The Catholic Church has faced sharp criticism over the years for not doing enough to protect kids under its purview from abuse.&nbsp;But on Tuesday, Pope Francis changed the tone of action by updating the Catholic Church’s criminal code. Now, priests who sexually abuse minors will face penalties.

This move marked the most heavy revision to the Code of Canon Law in almost 40 years, following a long process. Activists had been pressing for an urgent need to change abuse laws within the Church to protect kids. Recent complaints by victims of sexual abuse have also pushed the church to take stern measures.&nbsp;

In the opening written remarks announcing the change, the Pope highlighted the&nbsp;"restoration of justice, the reform of the offender, and the repair of scandal”.

In a press conference, Archbishop Filippo Iannone, Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts’s President said that the chances are intended to “reaffirm the seriousness of this crime and the attention to be paid to the victims”, AFP reported.

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Instead of referring to sexual abuse against minors as pedophilia, the revision refers to the offences as dismissive of the sixth commandment, wherein adultery is prohibited.

Now, the offences will be grouped under a new heading "Offenses against human life, dignity and liberty”. Earlier, sexual crimes against minors were flagged under “delicts against special obligations."&nbsp; A priest engaging in pedophilia will be stripped of his office and potentially face “other just penalties” if he "commits an offence against the sixth commandment of the Decalogue with a minor”.

The changes will take effect in December. Pope Francis said that the revision intends to rewrite the ideals of justice and mercy, which have been "misinterpreted". In addition, he said&nbsp;that the revision would limit the dependence on discretion of judges while dealing with such crimes.

Pope Francis took charge in 2013 and has undertaken several measures to counter the sexual abuse which was plagued the church for decades.&nbsp;In 2019, Pope Francis called a summit on clerical sex abuse while lifting rules of secrecy which critics thought used to hinder investigations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pope-facilitates-vatican-prosecutions-for-cardinals-bishops-381714" hreflang="en">Pope facilitates Vatican prosecutions for cardinals, bishops</a>

The Catholic Church has faced sharp criticism over the years for not doing enough to protect kids under its purview from abuse. But on Tuesday, Pope Francis changed the tone of action by updating the Catholic Church’s criminal code.

The Catholic Church has faced sharp criticism over the years for not doing enough to protect kids under its purview from abuse. But on Tuesday, Pope Francis changed the tone of action by updating the Catholic Church’s criminal code. Now, priests who sexually abuse minors will face penalties. This move marked the most heavy revision to the Code of Canon Law in almost 40 years, following a long process. Activists had been pressing for an urgent need to change abuse laws within the Church to protect kids. Recent complaints by victims of sexual abuse have also pushed the church to take stern measures. In the opening written remarks announcing the change, the Pope highlighted the "restoration of justice, the reform of the offender, and the repair of scandal”. In a press conference, Archbishop Filippo Iannone, Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts’s President said that the chances are intended to “reaffirm the seriousness of this crime and the attention to be paid to the victims”, AFP reported. Also read: Pope Francis backs waivers on intellectual property rights for vaccines Instead of referring to sexual abuse against minors as pedophilia, the revision refers to the offences as dismissive of the sixth commandment, wherein adultery is prohibited. Now, the offences will be grouped under a new heading "Offenses against human life, dignity and liberty”. Earlier, sexual crimes against minors were flagged under “delicts against special obligations." A priest engaging in pedophilia will be stripped of his office and potentially face “other just penalties” if he "commits an offence against the sixth commandment of the Decalogue with a minor”. The changes will take effect in December. Pope Francis said that the revision intends to rewrite the ideals of justice and mercy, which have been "misinterpreted". In addition, he said that the revision would limit the dependence on discretion of judges while dealing with such crimes. Pope Francis took charge in 2013 and has undertaken several measures to counter the sexual abuse which was plagued the church for decades. In 2019, Pope Francis called a summit on clerical sex abuse while lifting rules of secrecy which critics thought used to hinder investigations. Also read: Pope facilitates Vatican prosecutions for cardinals, bishops

Pope Francis updates Catholic Church's criminal code to fight pedophilia

The United States will join an international bid to stamp out violent&nbsp;extremism&nbsp;online, the White House said Friday, some two years after the Trump administration declined to do so.&nbsp;

Biden administration spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Washington "will join the&nbsp;Christchurch&nbsp;Call&nbsp;to Action to Eliminate Terrorist and Violent Extremist Content&nbsp;Online, a global pledge by member governments and technology partners to work together to address terrorist and violent extremist content&nbsp;online."

