The irregular financial management of the Choir led to the sentencing of the three accused after a judicial process that lasted a year and a half. In addition to the prison sentences, the Court imposed fines of between 5,000 and 9,000 euros and decreed their perpetual disqualification from holding public office, Vatican News reported. The crimes of embezzlement, money laundering and fraud are linked to the Choir’s administration, known for its participation in liturgical celebrations of the Vatican and for giving concerts in Italy and other countries. The sentence highlighted the systematic abuse of the organization of concerts for important Italian companies, whose income was diverted for personal gain.

In particular, Nardella’s and Liberto’s action caused economic damage amounting to 250,000 euros, not including the interests and revaluation of the diverted funds. In addition, the accused will have to cover the judicial costs of the trial. However, they were absolved of other charges due to insufficient proofs.

The case arose in 2023 after complains and controversies posed by parents of the Pueri Cantores, members of the children’s choir. They denounced that the children’s participation in public acts was not aligned with the Choir’s original mission, founded in 1471 as “College of Singing Chaplains.”

The disordered management of the funds revealed a misuse of the income generated by the institution. Monsignor Georg Gänswein, then Benedict XBVI’s personal  secretary and Prefect of the Papal Household, testified during the 2023 hearings. Gänswein, currently Nuncio in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, referred to the alleged mistreatment of the children and anomalies in the budgets, although he said he had not personally found administrative or financial irregularities. Nevertheless, he expressed his doubts about “the sincerity and rectitude” of the management of the Choir.

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Thus puberty blockers are banned indefinitely in the United Kingdom for those under 18 with gender dysphoria, except for clinical trials. Gender identity clinics are impeded from prescribing puberty blocking drugs, British Social Security confirmed on December 12.

Puberty blockers halt physical changes during puberty, such as the development of breasts or facial hair, the testosterone, progesterone and estrogen hormones.

In May of this year, Rishi Sunak’s Government passed emergency legislation to prohibit temporarily puberty blockers for minors. Health Minister Wes Streeting extended the supply and sale of the drugs stating that he would “always put the safety of children first,” adding that he would “continue to be informed by Dr. Cass’ review, who found there was no sufficient evidence to demonstrate that puberty blockers were safe for minors under 18.

The UK Health Department quoted the advice of experts of the Human Medications Commission, which stated that “at present there is an unacceptable safety risk in the continuous prescription of puberty blockers to children.”

A comprehensive Report of pediatrician Dr Hilary Cass highlighted the significant risks of the medication and the lack of evidence of the alleged benefits of the blockers during puberty. LGBTI activists challenged the sentence because they were “concerned about the safety and wellbeing of trans youngsters in the United Kingdom.” The Kingdom’s Higher Court confirmed the ban in July of 2024.

Northern Ireland’s Parliament voted by unanimity the permanent ban of blockers to avoid its territory becoming a “back door” for the distribution of medications banned in the UK.

Scotland and Wales also suspended formally the prescription of blockers and hormonal medications for “gender transitions” in children, after carrying out consultations in their regions.

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Abu Mohammed Al-Julani, leader of the Organization for the Liberation of the Levant (HTS) group, led the attacks on the Syrian government of al-Assad’s regime. His group is made up of Suni militants headed by a former member of Al Qaeda. Al-Julani severed his ties with the Islamist terrorist organization in 2016, but his deep down position regarding coexistence with Christians is unknown. In political matters, he declared to Western governments on December 8 that he will seek the nation’s stability. “The country will be rebuilt. The fear stemmed from the presence of the regime. Now, Syria will move towards development, reconstruction and stability.”

Mohammed al-Bashir, the head of another group, which promoted the fall off the Assad regime, is now Syria’s interim Prime Minister. He said on national television that he will stay in this office until March 1, heading  a transition government.

The Christian leaders of Aleppo met on December 9 with representatives of the armed groups, according to Fides Agency.

