“I had a very challenging year and wasn’t always as happy as I may have seemed.” It was not a typical start to an end-of-year prizegiving speech, but that’s exactly what Timaru’s Roncalli College head boy Josh Batchelor wanted. The popular 18-year-old stood in front of hundreds of people on Thursday night to announce that Read more
The bishops of England and Wales have discussed whether parishes might celebrate the Third Rite of Reconciliation during the Year of Mercy. But at their November meeting, the bishops did not approve the move, despite some lively discussion. Bishop Philip Egan of Portsmouth wrote that the bishops acknowledged that valid conditions required for general absolution Read more
A prelate has suggested that strident criticism of Pope Francis might be grounds for excommunication under canon law. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council for the New Evangelisation, suggested such criticism could be seen as akin to “physical violence” against the Roman Pontiff. This carries a penalty of excommunication. But US canon lawyer Read more
South Korea’s Catholic Church has announced it has agreed with North Korea to send priests to the isolated communist state “on a regular basis”. This should see priests leading services in Pyongyang on major holy days from next year. The move followed a visit to the North Korean capital by South Korean bishops last week. Read more
An Auckland restaurant has ignited debate after organising a traditional Dutch Christmas celebration featuring characters in blackface. But its owner says the costumes are part of a old tradition, and the event is just harmless fun for children. Popular Birkenhead eatery Dutch Delight has had a visit from Sinterklaas (Santa Claus), and his helper Black Read more
This summer will bring about a huge change for Jamie Allen. Without hesitation, the Taranaki Cathedral Dean will be able to don a short-sleeved shirt and hit the beach with his family. “It’s incredibly liberating,” said Allen, who has spent the past six years consciously covering the tattoos that cover much of his body. Aware Read more
Has the former Vatican embassy in Wellington been snapped up by Sir Peter Jackson? The large brick building, which is located off Queens Dr in Lyall Bay, is surrounded by high trees and gates with signs warning people not to enter. On Tuesday a neighbour said rumours were circulating that Jackson was the new owner. Continue Read more
Pope Francis has described God as “both father and mother”. In an interview with the magazine Credere, the Pope explained his decision to call a Jubilee Year of Mercy. The Jubilee Year might help the faithful to recognise “the maternal dimension of God”, the Pope observed. He explained that he was speaking of “the tenderness, typical Read more
Four more priests have been charged with the murder of a seminary rector in India in 2013. Ten people, including six priests, have now been accused of being involved in the death of Fr K.J. Thomas. His body was found inside St Peter’s Pontifical Seminary in Bangalore. Police have filed charges in a Bangalore court. Read more
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is to attend the opening of the Holy Door by Pope Francis at St Peter’s Basilica on December 8. The retired pontiff accepted the invitation of Francis to attend the opening. Benedict will not take part in the whole official inauguration of the Jubilee of Mercy. But he will be present Read more