For Francis, who was confessed and confessed some people during a penitential service, “evil is strong, it has a seductive power: it attracts and fascinates. Our own efforts are not enough to detach ourselves from it: we need a greater love.” Thus, “Let us start over, then, from Confession, let us restore to this sacrament the place it deserves in life and pastoral ministry!”
Some 39 candidates are running in next Sunday’s presidential vote. The incumbent, Petro Poroshenko, is running an anti-Russian campaign. Former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko is at 17 per cent in the polls. Comedian Zelensky is benefitting from a frustrated populace tired of corruption and war. He could win in the expected runoff.
The new measures are aimed primarily at Protestant house churches, but it is almost certain that they will be applied to Catholics and other religions and across the country. Clues are worth 3,000 yuan; informing on foreigners can earn up to 5,000 yuan; working with the police means up to 10,000 yuan. Teaching the catechism to one’s children at one’s home is now a dangerous proposition. Reports can be made by phone, in writing or in person.
Jean Dreze is a world-renowned activist. Together with two colleagues, he refused to sign an oath of loyalty to the government. For him, democracy in India "is shrinking". Meanwhile, “people survive by eating rats,” says Sajan K George, and what does police do, they place people “in preventive custody for an unauthorised meeting”.
On 17 April, Indonesians will elect their president, vice president, and lawmakers. The former head of intelligence stands with moderate Widodo, urging voters to "go to the polls and make the right choice, to save the nation”.
The South Korean president announced the seventh meeting with Trump, on 11 April. In addition to diplomatic efforts for peace, Seoul plans exchange and cooperation projects. This year, 1,000 families divided by war will be able to exchange video messages. Intelligence reports indicate that Pyongyang has resumed its missile and nuclear programmes.
