Today a Council of Unification is being held in Kyiv to establish a Ukrainian Church independent of the Patriarchate of Moscow. Ukrainian security forces have subjected pro-Moscow priests to searches, arrests and “talks”. At least 56 pro-Moscow bishops are refusing to take part in the Council sponsored by Bartholomew I.
The returning prime minister is getting ready for tomorrow’s swearing-in ceremony. The political crisis was triggered by the UNP leader’s removal and the appointment of the former strongman. The Supreme Court ruled against President Sirisena’s illegal decision to dissolve parliament and call for fresh elections.
Dr Sung Young-chul donated 10 billion KRW to the Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine out of respect for life in every aspect of the university’s research activity.
Fr Mario Marazzi, 90, has lived his mission in Hong Kong and mainland China. He remembers his work with mentally disabled children in the mainland and expresses hope that the agreement between China and the Holy See will bring positive results. “I thank God for the gift of life” and all those who supported his mission.
The new parish will be built in Kadu Banga, Diocese of Bagdogra, home to 400 Catholic families, where people work in a state of virtual slavery on tea plantations. The task of the new pastor will be to "make them grow in faith" and “restore their human dignity”.
Underage marriage will now require the authorisation of an Islamic court, parental approval or the opinion of a subcommittee. Muslims represent 4 per cent of Thailand’s population, but 24 per cent in southern provinces where poor girls are often given away in marriage after their first period. Activists accuse imams of making money from the practice.
