Kalpit Parajuli

On the occasion of the feast of Pentecost eight Catholics receive the sacrament of Confirmation. The Vatican representative in India and Nepal celebrates together with the faithful in the Cathedral of the Assumption. "Discover and share the faith among the people."

More than 95,000 abortions were performed in 2011 alone. Every day, 65 women terminate their pregnancy, especially women under 18. For many new medical graduates, abortion is a good source of income. The Nepal Medical Association calls on the government to regulate abortion; otherwise, the country could face a health disaster.

In recent months, at least 56 Nepalese women have been torn from the hands of their traffickers. Under the new rules they cross the border with a daily permit to be exploited in bars and nightclubs, or are sold to Chinese men. The one-child policy imposed by the Beijing government creates increasing demographic imbalances in China.

Political strife, demonstrations and strikes have caused the shutdown of factories, leaving many workers without a job, and without the means to feed their family or educate their children. The country's Maoist government comes in for criticism.

The attack against Simone Moro, Ueli Steck and John Griffith shocked Nepali and world media. For the climbers, it was inexplicable. However, the three apparently broke new safety rules imposed by the Sherpas, provoking their anger. In 2012, as many as 11 people died climbing the mountain, eight in just two days.

On a visit to Beijing, the leader of the Maoist party in Nepal Prachanda promises Xi Jinping to repress any anti-Chinese protests. "The national stability and integrity of both countries will not be compromised in the name of religious freedom and human rights."

The 'perpetual lamp' was handed over to 80 South Korean monks last Friday. It should reach Korea on 1 May to mark the birthday of Siddhartha Gautama. Christians, Muslims and Buddhists are praying to stop the winds of war blowing over the peninsula.

Nepal's National Women Commission, a government organisation dedicated to the defence of women, raises the issue. In the poorest villages, gynaecologists videotape the pains of childbirth to convince women to have abortions.

For decades, the Chepang lived in poverty in the forests of Chitwan District (central Nepal). Since 2011, a Catholic school educates their children, offering adults some job opportunities. Tribal leader says, "Our people are ready to vote for a Catholic if he runs in the election for the Constituent Assembly."

The incident occurred in a suburb of Rajkot. Two of the five members have died. Survivors and neighbors point the finger at the local government. Originally from western Nepal the family had occupied the land 35 years ago.

Easter celebrations were held in various parishes across the country. Twenty catechumens were baptised after two years of preparation. "We were confused and lived in superstition. Now our life has a new meaning," a young Hindu said.

Nearly a thousand people took part in Palm Sunday Mass at Kathmandu Cathedral. Most were young, many non-Christians. The Catholic Church has a mission in a country hit by a crisis that touches politics, economics and values.