A new report by a human rights lawyer reveals that the Catholic Church in Nicaragua faces severe repression under President Daniel Ortega and First Lady Rosario Murillo. Between April 2018 and July 2025, the study recorded over 1,000 aggressions, including exiles, temple attacks, and restrictions on pastoral life. Authorities banned thousands of religious processions, often verbally to avoid records. At least 302 religious figures were forced into exile. Although reported incidents dropped in 2025, surveillance and intimidation have intensified, with most remaining priests monitored daily. The findings will be presented to the Vatican in September.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Artists Eyes on UnsplashGood news
The Catholic Church in Mexico has strengthened its partnership with public security institutions to promote community safety. A senior church leader visited a city command center, highlighting a convergence of spiritual and technological efforts. This collaboration builds on a disarmament program, where citizens exchange weapons in church atriums. The outlet states that this alliance leverages the Church's moral authority to encourage trust and reduce violence. By combining faith with surveillance technology, the initiative aims to construct peace through shared symbols and coordinated action between religious and state entities in the capital.
A recent report reveals divergent global trends for the Catholic Church. While Africa is now the second-largest continent by Catholic population and sees rapid growth, Europe and the United States face significant decline. In Europe, the clergy is aging, and active participation is dropping despite immigration. The US also shows a marked decrease in practicing Catholics and a reduction in the number of priests. Conversely, the Americas remain the continent with the highest number of Catholics and bishops. The study highlights that social action remains strong, but religious vitality is waning in the West.
Pope Leo XIV encouraged young people to strengthen their faith during a major youth gathering. The event drew hundreds of thousands of participants from many countries. The article highlights the vital role of youth in promoting peace and solidarity, particularly in a nation where young activists have campaigned against rising insecurity. The author argues that society must listen to these voices and restore empathy to heal the social fabric fractured by violence and fear.
On the World Day against Human Trafficking, the Catholic community in Mexico is called to action. The article cites Saint Josephine Bakhita as a model for supporting victims. According to the UN, 21 million people face forced labor globally. In Mexico, the Citizen Council’s Fifth Report identifies sexual exploitation as the most common form, affecting 43 percent of cases. The text urges citizens to recognize signs of abuse, such as children traveling alone or workers in poor conditions. Residents in a major city can report anonymous tips via a hotline. The piece emphasizes that community vigilance is essential to rescue those trapped in exploitation networks.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Robert Levonyan on UnsplashPersecuted church
Endre Gunter, a student at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, US, was shot on August 27 during morning Mass. The attack killed two children and injured 18 others. According to his family's GoFundMe campaign, Endre asked his surgeon to pray with him before life-saving surgery. The medical team reported that his faith inspired them, and he survived the operation. He is currently recovering in the hospital. His family stated that the violence was devastating but highlighted his resilience and maturity in the face of tragedy.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Michael S on UnsplashPersecuted church
During a shooting at the Annunciation Catholic school in Minneapolis, United States, ten-year-old Weston Halsne was protected by his friend, Victor. According to local media, Victor placed himself over Weston to shield him from gunfire, sustaining a back wound in the process. Authorities report that two children died and seventeen others were injured during the attack on the school mass. Weston stated that Victor’s selfless act saved his life. The incident highlights the bravery of the students amidst the tragedy that claimed two young lives and harmed many others in the community.
A priest in Mexico reports that armed extortion group leaders attended First Communion celebrations while carrying firearms. The article notes that some criminals force priests to perform sacraments in remote areas without proper preparation. Although many participants identify as Catholic, the author argues their violent actions contradict their faith. The text cites Pope Leo XIV on the need for genuine compassion and mission rather than superficial religious observance. The priest attempts to dialogue with local leaders to encourage a change in lifestyle and respect for the community, emphasizing that true faith requires coherent action.
A priest in Mexico, known online as Father DJ, draws thousands of young people through electronic music performances. During a youth jubilee event, he combined faith with techno beats to create a spiritual experience. Attendees from various local dioceses reported feeling moved by this approach, stating that music serves as a bridge to discuss God's love and evangelize dynamically. The priest aims to show that the Gospel can be present in modern contexts, responding to Pope Francis's call for new evangelization methods. This initiative demonstrates that faith and joy can coexist, reaching both believers and non-believers through shared musical moments.
