Fides News - English

Three weeks of Scrutinies: The Diocese of Hong Kong prepares to celebrate 2,500 baptisms at Easter

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:45:05 +0100

Hong Kong – “Be bearers of hope”: this is the exhortation that Cardinal Stephen Chow Sau-yan, Bishop of the Diocese of Hong Kong, addressed to the catechumens during the rite of scrutiny, in which the future baptized received the anointing, a symbol of purification and part of the beginning of the journey towards salvation that begins with Baptism.
According to the weekly bulletin of the Diocese of Hong Kong Kung Kao Po, 2,500 baptisms will be administered in the diocese at Easter. 1,600 newly baptized will be adults and 900 infants, with numbers similar to those recorded in 2025. Many young catechumens have chosen to ask for the gift of Baptism after being drawn to the Catholic faith also thanks to the living testimonies of people already baptized, whom they encountered in Catholic schools or parishes.
From Sunday, March 8, the third Sunday of Lent, Cardinal Chow began presiding over the series of rites of scrutiny for catechumens celebrated in parishes.
At Christ the King Church, the Bishop of Hong Kong explained to the catechumens that "receiving Baptism means welcoming the 'living water' which is Christ. It is only the beginning of the life of faith. You need to enter into a deeper relationship with the Church" in order to have a personal encounter with the Lord and to become "bearers of hope" through the Holy Spirit and the grace of faith. Furthermore, Cardinal Bo added, "in order to welcome the 'living water' into your lives, you also need the guidance of the Holy Spirit, so that you may enter into the Love of the Holy Trinity and experience God's revelation through the liturgy and the sacraments... You cannot simply rely on the notes you took during catechism, but you are called to communicate with the Lord in prayer and to live communion and unity within the Church.”
The catechumens, introduced to Cardinal Chow by their respective catechists, declared their conversion. Accompanied by their godparents, they received the anointing.
During the rite of scrutiny of the catechumens, some shared with those present the experience of their encounter with faith in Christ. Tam Shun-yiu, baptized last year, is now deputy head of youth ministry at St. Jude parish and guides young people in the reading of the Gospel.
The catechumen Lo Hoi-nok, a student at St. Anthony's School, said his Christian vocation was inspired by the formation and pilgrimages organized by the school. Chen Qiutong, a catechumen at the University of St. Francis, said she had asked to be baptized after coming across the university pastoral initiatives.

Catholic Bishops: March 26th, prayer and fasting for peace in the Middle East and Myanmar

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:54:55 +0100

Yangon – A special day of penance, prayer, and fasting, to invoke the gift of peace not only in their homeland, but also in the Middle East, once again in flames following the Israeli-American attack on Iran. The is the call made by the Catholic bishops of Myanmar for March 26, just days before the start of Holy Week.

"For the Catholic Church," recalls a statement released today and signed by Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference, "the Holy Lenten Season is the time to make more effort for penance, conversion of heart and the intimate relationship with God. In this Holy Season, the Catholic Church encourages the Catholic Faithful to do more prayer, fasting and charity."

This year, the Catholic Bishops emphasize, "We do need to make special prayers for PEACE in the world, especially in the Middle East and in Myanmar. His Holiness Pope Leo XIV also reminds that PEACE is built by the practical living of love, compassion and mutual understanding in daily life."

During Lent, the Bishops of Myanmar request all to continue praying, "so that God gives His Peace to the world and to Myanmar and that there will be mutual understanding and progress in unity." They call on everyone to practice fasting, to unite their sacrifices and hardships "with the suffering of Jesus Christ, for the conversion and unity of hearts." They also request everyone to perform works of charity, offering time and donations "for the poor and suffering people."

