Bhutan

Benedict XVI will go to Lourdes, "universal citadel of life and of hope", in a month. The Assumption of Mary, body and soul, into heaven helps us to be "witnesses of hope and consolation" in a world dominated by "false joy and tormented suffering".

The hoax of the little girl lip-synching the song at the opening ceremony of the Games is only one of the many deceptions of these Olympics, which favor image over reality, in order to cover up the environmental and human disasters created by the ruling communist party. The intention is to eliminate the individual and the people, and in order to do this, religious freedom is denied. The advice of Benedict XVI.

Benedict XVI hopes that the Beijing Olympics may be a "pledge of fraternity and peace among peoples", and may unfold "in respect of common dignity". Remembrance of the "superhuman merit" of Paul VI, for guiding the Church in the difficult post-council phase.

The "cordial greetings" at today's Angelus might bring hope that a step forward has been made by China and the Vatican on the occasion of the Games. But many international Catholic websites are still blocked, while three bishops have disappeared, dozens are under house arrest, and a number of priests are in prison.

The Saudi king takes more steps to show openness towards Christians, Jews and other religions. The most urgent reason is to rectify Islam’s violent image but also stems from a new attitude towards inter-faith dialogue towards the People of the Book (Jews, Muslims and Christians), but also atheists, Hindus and Buddhists.

The summit of South Asian countries has begun under the banner of a "partnership among peoples". Heads of state and government leaders are expected at the end of the week, and must find "shared solutions" to foster economic growth. Heavy security measures because of fear of attacks.

Benedict XVI mentions the value of WYD in the Australian metropolis before leaving for a period of rest in Bressanone. He sends greetings to the sick, convicts, and all those who cannot enjoy any vacation time.

Shortly before leaving Australia Benedict XVI celebrated mass and met privately with them. Vatican Press Office: a gesture of his paternal closeness to all those who have suffered sexual abuse by members of the clergy. Previous to this the pope had expressed his “profound sorrow” for the priests “betrayal” and had asked that those responsible be “brought to justice”. The WYD an unforgettable event for Australia.

At the concluding mass for WYD in Sydney, Benedict XVI tells young people to be witnesses of life and love in the Spirit, to overcome "interior emptiness", the "fear" and "desperation" present in the world. "Do not be afraid" of the call to priestly and consecrated life. Confirmation conferred on 24 young people from all over the world. Appointment announced for Madrid in 2011. The complete text of the pope's homily.

Benedict XVI ignites the 250,000 young people gathered for the vigil at the Randwick racecourse. Faith in Christ and in the Church challenge fear, consumerism, and careerism. The complete text of the pope's message.

The Stations of the Cross are placed across the city in front of the city’s better know monuments. One hundred young actors silently mime the Passion of Christ. Music and commentaries as well as symbols and lights guarantee the silent participation of 200,000 young people. The Pope follows the Way of the Cross in front of a TV screen in the crypt of the cathedral. The complete texts of the meditations are online.

Benedict XVI has met with representatives of the Christian Churches and of the religions present in Australia, which he praised for its protection of religious freedom. The common effort of the religions to uphold the dignity of the human person and respect for creation. Teaching young people to seek the meaning of life.