The initiative is named after the New Zealand city where a far-right gunman massacred 51 people at two mosques in 2019 while broadcasting his rampage live on Facebook.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="‘Are you like this doggy?’ US embassy asked Chinese students. It backfired.">‘Are you like this doggy?’ US embassy asked Chinese students. It backfired.</a>

"Countering the use of the&nbsp;internet&nbsp;by terrorists and violent extremists to radicalize and recruit is a significant priority for the United States," Psaki said.

"Joining the coalition of governments and companies that have endorsed the&nbsp;Christchurch&nbsp;Call&nbsp;to Action reinforces the need for collective action."

In 2019 the United States cited protecting free speech when it declined to join the&nbsp;call, led by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and French President Emmanuel Macron, though Washington stressed that it did back the initiative's aims.

Psaki said free speech remained a concern.

"The United States applauds language in the&nbsp;Christchurch&nbsp;Call&nbsp;emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and the rule of law, including the protection of freedom of expression," her statement said.

"In joining the&nbsp;Christchurch&nbsp;Call, the United States will not take steps that would violate the freedoms of speech and association protected by the First Amendment to the US Constitution, nor violate reasonable expectations of privacy."

She said the US will participate in a virtual summit on May 14.

The United States will join an international bid to stamp out violent extremism online, the White House said Friday, some two years after the Trump administration declined to do so.

The United States will join an international bid to stamp out violent extremism online, the White House said Friday, some two years after the Trump administration declined to do so. Biden administration spokeswoman Jen Psaki said Washington "will join the Christchurch Call to Action to Eliminate Terrorist and Violent Extremist Content Online, a global pledge by member governments and technology partners to work together to address terrorist and violent extremist content online." The initiative is named after the New Zealand city where a far-right gunman massacred 51 people at two mosques in 2019 while broadcasting his rampage live on Facebook. Also read | ‘Are you like this doggy?’ US embassy asked Chinese students. It backfired. "Countering the use of the internet by terrorists and violent extremists to radicalize and recruit is a significant priority for the United States," Psaki said. "Joining the coalition of governments and companies that have endorsed the Christchurch Call to Action reinforces the need for collective action." In 2019 the United States cited protecting free speech when it declined to join the call, led by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and French President Emmanuel Macron, though Washington stressed that it did back the initiative's aims. Psaki said free speech remained a concern. "The United States applauds language in the Christchurch Call emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and the rule of law, including the protection of freedom of expression," her statement said. "In joining the Christchurch Call, the United States will not take steps that would violate the freedoms of speech and association protected by the First Amendment to the US Constitution, nor violate reasonable expectations of privacy." She said the US will participate in a virtual summit on May 14.

US belatedly joins 'Christchurch Call' against online extremism

Catholic church in Barcelona opens door to Ramzan dinners

The word 'time capsule' has largely come to be associated with science fiction. But the discovery of a 'time capsule' at a magnificent Hungarian cathedral has generated renewed interest. It has come to light that the cross atop Esztergom Cathedral hid a 176-year-old 'time capsule'.

The discovery was made during renovation work. The 'time capsule' is a sealed copper container inside the cross on the 100-metre dome. This dome, which is the highest in the country, survived even the bombing that took place during Second World War.

The copper container was damaged by shrapnel but when historians opened it, they discovered documents in near-perfect condition relating to the cathedral's construction.&nbsp;

The church was built from 1822 onwards and Csaba Torok, director of the Cathedral's Treasury, said the papers gave a rare glimpse of the time when the church was built from 1822 onwards.

The cylindrical capsule was placed in the cross in 1845 by Archbishop Jozsef Kopacsy and chief architect Jozsef Hild, who took over after his predecessor was murdered.

"Archbishop Kopacsy knew he would not be able to complete the construction in his lifetime, so when the cross was finished he wanted to leave inside an imprint of the memory of the builders and of that era," Torok said.

The best moment was when they found the documents: one depicting milestones in the construction and a book containing names of clergymen and parishes.

"These were last touched by human hands when they were placed there 176 years ago, so somehow we felt a sudden connection in time," he said.

"Unfortunately, we did not find any coins from the period in the capsule so there was nothing to help pay for the renovation," he added, smiling.