AFRICA/SOUTH SUDAN - Christian church leaders: "Stop military operations in Jonglei"

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:37:34 +0100

Juba – "Stop the military operation in Jonglei State," call the leaders of Christian churches that are part of the South Sudan Council of Churches .
In a statement, Cardinal Ameyu Martin Mulla, Archbishop of Juba, called on behalf of all SSCC members to stop "the ongoing military operation in Jonglei, especially the recent orders from SSPDF Military command to conduct what they refer to as second phase of operation in Akobo. This will only increase more human suffering and displacement to our own populations, burning of cities and death."
The city of Akobo is at the center of the fighting between the South Sudanese army, the South Sudan People's Defence Forces , led by President Salva Kiir, and the faction led by Riek Machar, known as the Sudan People's Liberation Army-In Opposition .
The SSPDF entered the city this week to find it virtually deserted, after the population abandoned it following a 72-hour ultimatum issued on March 6. Thousands of civilians have fled across the Pibor River toward Ethiopia. Akobo is situated between two rivers, the Pibor and the Geni, which form a vast swampy area where it is virtually impossible to move armored vehicles and trucks.
The battle is now focused on controlling the crossings over both rivers.
"As Shepherds, we are deeply worried about the escalation in violence, particularly in Jonglei State and elsewhere in our country, with intense fighting between government forces and opposition groups, and this threatens a return to full-scale civil war,” says Cardinal Mulla, referring to the civil war that broke out in 2013 between the factions of President Kiir and then-Vice President Machar. Although a first peace agreement was signed in 2018, political and military tensions have continued and even intensified following Machar’s arrest a year ago .
Christian leaders have renewed their call for dialogue to prevent further suffering for a population exhausted by years of war. “These military actions are not necessary if only our leaders were to choose dialogue as a means of resolving political and social differences in our country,” says Cardinal Mulla on behalf of the SSCC. “Our country has bled for decades and our citizens have sacrificed dearly, battling harsh economic challenges, killings and struggle to make ends meet for their daily bread.”
“To lead the country towards stability,” the SSCC proposes “the release of all political opponents, including the suspended First Vice President Dr. Rick Machar, in order to foster truthful and inclusive dialogue, paving way for healing, forgiveness, reconciliation and peace in our country.”

ASIA/KUWAIT - Pastoral activities, online schooling, and teleworking suspended. The Ministry of the Interior urges continuous monitoring of security

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:21:32 +0100

Kuwait City – A few days before the end of Ramadan, scheduled for the evening of March 19, Kuwait's Ministry of the Interior announced that it has decided to ban public gatherings, theatrical performances, concerts, and weddings during the Eid al-Fitr period until further notice, as a precautionary measure aimed at limiting large gatherings and enhancing security and safety requirements at this stage.

The situation remains tense throughout the Gulf region; in recent days, the US air base in Ali al-Salem, Kuwait, has reportedly suffered significant damage, in addition to drone debris impacting electrical infrastructure.

The Ministry's ban for the Eid al-Fitr period, which usually lasts three days, arises from the fact that families gather during this time to celebrate their faith and share time together. In light of the current situation in the country and the region, the authorities urged everyone to fully comply with these instructions and cooperate with the competent authorities, stressing that violating these procedures will subject the perpetrators to legal accountability, calling on everyone to demonstrate national responsibility and prioritize the public interest in order to preserve the security and stability of the country.

In Bahrain, oil reserves near Manama airport have been hit, as well as a building where a woman has died and several people have been injured.

"The sirens continue to sound, and concerned for the entire community, we are moving forward with great faith and patience. Schools have been closed since February 28th and are continuing with online classes; all exams have been postponed," explains Bishop Aldo Berardi, O.SS.T.. "Many workers are teleworking, we have suspended pastoral activities, which continue online, with the exception of Masses throughout the Apostolic Vicariate, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. In Qatar, everything remains closed, including Masses."

"Next week," Berardi continued, "is the Muslim holiday during which, according to tradition, prayers and gatherings are held. This year, it is still unknown what will happen. There is also concern about Holy Week. We have not yet received any instructions as to whether celebrations can be held or whether access will have to be restricted." The Italian Embassy in Bahrain has confirmed that hospitals, gas stations, and supermarkets remain open, but recommends limiting travel to what is strictly necessary, avoiding gatherings, and refrain from sharing images of attacks, drone strikes, or other similar incidents.