The meeting was held in the Franciscan convent of Aleppo, where the Apostolic Vicariate resides of Latin Rite Catholics. A Bishop who attended the meeting said that the forces in power are of Islamist origin and it seems they want to maintain the ordinary life of the ecclesial communities.

In regard to the meeting, Monsignor Audo said to Fides Agency that the rebel groups want to build trust, “respecting our traditions and our prayers. I told them that we, as Arab Christians, represent a unique reality in history and in the world. I recalled some examples of the history of Arab Muslims with Christians and the Christians’ contribution to that history. I added that the status of the dhimmi [non-Muslim citizens in a State under Islamic Law] can be interpreted both negatively as well as positively, and that Christians can’t be second class citizens, hence, we must work together. They seemed very interested in these considerations.”

Given the former relations with Al Qaeda and the Islamic State, there is mistrust of the leaders now governing Syria. Monsignor Audo concluded: “We were all present: Bishops, Priests and Religious. The meeting was very positive.”

That same day, Argentine Father Hugo Alaniz, parish priest of Our Lady of the Annunciation in Aleppo since 2017, after working several years in different Arab countries, said to Crux online newspaper: “In 2012 and 2013, insurgent groups attacked Christians and other minorities in some regions. Now many people feared that something like this could happen again and left their homes.”

Father Alaniz said that he was informed by HTS that no church will be closed and that Christians will be respected. “They said that minorities will be treated well. Women will not be obliged to wear the hijab. The (official) free days will be Thursdays and Fridays, but for Christian children they will continue to be Saturdays and Sundays.”

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The new service, inside the Pope’s City, will care for 30 children from 3 to 36 months old. It will open next Spring, Monday to Friday, from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm. The project is in response to a request of Vatican City’s lay employees.

The Center has been planned for the educational and coexistence growth of the children, with a team of professionals that will foster the knowledge, abilities and autonomy of the littlest ones. The Patrons of the building –located on Via San Luca in the Vatican’s shopping district and near the cafeteria –, are Saint Francis and Sainte Clare.

The hours are longer than those of Italian public and private daycare centers. The present normative, regarding parental leave in the Vatican, establishes that mothers must return to work, at the very most, a year after the birth of a child. There is no specific parental leave for fathers. The lack of places in public daycare centers and the high cost of the private ones in Italy is being addressed by the Governorate with a useful solution.

The initiative is added to the summer camp organized for the children of the 5,000 workers of the Holy See and Vatican City. The daycare center represents an advance in the policies of labour and family conciliation inside the Papal State.

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During the Angelus on December 8 in Saint Peter’s Square, the Holy Father said: “Today I feel compelled to ask all of you to pray for prisoners condemned to death in the United States. Let us pray for their sentences to be commuted or changed. Let’s think of these brothers and sisters of ours and ask the Lord to save them from death.”

In 2018, Pope Francis modified a number of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, affirming the Church’s opposition to the death penalty on the basis of human dignity, which is not lost for having committed a serious crime. The new version of number 2267 of the Catechism states: “In the light of the Gospel, the Church teaches that ‘the death penalty is inadmissible because it attempts against the inviolability and dignity of the person,’ and works with determination for its abolition throughout the world.”

President Biden imposed a temporal moratorium on federal executions during 2021. Donald Trump has promised to annul it.

Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy, Executive Directress of the Catholic Mobilization Network, a national Catholic organization that seeks the abolition of the death penalty in the United States, said: “We know concretely that the President who will take office at the end of January has a history of executions and has committed himself to broaden and accelerate them once again, so this is quite an urgent moment.”

Pope Francis made a special appeal for the abolition of the death penalty in the Bull of Induction of the Jubilee 2025, Holy Year whose beginning will coincide with President Biden’s last month in office. It is relevant that the celebration of a Jubilee Year has its roots in the Old Testament’s practice as a special time to reestablish appropriate relations with God and with others.

