by outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo .
The NDC is also in the lead in the parliamentary elections, which were held together with the elections of the Head of State. The Independent Electoral Commission, meanwhile, asked voters to be patient until the final results of the elections are published, which, as the bishops had hoped, took place in a largely calm and peaceful atmosphere .
The defeat of the candidate of the outgoing president's party is a consequence of the severe economic crisis that has gripped the country in recent years. The high rate of inflation and youth unemployment have led the majority of voters to turn away from those who have governed Ghana for the past eight years. Mahama had promised to improve the country's economic situation, but will have to deal with the issue of the $3 billion loan that the current government has requested from the International Monetary Fund to meet the most urgent needs. Ghanaian voters also expressed their disappointment at scandals involving members of the government. Ghana is considered one of the most stable countries in Africa, where the democratic process is widely respected, even if the 2016 and 2020 elections were marred by post-election violence that left people dead and injured. This year, meanwhile, no major incidents have been recorded, although at least two people have been killed by gunfire, one in the north of the country and another in the central region.

ASIA/PHILIPPINES - Bishops of Palawan call for moratorium on mining

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 11:57:41 +0100

Puerto Princesa - To protect the population, resources and natural beauty of Palawan, the Catholic Bishops of the dioceses of Palawan, one of the Philippine islands with an exceptional and unspoilt natural beauty, have launched a petition to request a 25-year moratorium on mining. The Bishops explain the initiative in a joint pastoral letter signed by Bishop Socrates Mesiona, Apostolic Vicar of Puerto Princesa, Bishop Broderick Pabillo, Apostolic Vicar of Taytay, and Bishop Emeritus Edgardo Juanich.
Addressing the faithful, Bishop Mesiona stresses: "We ask for a 25-year moratorium on new applications or expansions of mining activities. In-depth studies are needed to preserve critical areas such as ancient forests and watersheds,” said the bishop, recalling the Church's moral responsibility 'to care for the common home', as stated in Pope Francis' encyclical "Laudato Si'". The bishop stressed the importance of sustainable economic strategies with the development of local companies - and not multinational corporations - even in the field of mining, which must always put the ecosystem first, including the lives of indigenous groups and the protection of areas such as forests, rivers and seas.
The situation is worrying: in 2016, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources authorized the felling of some 28,000 trees in Palawan. And in 2024, a company received authorization to cut down 52,200 more trees, a large area of forest, while another company requested the felling of another 8,000 trees. Currently, 67 mining concession applications covering over 200,000 hectares are being reviewed in Palawan, and the government has already approved 11 contracts for the use of 29,000 hectares of land. The local Catholic faith community is therefore directly addressing the legislators of Palawan province, urging them to prioritize the environment and the well-being of the community over profit or power interests: "It will be seen whether they really care about Palawan or whether they will give in to other pressures," said the bishop. The joint pastoral letter also points out that Palawan is the only province in the Central Philippines region that does not have a moratorium on mining activities. Neighboring provinces such as Mindoro, Marinduque and Romblon have already taken similar measures. The Church joins the calls of farmers, fishermen and indigenous communities who suffer from the destruction caused by mining. "It is also the cry of those who believe in our duty to protect Palawan as the guardian of creation," said Bishop Mesiona, who urged citizens to sign the petition. In Palawan's natural paradise, deforestation and mining can increase erosion, landslides and long-term ecological damage. In this sense, controlling mining is not just a matter of profit, but should "preserve the life of nature for future generations," he stressed. This approach is gaining ground and finding acceptance and harmony in civil society that aims for sustainable development, to ensure that Palawan's extraordinary natural heritage is preserved. A moratorium on mining activity - it is noted - is more than a simple defense of the environment: it is a courageous stand in favor of the integrity of creation, the well-being of vulnerable communities and the future of one of the most precious provinces in the Philippines.
What is happening in the province of Palawan highlights the global situation of the Philippines, an archipelago with enormous natural resources, especially copper, gold, nickel, zinc and silver deposits, as well as minerals useful for the "global energy transition." According to recent statistics from the Philippine Department of Mines and Geosciences, there are 56 major mines in the archipelago with seven processing plants that employ more than 220,000 people. The main mining areas are in Luzon in the north ; in the Visayas in the central part of the country ; in Mindanao in the south . The Philippines ranks fourth in the world in copper reserves and fifth in cobalt and nickel reserves.
Foreign multinationals, especially from Japan, Australia, Canada and China, play an important role and maintain relations with the government to request new mining concessions. From the point of view of these companies, the "moratorium" initiatives on mining are an obstacle, as they take into account the concerns of environmental protection, social responsibility and the fair distribution of profits from mining, so that they actually benefit the development of local communities and do not represent their destruction.

