Sr Stan remembered at funeral as 'a truly great soul'

Mourners at Sr Stanislaus Kennedy's funeral have heard how a "truly great soul has passed from this world".

In his homily, Father Richard Hendrick told the congregation the charity and social justice organisations she founded will remain as a "testimony to the legacy of this powerhouse of good who swept into so many lives".

The Capuchin Franciscan friar and author, known as Brother Richard, led the service at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Dublin.

He described how the funeral mass was filled with "real loss and grief" but also "filled with the hope that burned in the heart of Sister Stan her whole life".

He also said Ireland has been "blessed by women who have heard the gospel as the Good News to the poor that it truly is" adding "Sister Stan followed in their footsteps".

In her welcoming remarks, Sr Una of the Religious Sisters of Charity said Sr Stan had planned much of her funeral, adding she had "very definite ideas about how we should celebrate her passing".

She said the Focus Ireland founder's purpose "was to provide the best way possible for those who are needy, sick, destitute, and heart sore".

She said: "We know how much of that she achieved in her life, it is well documented.

"But none of us will ever know the countless individuals whom she quietly helped, supported, encouraged, advised and championed."

Sr Una described her as "a formidable woman in many ways, with high standards and expectations, and she could be as stubborn and as determined as any of us and maybe more so than most of us".

There was a quiet laugh from the congregation when she added: "She was not happy when she heard the word no."

In a tribute from her family, her niece Déirdre said: "After all those years looking out for others, this old heart has finally learned to look after itself, each act of kindness a stitch in the warm blanket that now covers you."

President Michael D Higgins, Tánaiste Simon Harris, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and former president Mary McAleese all attended the mass in Donnybrook as did the auxiliary bishop of Dublin Fr Donal Roche and Archbishop Diarmuid Martin.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who is at the COP30 climate conference in Brazil, was represented by an aide de camp.

The funeral missal featured a quote from the founder of the Religious Sisters of Charity, of which Sister Stan was a member, which reads: "Do pray that justice may be accomplished in peace and that truth may prevail."

The offertory gifts were presented by representatives of the different organisations Sr Stan founded and including a key symbolising the Focus Housing Association and a copy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights representing the Immigrant Council of Ireland.

Stanislaus Kennedy died following a short illness at the St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown on Monday morning.

Since then, tributes have poured in for the 86-year-old social justice campaigner.

President Higgins said on Monday she was "a deeply committed campaigner for the vulnerable and marginalised in our society, and a fearless advocate for human rights and equality".

"Telling the truth of inequality required a woman of immense courage and vision. She was that," he said.

He also said her "many books and writings provided a further source of policy, inspiration, solace and support for so many".

Sister Stan, who was born as Treasa Kennedy, grew up near Lios Póil on the Dingle Peninsula in Co Kerry.

She joined the Religious Sisters of Charity in 1958 after being inspired by the work of its founder, Mary Aikenhead, at the age of 18.

She was sent on a mission to Kilkenny where she spent 19 years developing the county's social services.

In 1974, the government appointed her the first chairwoman of the National Committee on Pilot Schemes to Combat Poverty.

She moved to Dublin where, in 1985, she founded Focus Point, now called Focus Ireland, following her research into the needs of women in homelessness in Dublin in the 1980s.

The same year, she was appointed by the European Commission to co-ordinate a rural anti-poverty programme right across Europe.

She also founded other entities: a meditation centre called The Sanctuary in 1998; the Immigrant Council of Ireland (ICI) in 2001; and the Young Social Innovators (YSI) in 2021, an initiative to encourage students to be more socially engaged.

BREAKING : Infant remains found at Tuam mother and baby home excavation

Infant remains have been recovered from an excavation at the site of a former mother and baby home in Tuam, according to initial assessments.

The excavation of the site of St Mary’s mother and baby home in Tuam, Co Galway, is attempting to identify the remains of infants who died at the home between 1925 and 1961.

Archaeologists and other specialists started working at the site in July.

In 2014, research led by local historian Catherine Corless indicated that 796 babies and young children were buried in a sewage system at the Co Galway institution across that time period.

The Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention Tuam (ODAIT), which is undertaking the work, issued an update on its work on Friday.

In an area around underground vaulted structures, ODAIT forensic experts have confirmed that seven sets of human remains have been recovered in an “adjacent location”.

Initial assessment indicates that these skeletal remains belong to infants and a full analysis will be carried out to estimate age at death.

However, ODAIT cannot say at this time whether they are from the Workhouse era (1841 to 1918), the military era (1918 to 1925) or the Mother and Baby Institution era (1925 to 1961) at the site.

Radiocarbon dating and other analyses are being carried out to aid in determining their era of origin, which is expected to take at least three months.

The “vaulted structures” are separate from the multi-chambered tank in the memorial garden, which was located in 2016/17.

The memorial garden will be excavated later in this process.

In a concurrent area focused on what was a former workhouse yard, the ODAIT has recovered seven other sets of historic, skeletal human remains consistent with the Workhouse era.

The ODAIT is also proceeding with its DNA identification programme.

It said it will begin contacting those who had expressed an interest in providing a DNA sample in the coming weeks.

Anyone who believes they are related to someone buried at the Tuam site who has not yet contacted ODAIT is invited to do so.

St Mary’s home for unmarried mothers and their children was run by the Bon Secours Sisters, a religious order of Catholic nuns.

In 2021, Taoiseach Micheál Martin apologised on behalf of the state for the treatment of women and children who were housed in mother and baby homes across Ireland.

The Bon Secours Sisters also offered a “profound apology” after acknowledging the order had “failed to protect the inherent dignity” of women and children in the Tuam home.

Armenian Priest Defrocked After Participating In ‘Uncanonical’ Liturgy

The Armenian Apostolic Church has defrocked a priest over alleged misconduct after he took part in what church authorities described as an uncanonical liturgy attended by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian.

In a statement on November 6, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin announced the defrocking of Father Taron Hunanian, a clergyman of the Tavush Diocese, citing violations of ecclesiastical rules and public conduct.

According to the statement, the decision followed a report from the acting head of the Tavush Diocese and the conclusions of the Mother See’s Committee on Awards and Disciplinary Matters.

The church said Father Hunanian had committed several violations, including “voluntarily leaving his assigned post in May 2024, ignoring repeated instructions and appeals from diocesan leadership, participating in an allegedly uncanonical ceremony organized by a previously defrocked cleric, Stepan Asatrian, publicly disparaging the Armenian Apostolic Church and fellow clergy, showing disrespect toward the church’s highest authority, and violating his oath of obedience.”

A senior clergyman suggested that the decision to defrock Father Hunanian was not solely related to his public criticism of church practices or his participation in the ceremony with Asatrian.

Father Samvel, acting head of the Tavush Diocese, told RFE/RL’s Armenian Service that a proposal to review Father Hunanian’s conduct had been submitted about a month before those incidents.

Father Hunanian, for his part, denied abandoning his post, saying he was on indefinite leave with the verbal approval of Archbishop Bagrat Galstanian, the leader of 2024 antigovernment protests who is currently on trial on coup charges.

Earlier, Father Hunanian had called on the Mother See’s disciplinary committee to review its own members’ conduct before taking action against him.

The defrocking of another priest in Armenia comes amid growing tensions between the Church and the State.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian, who says he is acting as a Christian and follower of the Church, has called on Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II to resign, accusing him of violating his oath of celibacy by fathering a child. 

Pashinian has also expressed support for Asatrian by attending a sermon conducted by the defrocked priest at a medieval monastery about 30 kilometers northwest of Yerevan that Asatrian has refused to leave.

