Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed immense pride as Indian priest George Jacob Koovakad was appointed Cardinal by Pope Francis. Koovakad’s distinguished career in the Vatican’s diplomatic service and his commitment to interfaith dialogue are highlighted in this momentous occasion for India and the Catholic Church.
A Swiss Catholic chapel conducted a unique two-month experiment using an AI-powered Jesus avatar in its confessional. The project explored the intersection of technology and religion, sparking widespread debate and raising ethical questions about the future of faith and artificial intelligence.
Vice President Kamala Harris’s decision to skip the prestigious Al Smith Dinner, a major fundraiser for the poor and vulnerable in New York City, has sparked controversy. Her decision, attributed to scheduling conflicts, is seen by some as a sign of her inability to navigate the complexities of American politics, while others believe it’s a calculated move to avoid potentially awkward situations. This article examines the reasons behind Harris’s absence and its implications.
Pope Francis has expressed concern over the stances of U.S. presidential candidates on abortion and migration, urging American Catholics to vote for the ‘lesser evil’ in the upcoming elections. He specifically criticized abortion, calling it the killing of a human being, and emphasized the biblical call to welcome migrants, stating that refusing to do so is a ‘grave sin.’
Pope Francis, during his visit to Papua New Guinea, emphasized the importance of the ‘church of the peripheries,’ urging for peace and unity in the face of tribal violence. He celebrated the local Catholic community and missionaries, calling for an end to divisions and the embrace of harmony.
The Vatican has announced that its doctrinal office will create a document addressing women’s roles within the Catholic Church. This comes amid calls for greater female influence in church affairs, a topic under discussion as part of Pope Francis’ ongoing church reform efforts. However, the announcement has been met with criticism from advocacy groups who argue that it falls short of addressing the need for women’s ordination. The document will be part of the broader church reform process, which is set to culminate in an upcoming synod of bishops in October.
Carlo Acutis, a UK-born Italian teenager, has been canonized as the first millennial saint of the Catholic Church. Known as “God’s Influencer,” Acutis used technology to spread faith online before succumbing to leukemia at age 15 in 2006. His beatification in 2018 was followed by a second miracle attributed to him, leading to his sainthood. Acutis’s remains are now on display in a tomb at the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi, attracting pilgrims from around the world.
Governor Gavin Newsom has been invited to the Vatican’s annual climate change summit in mid-May, despite his support for progressive policies that contradict Catholic Church teachings. Newsom has been a strong advocate for transgender surgeries for minors and has led a nationwide pro-abortion ad campaign. The Vatican’s invitation has drawn criticism from some who believe it legitimizes Newsom’s policies, which they argue are harmful to children and families.
In the finale of ‘Baby Reindeer,’ Donny confesses to his parents about his stalker, sexuality, and rape. His father’s response, hinting at his own trauma in the Catholic Church, has left a profound impact on viewers. The scene highlights the hidden pain and vulnerability that underlies seemingly humorous characters, sparking discussions on childhood sexual abuse and the complexities of masculinity.
E. Corry Kole, a former diversity official at Providence College, has filed a discrimination charge with the Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights. Kole alleges that they experienced discrimination on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity throughout their employment at the college.
Kole, who is nonbinary, said they were told by a college official that they were “too liberal” and “cannot identify as queer.” Kole also alleges they were told to use “she/her” pronouns in front of students, but “they/them” pronouns privately.
Kole resigned from their position in March 2023, citing ongoing harassment and bullying.
The college has not yet reviewed the formal charge, but a spokesperson said the institution looks forward to addressing unsubstantiated claims of discrimination.
The tensions at Providence College reflect the strain among Catholics, even as the Vatican has recently taken steps to make the Catholic Church a more welcoming place for the LGBTQ+ community.
