Dario Salvi

The Chaldean patriarch describes a people in "deep shock" due to the escalation of violence in the last few days. He calls for dialogue to avoid actions which could have "unimaginable consequences". After the funeral mortar rounds and rockets over the capital and north. Thousands at the funeral of the Iranian general, but a part of the Iraqis rejoice over death.

Khamenei promises a "harsh revenge" and appoints Esmail Qaani to lead the militia. Zarif speaks of an "act of international terrorism". Trump defends operation and sends an additional 3,500 troops to the area. Tens of thousands on the streets in Tehran promise to avenge the murder. Concern among international chancelleries.

In the province of Iloilo alone 179 people aged 9 to 21 tried to kill themselves in the past three years. Financial and social factors, including online bullying, are behind the trend. The cardinal notes that life is a gift, and a cultural renewal is needed.

The order to attack would have come from President Trump himself. Tehran's response: the supreme guide Khamenei announces a "very harsh revenge" for the martyrdom. The senior officer was a leading national figure. Attack could plunge relations to new low.

In his New Year homily, the apostolic administrator calls on the faithful not to yield to a "resigned attitude". Dialogue is "a spiritual attitude" and indicates the ability to "go out of oneself" to listen to the “expectations of others”. In a context of conflict and contrasts, the Church can be a “place and experience of a possible peace”.

With a vote by Parliament, the interim premier will try to escape trials for three different court cases. A majority of 61 votes in the Knesset out of a total of 120 will be required. Harsh criticism from the opposition, which announces a battle to deny immunity. Fractures and divisions remain in the country.

The demonstrators burned flags and chanted slogans and songs, including "Death to America". Ambassador and part of the staff evacuated. The assault is a response to the US raid against pro-Iranian targets over the weekend. The Iraqi premier condemns the military operation. Shiite militiamen threaten reprisals.

There are prominent Christians in politics, law, and culture. For card Sako, it is essential to avoid dispersing strength and skills, dividing the community into parties and factions. Emigration abroad and marginalisation at home are the first challenges to face. Citizenship and the constitution are the bases for living together.

The Maronite patriarch calls for the "rapid formation" of an executive made up of specialists. The Greek Orthodox metropolitan accuses the ruling class of thinking "of one's own salvation". The interim prime minister Hassane Diab encounters resistance in the formation of the new government, "political coverage" is lacking. Hariri ready to lead the opposition.

In his message to the faithful, the prelate says Jesus did not end political, social and economic dramas. Yet, the faithful should not "give up". The increasing number of pilgrims is bringing "smiles" to many families. The archbishop thanks volunteers for their commitment. So far, 189 permits have been issued for Gaza Christians, 11 for Catholics.

Israel opens the holy places to Christians in the Strip. 55 visas granted, hopes for others but the number remains uncertain. The three Catholic schools are places for encounter and living together, respecting religious identity. Christ "is reason for hope". Speaking out "in a clear, fair and balanced way" and "creating work" to counter the exodus.

For Msgr. Hinder the mystery of the incarnation "reveals a God in movement". In the parish of St. Joseph, 24 Masses will be celebrated in 14 different languages ​​on the feast day. The commitment of young people in pastoral care, the still vivid memory of the journey of Pope Francis to the Emirates and a thought for Christians in the battered Yemen.