The cathedral was built on Castle Hill, where a church was first founded over 1000 years ago. &nbsp;Its iron dome was built in Vienna and carried in sections down the Danube on barges.

For its consecration in 1856, Hungarian composer and pianist Franz Liszt composed a mass. But the cathedral was still not finished, with the main portico and interior only completed later in the 19th century.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The word 'time capsule' has largely come to be associated with science fiction. But the discovery of a 'time capsule' at a magnificent Hungarian cathedral has generated renewed interest.

The word 'time capsule' has largely come to be associated with science fiction. But the discovery of a 'time capsule' at a magnificent Hungarian cathedral has generated renewed interest. It has come to light that the cross atop Esztergom Cathedral hid a 176-year-old 'time capsule'. The discovery was made during renovation work. The 'time capsule' is a sealed copper container inside the cross on the 100-metre dome. This dome, which is the highest in the country, survived even the bombing that took place during Second World War. The copper container was damaged by shrapnel but when historians opened it, they discovered documents in near-perfect condition relating to the cathedral's construction. The church was built from 1822 onwards and Csaba Torok, director of the Cathedral's Treasury, said the papers gave a rare glimpse of the time when the church was built from 1822 onwards. The cylindrical capsule was placed in the cross in 1845 by Archbishop Jozsef Kopacsy and chief architect Jozsef Hild, who took over after his predecessor was murdered. "Archbishop Kopacsy knew he would not be able to complete the construction in his lifetime, so when the cross was finished he wanted to leave inside an imprint of the memory of the builders and of that era," Torok said. The best moment was when they found the documents: one depicting milestones in the construction and a book containing names of clergymen and parishes. "These were last touched by human hands when they were placed there 176 years ago, so somehow we felt a sudden connection in time," he said. "Unfortunately, we did not find any coins from the period in the capsule so there was nothing to help pay for the renovation," he added, smiling. The cathedral was built on Castle Hill, where a church was first founded over 1000 years ago. Its iron dome was built in Vienna and carried in sections down the Danube on barges. For its consecration in 1856, Hungarian composer and pianist Franz Liszt composed a mass. But the cathedral was still not finished, with the main portico and interior only completed later in the 19th century. (With inputs from agencies)

176-year-old 'time capsule' found in a cross atop a cathedral in Hungary

DR Congo's Catholic Church on Thursday hit out at what it called "Islamisation" in the troubled east of the country, where a notorious militia group has carried out a string of massacres.

At a news conference, Congolese prelates released a message saying civilians who had escaped after being abducted by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militia, historically a Ugandan Islamist group, had spoken of being "forced to convert to Islam".

The message denounced the "Islamisation of the region to the detriment of religious freedom."

Asked to elaborate, Church spokesman Donatien Nshole said: "The problem here is a faction of Islam that forces people to become Muslim."

Nshole, an abbot, stressed that the Church had "very good relations" with Islam, but described this development as "scary".

The Church's peace and justice commission "is deepening its investigation into the matter," he added. 
The ADF is the bloodiest among dozens of militias that roam eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, many of them a legacy of two regional wars in the 1990s.

On March 11, the United States said the ADF was linked to the Islamic State (IS) group. 
The prelates' message also said thousands of people have been killed or kidnapped in the region since 2013, and at least three million people have been displaced.

In the Beni region of North Kivu province alone, more than 6,000 people have been killed since 2013, while another 2,000 lives were claimed in neighbouring Ituri province just last year, Nshole said. 
Around 7,500 have been kidnapped in the two regions last year, he added.

The prelates' message also denounced "the occupation of land (and) illegal exploitation of natural resources" as well as widespread torching of villages, destruction and closure of schools and health clinics, sacking of administrative buildings and the looting of livestock and farmland in the region.

After a joint mission by the Central African Catholic Church (ACEAC) and the DRC's Church (CENCO) in the region, they concluded that the Congolese army's operations had had "mixed" results.

Violent protest

They said the soldiers were underpaid and alleged that their pay and rations were embezzled, decreasing their motivation.

Local sources said the major cities of Beni and Butembo were "paralysed" on Monday on the first day of protest strikes over the continuing massacres of civilians which the army and UN peacekeepers have failed to stop.

Beni saw strike action for a fourth day running on Thursday, with schools and shops closed and the streets deserted.

Police violently broke up a demonstration using bats and rifle butts, according to local NGO Lucha, or Movement for Change, which shot video of the unrest.

