In a world dominated by political events, wars, interstate conflicts, and even interfaith frictions and disharmony, it is refreshing and encouraging that His Majesty King Abdullah was granted the 2018 Templeton Prize Laureate in recognition of his exceptional efforts to promote religious harmony, not only within Islam, but also between Islam and the other monotheistic religions.
For centuries the Catholic Church has held a special place for France, latching on to its rising stars from Charlemagne to Napoleon III. Even as religious heads rolled from the guillotine in Paris, pontiffs never really abandoned the dream that the prodigal daughter of the Church might return.
As French President Emmanuel Macron makes his way to the Vatican to meet with Pope Francis on Tuesday, a first for the newly elected leader, the question hanging in the air is: Has the eldest daughter of the Church returned?
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's reacted in a press conference on June 21 to Pope Francis’ interview with Reuters in which he expressed optimism for improving the ties between the Vatican and China by stressing that China and the Vatican have been in effective contacts.
He added that China is always sincere about improving its ties with the Vatican and that it has been making unremitting efforts to that end.
Following is an interview with Monsignor Francesco Cavina, bishop of Carpi, on immigration, family, and little Alfie’s case:
“The international community is called upon to work together for progress” and to promote security “in all countries”, in particular in those from which people flee. Immigrants must be welcomed, and their right to remain in their own state in dignity” and peace must also be protected. This is affirmed by Monsignor Francesco Cavina, Bishop of Carpi, who in an interview with Vatican Insider also speaks of the family, and the Alfie case.
On the return flight from Geneva, Francis speaks of the immigration emergency and supports the idea of a Marshall plan for poor countries. Then he calls Governments to “welcome all those who can be integrated, but with prudence. And praises “Italy’s generosity”. On Communion to the Protestant Spouses, “There was no halt”.
Pope Francis in Geneva for the 70th anniversary of the Ecumenical Council of Churches: let us walk together “opting for a mindset of service” to overcome divisions.
Pope Francis interviewed by Reuters takes up the bishops' words in criticizing Trump's policies. On immigration in Italy: no to rejections, but the crisis must be tackled with the whole of Europe. And says he has no plans to resign.
Stories of coexistence between the faithful of the two religions. Journey to the Gambella region, where Salesian schools promote respect and acceptance of diversity.
After reciting the Angelus on Sunday, June 17, before thousands gathered in St Peter's Square, Pope Francis expressed an appeal for the people of Yemen and for refugees.
“I am following the dramatic circumstances of the people of Yemen”, the Pope said after concluding the recitation of the Angelus before thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square.
In Santa Marta, Francis thunders against the exploitation of women and the perception of women as “objects of desire”. “ There’s no need to go far away, it also happens in Rome”.
