The award, which recognises individuals in Mumbai who carry on the spirit of the founder of the Missionaries of Charity, was given to a woman who, starting with the wounded of the Arab Spring in Egypt, created an NGO and a hospital that cares for burn victims throughout the Middle East. ‘Mother Teresa taught us that service is not measured by greatness but by sincerity.’
Controversy over a circular from the Department of Religious Affairs, which went viral on social media, stating that the decorations are reminiscent of a Christian holiday. The holiday is a religious, not a cultural, event and raises ‘issues related to faith’. But experts and officials say such a measure violates the spirit of tolerance and openness in the country.
Among the millions of workers abroad in precarious conditions, hundreds die every year. Returning their bodies home is a complex procedure, and local authorities do not always cover the costs. The story of 30-year-old Tajik Džamila, killed in Russia by her employer, went viral, prompting an online fundraiser.
Today, the Fourth Sunday of Advent, after the Angelus, Leo XIV blessed the little Jesus figurines brought by the young people of Rome. The bambinelli will go to homes, schools, and oratories. [A]s you stand before your Nativity scenes, please pray to Jesus for the Pope’s intentions as well,” Leo said. Regarding today's Gospel, he spoke about Joseph as “a fragile and fallible man,” one who “at the same time is courageous and strong in faith.”
The Thurumbar, a caste providing laundry services who are discriminated even by Dalits, can send their children to study at the Life Empowerment Center in Acharapakkam. Thanks to the latter’s foundress Juliyes, who grew up among this marginalised group, solidarity is also extended to the Irula, an equally poor tribal community.
The cardinal is visiting Christian communities in Gaza, ravaged by more than two years of war. Tomorrow, the traditional solemn Mass will be celebrated, with a focus on rebuilding and healing hearts. The patriarchs and heads of Christian Churches in Jerusalem have issued an appeal to Israeli authorities for Gaza’s sick children, asking for them to be cared for at the Augusta Victoria Hospital.