The Armenian Apostolic Church has described Asatrian’s services as a “soul-destroying enterprise,” accusing Pashinian of attempting to “split the Church.”

Last Sunday, Armenian law-enforcement authorities arrested the brother and nephew of Catholicos Garegin II on suspicion of obstructing an election campaign of a pro-government party in the Vagharshapat community, which is set to hold a closely contested local ballot on November 16.

Critics of Pashinian regard the arrests as part of what they describe as government pressure on Catholicos Garegin II to resign.

Underage Refugees in Casablanca Accuse French Priest of Sexual Abuse

Three underage migrants have testified against French priest Antoine Exelmas, accused of sexually abusing asylum seekers and migrants in Casablanca.

AFP quoted the Catholic Archbishop of Rabat, who said the archdiocese fully cooperated with Moroccan and foreign authorities on the case.

“As soon as the facts were brought to our attention, we undertook the procedures required by church rules and fully cooperated with authorities, both in Morocco and abroad, by sharing the results of our investigation,” Archbishop Cristobal Lopez Romero told AFP.

The viral case was reported by Enass, a Moroccan news outlet, which said that police received a complaint against Antoine Exelmans in May last year, accusing him of sexual abuse.

The news outlet said the priest is allegedly involved in sexually abusing at least six victims, the majority from Guinea and one from Cameroon.

Enass also reported on the “system of sexual exploitation” that Exelmas was involved in against migrant and refugee minors lasted at least four years.

The outlet added that one of the victims was a 17-year-old asylum seeker from Guinea. Police, to date, have listened to three out of the six alleged victims.

Archbishop Romero said Exelmans was under house arrest in France, with the court imposing restrictions on him and banning him from any contact with minors unless another adult was present.

He added that the church was first notified of inappropriate behavior by the priest in July 2024, but the case has only come to final fruition lately.

The case that has recently been highlighted by the media comes amid another scandal involving priest Yves Grosjean, who was jailed for sexual assaults on minors.

Earlier this month, AFP reported that the 68-year-old priest had admitted to different abuse cases.

Police in France put Grosjean in custody in May after a complaint by a young man, who accused him of sexual assault. The incident took place in France in 2019 when the complainant was only 12 years old.

A collective representing the priest’s victims identified 17 men who reported being sexually assaulted out of 57 total contacted by the association. The individuals were in contact with the priest when they were minors.

The association estimated that between 400 and 500 minors had contact with the priest during his career in France. The number does not include his service in Rabat, where he served between 2017 and 2024.

The priest left Morocco in 2024 when new accusations had been made against him. His transfer to Rabat also took place after an individual first accused him of sexually assaulting a minor.

Slovakia passes school reform criticized by bishops and educators amid funding concerns

Bishops and educators have raised concerns about a major education overhaul signed into law by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, saying new funding rules could unfairly affect Catholic and private schools.

The changes include unified online registration of kids for a school year and compulsory pre-school education for 4-year-olds, and later for 3-year-olds. 

Less-qualified personnel will be allowed to teach to offset the shortage of teachers. 

Universities should reduce bureaucracy and adopt modern methods, including artificial intelligence, according to the changes.

Yet one of the main issues is the new financing of private and Church-run schools.

The Ministry of Education explained that such schools can receive full funding if they admit students in accordance with the new rules, provide free education, or clearly serve the public interest.

The Slovak Bishops’ Conference (KBS) will monitor the implementation of the changes. However, the conference said the education ministry did not take into account KBS’ numerous suggestions, the episcopate stated in September. 

Therefore, KBS was “fundamentally in conflict with the amendment to the School Act in the form in which it was submitted to Parliament.”

The Slovak Chamber of Teachers warned that the legislative process took place “without any professional discussion in a few hours, and not months.” 

However, it requires “high-quality, honest legislative and professional work.”

Former Minister of Education Ján Horecký, who was a principal at a Catholic school, said he thinks the effect on private and Church-run schools will be discriminatory and unfair. 

It will “reduce the availability of education” and “worsen conditions for children in the name of shifting decision-making about children from parents to the state.”

After the passing of the School Act, the principals of Catholic schools in the Košice Archdiocese went on a pilgrimage to Rome for the Jubilee of the World of Education. They attended the general audience with Pope Leo XIV. 

Auxiliary Bishop Marek Forgáč, who accompanied them, greeted the pontiff, saying they were “very encouraged” by the pope’s words.

It was important to be “with our supreme teacher, as we need to be formed and spiritually encouraged, too, to be a good example for those to whom we are sent — our pupils and students,” the bishop concluded.

Prosecutors claim Kansas City diocesan staffer stole $150,000 from scholarship fund

A staffer at the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph in Missouri allegedly stole more than $150,000 while serving as the leader of a diocesan scholarship program, officials have alleged.

Federal prosecutors claim that Jeremy Lillig engaged in wire fraud to steal from the diocesan Bright Futures Fund, which offers tuition assistance for students in diocesan schools.

Bishop James Johnston Jr. said in a Nov. 5 letter to the diocese that Lillig had been arrested by law enforcement pursuant to a warrant from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Missouri.

Lillig was last employed by the diocese in October 2023, Johnston said. The diocese became aware of the alleged theft “shortly after his departure,” after which they reported it to law enforcement including the FBI.

“This news is, I’m sure, unsettling to many within our diocesan family, and, like you, I was shocked to learn of such a gross violation of the trust and integrity that is essential to any institution, especially one upheld by Catholic teachings,” the bishop wrote.

Johnston said the diocese has conducted a full audit of its finances to determine the extent of the alleged theft. In addition, the diocese has strengthened security and oversight of the Bright Futures program.

“In everything we do, we strive to be faithful stewards of the resources and generous gifts with which we are entrusted and which help sustain our many services and ministries,” the bishop wrote in the letter.

The Kansas City Star reported on Nov. 5 that Lillig pleaded not guilty to the charges. His trial is set for March 16, 2026.

Lillig reportedly worked as director of stewardship for the diocese in addition to his role at the scholarship fund.

Prosecutors accused him of having diverted diocesan funds to purchase hundreds of Visa gift cards over the course of about five years.

In 2015 Lillig had been hailed by the local magazine the Independent as a “rising star of philanthropy,” with the outlet describing philanthropic giving as an “ingrained part of his professional, civic, and personal life.”

He faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted.

Holiness is theme for Catholic Schools Week 2026

During their Autumn General Meeting in Maynooth, the Bishops of Ireland had a general discussion on education, and commended the theme for Catholic School Week 2026, ‘Catholic Schools: Normal lives, Called to Holiness’, which will be celebrated in schools across the island of Ireland from 18 to 24 January 2026.  

Bishops stated, “God has blessed us all with gifts to make the world a better place.  Catholics are also called to holiness, which simply means: bringing God’s love into our actions every day. 

Catholic school communities nurture students to help them realise their full potential, and to put their gifts at the service of others, following the example of Jesus. 

We offer our blessing to primary and secondary students, staff, parents and grandparents who planned and will participate in Catholic Schools Week 2026.”

The theme of Catholic Schools Week is structured to reflect a key Gospel value each day:

– Monday: Called to Holiness through Prayer

– Tuesday: Called to Holiness through Love and Friendship

– Wednesday: Called to Holiness in Family Life (Grandparents’ Day)

– Thursday: Called to Holiness through Courage and Service

– Friday: Called to Holiness through Joy and Service

Resources for Catholic Schools Week are available on catholiceducation.ie  

#Catholic Schools Week  

#CSW2026

Archbishops Martin and McDowell address the 50th anniversary of the Ulster Project

On 1 November, a Service of Thanksgiving was jointly held in Saint Macartin’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, Enniskillen, Diocese of Clogher, and across the road in Saint Michael’s Catholic Church, to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Ulster Project, which offers “leadership training in conflict resolution (reconciliation) with the goal of empowering Ulster Project teens to oppose discrimination of any kind.”