AFRICA/SOUTH AFRICA - Confirmation of the Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:56:17 +0100

Vatican City - On February 6, 2026, Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization confirmed Rev. Fr. Jeremiah Joseph Browne, of the diocesan clergy of Port Elizabeth, as National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in South Africa for the five-year period 2025-2030 .

AFRICA/NIGERIA - Chairman of the Bishops' Conference: "General insecurity affects all Nigerians"

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:45:25 +0100

Abuja – "Insecurity affects all Nigerians, not just Christians," emphasizes Msgr. Matthew Man'oso Ndagoso, Archbishop of Kaduna, Chairman of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria , in an interview with Fides.

Q. The Archdiocese of Kaduna has been particularly affected by mass kidnappings in recent months , but entire regions of Nigeria have long suffered from insecurity. What do you think is the reason for this?

A. The violence has several causes, from a lack of education and land conflicts between farmers and ranchers to widespread poverty, which drives many to join criminal gangs. This is particularly evident in the frequent kidnappings for ransom. It is a purely criminal phenomenon that makes no distinctions: anyone can become a victim of these gangs. Additionally, it must be considered that there are several areas in Nigeria where the government has no presence. Therefore, non-state actors can easily seize control of these areas and use them as bases for attacks on other regions.

Q. Thus, violence affects everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.

A. The problem of insecurity in Nigeria is complex, especially in the north of the country. Geographical factors play a significant role. In areas with a predominantly Christian population, such as the Middle Belt, Christians are most affected by the violence of armed gangs or jihadists. Conversely, in areas with a Muslim majority, such as the northeast, Muslims are most affected by violence. Therefore, the widespread insecurity affects not only Christians but also Muslims.

Q. What impact does this situation have on the daily life of the Church?

A. In the most insecure areas, the daily life of the Church is severely disrupted. In my diocese of Kaduna, for example, numerous mission stations are closed because pastoral workers—priests, religious, and catechists—cannot move about freely and safely. The Church does not exist separately from the rest of society. Therefore, its daily life in the areas most affected by insecurity, like that of the rest of the population, is shaped by this situation.

Q. The US government recently designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern due to the persecution of Christians. What is your opinion on this?

A. Nigeria is a country of concern for us because the Christian minority in the north faces various forms of discrimination. Particularly in the northeast, Christians encounter restrictions when it comes to filling certain jobs, but there are also significant limitations on acquiring land to build churches, while predominantly Christian areas are generally systematically neglected. Therefore, it can be said that there are forms of Christian persecution in these northern regions, but not throughout all of Nigeria.

Q. In your opinion, is the Nigerian government taking sufficient measures to combat insecurity?

A. Last month, the federal government announced that it had allocated funds to strengthen its security forces. However, we believe that the government can do more to ensure the safety of Nigerians. Furthermore, the Nigerian military has already conducted successful security and peacekeeping missions in other countries; therefore, there is no reason why it should not be equally effective at home.

ASIA/NEPAL - L'Amministratore apostolico Bogati: dopo le elezioni "il Paese vive un nuovo inizio"

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:51:20 +0100

ASIA/NEPAL - Apostolic Administrator Bogati: After the elections, "the country is experiencing a new beginning"
Kathmandu - “The situation in Nepal after the elections is calm. The people have cast their votes and overwhelmingly expressed their confidence in Balendra Shah and his party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party . We are experiencing an atmosphere of hope and change. People think: We are at the beginning of a new phase,” Father Silas Bogati, Apostolic Administrator of the Vicariate of Nepal, told Fides.

In the parliamentary elections held on March 5 in Nepal, partial results showed a victory for the Rastriya Swatantra Party under the leadership of Balendra Shah. The party won in 52 of the 75 constituencies. A total of 275 seats were allocated, 165 of them directly by majority vote and another 110 by proportional representation. These results have yet to be announced.
Balendra Shah, a 35-year-old engineer, first gained fame as a rapper with lyrics addressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, and corruption. In 2022, he decided to pursue a political career and was elected mayor of Kathmandu. Following the Generation Z protests in September 2025, he ran against incumbent Prime Minister Sharma Oli in his constituency and won decisively. "The election has shown that the established parties have lost support, while new parties like the RSP, especially under its leader Balendra, have gained ground," notes Reverend Bogati. "Citizens have great hopes in him and believe that Balendra will bring better times, characterized by development and prosperity."