VATICAN/ANGELUS - Pope Francis: May we reach the feast of the Nativity with a ceasefire on all fronts of war

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 11:38:34 +0100

Vatican City – “May we reach the feast of the Nativity with a ceasefire on all fronts of war”. This is the appeal that Pope Francis launched at the end of the Angelus on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.

On the day in which the Anti-Assad Islamist militiamen took Damascus and in the aftermath of the many face-to-face meetings that took place in Paris between the political leaders of various countries, including US President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Pontiff asks to continue “to pray for peace, in tormented Ukraine, in the Middle East – Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, now in Syria – in Myanmar, Sudan and wherever people suffer from war and violence.”

Before appearing in St. Peter's Square, the Pope celebrated Mass in the Vatican Basilica with the 21 Cardinals created yesterday afternoon during the public Consistory, the tenth of his Pontificate. In his homily, the Pontiff recalled the words that Blessed Pius IX wrote in the Apostolic Constitution Ineffabili Deus, promulgated on December 8, 1854, defining the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. Mary is "full of grace", a concept that "in many ways, over the centuries, with words and images, Christians have tried to represent".

The Bishop of Rome then quoted St. Paul VI, who in 1963 said: the Mother of God shows us "what all of us have deep in our hearts: the authentic image of humanity... innocent and holy... Mary’s being is pure harmony, candour, simplicity; it is complete transparency, kindness, perfection; it is utter beauty".

A beauty that Pope Francis analyzes under three aspects of Mary's life, aspects "that remind us of her closeness to us: Mary as daughter, bride and mother". But also of a woman, because "there is no salvation without a woman. The Church herself is also woman".

In the mystery of Mary's life - the Bishop of Rome underlined - her Immaculate Conception, her being preserved from Original Sin flourishes "in her fruitfulness, since she recognizes that she must die to herself in order to give life, forget herself in order to care for the poor and vulnerable who turn to her".

On the contrary, in today's world, "if we look around us, we realize that the presumption that we can be “like God” , which led to the first sin, continues to wound our human family. Neither love nor happiness can arise from this presumption of self-sufficiency. Those who see the rejection of any stable and lasting bond in life as progress do not grant freedom. Those who deprive fathers and mothers of respect, those who do not want children, those who reduce others to mere objects or treat them as nuisances, those who consider sharing with others a waste, and solidarity an impoverishment,” the Pontiff remarked, “cannot spread joy or build a future. What is the use of having a full bank account, a comfortable home, unreal virtual relationships, if our hearts remain cold, empty and closed? What is the use of achieving great financial growth in privileged countries if half the world is starving or ravaged by war, and the others look on with indifference? What is the use of travelling around the world if every encounter is reduced to a passing impression or a photograph that no one will remember in a few days or months?”.

The Pope then urged us to look “to Mary Immaculate” and “ask her to conquer us through her loving Heart. May she convert us and make us a community in which filial, spousal and maternal love may be a rule and criterion of life. Only then will families be united, will spouses truly share everything, will parents be physically present and close to their children and children will take care of their parents. That is the beauty we see in the Immaculate Virgin; that is the “beauty that saves the world”. Like Mary, we too want to respond by saying to the Lord: “Behold... Let it be to me according to your word”.