The Ulster Project, which brings Protestant and Catholic teenagers from Northern Ireland together for month-long stays with host families in the United States, aims to provide “leadership training in conflict resolution with the goal of empowering Ulster Project teens to oppose discrimination of any kind.”  

Over the past five decades, it is estimated that 25,000 young people have participated in the programme.

Preaching in Saint Macartin’s Cathedral, Archbishop John McDowell, Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, praised the Project’s founders and volunteers for their quiet but transformative work.  

He said the initiative had succeeded through “hospitality, encounter, and ordinary friendship,” calling reconciliation “a great civic word, but also a hard word – a very difficult thing to bring to birth or to put into effect.”

Across the road in Saint Michael’s Church, Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, reflected on the enduring legacy of the Project and the ongoing need for reconciliation.

“When we marked the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, there was gratitude for progress made, but also an acceptance that we still had a long way to go,” he said.  “Those words of W. B. Yeats – ‘peace comes dropping slow’ – remind us that the work of peace is gradual, often happening out of sight, but it continues.”

Archbishop Martin said the Project’s founders understood that real peace required patience and persistence saying, “The unfinished work of peace cries out for leadership on so many levels – from churches, politicians, business people, educators, and community workers. We need more risk-takers who can help us take courageous steps forward in the service of the common good.”

Describing the Ulster Project as being “born in hope and continuing in hope,” Archbishop Martin expressed his prayer that its anniversary would “re-energise a spirit of solidarity and generosity” and inspire new generations to “build bridges, cross the road, and recognise that the stranger over there is really our friend.”

To read the homilies in full, please click HERE

Vatican opens another laundry for the homeless

The Vatican has opened another centre to support people in need. 

The "Laundry of St Francis of Assisi" in Parma was inaugurated on Thursday by Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the papal social welfare representative, as announced by his dicastery. 

It offers poor and homeless people everything they need for personal hygiene and laundry free of charge.

This is already the seventh "laundry" of its kind, which was created on the initiative of Pope Francis (2013-2025). 

The first was set up in Rome near the Vatican in 2017, followed by others in Genoa, Turin, Naples, Catania and San Ferdinando (Reggio Calabria). The initiative is supported by a US manufacturer of detergents and hygiene products.

St Francis of Assisi a model of fraternity

The centre is named after Saint Francis, patron saint of Italy and a model of biblical poverty and universal fraternity, as it is said. 

Pope Leo XIV described the "Poverello" in his first Apostolic Letter as "the shining figure who will always inspire us".

St Francis of Assisi (around 1181-1226) is one of the most important figures in the Catholic Church. His ideal of radical poverty characterised religious orders such as the Franciscans, Capuchins and Poor Clares. 

Pope Francis chose his name in memory of the saint, who is regarded as a symbol of humility and simplicity. 

The 800th anniversary of his death will be commemorated with major celebrations next year.

Liturgist: Traditional Latin Mass in St Peter's Basilica has exposed its supporters

According to liturgy scholar Florian Kluba, the recent celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass in St Peter's Basilica exposed its supporters and those responsible for its preparation. 

"Instead of the focus of prayer, it seems to be more about demarcation," writes Kluba in an article for the portal "feinschwarz.net" (Thursday). This can be seen above all in the celebration of the Eucharist with the "back to the people", which is considered a characteristic feature of the celebration according to the 1962 missal - even though St Peter's Basilica faces west.

At the end of October, the US Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke celebrated a mass in the old rite in St Peter's Basilica with the permission of Pope Leo XIV. 

It took place as part of a pilgrimage by followers of this mass rite; around 3,000 people are said to have taken part. The Eucharistic celebration took place at the bronze cathedral altar from the 1980s, "where daily services are celebrated according to the Roman rite missal in force since the Second Vatican Council," said Kluba. 

Due to the westernisation of St. Peter's Basilica, masses are normally celebrated there "versus populum", towards the people, and at the same time "ad orientem", i.e. towards the east.

"Paradoxical situation" at Mass in St Peter's Basilica

"As churches are normally ostentatious, the characteristic celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass 'with the back to the people' corresponds to this logic of praying ad orientem," emphasises the theologian, who works at the Department of Liturgical Studies at the University of Bonn. 

However, the rubrics of the Roman missal before the liturgical reform also recognised the phenomenon of west-facing churches: "When the altar is facing east, the priest celebrates versus populum - not to look at the people, but to pray ad orientem together with them." 

However, Burke and those responsible had decided to celebrate towards the cathedra and thus towards the west. 

"This led to the paradoxical situation that Burke did not raise the host and chalice to the east, but to the choir set up behind the cathedral altar."

In traditionalist circles in particular, the question of the direction of the celebration seems to epitomise resistance to the post-conciliar liturgical reform, writes Kluba. The direction of celebration chosen for the Mass in St Peter's Basilica showed that it was not about a "pious turning to God", as otherwise the "early Christian principle of prayer facing east" would have been followed. 

Rather, the direction of the celebration served to distinguish it from the Roman liturgy after the Second Vatican Council. 

"Instead of being a place of unity in faith and prayer, the service thus degenerates into the scene of a liturgical-political culture war - and thus loses the spiritual, theological and tradition-conscious depth that its followers believe they find in it," emphasises Kluba.

Pope Leo offers his strongest criticism of Trump yet

Pope Leo has called for "deep reflection" on how migrants are treated in the United States, where he said many people were deeply affected by the controversial policy of mass deportation.

In some of his strongest criticism to date of President Donald Trump's administration, the first ever US-born pope also warned that the US bombing of Venezuelan ships, suspected of carrying drugs, risked increasing tensions in the region.

Emerging to address a bank of TV cameras outside his papal retreat at Castel Gandolfo and offering to answer "one or two questions", Pope Leo XIV said there were people who have lived in the US "for years and years never causing problems, who have been deeply affected" by Trump's hardline policy on migration.

Speaking in English, and reaching a US audience directly, he reiterated the Catholic belief that every Christian will ultimately be judged on how they welcomed "the foreigner".

"I was struck by how direct his reference was because he's obviously talking about the ICE round-ups," Catholic historian Austen Ivereigh told the BBC, referring to the immigration enforcement body in the US.

Initially, after his election in May, Leo's comments on geopolitics were cautious. Then last month he used the word "inhuman" in reference to the Trump-led crackdown, shaking conservative Catholics in his own country who had embraced the "American Pope".

They had seen Pope Leo as an ally after a fractious relationship with his predecessor, Francis, who once described Trump as "not Christian" for building a wall on the border with Mexico.

"Now they're waking up to the fact that Leo isn't going to change church teaching for their sake," Mr Ivereigh said. "They realise that he's very different from Francis in his style, but it's the same teaching and priorities. He's very much a continuation."

Born in Chicago, Pope Leo – or Robert Prevost as he was then – spent much of his working life as a missionary in Peru, an experience that has also shaped his approach.

"I think this is an issue that matters to him personally," Professor Anna Rowlands of Durham University said. "He has lived in countries affected by these policies, and been welcomed himself as a migrant. He was in effect a migrant bishop."

In his first major document, published last month, Pope Leo revealed that the issues of poverty and migration would remain at the heart of his papacy. He stressed that message at a recent meeting in the Vatican with US bishops.

