China

Dozens of trade unions and over 20 commercial sector organizations take part. Yesterday new clashes between protesters and police in Causeway Bay and Wong Tai Sing. Carrie Lam: The protesters have become "a challenge to the sovereignty of our country". The Hang Seng index drops 3%.

Pope Francis wants to express his gratitude to the priests who work "in the trenches", to encourage them in joy and to praise the Lord with Mary. The letter was born from the "pain" for the victims of abuse by members of the clergy and from that experienced by so many consecrated persons, for the "suspicion" that is also poured on them, that can generate "doubt, fear and mistrust ". "Brothers, let us indeed acknowledge our weaknesses, but also let Jesus transform them and send us forth anew to the mission."

At the Angelus, Pope Francis explains the parable of the rich fool who "in practice denied God, did not reckon with Him". "Material goods are necessary for life, but they must not be the only goal of our existence, rather a means of living honestly and sharing with those most in need". A Hail Mary for the attacks in Texas, California and Ohio (United States). The announcement of the Letter to Priests all over the world on the occasion of the 160th anniversary of the death of the Curate of Ars.

In the audience with the young people of the Euromoot, Pope Francis emphasizes that the starting point in life is "not having, but giving: Give, that is, start putting your life into play". Everyone has a unique and important contribution to make to the world: the example of Mother Teresa. "Creation has no borders ... we are in the world to meet others, to create communion". The commitment to "a renewed Europe; not protector of spaces, but generator of encounter".

A missionary with PIME for 15 years, he will soon leave for the West African country. His vocation developed as he searched for “something greater” and saw it realised in the mission of two Italian priests in Mumbai, Fr Antonio Grugni and Fr Carlo Torriani. He is moved by love for Africa and the richness of the faith of the Church in India.

Government appeals to "civil servants" for total loyalty to the head of the executive and threatens retaliation. Employees of 34 banks will strike on 5 August. So far, 95 trade unions have joined. Everyone calls for the cancellation of the law and an independent investigation into the excessive use of force by the police.

Hundreds of people have signed an appeal, including entrepreneurs, artists, lawyers, pilots, employees, teachers, etc. The extradition bill has been rejected by people from all walks of life. Chen Daoxiang, commander of the People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison, makes veiled threat.

The Chinese Communist Party has become the great promoter of the "Church Unity", under its control. The Chinese leaders want to "what is rendered unto Caesar remain with Caesar, and what is God’s be rendered unto Caesar". Third and last part of the essay "The unity of the Church in China after the Sino-Vatican agreement".

The stories of the "Little Match Girl" and "Robinson Crusoe" altered as well as the works of Chekhov, Dumas, Hugo ... All in obedience to Xi Jinping, who wants the "synicization" of religions and the rejection of "Western values". The fear that China will become "the most Christian country in the world".

Part II of the essay "Church unity in China after the Sino-Vatican agreement". Patriotic association and council of bishops, controlled by the government, continue to exalt an "independent church", "synicized", "led by the Chinese Communist Party". And they hide the reality of persecution. Even figures of the Western church are used as "ambassadors of government propaganda".

The accused are 16 to 43 years old. They include teachers, students, pilots, cooks, employees, nurses, workers, unemployed. Most were released on bail. Until the trial they have to go to the police station once a week. Outside the court, the protesters promise to continue the fight. Protestant leader Chu Yiu-ming, leader of Occupy Central: the government "uses the police to crack down on our next generation". Criticism of Carrie Lam and China.

The dialogue between the Vatican and the Chinese government, which led to the signing of the agreement on the appointment of bishops, does not seem to have created more unity in the Church. The government and the United Front continue to promote an "independent Church", totally submitted to the Communist Party. The latter’s policy towards Catholics has only been updated, not changed.