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SermonWave World News

Thursday, November 12, 2026 Updated 9:27 AM Central Time 30281 stories

Persecuted church

Jordan mourns victims of funeral and soldier attacks

ammonnews.net Jordan

Jordan mourns after two violent incidents. Nine people were killed during a funeral in a village in Karak. Less than two weeks later, a soldier was stabbed while on duty near a foreign embassy in the capital. The article discusses how extremism justifies violence against individuals based on perceived group identity. It highlights the bravery of a junior officer who intervened to stop the attacker. The text calls for improved education and community efforts to prevent radicalization and promote civic responsibility among citizens.

Translated from العربيةAlso reported by 1 other outlet

Persecuted church

Argentine family delivers letter to Pope seeking release of detained man

bitlysdowssl-aws.com Venezuela

The family of Germán Giuliani, an Argentine detained in Venezuela since May 22, 2025, delivered a letter to Pope Leo XIV during his visit to Uruguay. Vanesa Giuliani, the detainee's sister, announced the submission on November 6 via social media. The document requests the pontiff's assistance in highlighting the case and securing Giuliani's freedom, asserting his innocence and unjust imprisonment. The family emphasized Giuliani's pastoral work in the Diocese of San Isidro. According to relatives, the Pope expressed shock upon learning the details. This effort aims to gain international attention for the detention, which has lasted over a year, and to prevent the case from being forgotten.

Translated from EspañolAlso reported by 4 outlets

Persecuted church

Jordanian article links recent attacks to King's past warnings

ammonnews.net Jordan

A Jordanian news outlet published an editorial connecting recent violence to long-standing royal directives. The article highlighted the martyrdom of a security officer in the capital and a church attack in a southern region that killed nine people. It argues that Jordan has paid a heavy price for security failures despite King Abdullah II's warnings since 1999 regarding extremism and sectarianism. The piece calls for accountability and effective implementation of reforms to prevent further tragedies, referencing past incidents involving a pilot and administrative negligence.

Translated from العربية

Good news

Pope Leo XIV Celebrated by Thousands in Uruguay

suedtirolnews.it Uruguay

Pope Leo XIV led a major mass in Paysandú, Uruguay, on Saturday, drawing tens of thousands of attendees. The Pontiff urged the faithful to pass on the Christian faith to younger generations with creative courage. This event marks the start of his twelve-day South American tour, which also includes stops in Argentina and Peru, regions where he previously served as a missionary and bishop. Although Uruguay maintains a strict separation between church and state, the gathering highlighted the strong Catholic presence in the region. The Pope praised Uruguay's democratic stability before continuing his journey to Buenos Aires.

Translated from Deutsch

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Mercy House Distributes Winter Coats in New Jersey With Student Help

villagegreennj.com United States

The Mercy House, a ministry of the Archdiocese of Newark, distributed more than 600 coats to individuals and families in need across Jersey City, Newark, and Elizabeth from October 26 to 28. Attendees received adult and children's coats, along with hats, gloves, and scarves. Students from Seton Hall University and local high schools volunteered to assist with the event. Cheryl A. Riley, the director, stated the initiative helps families stay warm during winter. The Archdiocese of Newark, led by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, supports this ministry alongside other parishes and donors to provide essential social services in northern New Jersey.

Good news

Pope Leo XIV visits Uruguay, urges bridge-building and unity

ilmattino.it Uruguay

Pope Leo XIV is visiting Uruguay, starting in Paysandú near the border with Argentina. During a mass at Parque Paris Londres, he cited the mate drink as a symbol of friendship and shared values. He urged attendees to be builders of bridges, strengthening bonds and communicating faith. The Pontiff also visited Casavalle, a poor neighborhood in Montevideo, offering hope and support for housing improvements. Additionally, he called for prayer and fasting days to increase priestly vocations. This trip marks the first leg of his South American journey, which includes stops in Argentina and Peru. The Pope emphasized his health and commitment to the mission despite recent medical challenges.