"Leo offers an entirely orthodox response" to migration, Prof Rowlands pointed out, "straight down the line."

He is, she said, citing a church tradition stretching back more than 100 years on the issue, that includes ensuring the rights of families to remain together and protecting their spiritual needs.

The Pope underlined that last point himself when journalists asked about an immigration facility near Chicago where detainees have reportedly been barred from receiving communion. Many people targeted in the ICE raids are Catholic, from the Americas.

"I would certainly invite the authorities to allow pastoral workers to attend to the needs of those people," he said.

On Venezuela, and the Trump administration's policy of targeting ships and killing crew members, the Pope called for dialogue and calm.

"I think that with violence we won't win," he said in Italian.

He suggested that the deployment of US Navy vessels close to Venezuela was increasing tension rather than working to "defend the peace."

Six months on from his surprise election, the contours of Pope Leo's papacy are becoming clearer and his habit of visiting Castel Gandolfo, shunned by Francis, has also brought new transparency: For years, journalists have had to wait for a papal trip abroad to get anywhere near the head of the church and put their questions.

"When the Pope speaks very definitely like this, it does put pressure on the US administration – particularly those who identify as Catholics," Mr Iverleigh said.

"So far, Leo's avoided getting entangled in the whole Trump machine. Maybe he's taking that risk now.

Pope Leo remembers Cardinal Duka as 'fearless proclaimer of the Gospel'

In a telegram of condolences, Pope Leo XIV praises the late Cardinal Dominik Duka, O.P., Archbishop emeritus of Prague, who passed away on Tuesday at age 82, saying, "I remember with admiration his courage during the time of persecution, when, deprived of his freedom, he did not falter in his adherence to Christ and to the Church."

"I remember with admiration his courage during the time of persecution, when, deprived of his freedom, he did not falter in his adherence to Christ and to the Church," Pope Leo XIV said of Cardinal Dominik Duka, O.P., Archbishop Emeritus of Prague, in a message of condolences sent to the city's current Archbishop, Jan Graubner.

Created a Cardinal in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI, the Dominican Cardinal died on Tuesday in Prague at the age of 82.

Upon learning of the Cardinal's passing, the Pope expressed his closeness to the Church in the Czech Republic, to his Dominican confrères, as well as "to the priests, religious, and faithful who found in him a shepherd forged in faith and a fearless proclaimer of the Gospel."

"With a father’s heart," Pope Leo continued, "he guided the People of God, promoting reconciliation, religious freedom, and dialogue between faith and society."

The late Cardinal's episcopal ministry, founded on the Dominican charism of truth and charity - as his motto, In Spiritu Veritatis reminds us - the Pope insisted, remains an example of faithful dedication to the mission.

Before imparting his blessing upon all who are mourning Cardinal Duka and are taking part in funeral rites, Pope Leo XIV entrusted "to divine mercy the soul of this good and generous servant" and prayed that God might "welcome him into the joy of His kingdom."

Changing demographics, technology challenge all Christians, pope says

The changing landscape of Christianity in Europe, with growth in some countries and continued decline in others, poses challenges that all churches should face together, Pope Leo XIV told Christian leaders.

War and violence, the arrival of migrants — Christian or not — and the rapid spread of new technology also call for a coordinated response, the pope told members of the Joint Committee of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences and the Conference of European Churches.

The group of Catholic bishops and representatives of the Protestant, Anglican and Orthodox churches in Europe met Pope Leo Nov. 6, the day after they had signed a revised and updated “Charta Oecumenica” (Ecumenical Charter).

With many new voices to be heard, “not to mention the urgency of promoting dialogue, concord and fraternity amidst the din of violence and war,” the pope said, Christians must constantly discern the best ways to fulfill Jesus’ great commission to “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

“In all these situations,” he said, “the grace, mercy and peace of the Lord are indeed vital, for only divine help will show us the most convincing way to proclaim Christ in these changing contexts.”

The charter commits the churches and Christian communities to joint prayer and service, to working more diligently toward Christian unity, to defending the religious freedom of all people and to examining the possibility of greater flexibility in “mutual Eucharistic hospitality,” a sharing of Communion that the Catholic and Orthodox churches generally see as the goal of Christian unity rather than as a step on the way.

The European Christian leaders vowed to increase their efforts to fight antisemitism and anti-Judaism, to promote dialogue with the continent’s Muslim communities and to fight religious extremism.

They promised to work together to promote and defend human dignity, to welcome and help integrate migrants, to safeguard the environment and “to foster digital literacy and critical engagement with technology,” including by working with governments and tech companies to ensure the ethical use of artificial intelligence.

Pope Leo told the leaders that the charter “is a testimony to the willingness of the churches in Europe to look at our history through the eyes of Christ.”

“Moreover,” he said, “with the help of the Holy Spirit, we will be able to understand where we have succeeded, where we have fallen short, and where we must go in order to proclaim the Gospel anew.”

In addition to the suggestions and commitments, he said, the charter also carries strong reminders that Christians must accompany one another in seeking to do God’s will and being open “to the promptings and surprises of the Holy Spirit!”

Nigeria: Diocese mourns following death of kidnapped teen seminarian

The Diocese of Auchi, Nigeria, announced the death of a young seminarian who, along with two fellow seminarians, was kidnapped by bandits in July.

In a statement published Nov. 4, Father Linus Imoedemhe, assistant director of communications for the diocese, said that while two of the seminarians — Japhet Jesse and Joshua Aleobua– were released, the third, Emmanuel Alabi, died “in the course of the ordeal.”

‘Deep pain and sorrow’

Bishop Gabriel Dunia of Auchi “has expressed his deep pain and sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian and has called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward protecting the lives and property of all citizens,” Father Imoedemhe said.

“The Diocese of Auchi remains committed to the values of faith, peace, and justice, trusting in God’s infinite mercy to bring comfort to the bereaved family, the seminary community, and all those affected by this tragedy,” the statement read.

On July 10, gunmen attacked the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary and abducted the seminarians, who were between the ages of 14 to 17. Christopher Aweneghieme, a security guard at the seminary, was killed during the attack, Vatican News reported.

Demanded ransom

Several days later, Bishop Dunia confirmed to Fides, the news agency of the Pontifical Mission Societies, that the kidnappers made contact with the diocese and demanded a ransom.

It was the second time in less than a year that the seminary was targeted; in October 2024, gunmen kidnapped Father Thomas Oyode, rector of the minor seminary, who offered himself as a hostage in place of the young seminarians. He was released more than a week after his abduction.

In August, a viral video was posted on Facebook of two of the seminarians, pleading for their lives while holding a human skull. 

Father Peter Egielewa, the diocesan director of communications, confirmed the video’s authenticity, saying that it “brought pain and distress” and expressed Bishop Dunia’s “frustration with the efforts being made to rescue his children.”

‘Worsening insecurity situation’

In his statement announcing Alabi’s death, Father Imoedemhe said Bishop Dunia “cautioned political leaders against turning a blind eye on the worsening insecurity situation in the nation, urging them instead to prioritize the safety and well-being of the people over political ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.”

Attacks and kidnappings, especially against Catholics, are becoming a common occurrence in Nigeria. 

According to a study conducted by the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria and published by Fides March 12, 145 priests have been kidnapped between 2015 and 2025.

While most have been released, of those kidnapped, 11 have been killed, and four remain missing. 

The report stated that “kidnappings are widespread,” with some provinces, such as Kaduna and Abuja in northern Nigeria, experiencing “more violent trends.”