After the final results are announced, the new parliament and government will be formed, which observers expect will happen by the end of March. Father Bogati adds: “The mood among the people is very optimistic, and expectations are high. On the other hand, this also means a great responsibility for the new leaders. We pray that the Lord will enlighten them and that they will work for the good of all in the country.”

EUROPE/MALTA - "Forward with Hope": Missio Malta’s Annual Fundraising Marathon to be held on Saturday, March 14

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:19:02 +0100

Valletta – On Saturday, March 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Missio Malta will once again promote its annual fundraising event to support missionary projects around the world. Twelve hours of live transmission will be broadcast on all local TV stations.
The TV marathon will discuss missionary projects, how they are developed and implemented, and the ecclesial and social needs they address. These projectssupported include educational initiatives for children, housing construction projects, hospital-building projects and access to medical care, agricultural initiatives, access to clean water, as well as direct support for young people who feel called to a religious vocation.
"Preparations are now in full swing, and Missio Malta’s volunteers are eager to reach the homes of the Maltese and Gozitan people this Saturday," said Robert Farrugia, Head of Communications and Fundraising at Missio Malta who added: "As we do every year, we will shed a light on the protagonists of Missio’s successes for the benefit of the missions – namely the children and families who benefit from these incredible projects, but also the Maltese and international missionaries whose tireless work makes all this possible."
At present, Missio Malta is managing more than 130 projects around the world. Seventy-five of these are being carried out in 13 African countries, five in three countries in South America, and 52 projects are spread across 10 countries in Asia.

AFRICA/LIBERIA - Appointment of the New Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:58:08 +0100

Monrovia – On January 23, 2026, Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization , appointed Rev. Fr. Prince Nimene Sieh as National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Liberia for the five-year term 2026-2031. The new director of the PMS in Liberia earned a Bachelor in Philosophy in 2009, followed by a Bachelor in Theology in 2013, and a Licentiate in Canon Law in 2024. He has held several positions: Dean of Students and Principal at Our Lady of Fatima High School; then continued as Administrator of St. Peter's Claver Junior High School from 2015 to 2021; and as a Teacher and Vice Principal at Barclayville Central High School; as well as Dean of Student Affairs at Grand Kru Technical Training Institute between 2017 and 2019. Alongside this, he gained civic and social governance skills by volunteering for the Justice and Peace Commission and as General Secretary of the Barclayville City Council from 2016 to 2021, as well as handling ecclesiastical responsibilities as administrator and Parish priest of St. Peter Claver Church. Since 2024, he has held the positions of chancellor of the Diocese of Cape Palmas, administrator of St. Theresa Cathedral, and school teacher for the 2024-2025 two-year period, also assuming the presidency of the National Association of Catholic Priests in 2025. Finally, he is spiritual director of the Catholic Women's Organization in the Diocese of Cape Palmas, and also vicar for canonical affairs in the Diocese of Cape Palmas.

AFRICA/MOZAMBIQUE - Confirmation of the Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:47:16 +0100

Vatican City - On January 28, 2026, Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization , confirmed Rev. Fr. Jorge Joaquim Pinho, of the clergy of the Archdiocese of Beira, as National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Mozambique for the five-year period 2026-2031 .

AFRICA/EGYPT - Greek Melkite Bishop Chami: Prayer and fasting for peace and to drive out the demons that fuel wars

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:43:59 +0100

Cairo - What "is happening in the world," says Bishop Jean-Marie Chami, Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarchal Vicar General of Egypt, Sudan, and South Sudan, challenges "all Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders," and "all those who speak in the name of their faith and religion," reminding them that "our spiritual traditions continually remind us that Peace is the will of God." He does so with a "letter-appeal" that calls on everyone "to Adoration for Peace."

