Pope Leo XIV calls for a “ceasefire without delay” after the Angelus, while earlier this morning he was in the Roman parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a “neighbourhood presidium” near Termini station, a place of “contradictions”: “So much potential for good and rampant violence”. On Lent: “Let us make room for silence”.
A journey marked by spiritual and social activities to deepen understanding and unity between spouses and their relationship with their children. The example of a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu experienced by the families of Marriage Encounter in the parish of Puttalam.
Pope Leo XIV met the religious in an audience, together with the Sisters of Our Lady of the Apostles, on the occasion of the anniversaries of the two missionary congregations. He recalled the history of the Oblates, founded in 1816 by Saint Eugene de Mazenod in the post‑Revolutionary French context. He highlighted their presence in Europe, Africa, and Asia, which began in 1847 with their arrival in Ceylon. He also emphasized the gift of a “charismatic family and growing interculturality.”
Fr. Arisher Joseph, principal of St. Francis School in Khunta Kheda, was detained and released on bail after being physically assaulted following accusations of “inappropriate behavior” with students. But many parents of the school are defending him, claiming it is an attempt to discredit the Catholic institution. Bishop Jesuraj: “No one can take justice into their own hands; the incident must be properly investigated.”
The government of Punjab, led by Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is launching the “Nigahban Ramadan 2026” program for more than four million vulnerable families. Aid includes cards worth up to 10,000 rupees for essential goods and cash withdrawals. Christians observing Lent are also included; the initiative promotes inclusivity and social harmony, easing the impact of inflation.
Today's headlines: India, four arrests in Jharkhand for the murder of a woman accused of witchcraft, burned alive with her son. Deadly virus and bacterial infections have killed at least 72 tigers in Thailand. Chinese scientists have created an environmentally friendly water-based battery. US considers reopening embassy in Damascus after 14 years.