The Pontiff stressed the call to eliminate the death penalty in the context of this Jubilee Year: “In all parts of the world, believers must unite to exact worthy conditions for the imprisoned, respect for their human rights and, above all, the abolition of the death penalty, disposition that is contrary to the Christian faith and that eliminates all hope of pardon and rehabilitation.”

Vaillancourt Murphy has echoed this message: “We are approaching the historic Year of the Jubilee 2025, a biblical tradition whose history is linked to the liberation of captives, the liberation of the oppressed and the achievement of balance in society. We are in an urgent moment. It’s a historic year that can have a particular relevance for a President whose Catholic faith is something important for him. This Jubilee Year puts the accent on a time to rebalance and to commit again to justice and mercy.”

Given that the United States was one of the five countries with the most executions carried out in 2023, along with China, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Somalia, Vaillancourt Murphy pointed out: “If President Biden took this step, it would have repercussions not only in the United States, but in the whole world. The Jubilee Year is the perfect moment for this Catholic President to take this historic step.”

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Escalating Prosecutions

The FACE Act, enacted in 1994, has been used by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to prosecute over 30 pro-life demonstrators in 2023 alone. Protests in Nashville, Mount Juliet (Tennessee), Washington, D.C., and Sterling Heights (Michigan) have led to federal charges against activists, many of whom are senior citizens.

Among those sentenced is Lauren Handy, 30, a leader in the Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising, who received nearly five years in federal prison. Handy, undeterred by her sentence, vowed to continue her mission, stating that she would not let «fear or shame» prevent her from treating the unborn as equals.

Jonathan Darnel, who recorded a Washington, D.C., protest that temporarily shut down an abortion clinic, was sentenced to nearly three years for his role. Reflecting on the protest, Darnel said, «We hope that some of those children were saved.»

Elderly Activists Behind Bars

The case of Paulette Harlow, 75, underscores the DOJ’s aggressive stance. Footage from her demonstration shows peaceful prayer and hymn-singing, yet she now serves time for blocking clinic entrances. Similarly, 76-year-old Joan Bell, a mother and grandmother, was sentenced for her involvement, with her husband Chris offering their separation as spiritual reparations.

Jean Marshall, 74, also faces imprisonment despite widespread support from pro-life communities, many of whom see her as a symbol of sacrificial activism.

Historical Echoes and Persistent Disparities

Eva Ed, 89, a survivor of communist Yugoslavia’s concentration camps, was convicted for blocking a Michigan clinic entrance. Her case has drawn significant attention, as it highlights the stark contrast in enforcement: while over 100 attacks on pro-life pregnancy centers and churches remain unresolved, pro-life protesters face swift and severe legal action.

Attorney General Merrick Garland has attributed this disparity to the differing circumstances of the crimes, arguing that pro-life protests occur “in daylight,” making identification easier, while pro-abortion vandalism typically takes place “under cover of darkness.”

Trump’s Pledge

President-elect Trump has criticized the DOJ’s approach, describing it as driven by «Marxist and Stalinist ideologies.» He has pledged to pardon convicted activists, calling their protests acts of conscience rather than criminal behavior.

In a speech earlier this year, Trump referenced Harlow’s case and condemned what he sees as excessive sentencing: “Eleven years for peaceful prayer and protest? This isn’t justice.”

Republican Pushback

Republican lawmakers have voiced concerns about the DOJ’s priorities, urging transparency in its investigations into violence against pro-life institutions. Advocacy groups are also demanding answers about the perceived neglect of such cases, which they argue reflects systemic bias against the pro-life movement.

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The celebrations were graced by the presence of Monsignor Fortunatus Nwachukwu, Secretary of the Vatican Dicastery for Evangelization and a proud alumnus of the seminary. Presiding over the outdoor ceremony attended by hundreds, Monsignor Nwachukwu emphasized the transformative nature of diaconal ordination in his homily. “As Stephen and his companions, you are elevated not by lineage or heritage, as the Levites were, but by God’s divine choice,” he remarked, urging the new deacons to embrace their vocation as a universal calling to serve.