Last Tuesday, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth quoted verses from Psalm 144 to pay tribute to US soldiers engaged in the war offensive in Iran: "Praise be to the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle," the American politician declared. "He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge," he continued, quoting the Psalm, and adding the request that "the Lord grant our warriors invincible strength and refuge, indestructible protection in our homeland, and total victory over those who seek to harm them. And Amen. God bless our troops and this mission."

In his letter, Bishop Chami quotes passages from the sacred books of various faith communities that testify to their love for peace. While the Torah recalls the precept of "offering" peace first , in the Bible, in a passage from the Book of Numbers, we find the invocation/blessing also taken up by Saint Francis: "May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you and beturn His face toward you and give you peace."

Bishop Chami continues by quoting the eighth Surah of the Qur'an ; he also recalls the Prophet Micah's announcement of the time when men "shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore." All these phrases and references make the enigma of wars unleashed and justified by resorting to religious arguments and language even more jarring and unbearable.
"Today," Bishop Chami continues, "families are leaving their homes. Peoples live in anguish and exile. Children are losing their childhood." And as Jesus says in the Gospel according to Mark, this kind of demon cannot be driven out "except through prayer and fasting."

In the conclusion of his letter, Bishop Chami invokes the gift of peace, entrusting himself to the intercession of Saint Francis, of Saint Mary of Jesus Crucified, "Patroness of the Holy Land and the Middle East," and also to the many "Holy Innocents" who are shedding their blood in the new wars and "have died innocently."

AMERICA/URUGUAY - Sr. Jolanta Elżbieta Płomińska, SSPC, new director of the PMS

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:26:42 +0100

Vatican City - On January 27, 2026, Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization , appointed, Rev. Sr. Jolanta Elżbieta Płomińska, Miss. of St. Peter Claver, as national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Uruguay for the five-year period 2026-2031.
The new director of the PMS in Uruguay is 50 years old and was born in Kodrąb on March 1, 1976. She has vast missionary experience in Cameroon, Brazil, Kenya, e-Swatini, and Cape Verde. She has worked in the formation of missionaries, families, and young people in Nichelino . From 2014 to 2017 she was a formator of young nuns and then Director of the Mater Ecclesiae College under the Dicastery for Evangelization . Since 2022, she has been Superior in Montevideo, and since 2023, she has been part of the Archdiocesan missionary team and the national missionary team. She completed a master's degree in missionary spirituality at the Pontifical Urbaniana University and the Course for Formators at the Angelicum.
She holds a degree in missiology from the Pontifical Urbaniana University.

ASIA/CHINA - Bishop Zhen Xuebin to seminarians: we are called to bear witness to the Word of God with our lives

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:22:45 +0100

Beijing – Bearing witness to the Word of God with our lives. This is the invitation that Matthew Zhen Xuebin, Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Beijing, addressed to seminarians at the beginning of the second semester of the 2025/2026 Academic Year of the Seminary, inaugurated after the Lunar New Year holiday.
During the Eucharistic liturgy, celebrated in the Seminary chapel, Bishop Zhen also conferred the ministry of lector on the second-year theology seminarians.
In his homily, the Coadjutor Bishop of Beijing called on everyone to consider three priorities: strengthening faith, safeguarding vocation and carrying the Word of God in their hearts. The Word of Mount Tabor, he said, must always resonate in the ears of seminarians, so that they may live and bear witness to the gift of faith amid the constraints and limitations of earthly life, without shying away from contact with what is not pure, but asking Jesus to illuminate the darkness of life with his light.
Bishop Zhen recommended to the seminarians who received the ministry of lector that they bear witness to the Word of God with their lives, becoming ‘living books’ that glorify God and build up the Church.
Before the start of the new academic semester, the seminarians returned from their Chinese New Year holiday and participated in a four-day spiritual retreat from 24 to 27 February, dedicated to the theme ‘Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch’ . On the evening of February 28, the Seminary family gathered together again. The faculty shared the academic program with the students, in light of the exhortation to ‘put out into deep water’ in following the Word of God.

On March 8, the third Sunday of Lent, the Seminary of Sichuan Province inaugurated the academic semester with the sharing of pastoral experiences lived by seminarians in their respective parishes and reflections matured during the Chinese New Year holiday period. Father Tong Hengjiu, the vice-rector, praised the students' commitment and dedication to integrating theoretical learning with practical involvement in pastoral activities devoted to proclaiming the Gospel.