The Pontiff invited believers to approach the sacrament of Confession in this time: “As the opening of the Holy Door of the Jubilee approaches, let us open the doors of the heart and the mind to the Lord. And I will give you a piece of advice. Today it is a good day to decide to make a good Confession. If you cannot go today, this week, until next Sunday, open your heart and the Lord will forgive everything”.

After the blessing, the thoughts of the Bishop of Rome went to Nicaragua, to which he had addressed a letter a few days ago : “I invite you to join in prayer for the Church and the people of Nicaragua, who celebrate the Most Pure, as Mother and Patroness, and raises to her a cry of faith and hope. May the heavenly Mother be a consolation for them in difficulties and uncertainties, and open everyone’s hearts, so that the way of respectful and constructive dialogue may be sought, in order to promote peace, fraternity and harmony in the country”.

The prayer intentions indicated by the Pontiff also extended to the prisoners “who are on death row in the United States. I believe there are thirteen or fifteen of them. Let us pray that their sentence be commuted, changed. Let us think of these brothers and sisters of ours and ask the Lord for the grace to save them from death”.

ASIA/SYRIA - Homs awaits the entry of the rebels. Archbishop Mourad: we await their arrival, we trust in the Lord

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 10:23:24 +0100

Homs - "Today we heard the bombings of the army, but no one is walking in the streets and the situation in the city seems calm. We await their arrival". The words of Archbishop Jacques Mourad, Syrian Catholic Archbishop of Homs, describe the climate of waiting and suspense experienced by the inhabitants of the neighborhoods of Homs. Waiting, the anti-government militias who continue their relentless advance and are now targeting Damascus. "In Homs, there is a slowdown - explains the Archbishop originally from Aleppo - only because there are still members of the government army in the city waiting for the order to withdraw. That is why the others have not entered, but are all around, and here the game is already over, thank God".

Jacques Mourad has been the Syrian Catholic Archbishop of Homs since March 2023. A monk of the Deir Mar Musa community, founded by the Roman Jesuit Paolo Dall'Oglio , Father Jacques was kidnapped by a commando of jihadists in May 2015 and endured long months of captivity, first in isolation, then with more than 150 Christians from Quaryatayn, also taken hostage in the territories then conquered by Daesh, and who, like him, had signed the "protection contract" with the jihadist militiamen of the Islamic State.

"Now we are serene and we trust in the Lord. We hope to be able to celebrate the next feast of Jesus' Christmas in complete freedom. While waiting for the Nativity of Jesus, we dream that there can be a new birth for Syria too, for the present and for the future. A Syria respected by the international community and where living conditions can improve. For now, this seems to be a dream. But for us, it remains a very concrete expectation."

Syria, claims the online media Anbamed, seems to be "in a process of territorial disintegration. The advance from the north of the jihadists supported by Turkey and other NATO countries continues." Furthermore, "Daraa and Sueidaa, in the south, are beyond the control of the regime. The opposition groups have ordered local government forces to surrender and go over to the side of the uprising. The opposition in these two southern cities is not of the same jihadist matrix as Tahrir Sham.
Daraa was the rebel city in 2011 that triggered the March 25 uprising. Sueidaa, on the other hand, is a city with a Druze majority and has never participated in the uprising movement.

In the northeast, a region under the control of the Kurdish-led military forces, "the fighters have taken control of all the positions that were previously under the control of government forces and allied Iranian militias". On the Syrian scene, it is military forces and garrisons - including those of the United States, Russia and Iran - that would end up clashing in a possible dissolution of the apparatuses of President Bashar al Assad.

