In a pastoral letter, Mgr. Vives calls for Roman Catholics to denounce the “hidden” persecution against Christians, and defend religious freedom for all faiths.
From the World
Pakistan: Christians Under Attack at Lahore Psychiatric Hospital
A nurse was accused of blasphemy for her criticism of the government’s reaction to the European Parliament motion censoring the country.
“Sect Filters” in Germany: Institutionalizing the Anti-Cult Narrative
German citizens should sign declarations that they did not and will not participate in any Scientology-related activity before obtaining some public and private jobs.
Russian Hindus Prohibited from Celebrating Maha Shivratri Festival
A woman who organized the Maha Shivratri festival in Udmurtia, Central Russia, was charged for “illegal missionary activity.”
Several Christian Churches, Statues Attacked in Europe in March and April
The Observatory of Intolerance and Discrimination Against Christians in Europe details incidents in several countries, including UK, Italy, Germany and Poland.
European Parliament: Pakistan Blasphemy Law Incompatible with Trade Benefits
A motion asks the Commission to reconsider the privileged GSP+ status accorded to the country, because of its gross violations of religious liberty.
Virgin of Guadalupe Mural Vandalized in Los Angeles
The incident is part of an alarming series of attacks against Catholic statues and churches in the United States.
Pakistan’s Independent Journalists Killed, Wounded, Tortured
In Pakistan, reporters who criticize the authorities or denounce human rights violations are routinely attacked.
Murder in a Coptic Monastery: Father Isaiah, Murderer or Scapegoat?
NGOs ask to stay the execution of Father Isaiah, a coptic monk sentenced in Egypt for the murder of his bishop.
Excommunication: Looking for a Balance of Interests Between Opposite Freedoms
The Ghent Court decision declaring shunning as practiced by Jehovah’s Witnesses illegal ignores European and Belgian precedents, and is clearly wrong.