In some countries, a form of religious-cultural nationalism is back in vogue. Religion is exploited both to obtain popular support and to launch a political message that is identified with people’s loyalty and devotion to a nation. It is taken for granted that people have in religion a common identity, origin and history, and that Read more
Pope Francis is concerned about recent political rhetoric, warning against nationalism and saying recent political speeches “resemble those of Hitler in 1934. “’Us first. We … We … These are frightening thoughts.” “Sovereignism” or nationalism, represents an attitude of “isolation” and closure, he said in an interveiw with Italian newspaper La Stampa last week. “A Read more
The re-emergence of nationalism that manifests in aggressive feelings against foreigners, especially immigrants, is of serious concern says Pope Francis. Nationalism that compromises international cooperation, mutual respect and the sustainable development goals of the United Nations is part of the growing problem. In addition, nationalism that neglects the common good and the growing threat of Read more
World War I and its aftermath changed the map of Europe, but also dismantled the notion of the “state church” in a way that forced the Catholic Church to discover again the authentic meaning of mission, said Cardinal Pietro Parolin. After the war, Pope Benedict XV “was prompt in indicating how the missionary world must Read more
A Myanmar court has jailed a New Zealand bar manager, Philip Blackwood, and two Myanmar colleagues for two and a half years for insulting religion by using a psychedelic image of Buddha wearing headphones to promote their bar. Myanmar’s semi-civilian government has lifted restrictions on freedom of speech, association and media, but reforms have been accompanied by Read more