‘Most violent place in the world’

According to Open Doors International, an international organization that supports persecuted Christians around the world, with the rise of extremist Islamic ideology, Nigeria has become “the most violent place in the world for followers of Jesus.”

Citing a study by the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa, Open Doors said that many of those who have been radicalized belong to the nomadic Fulani tribe. 

The extremist ideology adopted by the tribe, it said, justified its violence against Christians, whom they regard as infidels.

Open Doors noted that while violence against Christians is concentrated mainly in northern Nigeria, it has begun to spill over into some southern Nigerian states that have Christian majorities.

Other factors driving conflict

Nevertheless, while the attacks against Christians have a religious component, the conflict is driven by several factors, including the desire for power and control by extremist groups, the vulnerability of impoverished people, as well as climate change, which has led to resource scarcity for the Fulani tribe, driving them to attack Christian-owned lands.

“The trends are clear: More Christians are killed by the extremists than Muslims — given the relative population size of Muslims and Christians in northern states. In fact, if you are a Christian, you are 6.5 times more likely to be killed than a Muslim and 5.1 times more likely to be abducted,” the organization said.

“This does not make the suffering of a Muslim less tragic; it just makes it less likely,” it said.

Pope welcomes election of new major archbishop for Romanian church

Remembering the generations of bishops, priests and laypeople martyred for their Catholic faith under communism in Romania, Pope Leo XIV welcomed the election of a new head of the Romanian Greek Catholic Church.

The bishops of the church elected 53-year-old Bishop Claudiu-Lucian Pop as the major archbishop of Fagaras and Alba Iulia and head of the church; Pope Leo gave his assent in a letter published Nov. 6.

He succeeds Cardinal Lucian Muresan, who died Sept. 25 at the age of 94.

Congratulating the new archbishop, Pope Leo prayed that he would prove to be “a shepherd who, according to the heart of Christ, tends diligently the flock entrusted to you.”

“May the Holy Spirit guide you, Beatitude, in the ministry to which the Lord has called you, that you may promote the communion and the mission of the Romanian Greek Catholic Church, so that it may grow and prosper, ever mindful of the many martyrs and confessors who, by the witness of their lives, have inscribed indelible and glorious pages in the history of faith,” the pope added.

The Romanian Greek Catholic Church was banned by the communist government in 1948 and was able to fully emerge from an underground existence only with the end of communism in 1990.

Archbishop Pop was born July 22, 1972, in Piscolt. He studied in Rome at the Pontifical Urbanian University and the Pontifical Gregorian University before being ordained to the priesthood in 1995.

Pope Benedict XVI named him a bishop in 2011, and he was assigned to the Eparchy of Cluj-Gherla in 2021.

The Romanian Greek Catholic Church is one of 23 Eastern-rite churches in full communion with Rome. 

A major archbishop has authority similar to that of the Eastern Catholic patriarchs, and the key decisions of their churches, including the election of bishops in their home territories, is made by their synods of bishops.

Statement by the Bishop of Down and Dromore, the Right Revd David A McClay

The Bishop of Down and Dromore, the Right Revd David A McClay, has issued the following statement:

"I am not unaccustomed to being misrepresented over many years on social media and by the press because of my evangelical convictions. My connections to Gafcon have added to my being increasingly misrepresented over the past twelve years. Recent weeks have been both difficult and painful as this misrepresentation has further intensified since the issuing of the Gafcon communiqué. 

"I wish to publicly clarify that I remain and that the Diocese of Down and Dromore remains, not only in communion with, but part of, and committed to, the health, wellbeing and growth of the Church of Ireland.

"I also wish to publicly make it absolutely clear that I fully submit as I always have as a Deacon, a Priest and now as Bishop, to the Preamble and Declaration of the Church of Ireland in its entirety, the Thirty-nine Articles of Religion, the Book of Common Prayer and the Ordering of Bishops, Priests and Deacons.

"Ministry in all its forms that I have been involved in over all the years since coming to trust in Christ as a young man aged 18 has always been, and remains, a privilege."

In Christ,

+David Down and Dromore

French bishop forced to resign over relationship with woman, Vatican says

Pope Leo XIV pressured a French bishop to step down over his "relationships with women," according to the Vatican, with the defrocked clergyman hitting back on Wednesday, November 5, at the "disgusting" situation. 

When announcing his resignation as the Bishop of Verdun in late September, Jean-Paul Gusching had hinted that health issues lay behind the decision to hang up his crosier.

But the Holy See's embassy to France on Tuesday revealed that those were but "one element" behind that decision, with a preliminary canonical investigation into his behavior underway and the civil courts alerted to the matter.

In an unusual intervention from the Apostolic Nunciature in Paris, the embassy said that after it had alerted the pontiff to the matter, Gusching committed "to avoid in future any behavior towards women that could be interpreted as contrary to his holy vows." 

But "given the ongoing nature of the situation, the Holy Father solicited and accepted his resignation... which took effect on September 27," the Nunciature added.

'They want my head'

A day after the embassy's statement came to light, Gusching admitted to having a relationship which lasted "from around 2015 to 2022." 

But the ex-bishop said that was "the only affair" he had committed, insisting that the "disgusting" push for his resignation was motivated by "jealousies."

"They want my head," the ex-bishop told the local paper L'Est Républicain in an interview published on Wednesday evening. Asked whether the relationship was consensual, Gusching said: "Yes, she was a woman of age."

The Vatican has ordered Gusching to "refrain from any liturgical celebrations and public pastoral activities." 

Catholic bishops are strictly forbidden from having any sexual relationships, though the Church has been rocked in recent decades by a litany of child sex abuse scandals.

CofE accepts ‘majority’ of Makin Review recommendations

The Church of England has accepted the majority of recommendations from an independent review into the abuse by John Smyth, a year on from its publication. 24 of the recommendations have been accepted fully with three accepted in part.

In a statement on the Church of England’s website, the lead safeguarding bishops Joanne Grenfell and Robert Springett acknowledged “again the deep harm caused by the abuse committed by John Smyth and the failures in the Church’s response.  

“We are profoundly sorry for the ways in which the Church failed to protect children and vulnerable adults and for the lasting impact of those failures.”

The bishops said they had spent the last year responding to the Makin Review’s recommendations, with survivors being “a key part of this work”.

John Smyth, who died in 2018 has been described as the Church of England’s “most prolific serial abuser” after abusing boys and young men he met at Christian summer camps in the 1970s and 80s. 

He fled to South Africa and Zimbabwe where the Makin Review found he perpetrated further grooming and physical abuse.

Eight members of the clergy who were criticised in the review are currently subject to disciplinary proceedings, with another three set to take place.

The National Safeguarding Steering Group has produced a paper setting out progress and next steps which will be presented at the next meeting of General Synod in February 2026.

The Church of England is developing an independent scrutiny body to provide external oversight of safeguarding practices within the Church and hold Church bodies to account.

A programme of independent safeguarding audits of cathedrals and dioceses is already underway.

Tanzania’s bishops condemn killings and abductions after disputed elections

The Catholic Church in Tanzania has condemned a wave of abductions and killings amid a political crisis following disputed general elections.

Father Charles Kitima, secretary general of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference, said the bishops had denounced “the systematic violation of fundamental human rights” through the “kidnapping and killing of politicians and those who opposed the government.”

In an interview with L’Osservatore Romano, Father Kitima said the bishops had “called for national prayers and condemned the disappearances, kidnappings, and the abduction of politicians and other opposition party representatives.” 

