Federal judge blocks Texas order stopping transportation of migrants

A federal judge Aug. 3 temporarily blocked an order issued by the governor of Texas to halt transportation of migrants by anyone other than local or federal authorities following an incident involving a Catholic nonprofit.

Solidarity Fund for Church in Africa: Sharing Gospel with joy that inspires

Africa is the poorest and most marginalized area of the world from an economic and political standpoint. Endemic poverty, ecological damage, poor governance and persistent conflicts result in the displacement of millions on the continent. Africa also is a continent of enormous spiritual vitality, where the people of God -- ordained and laity alike -- share the Gospel with a joy that should inspire all of us to do likewise.

Only Jesus reveals true Gospel, pope says at first audience after surgery

The true Gospel has been revealed by Jesus Christ, not by individuals or founders of movements, Pope Francis said during his weekly general audience.

Pope appeals for aid to Lebanon, still suffering one year after blast

Marking the one-year anniversary of a deadly explosion in Beirut, Pope Francis said Lebanon needs concrete help -- not just words -- from the international community so it can emerge once again as a symbol of fraternity and peace for the Middle East.

Congo’s bishops want an end to attacks on Catholic Church, its leaders

Catholic bishops in Congo called for an end to attacks on the church and its leaders, acts they believe are linked to the church's persistent call for democracy and national cohesion.

CDC urges continuation of public health rule that keeps out migrants

To the dismay of immigration advocates, the Biden administration announced Aug. 2 it would continue implementing a public health rule enforced by the Trump administration, saying migrants at U.S. border crossings would be turned away to keep COVID-19 at bay.

Vatican releases rules for online learning for ecclesiastical universities

The Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education encouraged pontifical universities to expand educational opportunities to those who would normally be unable to attend classes in-person full time, but could manage coursework online, such as prisoners, migrants, the homeless, monks, contemplative nuns and even busy bishops.

Philippine bishop appeals for food for poor ahead of strict lockdown

The head of the Philippine bishops' conference has appealed to Catholics to give food to the poor so that they do not go hungry during a near-total lockdown Aug. 6-20.

Crises are signs that church is still alive, pope says

Difficulties and crises within the Catholic Church are not signs of a church in decline but one that is alive and living through challenges, just like men and women today, Pope Francis said.

USCCB, Catholic groups, politicians back Mississippi in court abortion case

Catholic leaders, pro-life organizations, Republican members of Congress and several governors are among those on a long list of supporters backing Mississippi's ban on abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy and urging the court to reexamine its previous abortion rulings when it takes up this case in the fall.