Translated from ItalianoAlso reported by 1 other outlet

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Pope Leo XIV to Lead Interfaith Peace Meeting in Buenos Aires

AICA Argentina

Pope Leo XIV will host an interreligious gathering in Buenos Aires, Argentina, at the San Martín Palace during his papal visit. The event, organized by the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires, aims to promote peace, respectful coexistence, and human dignity. Father Carlos White explained that the venue will remain neutral, avoiding specific religious symbols to ensure equality among all confessions. Key gestures include lighting a single universal candle for peace and victims of violence, followed by a minute of silence to allow personal prayer. Religious leaders have accepted the invitation enthusiastically, hoping for messages of hope from the Pope, who has prioritized global peace since the start of his pontificate.

Translated from EspañolAlso reported by 1 other outlet

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Pope Leo XIV to visit Luján Basilica in Argentina

clarin.com Argentina

The Basilica of Our Lady of Luján in Argentina is preparing to receive Pope Leo XIV during his upcoming visit. This monumental neogothic structure, located in the province of Buenos Aires, was built over 40 years to house the small terracotta statue of the Virgin Mary, which has been a central symbol of faith since 1630. The construction faced significant economic and logistical challenges but was funded by the faithful rather than the state. The site attracts millions of pilgrims annually, with 2.8 million visitors recorded this October alone. The basilica, a National Historic Monument, stands as a key landmark for Catholic identity in the country.

Translated from Español

Good news

Pope visits Paysandú, Uruguay, for first American Mass

Agenzia SIR Uruguay

Pope Leo XIV is visiting Paysandú, a major city in northern Uruguay, as part of his apostolic journey. Bishop Arturo Fajardo of Salto highlighted that the location facilitates the arrival of pilgrims from Argentina and Brazil. The pontiff will celebrate the first Mass in the Americas there, joining faithful from neighboring countries' churches. Fajardo emphasized the role of local catechists and lay ministers in evangelizing a secularized society. The visit aims to recognize the vitality of small rural communities and strengthen ties between sister churches across the border regions.

Translated from Italiano

Good news

Sicilian bishops discuss migration challenges on Lampedusa

Agenzia SIR Italy

The Sicilian Episcopal Conference held a meeting in Palermo yesterday to address migration issues, focusing on the island of Lampedusa. Monsignor Corrado Lorefice led the discussion, emphasizing the need for the Church to remain engaged with the realities faced by migrants. Don Aldo Sciabbarrasi, the local parish priest, described the changing dynamics between residents and arrivals, advocating for parish presence at landing sites to maintain a direct connection with suffering. The event included testimonies from religious communities and plans for future collaboration among diocesan offices to support pastoral care and foster relationships between local youth and migrants.

Translated from Italiano

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Togo secures lake crossings for 54th Marian pilgrimage

republicoftogo.com Togo

Thousands of pilgrims are expected in Togoville, Togo, for the 54th edition of the Marian pilgrimage, concluding on Sunday. Many will cross Lake Togo by pirogue, prompting authorities to enforce safety measures. The National Civil Protection Agency mandates life jackets and strict capacity limits for boats, urging boatmen to remain vigilant. The event, rooted in 1971 local traditions, draws visitors from across Togo, neighboring Benin and Ghana, and the diaspora. The sanctuary gained international status after Pope John Paul II visited in 1985. Activities include processions and masses focused on mercy and reconciliation.

Translated from FrançaisAlso reported by 1 other outlet

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Oman marks 50th anniversary of first Catholic church with Jubilee

Agenzia SIR Oman

A bishop inaugurated the Golden Jubilee of a parish in Oman, marking 50 years since the country's first Catholic church was consecrated in 1977. Celebrations, running until November 2027, follow the theme 'Built on the Rock, Driven by the Spirit.' The Apostolic Penitentiary granted plenary indulgences to visitors. A parish priest thanked Omani authorities for ensuring religious freedom. The Catholic community has grown significantly, with estimates reaching 100,000 faithful today, up from 3,500 in 1977. The local parish alone serves about 10,000 regular attendees from various Asian nations.

Translated from ItalianoAlso reported by 4 outlets

Good news

Sermig exhibition opens in Ciriè church on November 7

Agenzia SIR Italy

The Sermig organization is launching an exhibition titled 'Sermig and its history' on Saturday, November 7, at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Ciriè, Italy. The event begins at 14:30 and highlights the group's humanitarian work in Italy, Brazil, and Jordan. The display is free to enter and supported by the local municipality. Visitors can view the exhibit on November 7 and 8 between 10:00 and 19:00. This initiative aims to showcase the mission service's ongoing activities and historical development to the public.