He added, “The episcopal conference even wrote open letters condemning these acts and telling the government that it must sit at the negotiating table and engage in dialogue with the opposition political parties.”

The protests that have swept across Tanzania began over irregularities in the recent elections but soon escalated into a broader confrontation between citizens and the authorities. 

Father Kitima said, “The street protests … aimed to highlight … the systematic violation of fundamental human rights through the kidnapping and killing of politicians and those who opposed the government.” 

He admitted that “some protesters indulged in abuse, destruction and looting,” but said that police “responded by firing live ammunition into the crowd, injuring and killing people.”

The scale of the violence remains unclear. Independent observers initially estimated several dozen fatalities, but Church sources now believe the number to be far higher. 

“The protests in Tanzania have killed many,” said Father Kitima. “The Church is committed to dialogue. Yes, there are hundreds of deaths. It’s truly inhumane.” 

The authorities have meanwhile restricted communications, warning citizens not to share images that could “cause alarm and offend human life.” Opposition figures claim that the bodies of victims are being hidden to conceal the true extent of the killings.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, sworn in for a second term amid tight security in Dar es Salaam, has called for national dialogue. 

But Father Kitima remains cautious. “We are still waiting for dialogue,” he said. “We ask the government to truly listen to the people, while we tell our people that justice requires discussing the truth: there are problems that must be resolved, and those who caused them must take responsibility. The Church is seeking a way to heal.”

The bishops are expected to meet next week to consider their next steps. Tanzania, a nation of about 67.5 million people, is 56 per cent Christian, 22 per cent Catholic, 33 per cent Muslim and 10 per cent followers of traditional religions. 

The Church, which has long played a mediating role in African political crises, is again stepping forward to defend life, justice and peace in a country now facing one of the gravest moments in its post-independence history.

Vatican to issue new document addressing polygamy in Africa

The Vatican will issue a new document on marriage later this month, addressing the question of polygamy in Africa amid continuing pastoral and cultural debate.

The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith announced that the text, titled We Two: In Praise of Monogamy. Doctrinal Note on the Value of Marriage, Exclusive Communion, and Mutual Belonging, will be released at the end of November.

Father Armando Matteo, the dicastery’s secretary, said on Tuesday that the document follows a specific request made during the Synod on Synodality for African bishops to prepare a statement on the matter. 

A press conference will take place at the Holy See Press Office when the note is unveiled.

Previous discussions during the 2014 and 2015 Synods on the Family were dominated by questions of divorce and remarriage, with several African bishops speaking about the unique challenges they faced in regions where polygamy remains widespread.

Many commentators and Vatican watchers have suggested that, unlike the recent co-redemptrix document published by the DDF, which became contentious online and among laypeople, the question of polygamy allows for a more straightforward response. It requires a simple document, since Catholic doctrine on the subject is already clearly defined.

The Church has consistently taught that marriage is a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman, a partnership rooted in fidelity, openness to life and mutual self-giving. 

The Catechism describes polygamy as a practice “contrary to conjugal love, which is undivided” and incompatible with the exclusive union willed by God.

In Catholic theology, marriage mirrors the faithful love of Christ for His Church, a bond of exclusive communion and mutual belonging which cannot be divided.

However, while globally rare, in many African societies polygamy remains deeply woven into the social fabric. 

For generations, multiple marriage arrangements have been linked to lineage, social status and economic survival, with a 2020 report by the Pew Research Center finding that about 11 per cent of the population in sub-Saharan Africa live in households in which at least one member has more than one spouse or partner. 

In response, the Church in Africa is actively developing pastoral frameworks for those living in polygamous unions, even as it reiterates the Christian ideal of monogamous marriage.

Church leaders have explained that, although monogamous marriage remains the doctrinal norm, many converts to Catholicism enter the Church from polygamous backgrounds. 

In such cases, bishops and priests have sought ways to integrate families into the faith community without compromising the Church’s teaching on the unity and exclusivity of marriage.

According to the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), six pastoral proposals have been approved “for accompaniment of persons in polygamous situations,” emphasising “listening, proximity and accompaniment” for men and women in such relationships. 

The proposals include welcoming persons in polygamous situations into the Church, making them feel part of the Church, taking initiatives that target widows, emphasising conversion as the primary goal, shifting from the narrow meaning of fecundity as biological parentage to charity, and promoting a family apostolate characterised by catechesis on the Church and the Sacraments.

The forthcoming document is expected to reaffirm that principle while offering clarity and pastoral direction to bishops and faithful in regions where polygamy persists. Its release at the end of November will be closely watched across Africa and beyond.

Gay priest’s emotional sermon receives standing ovation

A moving sermon by a Church of England priest, in which he thanks God for the love LGBTQ+ bring into the world, has left viewers “weeping”.

The 15-minute sermon by The Very Reverend Dr Mark Oakley, the Dean of Southwark Cathedral in London, reflected on the recent news that the House of Bishops would be halting plans to allow gay couples to receive dedicated blessings, and that a ban on priests entering same-sex marriages would be extended.

Oakley, 57, who is gay, began his sermon by suggesting the news had made him want to scream.

“The first bit of news was that the House of Bishops has decided to put through the proposal that stand alone services of blessing for same-sex couples should go through a process that won’t agree to it, and that clergy will continue to be barred from entering a civil marriage, with a same-sex partner,” he said.

“If they do, they are likely to lose their licence and not get a new appointment… Nor will those who are gay and married be accepted for ordination training. Of course, add to this that we are not allowed to marry same-sex couples here in church, and no bishop has ever been transparently appointed in a civil partnership, it is hard not to conclude that the church of England is still homophobic and does not believe in the equality of love.”

He cited a an article by gay Dean of Canterbury David Monteith in response to the news, saying that it “multiplies the shame that LGBTQ people can be made to feel” and adds to a feeling of “invisibility” in the church.

Oakley then cited St. Paul’s letter to the Romans in the Bible’s New Testament, which indicated that homosexuality is unnatural.

“But this isn’t me. It wasn’t like that at all. I didn’t choose anything. I discovered who I was, and it wasn’t easy,” Oakley said.

“I knew people beat up people like me. The government was telling people not to teach children about people like me. The newspapers were naming people like me. The church was excluding people like me if they were honest. They said Paul said I was unnatural and sinful, and I read, and I still read, and I don’t see myself nor anyone I know like me. I don’t recognise my heart there, my need to be loved, and to love. My longing not to spend my life alone or afraid.”

The priest then tearfully recounted his story of coming out to his grandmother when he was 18, in which she told him: “I’ve only been worried about one thing, Mark… I’ve just worried you would never feel able to tell me”.

He said that during his time in the church ministry, some had “preferred” him to stay silent on his sexuality, but his grandmother taught him otherwise.

“I came to see that my grandmother’s response was the response of love and therefore it is also the response of God. God wants us to share with him who we really are, and to know that God’s love only overflows and never diminishes when we dare to do this,” he said.

He urged that Southwark Cathedral would continue to welcome and “rejoice in offering prayers” to those in same-sex relationships, adding: “We look forward to the day when we can offer them equality with everyone else.”

“Paul was not in the 21st century,” he continued. “He would never meet men or women who set home up together, cooked with each other, went on holiday together, were there with a light on when they got home, helping to soothe the past day. Caring for each other, growing old together, being there for better or worse, and feeling painful absence in their life when death separated them.”

He said he liked to imagine that Paul would today see love between LGBTQ+ people “equally and as miraculously” as heterosexual love, “because where love is, God is too.”

“I’d want him to know that because of God, love wins. No matter what can be said or done to control or stop it, no matter how fancy the theology is to disguise a prejudice, and love comes in many shapes and many sizes and for that and for all the diversity of all the people in the church and beyond, thanks be to God.