EUROPE/RUSSIA - 30th anniversary of the Franciscan school in Novosibirsk

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 09:35:21 +0100

Novosibirsk - A "personal" education, which involves attention and love for each child: this is what the Catholic Franciscan school "Christmas of the Lord" in Novosibirsk aims to be, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2024. Father Corrado Trabucchi OFM, director of the school since the beginning, clearly explains the objective for which the school was founded: "To make a selfish heart a heart that has compassion".

Founded shortly after the end of the USSR, in a context in which the Catholic presence was being reconstituted on new social and legislative bases, the Franciscan institute presents an educational offer aimed at the integral development of children, in their intellectual, spiritual and relational dimensions. It welcomes not only children from Christian families , but also from Muslim families.

The school, which is set up as a non-state organization accredited by the Russian Federation, offers a four-year primary education cycle and, in the case of preschool education, a five-year cycle. It is currently attended by 57 children and has four teachers. In addition to the classical subjects taught in Russia, students benefit from music and singing lessons, one hour of religion per week and a short hour of daily community prayer. The religion program allows children to approach the Bible, iconography, the lives of the saints - especially those dear to the Russian tradition, such as St. Sergius of Radonezh and St. Nicholas - and the names of God in the Quran.

For the school's teachers, it is particularly important not to leave children from disadvantaged families on the sidelines of the learning and growth process. In cooperation with the two Catholic parishes of Novosibirsk, the teachers strive not to leave these students with the elements necessary for them to face primary education with confidence. "This is why we offer three meal breaks a day and we have a gym where they can exercise, even during the harsh Siberian winters, when it is not possible to do it outside.

The preparation of plays and festive moments of the school also has a strong educational value: thanks to the support of the teachers, any diction problems are often corrected during the preparation of the plays.

"Thirty years have passed since the first school cycle in 1994", Father Corrado explains to Fides, "and our former students of that time now have families and want to send their children to our school, precisely because of the wonderful experience they had there as children. They often come back to visit us during the holidays and are, in a way, the "messengers" of our school. And among our former students, who today number over 300, we already have the first deaths whom we remember in prayer: Anna, who died in a car accident, and Nikita, who died at the front."
The school enjoys an excellent reputation in the city and many people admire its educational model. "In all these years," concludes Father Corrado, "the school has been supported by many benefactors, to whom we address our grateful remembrance. We are happy to have been able to sow the good seed for 30 years and we thank the Lord and all our friends, hoping that we can continue."

There are currently three Friars Minor in Novosibirsk who, together with the other Friars Minor of St. Petersburg, are part of the St. Francis Foundation for Russia.

ASIA/INDIA - New farmers' protests: calls for justice and dignity

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 08:41:42 +0100

New Delhi - "The situation of Indian farmers is devastating. The inhumane treatment they face in this country is causing concern and a feeling of helplessness," said Jose Kavi, a Catholic journalist and analyst, commenting on the new protests of farmers in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, who once again took to the streets with over 200 associations and headed again towards the capital, New Delhi.
The concerns and fears of Indian farmers are not new: in 2020, farmers protested against three agricultural laws that would have reduced production by favoring multinationals. After a year of protests, these laws were repealed in 2021 . Now, India's farmers, some 700 million people who form the backbone of the country, are once again putting forward a series of previously unanswered demands to politicians: cancellation of agricultural loans, a pension scheme for farmers and workers, a halt to the increase in electricity prices. They are also demanding that the government drop charges related to the 2021 violence and provide compensation to the families of the 700 or so farmers who died during earlier farmer protests in 2020-21. Among the unions' demands is higher compensation for land acquired by the authorities for public or private construction projects. The protests had flared up again after the government rejected these demands at a meeting with farmers' unions last February. "We must not forget that these farmers are the citizens of our country. As responsible citizens, we must express our solidarity with the farmers to protect their dignity. The Catholic community of India, through its various institutions, has always been committed to the life of farmers, who are often among the poorest in society: this support means promoting justice, social equality and the sustainable development of our country's agriculture," said Kavi.

