On 19-21 November, economists and entrepreneurs under 35 from around the world will meet online. More than 40 countries will be connected, with live streaming from Assisi. Some 2,000 people have registered with at least 12 link-ups to 115 countries, four hours a day plus a 24-hour marathon on the second day, and contributions from more than 20 countries.
The meeting with the president of the German Bishops Conference, in all likelihood touched upon the assembly with "deliberative power" convoked by the Germans to address issues such as the separation of power in the Church, priestly life, women's access to ministry and to offices in the Church and sexual morality.
Today's headlines: Qatar, alcohol-free stadiums for Qatar World Cup; in Sri Lanka, more and more people are abandoning cars and motorbikes for bicycles; in Afghanistan, tens of thousands of people have been displaced in fighting between the Taliban and locals for control of some mines; Vientiane blocks the activities of a Vietnamese company due to environmental pollution and exploitation; more and more Russian tourists are visiting Georgia and Turkey.
A week after the earthquake, hundreds of people are still in need of assistance. Aftershocks continue and residents who still have a house are leaving. Taliban reject accusations that they killed civilians in the north of the country during a recent crackdown.
Today's headlines: a U.N. investigation determines that Israeli security forces killed Shireen Abu Aqla; Afghanistan lacks medicine for earthquake survivors, yesterday five more victims of aftershocks; Vietnamese church organizes a "National Synodal Cup 2022-23" soccer match; Siberia floods destroyed two bridges, isolated villages.
The pontiff called for help for the Asian country during this morning’s general audience. Francis also lamented the murder of two Jesuit priests in Mexico. During the catechesis on old age, he focused on the interaction between the Risen Jesus and Peter, urging the faithful to follow Jesus “in health and in sickness”. Citing the World Meeting of Families that starts this evening in Rome, he expressed hope that the elderly "will pass onto young people the values of a happy family life rooted in God”.
