The 2026 Seoul International Buddhism Expo was an unprecedented success, with more than 250,000 visitors in four days, mostly young men and women aged 20 to 30, nearly half self-identifying as non-religious. While official data point to a decline in Buddhism in Asia, the festival turned temples into true cultural and entertainment venues making the faith more accessible.
An analysis from an observer familiar with the Church's journey in mainland China notes that Pope Leo’s remarks about China clearly show him as the shepherd with the “smell of the flock" hoped for by Pope Francis. For this reason, the faithful today hope to see a change that will give hope for the future, even to those who wish to live their faith in China.
The lights of Easter Vigil illuminated a community marked by suffering. After three years, some faithful returned to the Church of Christ the King. It had been occupied by the Myanmar military, forcing the local population to flee. Bishop Celso Ba Shwe has remained with the displaced in the forest. “We ask God for a time of peace and reconciliation,” he said.
On 6 April in Bantayan, artificial structures were installed to restore marine biodiversity and support a model of responsible marine management. The project is promoted by Archbishop Alberto S. Uy and Caritas Cebu. Fish habitats have been created and local livelihoods strengthened, in line with the teachings of the encyclical Laudato Si’.
The case of Jeyaraj and his son Benniks – killed in 2020 during the Covid emergency over a (false) breach of the lockdown – has become a symbol of the arbitrary violence suffered by people in police custody in India. Fr Devasagaya told AsiaNews: “We are opposed to the death penalty, but it is important that a court has found the officers guilty. Now guidelines are needed to protect the accused.”
Today’s headlines: fresh fire between Israel and Iran, as Tehran rejects ceasefire and continues blocade Strait of Hormuz; Taiwan’s opposition leader makes her first official visit to China; Over 110 people have died in Afghanistan due to landslides and flooding caused by heavy rains; New campaign for the release of sick political prisoners held in Russian jails.