A Legacy of Service and Impact

Founded a century ago and named after Jeanne Bigard, co-founder of the Pontifical Work of St. Peter the Apostle, the Bigard Memorial Seminary has grown into a beacon of theological and philosophical education. Currently hosting 780 seminarians, the institution has made an indelible mark on the Church. Its alumni include four cardinals, 14 archbishops, and 37 bishops, alongside countless priests ministering worldwide.

Centennial Highlights

The centenary celebrations extended beyond the spiritual, encompassing a vibrant mix of cultural and athletic events, competitions, and the premiere of a documentary chronicling the seminary’s rich history. A significant moment in the festivities was the blessing of a new residential pavilion, symbolizing the seminary’s ongoing expansion and commitment to the formation of future clergy.

The main building, inaugurated on March 4, 1951, remains a testament to the vision and dedication of those who have sustained the seminary over the decades. As Bigard looks ahead, its leadership and community remain focused on fostering a new generation of clergy equipped to meet the challenges of modern evangelization.

A Testament to Faith

Bigard Memorial Seminary’s 100-year journey is not just a chronicle of milestones but a testament to the enduring power of faith and education. As the newly ordained deacons embark on their ministry, they carry forward a legacy rooted in service, resilience, and the pursuit of spiritual excellence.

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Despite Israeli military orders urging residents to evacuate south via designated corridors, many parishioners of the Church of the Holy Family have refused to abandon their homes. “Why should we leave our houses? None of us are part of this conflict,” Father Romanelli emphasized. The priest voiced concerns about the conditions in the south, where displaced Palestinians, numbering in the millions, are already crammed into makeshift camps.

A Community Under Siege

The constant noise of helicopters and bombings provides an unrelenting backdrop to life in Gaza. “Day and night, there is no respite,” Father Romanelli reported, highlighting the northwest areas of Jabalia and Shati as particularly affected. Families from these regions, including some Christian households, have been issued strict evacuation orders.

For now, Gaza’s Christian population has found refuge in two locations: Father Romanelli’s parish and a nearby Orthodox church. However, this sanctuary is precarious. Key Catholic facilities, such as the Caritas headquarters and the St. Thomas Aquinas training center, have already been ordered to evacuate. While these buildings were fortunately empty due to ongoing repairs, the message is clear—the threat is closing in.

«We Cannot Leave Our Parish»

Father Romanelli underscored the steadfastness of his community, who refuse to abandon their spiritual home despite the danger. “What would our Christians do in the south? There, they would join millions living in destitution, surviving under tarps. Here, we are surrounded by what remains of our Catholic community,” he explained.

The priest also expressed hope that the global Church would amplify their plight. He praised Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, for his advocacy and revealed that Pope Francis has been making regular calls to stay updated on their dire situation.

A Test of Faith and Survival

The future of Gaza’s Christians hangs precariously on what Father Romanelli referred to as the “plan of the generals.” The parish remains a beacon of faith for the community, even as war encroaches on every side.

Father Romanelli issued an urgent plea to the West: “Our story must be heard. We need the world to understand that amidst this conflict, there are those who simply want to live in peace, to preserve their homes, and to keep their faith alive.”

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A Changing Tide in Leadership

Among the candidates considered for the role is Guli Francis-Dehqani, Bishop of Chelmsford, whose unique background and perspective could redefine the future of the Anglican Communion. Born in Iran in 1966 and having fled to the United Kingdom as a teenager, Francis-Dehqani’s candidacy symbolizes the increasingly global face of Anglicanism, a denomination that now counts the majority of its 98 million members in Africa and Asia.

Should Francis-Dehqani be chosen, it would mark a transformative moment in Anglican leadership—a break from tradition that could have implications for the Church’s relationship with the Vatican and its internal cohesion.