“Thank you God, for all the love they bring into this world. That I will always recognise, and so please God, will Southwark Cathedral.”

The sermon received a rapturous response and a standing ovation from those in the church, while online, Reverend Mark Oakley has been praised for his “beautiful” words.

“Love wins. Always. I’ve never been so moved by a sermon, thank you Mark and Southwark Cathedral,” wrote one person on social media.

“I wept and wept as I watched this. Dean Oakley, you have preached the Gospel of Our Lord more eloquently than I have ever heard,” agreed a second.

“Thank you Mark for your beautiful sermon which brought tears to my eyes but also filled me with hope that with outspoken leaders in the church like you and David Monteith, one day all will be well,” another wrote.

“Thank you for persevering and staying with us despite the heartache and pain.”

ICE arrests Episcopal priest who reportedly works for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice

An Episcopal priest in Texas was arrested by immigration authorities for allegedly overstaying his visa. 

The Episcopal Diocese of Texas criticized his arrest, saying he was legally employed by the state of Texas.

James Eliud Ngahu Mwangi, a Kenyan immigrant, was arrested Oct. 24, according to a spokesperson for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He's accused of overstaying his B1 Visa, which ICE said required him to leave the United States on May 16, 2024.

In a statement, the Episcopal Diocese of Texas said Mwangi was legally employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. He was arrested in Huntsville, about 70 miles north of Houston, according to the Dallas Morning News.

The Episcopal Diocese of Texas expressed "deep concern" about the arrest and is calling for transparency and due process in Mwangi's case.

"The Episcopal Diocese of Texas stands firmly for justice, dignity, and compassion for every person," Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle, IX Bishop of Texas, said in a news release. 

"This priest has served both the Church and the State of Texas faithfully. We are praying for his safety, for his family's peace of mind, and for fair and humane treatment as this case moves forward."

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice did not immediately return a request for comment.

The diocese said Mwangi was transferred to an immigration detention center in Conroe, about 40 miles north of Houston, and that he's been able to speak with his family. 

The organization said he was detained while returning home from work.

Episcopal churches across Texas are calling attention to Mwangi's arrest. St. Christopher's Episcopal Church in Austin shared a message on Facebook, asking for prayers for Mwangi. 

St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Cypress also asked for prayers.

Derry priest Edward Gallagher accused of child sex offences changes legal team

A Catholic priest who is currently in custody on attempted sexual communication with a child charges and other related offences has changed his legal representation Derry Magistrate's Court heard today. 

Edward Gallagher (58) of Orchard Park in Lifford County Donegal had been charged with one count of attempted sexual communication with a child on dates between April 2 and April 17 2025 and seven further offences including inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and causing a child to watch sexual activity on April 17 this year as well as charges of possessing indecent images of children. 

When his case was mentioned today solicitor Derwin Harvey told the court that he was now representing Gallagher as the defendant had changed his legal team.

He asked the court for an update on the case and was told that the case was still at 'the investigation stage' and was still ongoing.

Mr Harvey said that the defendant had been in custody for some seven months and had served the equivalent of a 14 month sentence and the fact that the case was still at the investigation stage was of some concern. 

He asked that the Investigating officer be present at the next appearance to provide the court with an update.

District Judge Oonagh Mullan said that these were 'extremely serious charges' but the casecoukd be reviewed on December. 

The case was adjourned until December 4.

A beloved Iowa priest and immigrant advocate dies at 39

Father Guillermo Treviño Jr., a 39-year-old priest who advocated for the rights of immigrants in the Diocese of Davenport, Iowa, passed away suddenly on Oct. 31, just hours after returning from a trip to the Vatican. 

His death from sepsis after a fatal stomach perforation was a complication of undiagnosed diabetes, according to his sister, Mariela Treviño-Luna, who had traveled with him to Italy.

Due to a shortage of priests in Iowa, Treviño served as a pastor of St. Joseph Church in Columbus Junction as well as St. Joseph Church in West Liberty, southeast of Iowa City.

Treviño’s national profile stemmed from his immigrant rights work as a founder, board president, and chaplain of Escucha Mi Voz Iowa, a group aiding Latino workers, including immigrants. 

Treviño had just returned from Rome, where he represented the group at Pope Leo XIV’s World Meeting of Popular Movements.

He fought deportations, notably for his godson, 18-year-old Pascual Pedro, a West Liberty High School soccer star U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported this summer despite his Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. 

In a statement issued on the day of his death by the Diocese of Davenport, Bishop Dennis Walsh said: “Father Guillermo’s heart was consistently with those in need. Throughout the current migrant crises, he showed great compassion for the many migrants who find themselves on edge due to aggressive immigration enforcement action.” 

As pastor of both St. Joseph churches, Treviño nurtured the meatpacking and farming communities there with “remarkable authenticity,” Walsh said. 

“His voice was becoming a beacon of hope and advocacy on this vital issue, gaining national prominence,” Walsh continued in the statement. “He was recently invited to be part of a panel discussion at Georgetown University and had the distinct honor of traveling to the Vatican as part of the World Gathering of Popular Movements. His leadership and commitment to justice will be deeply missed by the Church and the wider community he so faithfully served.” 

Archbishop Thomas Zinkula of Dubuque recalled Treviño’s “playful and serious sides,” telling the Des Moines Register this week that “Father Guillermo loved movies, Star Wars, and professional wrestling. 

But he also was passionate about serving and advocating for immigrants. I was inspired by his total commitment to seeking justice and mercy for people on that particular margin of society.”

Born on March 7, 1986, in San Antonio, Texas, to Maria Luna and Guillermo Treviño Sr., Treviño and his family moved to Moline, Illinois, when he was 3. 

He earned an associate’s degree from Black Hawk College before entering seminary at Conception Seminary College and Mundelein Seminary. Despite an initial rejection, he said at the time that his faith — rekindled after his father’s early death — drove him forward. Ordained on June 6, 2015, he quickly became a force in rural Hispanic parishes.

According to the diocese’s statement, Treviño “received the National 2022 Cardinal Bernardin New Leadership Award. 

The award recognizes a ‘young faith-filled Catholic who has demonstrated leadership against poverty and injustice in the United States,’ according to the USCCB [U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops].”

“It recognizes the leadership, energy, and diverse skills that young people bring to the anti-poverty work of low-income projects and Catholic parishes. It highlights the gifts of young leaders and their Gospel commitment to the poor,” the statement said.

Treviño’s funeral Mass is set for Nov. 7 at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Davenport and will be livestreamed on YouTube. He is survived by his mother, sisters, and extended family.

Case of priest charged with child sex offences due before courts today

The case of a priest facing child sex offence charges is due before Derry Magistrates’ Court today.

58-year-old Edward Gallagher, of Orchard Park in Lifford, is charged with a number of offences, including attempted sexual communication with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

Since a search of his devices, police say more potential victims have come forward, and officers are working to make contact with them.

At the last court hearing, it was stated that a structured timeline would need to be provided by the prosecution, and the case was adjourned until today.

Archdiocese of Seville permits woman with Down syndrome to be a godmother

The Archdiocese of Seville in Spain has announced that a young woman with Down syndrome who was initially prohibited from being a godmother at a baptism will be able to fulfill that role after “high-level” consultations with experts in canon law and pastoral care.

In late October, the offended family took their case to the media because a priest had refused to accept Noelia, a 19-year-old woman with Down syndrome, as a godmother.