AFRICA/DR CONGO - New airstrikes against Goma

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:13:36 +0100

Kinshasa – Armed drone attacks continue on Goma, the capital of North Kivu, which has been under the control of the M23 guerrillas since January 2025. Following yesterday's bombings, March 10, which hit the residential area of the city center and caused an undetermined number of casualties, further bombings were reported today. Among the victims is a French UNICEF aid worker, according to a message posted on "X" by French President Emmanuel Macron. The Congolese army has Chinese- and Turkish-made armed drones, which have been used to strike M23 positions in South Kivu, and then, in late February, to kill Willy Ngoma, spokesperson for the M23, in an attack near the strategic mining area of Rubaya, in the Masisi territory of North Kivu province .
Some private military companies, including Vectus, owned by Erik Prince, former head of the private military company Blackwater, support the Congolese army in its use of drones. In the case of the Goma bombings, however, sources within MONUSCO raise doubts about the origin of the aircraft striking the city. “Several cross-analyses suggest that the aircraft may have taken off from Rwanda. The distance and technical capabilities don’t match the Congolese army’s known bases in the region,” a source within the UN mission stated. “Technically, it’s difficult to imagine government drones taking off from Kisangani or Burundi to reach Goma. The range, control, and logistical capabilities required are simply not sufficient,” a specialist told Grand Lac Confidentiel. The fact that the targeted area is a residential neighborhood inhabited by Congolese citizens, and not the area housing M23 leaders, seems to suggest, according to the sources, that this is a false flag attack, a provocation aimed at discrediting the Kinshasa government. For now, these are only speculations drawn from anonymous sources attributed to MONUSCO officials. But they clearly illustrate the idea that the first casualty of any war is the truth. In any case, after receiving support from the Trump administration, eager to seize control of Congolese mineral resources , the FARDC launched an offensive in South and North Kivu. A plan to discredit the Kinshasa government in the eyes of the international community could be part of the strategy to try to halt the Congolese army's advance.

AFRICA/ETHIOPIA - The bishops in the country: "We urge all Ethiopians to resist hatred and reject any attempts to create division in our society"

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:04:42 +0100

Addis Ababa – "Such violence against defenseless people cannot be justified by any religious teachings, culture, or political reasons," say the Ethiopian Catholic Bishops' Conference , condemning acts of violence and atrocities committed against civilians in various parts of the country, particularly the recent killings in the Arsi Zone of Oromia.

The CBCE is "deeply saddened by the henious and inhumane killings and property destruction targeting innocent people in diferent areas of our country, and especially the recurring brutality in the Arsi Zone," according to the statement, signed by His Eminence Cardinal Berhaneyesus, C.M., Metropolitan Archbishop and President of the CBCE, and issued on March 9, 2026.

Highlighting the Church's position, the prelates state: "Our Church strongly condemns this inhumane act. Therefore, in order to ensure the safety and security of citizens, we call on the government to take all necessary measures to maintain the rule of law."

Local press reports that the Arsi massacres represent a tragic escalation of violence, where human rights violations have reached catastrophic levels. Districts such as Shirka, Merti, Guna, and Holonto have become epicenters of brutality, with civilians facing executions, injuries, large-scale property destruction, and forced displacement. In its March 2026 report, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission documented these atrocities, revealing a series of systematic attacks that require immediate intervention by federal and regional authorities. The death toll underscores its severity: 34 Orthodox Christians were recently killed, including 26 in Shirka and four in Merti, bringing the total number of victims in Shirka alone to 164 this year. This year, there are also eight hospitalized victims, eight missing persons, and two abductions. Eyewitness accounts describe continuous terror, families fleeing their homes, and the humanitarian crisis that worsens, with thousands displaced and local economies paralyzed by fear and destruction. This wave of unrest comes on top of the conflicts in Oromia that began in 2025, which have claimed more than 1,244 civilian lives, primarily in the Arsi and West Arsi regions.