AMERICA/ECUADOR - A month after the funeral, prayers continue for Fabián Enrique Arcos Sevilla, priest found dead with signs of torture

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 13:52:42 +0100

Ambato - In the Diocese of Ambato people continue to pray for Fabián Enrique Arcos Sevilla, a priest who disappeared on 30 October and was found dead with signs of torture four days later, in the province of Cotopaxi, near a landfill.

Meanwhile, investigations continues. According to the local police, the priest knew those who killed him. The motive, according to the police, was robbery. The funeral was held three days after the body was found, on 6 November, in the church of Huachi Chico, south of Ambato.

When the priest's body was found, Jorge Giovanny Pazmiño, Bishop of Ambato, expressed his “sorrow for the loss of this beloved priest in a note released by the diocese, thanking the expressions of solidarity received from various sectors of society, both inside and outside the province of Tungurahua”.

“We remain united with the family of our brother and friend, Father Fabián Arcos, especially his mother, siblings, nieces and nephews. We will continue to hold their hands to accompany them in their suffering,” added the Bishop, emphasizing the importance of the work of the police who are investigating the case: “We trust that their professionalism will allow the facts to be revealed so that justice will judge all the guilty parties. We ask that, considering the suffering of the Arcos Sevilla family and the diocese of Ambato, there be no room for speculation”.

Fabián Enrique Arcos Sevilla was born in Quito on 28 January 1971 and was ordained a priest on 18 July 1998. Since then, he has dedicated his life to pastoral service in various parishes and communities in the Diocese of Ambato. First as Cooperating Vicar in Juan Benignos Vela from 1998 to 1999, then as parish priest in Pilahuín from 1999 to 2002. From 2022 to 2003 he was Cooperating Vicar of Pilahuín and for the three-year period 2001-2003 he was also Vicar of the Indigenous Pastoral. A member of the Presbyteral Council, he was also parish priest of Huambaló from 2003 to 2004. From 2009 to 2012, he served as parish priest of San Juan Apóstol and then as parish priest of San Antonio from 2012 to 2013. Chancellor of the Diocese of Ambato from 2009 to 2013, he was also Cooperating Vicar of Izamba from 2017 until his death. He studied at the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador and then enrolled at the San José Seminary. He then studied in Italy, at the Gregorian University in Rome.

ASIA/BAHRAIN - The essential and vital role of women for the mission of the Church

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 13:41:33 +0100

Manama - "Women are not only an integral part of our faith communities, but also essential for the flourishing of the mission of our Church," said Bishop Aldo Berardi , Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, on the occasion of the meeting on Discipleship and female participation in a synodal Church in mission. "These two days are intended to be a testimony of our commitment to their full participation," said the Bishop at the opening of the two-day event, which took place on 29 and 30 November in the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia in Awali and in the Church of the Sacred Heart in Manama.

The initiative was launched by the "AVONA-Women" organization of the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia, together with Bishop Berardi, to promote dialogue and initiative to enhance the role of women in the Church. The event was well received and sparked lively discussions on how to further involve women in decision-making and improve their visibility in the Church's teaching and practice.

Also on the list of speakers was Pascale Debbane, Regional Coordinator of the Listening and Dialogue Section - Middle East, who spoke about a broader vision of the synodal Church and the important role that women play in shaping the mission and governance of the Church.

Giving women a voice within the Church and encouraging them to actively participate in the Church's tasks was one of the goals of this meeting, which was also attended by Father Joseph Savarimuthu, who together with Pascale Debbane belongs to the Dicastery for the Promotion of Human Development, and Sister Milagros Sandoval of the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit from the Philippines.

"In these times of darkness, division and conflict in all forms of society, the 'AVONA Women's Program' is light and hope for people, especially women. I am grateful to have been able to share with them," said Sister Milagros, speaking of her work in the Philippines from her spiritual and missionary perspective.

The success of this initiative is a significant step towards recognizing the essential and decisive contribution of women in missionary work.