In a Nov. 4 statement, the archdiocese explained that since the controversy broke out, it has gathered “all the relevant information and testimonies,” and “in agreement with the pastor and the family of the child being baptized, the archdiocese authorizes the celebration of the sacrament of baptism on the scheduled date, allowing the parents to put forward the godparents they had initially chosen.”

ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner, confirmed through archdiocesan sources that one of the auxiliary bishops and the chancellor of the archdiocese participated in meetings with the family and the pastor.

The archdiocese reiterated that the Church wants to “foster the inclusion of all people in the ecclesial community, based on pastoral accompaniment and prudence,” saying it regretted “the harm caused by the handling of this situation” and calling “for harmony and dialogue based on the communion that should characterize the life of a parish community.”

At the initial meeting with Noelia and the baby’s parents, the pastor of Our Lady of the Snows Parish in Benacazón asked Noelia some questions about the baptism and the meaning of being a godparent.

Noelia, who was confirmed in the Seville cathedral by Archbishop José Ángel Saiz Meneses, has “a serious difficulty expressing herself,” despite being independent in managing her daily life — for example, traveling to Seville by bus on her own.

The situation was also complicated because Noelia had not enrolled in the formation program for prospective godparents provided by the parish, which requires several biweekly sessions as well as Mass attendance there every Sunday, but had instead enrolled in another parish that offers a shorter preparation period.

The pastor, who, according to the same sources who spoke to CNA, “is not an expert in canon law but is very competent in pastoral care,” initially consulted the archdiocese. 

He attempted to resolve the matter according to the guidelines of the Instruction on Christian Initiation in effect in the diocese since 2015 with a unique proposal: Noelia could have a prominent role in the ceremony but would not be registered as the godmother. 

The decision displeased her family, however, and they appealed.

Now that the pastoral issue has been resolved, the outcome of the campaign undertaken by Noelia’s father, demanding the pastor’s removal “and a public apology,” remains to be addressed.

The archdiocese told ACI Prensa that the pastor is a “well-liked person who is doing very well and working very well with his team” in a social context where rules can be “difficult to understand.”

Diocese of Peoria breaks ground on center honoring Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

The Diocese of Peoria in Illinois on Oct. 19 broke ground for a cultural center honoring Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. 

The Spalding Institute is being transformed into “The Fulton J. Sheen Experience,” an expansion of the Sheen museum, which has been open since 2008. 

The new center has an estimated construction cost of $9 million to $11 million, all of which is being raised from private donations. Visitors will be able to see interactive exhibits, artifacts, and large archives of television and radio work from the archbishop’s life. 

“We are thrilled to transform the historic diocesan high school building into this new facility,” Bishop Louis Tylka of Peoria said in a press release. “We believe this project will draw even more visitors to the city to grow in their knowledge and love of the man who is arguably Peoria’s greatest son and through his witness draw closer to Jesus Christ.”

Currently, the Sheen museum draws roughly 4,000 visitors a year. The new center is predicted to increase tourism with roughly 11,000 to 15,000 visitors a year.

“Archbishop Fulton Sheen was not only a son of Peoria but a voice for the Church that touched millions across the world,” Tylka said. “With the Fulton J. Sheen Experience, we are creating a place where visitors can encounter his faith, vision, and enduring witness. This center will inspire future generations to live boldly for Christ, just as he did.”

Monsignor Jason Gray, executive director of the Fulton Sheen Foundation, told “EWTN News Nightly” in an interview that the event was a “great day for the development of the Sheen cause.”

The cause for the beatification of Sheen was paused in 2019 due to concerns raised about his tenure as bishop of Rochester, New York (1966–1969), especially in light of the New York state attorney general investigation into diocesan handling of abuse cases. 

After careful research and a presentation to the then-Congregation for the Causes of Saints, it was deemed Sheen handled them correctly.

“For a long time, we’ve been working on the cause itself and trying to bring that forward, but today was about making sure that we can perpetuate the cause,” Gray said. “We want to keep the legacy of Fulton Sheen alive. It’s so important that we welcome people who want to come and express their devotion to Sheen.”

He explained that people from all over the world come to visit the museum, and they’re running out of space to be able to accommodate all those who wish to visit. 

Due to this issue, Gray said he believes that “it’s important that we provide a larger facility to really allow people to get to know Sheen better and through Sheen to encounter Jesus Christ.”

Dolores Sheen, a niece of Sheen, was also in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony. She called the event “very exciting.”

“I’m behind them expanding because there’s so much that still needs to come out and be in that museum. And of course, the fact that it was the place where he walked. I think that’s very important,” she added. 

Dolores Sheen is married to Sheen’s nephew John and spent time with the beloved archbishop on several occasions. She recalled spending Sheen’s 80th birthday with him and the numerous times they spent time together as a family. 

“I’d call him and I’d say, ‘Bishop, what do you want to do?’ He’d always say, ‘I want to be with family. I want to be with family,’” she recalled. “So we’d gather the family together, that was in Peoria, the cousins, and we would just have a wonderful, wonderful day.”

“I feel honored that I can share some of these things in regard to him, that he was just very real. He was just a very down-to-earth person.”

As for her hopes for the new center, Dolores said she hopes visitors see that “the bishop was very much in love with Christ and Mary.”

Gray added that he hopes visitors appreciate Sheen’s “personal insight into Jesus Christ and the way in which he would pray and be united with him in prayer. We want people to discover that and what a precious gift that is to the Church.”

Pope Leo XIV discusses 2-state solution with Palestine’s President Mahmoud Abbas

Pope Leo XIV received President Mahmoud Abbas of Palestine for an audience in the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace on Thursday, almost a month after the truce agreement in the Gaza Strip came into effect.

According to the Holy See Press Office, during the meeting “it was recognized that there is an urgent need to provide assistance to the civilian population in Gaza and to end the conflict by pursuing a two-state solution.”

This is the first in-person meeting between Leo XIV and the 90-year-old Palestinian leader, who was also received at the Vatican by Pope Francis on Dec. 12, 2024, and on prior occasions.

Abbas spoke with Leo by phone on July 21. The conversation focused on the evolution of the conflict in the Gaza Strip and the violence in the West Bank.

Thursday’s meeting coincides with a time of intense diplomatic activity surrounding the Palestinian issue, marked by more than two years of war in Gaza and increasing violence in the West Bank as well as by renewed international recognition of the State of Palestine, including by France and several other European countries.

The Holy See, which has officially recognized the State of Palestine since 2015, has repeatedly reiterated its support for the two-state solution, based on respect for international law and the need to guarantee the security of Israel and the dignity of the Palestinian people.

Leo has multiple times expressed his concern for the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, where the civilian population continues to suffer the consequences of the prolonged conflict.

The papal audience with Abbas coincides with the 10th anniversary of the agreement between the Holy See and the State of Palestine, signed on June 26, 2015, which formalized bilateral relations and addressed issues relating to the life and activity of the Catholic Church in the Palestinian territories.

Visit to the tomb of Pope Francis 

Upon arriving in Rome on Nov. 5, Abbas visited the tomb of Pope Francis in Santa Maria Maggiore, according to Vatican News.

The Palestinian head of state entered the papal basilica at 4:30 p.m., accompanied by Father Ibrahim Faltas, former vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land, and his entourage. 

Abbas remained in prayer for approximately 15 minutes and, before leaving, placed a white rose on the marble tomb of the Argentine pope.

“I have come to see Pope Francis because I cannot forget what he has done for Palestine and the Palestinian people, and I cannot forget that he recognized Palestine without anyone asking him to,” Abbas told reporters waiting in the square outside the basilica.