Pope Francis received in private audience seminarians and formators of the “Apostle James” Inter-Diocesan Seminary Photo: Vatican Media

Mexican Church Calls for a National Truce on Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

As the faithful prepare to celebrate Christmas, the Church framed the truce as a gift to the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Christ Child. “Let this Christmas bring families together without the shadow of mourning caused by violence,” the message implored. By fostering peace during Advent, the Church sees an opportunity to heal wounds and rebuild a society fractured by violence.

Surge in Bible Sales Marks a Cultural Shift in 2024

The cultural relevance of Christianity is further bolstered by influencers on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, who increasingly share their faith with authenticity. Additionally, high-profile celebrities have begun openly discussing their beliefs, making faith-based conversations more mainstream.

The challenges of the Russian world according to Kirill

The patriarch has tried to distance himself recently from the country’s political leaders, stressing his superiority in the relationship between Russia’s political and clerical power. At least two issues underscore a gap between Church and State, namely the response to the demographic crisis with monks criticised for being celibate, and the ban on organised prayers in private homes.