The Candidates and the Challenges

Joining Francis-Dehqani on the shortlist are Martyn Snow, Bishop of Leicester, and Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich. All three are tasked with addressing a Church grappling with declining attendance in Western nations, internal divisions over gender and sexuality, and the need to balance its British roots with its expanding presence in the Global South.

Welby’s tenure saw efforts to bridge these divides, but his resignation under scandal has left the Church with the challenge of restoring trust among the faithful. Notably, Anglican women bishops have been vocal in their call for greater accountability, reflecting a push for reform at the highest levels of leadership.

The Process of Selection

The decision lies with the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC), a 16-member body responsible for proposing two candidates for the role. The final decision rests with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III. While Starmer, a self-declared atheist, could theoretically block or suggest alternatives, it is expected that Charles, known for his interest in interfaith dialogue and religious freedom, will play a more active role in guiding the selection.

The CNC process is intricate. Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York and second-highest-ranking figure in the Church of England, will work with the commission to recommend the final candidates. Following the Prime Minister’s review, the chosen nominee will be formally appointed by the King and invested at Canterbury Cathedral.

Implications for the Future

The choice of the next Archbishop could significantly shape the Church’s direction. Francis-Dehqani represents a potential shift toward inclusivity and global engagement, but her leadership might challenge traditionalists and complicate the Church’s ties with the Catholic Church.

Alternatively, a more conventional choice, such as Snow or Usher, might prioritize stability, aiming to reconcile divisions within the Anglican Communion while maintaining a steady ecumenical course.

With no date yet set for the announcement, the decision looms large for a Church seeking to navigate modern challenges while preserving its historic legacy. In an era marked by shifting cultural and religious landscapes, the new Archbishop will carry the burden of charting a course for unity and renewal.

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The Pope expressed deep compassion for the victims and reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to advocating for the release of those still held captive in Gaza. According to reports, 63 individuals remain detained by Hamas.

A Gesture of Global Solidarity

The hour-long meeting underscored the Vatican’s role as a voice for peace and reconciliation in the Middle East. Participants described the encounter as both heartfelt and impactful. “We didn’t come in vain,” one attendee remarked, highlighting their hope that Pope Francis’s moral authority might influence efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages.

Gaya Kalderon, a 22-year-old who attended the meeting, voiced her anguish over her father’s continued captivity. “Our life is a living hell; we have no life anymore,” she said, capturing the collective despair of families torn apart by violence.

Condemning Crimes Against Humanity

In a press conference following the audience, the Israeli delegation condemned the kidnappings as “an absolute crime against humanity.” They called for international intervention and swift action to bring the remaining hostages home, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

This meeting follows Pope Francis’s ongoing engagement with both Israeli and Palestinian families affected by the conflict. Earlier this year, on April 8, he met with five Israeli families whose relatives had been abducted, signaling his unwavering dedication to dialogue and justice.

A Pontiff’s Call for Ceasefire and Compassion

Pope Francis has consistently called for peace in the region. In a message earlier this month, he urged an immediate ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon, and reiterated the need for the swift release of all hostages held in Gaza.

During his general audience in St. Peter’s Square last Wednesday, the Pope extended his prayers to the 150 Palestinian civilians who had recently lost their lives, highlighting the devastating toll of the conflict on all sides.

Building Bridges Amid Crisis

This meeting reflects the Vatican’s enduring role as a bridge-builder in some of the world’s most entrenched conflicts. By offering a platform for those affected by violence, Pope Francis amplifies calls for justice and peace, transcending political divides.

As families await news of their loved ones, the hope remains that global leaders and humanitarian advocates will heed the Pope’s call: to prioritize the sanctity of human life, to end cycles of violence, and to restore dignity to those who continue to suffer in silence.

This moment in the Apostolic Palace, marked by shared grief and quiet determination, serves as a reminder that even amid profound despair, the pursuit of peace is not just a dream but a moral imperative.

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