Over 70 Korean missionaries from Latin America convened in a major city in Mexico for their annual gathering. Organized by the Association of Korean Missionaries in Latin America, the event occurred as part of the Jubilee Year proclaimed by Pope Francis. Participants, including a priest, visited a significant basilica to entrust their mission to the Virgin Mary. The association, active for 27 years, supports clergy and laity serving across 17 countries. The meeting focused on sharing experiences, spiritual strengthening, and mutual encouragement among members working in diverse regions throughout the continent.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by kHanya Litabe on UnsplashGood news
Michael Iskander, an American actor and musician born in Egypt, announced his conversion to Catholicism on August 21, 2025. Known for playing King David in the Amazon Prime Video series The House of David, he shared the news on Instagram. Iskander stated he felt a long-standing call to the faith and expressed gratitude for the support he received during his journey. The actor emphasized that this decision marks the beginning of a new spiritual path. His announcement received support from fellow actors, including Jonathan Roumie. The series has achieved significant viewership success in the United States and internationally.
Rome is preparing to host over 500,000 young pilgrims from 146 countries for the 2025 Youth Jubilee, scheduled from July 28 to August 3. Archbishop Rino Fisichella announced extensive logistical measures, including medical support, extra public transport, and volunteer staffing, to manage the influx. The event features activities such as city dialogues, a penitential day at the Circus Maximus, and a vigil with Pope Leo XIV. According to the outlet, the gathering aims to promote fraternity and address topics like hope and friendship, with special attention to youth from conflict zones.
A prominent theologian addressed young Catholics in Mexico, warning that global religious persecution is intensifying. He noted that millions face violations of religious freedom, with daily deaths in numerous countries due to their beliefs. The speaker urged attendees to move beyond passive attendance and actively defend their faith against mockery from peers and politicians. He offered three tips: take pride in being Catholic, commit fully to God, and boldly defend religious values. The address highlighted testimonies from persecuted Christians in various nations to emphasize the need for perseverance and active participation in parish life.
A sanctuary dedicated to the patron saint of migrants was inaugurated in a region of central Mexico. The site aims to offer spiritual comfort and support to those traveling to the United States. A bishop led the ceremony, emphasizing the church's role in welcoming and protecting migrants. The complex houses relics donated by a local diocese and features a large bronze statue. Although still under construction, the sanctuary can accommodate over 25,000 people and includes a plaza with Vatican and US flags.
Hundreds of young people attended an exclusive immersive event in Mexico organized by The Chosen and local church authorities. Held at a minor seminary, the experience simulated the Last Supper, featuring actor Jonathan Roumie as Jesus. Participants listened to a personalized message of hope and love through headphones. Attendees from various regions reported being emotionally moved and encouraged to share the Gospel. Bishop Héctor Mario Pérez Villarreal praised the initiative for helping youth connect with Jesus' message in a tangible way.
More than 6,000 young people gathered in a city in Mexico for the 2025 Jubilee of Youth, organized by the local Ecclesial Province. The event took place at a religious institution, bringing together Catholics and non-Catholics from various dioceses. Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes presided over the closing Eucharist, urging attendees to be sowers of hope. Activities included adoration, confession, and concerts featuring Father Guilherme Guimarães. According to the outlet, the gathering emphasized spiritual renewal and missionary outreach among the youth.
An immersive experience featuring the series The Chosen is planned for a youth jubilee in a major city in Mexico. A priest explained that the event at a local seminary aims to help young people connect personally with Jesus through visual and auditory elements. A representative from The Chosen Latino stated the activity will make attendees feel part of Jesus' life. The initiative seeks to inspire hope and encourage a deeper faith journey among youth, serving as an initial introduction to Christian life rather than replacing sacraments.
The Catholic Church has approved a miracle attributed to the intercession of a Mexican priest, paving the way for his beatification. The case involves a couple from a region in Mexico whose unborn daughter was diagnosed with a fatal condition. Doctors recommended terminating the pregnancy, but the parents prayed for nine days. At a subsequent ultrasound, the medical anomalies had completely disappeared. Their daughter is now healthy. The Pope signed the decree confirming the event as a miracle for the beatification process.
According to Aid to the Church in Need, around 200 people were killed in a village in northern Nigeria by armed men shouting religious slogans while attacking Christians. The Mexican Episcopal Conference urged prayer for the victims, and Pope Leo XIV expressed sorrow for the rural Christian communities in the region. The outlet also reported a suicide bombing at a Greek Orthodox church in Syria that killed at least 25 people, and a shooting incident at a religious service in a city in Michigan, where a security guard was injured. These events highlight a global increase in religiously motivated violence.
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