Bernardo Cervellera

In his Message for the World Day of Peace, the pontiff asks for a conversion of the heart so that politics returns to being a concern for the common good. The "Beatitudes of the politician", invoked across the world. A widespread and profound division between the political classes and the populations is evident. Being "artisans of peace".

The paintings are the work of artist Mauro Valsangiacomo. The exhibition will be open from 15.30 to 18.30 every weekday from December 12 to 23. The Mediterranean as a place of encounter and clash of cultures and peoples; synthesis of civilizations gradually enriched through the contribution of those who have settled down through the millennia. Even today, there are migrants who come from the South and the Middle East in search of the well-being and tranquility enjoyed by Europe.

The silence of so many commentators dictated by knockback: The belief that the Sino-Vatican agreement would have ensured smooth waters. Persecution takes place in many regions of the country and with the endorsement of central power. Underground Catholics bitterly suspect that the Vatican has abandoned them. The "papolatry" complex: instead of attending to the truth, things are measured on the basis of whether they are "for or against Francis". The "marketolatry" complex: trade with China is worth all the silences. But, as the Pope says, religious freedom is "a fundamental human right, a bulwark against totalitarian demands".

He will be subjected to isolation and indoctrination for 10-15 days. The faithful ask the Church worldwide for prayers. Bishop Shao is recognized by the Holy See, but not by the government. In the diocese, official and underground communities are united. Official priests banned from visiting the tombs of underground priests and bishops. Prohibition of participation in mass and catechism for young people under 18 years. The Church must remain "independent" despite the Sino-Vatican agreement.

Two priests belong to the ancient Diocese of Xiwanzi; the other two to that of Xuanhua. All four refuse to register in the Patriotic Association. For this they are subjected to indoctrination and isolation. In Shangcai (Henan), the cross of the bell tower and some spires are destroyed.

In the Final Document of the Synod there is a clearer affirmation on the proclamation of Jesus Christ to the young. Downplaying ideology of youthfulness, which satisfies young people in everything to enslave them. "It is not about ... creating a new Church for the young, but rather rediscovering with them the youth of the Church". In Asia or Africa, the Church is the place where young people feel more fulfilled and helped. Sinodality: young people and adults are not two parties facing each other, but part of the same body. The socio-political commitment and the social doctrine of the Church.

Fr Liu, ordained 13 years ago, was arrested and his priesthood suspended. The authorities accuse him of "having violated religious policy and regulations". He was "too active": he organized - just as the Synod would like - meetings for young people, even under 18 years of age on catechesis, evangelization, charity, vocational discernment. The Religious Affairs Office also ripped the cross from the bell tower of the Church of the Sacred Heart, the parish of Fr. Liu.

An interview with the representative of the Armenian Apostolic Church to the Holy See to mark the visit of Karekine II to Pope Francis. A theological dialogue between increasingly closer Churches. Pastoral collaboration in America and other regions. The history of a Church that has determined national identity, even under the genocides of Turkey and the USSR. Lack of clergy one of the most burning issues.

Making an appeal for support to the mission to every people that does not know Jesus Christ, we can be a "bridge" between generations, helping to discover one’s task, vocation and missionary consecration in the world. AsiaNews is part of this service to the mission, for young people and others.

Bishop Joseph Han Zhihai was recognized by the government only last year. At the meeting for his election, the Church's "principles of independence and autonomy", considered "incompatible" with Catholic doctrine, are exalted. The United Front and the Patriotic Association in a campaign to make the China-Vatican agreement fail.

The gathering held today will hear testimonies from Iraq, China, Cambodia, Brazil, and Hong Kong. A contribution to the Synod on Youth taking place in the Vatican. Overcoming a sociological and political view of the world of young people. Faith in Jesus Christ and the company of adult missionaries a path to exalt the qualities of young people and lead them to become builders of a new society.

The bishop of Daejeon, currently in Rome for the Synod, foresees little time for preparations for a papal journey. North Korea wants the normalization of relations with other countries in the world. Ensuring the presence of priests (from the south) and greater religious freedom in the North would be concrete signs of the changes taking place in the country. The Vatican worries about peace in the world, but does not forget human rights.