In a spirit of ecumenical solidarity, the CBCE makes special mention of Orthodox Christians, who were the target of these attacks at the end of February. Specifically, on February 26, a group of extremists stormed a market in eastern Arsi, a historically peaceful area where Muslims and Orthodox Christians coexist, opening fire on residents. Twenty Orthodox Christians were killed, along with a Muslim guard, while several others are missing, likely kidnapped. Local sources report that a priest was among the victims when the attackers entered a churchsinging religious songs before shooting those present. The attackers then set fire to homes and crops, spreading panic and forcing many residents to flee to nearby towns for refuge. The attack was not an isolated incident: two days later, on February 28, other attackers struck the community again, killing seven people inside a church.

The bishops reiterated their condemnation of any form of violence against innocents, working together with the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, and all people of good will. "We urge all Ethiopians to resist hatred, not to follow these tragic events, and to reject any attempts to create division in our society."

ASIA/LEBANON - After the death of Father al-Raï: Christians in the south caught between evacuation pressure and the desire to stay

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:35:02 +0100

Beirut – In peacetime, it was rightly included by tour operators in lists of the “most beautiful Lebanese villages.” This morning, Alma al Chaab saw her families, all Christians, get into their cars and leave their beloved village, under the protection of UNIFIL soldiers. It was a difficult decision after they had refused for days to follow the orders of the Israeli army, which was urging the residents of villages in southern Lebanon to evacuate after invading Lebanese territory to attack positions and members of militias affiliated with the Shiite Hezbollah party.
The evacuation of Alma El-Chaab took place just hours after the assassination of Maronite priest Pierre al-Raï, parish priest of St. George's Church in the village of al Qlayaa. He was killed yesterday by Israeli soldiers after coming to the aid of some of his parishioners who had been wounded in a house hit by the Israeli army.
Less than two hours before his death, Father Pierre, in a telephone interview broadcast by the television station Tele Lumiere, reaffirmed his and the residents of al Qlayaa's firm intention not to leave their village: "Otherwise, one would lose all hope of returning." The same applies to the villages of Debel, Ain Ebel, and Rmeish, while even before the evacuation of Alma El-Chaab, the residents of the village of Kawzah had decided to leave their homes when the Israeli army invaded Lebanon. Father Pierre's funeral will take place tomorrow. “What has happened,” Toni Elias, a priest from the village of Rmeish, told Fides, “compels us to be even more vigilant in order to prevent anything that could endanger the village.” Last night, Pope Leo XIV also expressed his “deep sorrow” via the Telegram channel of the Holy See Press Office for “all the victims of the recent bombings in the Middle East, for the many innocent people, including many children, and for those who helped them, like Father Pierre El-Rahi.”

AFRICA/GHANA - Fr. René Yao and the St. Martin Deaf Ministry: “I do not want separate Masses for the deaf. We must pray together, as one body in Christ”

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:03:02 +0100

Accra – “At first, I did not have an office. I sat under a tree near the church. Later, parishioners pointed out that I could not work under a tree and helped me set up a small office.” On November 22, 2020, Fr. René Yao, a priest of the Society of African Missions , officially launched the Pastoral Care of the Deaf in Madina, Accra. Today, Fr. René works with a small group of deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

In a statement sent to Fides, the missionary explains how, thanks to small donations and the generosity of parishioners, he is able to maintain the various activities of the St. Martin Deaf Ministry he founded . Inclusion is at the heart of pastoral care. In addition to spiritual matters, the parish is committed to social encounters, creative and educational projects, and sign language courses to ensure sustainability. Every Sunday morning, Father René celebrates Holy Mass in sign language so that deaf parishioners can fully participate in the Eucharist. “I do not want separate Masses for the deaf. They already experience enough exclusion. If we celebrate a Mass just for them, we separate them even further from the hearing community. We must pray together, as one body in Christ.”

