After Paul VI, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis, Leo XIV is now visiting the country on his first apostolic trip abroad. From the post-Regensburg controversy to the attacks over the Armenian genocide, the Turkish leader and his predecessors have had a sometimes troubled relationship with Roman pontiffs. For Fr Monge, the type of unity proposed by Pope Leo XIV is an expression of diversity reconciled by the Holy Spirit.

The fire that broke out in Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po affected buildings surrounded by bamboo scaffolding, which is still used in many construction sites in Hong Kong. The buildings, which reach up to 31 storeys, house many families and elderly couples. Rescuers continue to search for those trapped.

During today’s audience in St Peter's, the pontiff spoke about his upcoming visit to Turkey and Lebanon (27 November-2 December). In his address, he called on the faithful to “accompany me with prayers.” Yesterday in Castel Gandolfo, he said that his trip will be “an exceptional opportunity to promote unity”. Speaking about Israeli raids in Beirut, he called for "the pursuit of peace." In his Jubilee catechesis, he said that “the lack of confidence in life” is “a widespread sickness”.

India's Supreme Court has confirmed the dismissal of Christian officer Samuel Kamalesan, who was accused in May of "grossest indiscipline" for refusing to participate in a Hindu ritual in his regiment. On Constitution Day, Mgr Savio Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay, slams anti-conversion laws as tools of persecution against minorities. For him, they “invert justice” and “criminalize compassion.” India risks betraying its pluralist vision.

Growth linked to increased global demand, with new opportunities for the country to monetise its natural resources responsibly. For environmentalists, mangroves could yield ‘over a million carbon credits per year’. A regulatory framework is being developed to distribute the proceeds from emissions trading to local communities.

Over 800 delegates from more than 30 countries are attending the Congress that brings together the Churches of the entire continent, almost twenty years after the first meeting in Chang Mai. The vast majority of participants are lay people who will share their experiences until 30 November. Cardinal Francis: ‘Together for a deeper communion with God, creation and humanity’.