Translated from Italiano

Persecuted church

Nepal Deports 24 South Korean Christians for Religious Activities

Portas Abertas Brasil Nepal

Nepal authorities deported 24 South Korean Christians from a district after accusing them of conducting religious training and evangelism while on tourist visas. The Immigration Department canceled their visas, imposed fines, and banned them from re-entering for three years. Local media reported the group was detained in a specific town. The incident has sparked concern among Nepalese Christian leaders regarding religious freedom and equal rights. According to Open Doors partners, Christians in Nepal face ongoing challenges including discrimination and restrictions on religious activities.

Translated from Português

Good news

Pope Leo XIV visits Uruguay, celebrating Mass in Paysandu and Casavalle

ansa.it Uruguay

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Paysandu, Uruguay, to celebrate Mass for approximately 40,000 faithful at Parque Paris Londres. He then traveled to Casavalle, a impoverished neighborhood in Montevideo, to bless twelve new homes replacing informal settlements. The Vatican press office reported the attendance figures. During vespers at Montevideo Cathedral, the Pope urged bishops worldwide to pray and fast for new priestly vocations, noting that Uruguay had no seminary candidates in 2024. Local priest Pablo Coimbra stated the visit brings dignity to marginalized residents. The Pontiff also prayed to Uruguay's patron saint, Nuestra Señora de los Treinta y Tres.

Translated from Italiano

Persecuted church

Denver Archbishop Faces Criticism Over Preschool Anti-Discrimination Lawsuit

denverpost.com United States

The Denver Post opinion editor Megan Schrader criticizes Archbishop James Golka for defending two Catholic preschools that refuse to admit LGBTQ students and their parents. The case, involving St. Mary in Littleton and St. Bernadette in Lakewood, is currently before the U.S. Supreme Court. Oral arguments occurred recently, with the diocese claiming Colorado’s anti-discrimination rules violate the First Amendment. Schrader argues the state should not fund private schools that discriminate, noting that most Colorado Catholic schools do not exclude LGBTQ families. She contends that allowing such exemptions for publicly funded preschools sets a dangerous precedent for other educational institutions.

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Baildon community hub wins King's Award for Voluntary Service

thetelegraphandargus.co.uk United Kingdom

Wesleys Community Hub and Café in Baildon, UK, has received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honor for local voluntary groups. The award recognizes the work of approximately 120 volunteers who support the center, which welcomes around 1,200 visitors weekly. Chair Gareth James expressed gratitude to the volunteers, parent-body Baildon Methodist Church, and local councils. The hub provides activities for diverse groups, including Scouts and people with learning disabilities, and offers free meals to those facing cost-of-living pressures. Regular visitors describe the center as a vital lifeline for social connection and wellbeing.

Good news

El Salvador senior community kitchen doubles beneficiaries in one month

diariocolatino.com El Salvador

The community kitchen at the Obispos Abelina and Medardo Gómez Community House in El Salvador has more than doubled its number of beneficiaries since opening on October 2. Organizers report that attendance rose from approximately 50 to nearly 90 seniors by November 6. The initiative, led by Julio Villagrán and his son Carlos, provides meals, medical consultations, and essential items every Friday. The project aims to support vulnerable elderly individuals, including those living on the streets or in isolation. Recipients describe the service as a vital blessing that alleviates hunger and financial strain. Logistics were expanded to accommodate the increased demand through additional resources and volunteers.

Translated from Español

Persecuted church

Vandalism Targets La Nueva Emaus Church in Iquitos

diariolaregion.com Peru

Members of La Nueva Emaus church in Iquitos, Peru, are outraged after vandals covered their temple walls with black ink. The incident occurred at the intersection of Cahuide and Pebas streets. Pastor Saúl Casternoque stated that these attacks have repeated for over a year, allegedly by individuals linked to football hooligan groups. The congregation faces constant expenses to clean and repaint the building. Casternoque has urged the National Police and municipal authorities to increase patrols, particularly at night, to stop the harassment and identify those responsible for damaging the place of worship.

Translated from Español

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