ASIA/PAKISTAN - Appointment of vicar apostolic of Quetta

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:55:55 +0100

Vatican City - The Holy Father has appointed Archbishop Sebastian Francis Shaw, O.F.M., until now metropolitan of Lahore, as vicar apostolic of Quetta, Pakistan.
Archbishop Sebastian Francis Shaw, O.F.M., was born on 14 November 1957 in Padri-Jo-Goth, Sanghar, Sindh, in the metropolitan diocese of Hyderabad.
He entered the Franciscan novitiate in 1984, and studied theology at the Christ the King Seminary in Karachi. After giving his perpetual vows in 1989, he was ordained a priest on 6 December 1991.
He was appointed titular bishop of Tino and auxiliary of the archdiocese of Lahore on 14 February 2009, receiving episcopal ordination the following 25 April. On 20 May 2010 he was appointed apostolic administrator ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the metropolitan archdiocese of Lahore and on 7 April 2011, apostolic administrator of the same archdiocese, becoming metropolitan archbishop on 14 November 2013.
Within the Episcopal Conference, he has served as chair of the Commission for Interreligious Dialogue, the Commission for the Family, the Commission for Education, and Caritas.

ASIA/PAKISTAN - Appointment of metropolitan archbishop of Lahore

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:53:18 +0100

Vatican City - The Holy Father has appointed Bishop Khalid Rehmat, O.F.M. Cap., until now vicar apostolic of Quetta, as metropolitan archbishop of Lahore, Pakistan.
Archbishop-elect Khalid Rehmat, O.F.M. Cap., was born on 5 August 1968 in Mianwali, in the diocese of Islamabad-Rawalpindi. He gave his solemn vows in the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin on 28 December 2007 and was ordained a priest on 16 August 2008.
He was elected vicar apostolic of Quetta on 1 January 2021, and received episcopal ordination on the following 25 March. Within the Episcopal Conference, he is chair of the Commission for Consecrated Life, the Commission for Evangelization, and the Pontifical Mission Societies. In addition, he was a delegate member of the Episcopal Conference to the Synod on Synodality.

AFRICA/SUDAN - The impact of the war against Iran on the situation in Sudan

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:37:54 +0100

Khartoum – Sudan has become another battleground in the struggle between the Israeli-American coalition and Iran. This follows the United States' designation of the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood as a "terrorist" group, accusing it of receiving support from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps .
"The Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood is using unbridled violence against civilians to undermine efforts to resolve the conflict in Sudan and to promote its violent Islamist ideology," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement released Monday . The day before, on Sunday, March 8, Sudanese authorities released a prominent Islamist figure after he had been detained for three months for expressing support for Iran. Earlier, the head of the Sudanese Armed Forces , Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, warned the leaders of the Islamist brigades and factions fighting alongside the army against heeding calls to join Iran in its war against the United States and Israel.
The Trump administration's decision was welcomed by the government of the United Arab Emirates, which supports the Rapid Support Forces , the militias fighting against the government in Khartoum, which are themselves already under US sanctions. The Muslim Brotherhood plays a significant role in the current conflict in Sudan, as several of its members are integrated into the SAF. According to a report by the Ethiopian Institute of Foreign Affairs, the Sudanese army has absorbed approximately 15,000 fighters from an armed militia linked to the Muslim Brotherhood into its ranks since the outbreak of the civil war in 2023. In its analysis, the Ethiopian institute expresses concern about the potential transformation of the SAF, which forms the backbone of the Sudanese state, into a military corps adhering to Islamist ideology, or about the creation of alternative command structures within the SAF that oppose those of the government. However, Ethiopia is not a neutral observer, as it has a dispute with Khartoum and Cairo over the dam on the Nile. According to Turkish sources , Ethiopia has reportedly become the new logistics hub for the United Arab Emirates to arm the RSF, after the country was forced to scale back its own activities in Libya, Puntland, and Chad. The sources also state that Ethiopia has opened a camp for the RSF on the Sudanese border, and that drone attacks against Sudan are being coordinated from its territory. The Sudanese war is thus a conflict involving several states in the region, which often form seemingly bizarre alliances. For example, the US government's accusations that Iran supports the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood, allied with the SAF, place Tehran on the side of Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia; the latter two countries are now targets of Iranian bombing following the war initiated by Israel and the United States on February 28.