The fate of refugees and the struggles of immigrants in general is on the agenda for Canada’s Catholic bishops, but the bishops are steering clear of a national campaign supported by several church and lay groups which has been critical of the government’s record on refugee rights.
Catholics recognize polarized debate on prostitution
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterThe Supreme Court has given Canadians a year to figure out how they want to deal with prostitution and so far the answers have ranged from nothing to police crackdowns and new criminal laws.
Toronto's Ukrainians weep for their homeland
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterTORONTO - When police stormed the Maidan in Kiev their first target was the tent-chapel where since November priests had heard confessions, offered prayers and counselled young Ukrainians who were in the square demanding new elections and democratic reform. The police burned the improvised chapel to the ground.
Gonsalves new seminary rector
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterTORONTO - Starting this fall the job of forming new parish priests at St. Augustine’s Seminary is going to a parish priest.
Catholics called to respond to prostitution consultation
By Deborah Gyapong, Canadian Catholic NewsOTTAWA - Vancouver Archbishop J. Michael Miller has asked the British Columbia government to reconsider its decision not to prosecute Canada’s prostitution laws.
Flaherty sends signal income-splitting promise may be shaky
By Deborah Gyapong, Canadian Catholic NewsOTTAWA - Negative remarks from Finance Minister Jim Flaherty have social conservative groups concerned the Tories might abandon a key promise in their 2011 election campaign to allow income splitting for families.
Belgian-style euthanasia feared as next step
By Deborah Gyapong, Canadian Catholic NewsOTTAWA - The secretary of Quebec’s College of Physicians has mused Belgian-style euthanasia of Alzheimer’s patients and terminally ill children could follow should Quebec’s euthanasia Bill-52 become law.
Laval, Marie de l’Incarnation intertwined with Canada’s history
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterThe beginnings of the Church in Canada include a series of firsts that go beyond reminding us of who we are. If Blessed Marie de l’Incarnation and Blessed Bishop François de Laval become saints this year, in time for the 350th anniversary of the founding of the diocese of Quebec, these new saints could inspire Canadian Catholics to imagine what their Church will become.
Quebec’s Catholic paradox
By Peter StocklandThe seeming uncomfortable paradox of the Catholic Church in Quebec is illuminated by two pieces of legislation making their way through the province’s National Assembly.
Caribbean cardinal has Canadian connection
By Michael Swan, The Catholic RegisterTORONTO - If Pope Francis intends to reshape the college of cardinals so it more roughly approximates the Catholic world, he’s made a start by appointing Val Felix’s big brother.
‘Genuine’ Francis has opened ‘new narrative’
By Ron Stang, Catholic Register SpecialWINDSOR, ONT. - Veteran CBC journalist Alison Smith said Pope Francis is a compelling media story because he’s created “a new narrative” about faith and the Church’s role in society.