A police spokesman in Beni told AFP that protesters threw stones at police and 57 people had been arrested.

DR Congo's Catholic Church on Thursday hit out at what it called "Islamisation" in the troubled east of the country, where a notorious militia group has carried out a string of massacres.

DR Congo's Catholic Church on Thursday hit out at what it called "Islamisation" in the troubled east of the country, where a notorious militia group has carried out a string of massacres. At a news conference, Congolese prelates released a message saying civilians who had escaped after being abducted by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militia, historically a Ugandan Islamist group, had spoken of being "forced to convert to Islam". The message denounced the "Islamisation of the region to the detriment of religious freedom." Asked to elaborate, Church spokesman Donatien Nshole said: "The problem here is a faction of Islam that forces people to become Muslim." Nshole, an abbot, stressed that the Church had "very good relations" with Islam, but described this development as "scary". The Church's peace and justice commission "is deepening its investigation into the matter," he added. The ADF is the bloodiest among dozens of militias that roam eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, many of them a legacy of two regional wars in the 1990s. On March 11, the United States said the ADF was linked to the Islamic State (IS) group. The prelates' message also said thousands of people have been killed or kidnapped in the region since 2013, and at least three million people have been displaced. In the Beni region of North Kivu province alone, more than 6,000 people have been killed since 2013, while another 2,000 lives were claimed in neighbouring Ituri province just last year, Nshole said. Around 7,500 have been kidnapped in the two regions last year, he added. The prelates' message also denounced "the occupation of land (and) illegal exploitation of natural resources" as well as widespread torching of villages, destruction and closure of schools and health clinics, sacking of administrative buildings and the looting of livestock and farmland in the region. After a joint mission by the Central African Catholic Church (ACEAC) and the DRC's Church (CENCO) in the region, they concluded that the Congolese army's operations had had "mixed" results. Violent protest They said the soldiers were underpaid and alleged that their pay and rations were embezzled, decreasing their motivation. Local sources said the major cities of Beni and Butembo were "paralysed" on Monday on the first day of protest strikes over the continuing massacres of civilians which the army and UN peacekeepers have failed to stop. Beni saw strike action for a fourth day running on Thursday, with schools and shops closed and the streets deserted. Police violently broke up a demonstration using bats and rifle butts, according to local NGO Lucha, or Movement for Change, which shot video of the unrest. A police spokesman in Beni told AFP that protesters threw stones at police and 57 people had been arrested.

DR Congo's Catholic Church warns of 'Islamisation' in east

New Zealand’s Catholic Church on Friday formally apologised to the victims of abuse within the church, while acknowledging that its systems and culture must change.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Wellington and Metropolitan of New Zealand, Cardinal John Dew apologised at the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care on behalf of congregational leaders and bishops in the country.

“Today, recognising the importance of this moment, I apologise to you on behalf of the bishops and congregational leaders of the Catholic Church in Aotearoa&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand. I also apologise to you on behalf of those who preceded us as bishops and congregational leaders”, the Cardinal said.

The country is currently conducting an “Abuse in Care” enquiry to ascertain the extend of abuse and to resolve historic claims.

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“Any kind of abuse is unacceptable and indefensible. We are deeply sorry. We acknowledge that the systems and culture of the church allowed abuse to occur. These systems and culture failed you and must change”, Cardinal John Dew said.

It is part of this enquiry that the Cardinals comments came in, along with witness statements from religious institutions. The Royal Commission was set up by New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in 2018, claiming that the country must confront a “dark chapter” in its history.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/in-another-archaeological-discovery-ancient-churches-rooms-found-in-egypt-370443" hreflang="en">In another archaeological discovery, ancient churches, rooms found in Egypt</a>

The Commission was later extended to include churches, along with other religious institutions.

The enquiry revealed astounding discoveries about the extent of abuse under the church. Reportedly, kids as young as nine months old suffered years of abuse. Among other things, the victims were raped, given electric shock treatments by psychiatric and state care facilities.

New Zealand’s Catholic Church on Friday formally apologised to the victims of abuse within the church, while acknowledging that its systems and culture must change.

New Zealand’s Catholic Church on Friday formally apologised to the victims of abuse within the church, while acknowledging that its systems and culture must change. The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Wellington and Metropolitan of New Zealand, Cardinal John Dew apologised at the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care on behalf of congregational leaders and bishops in the country. “Today, recognising the importance of this moment, I apologise to you on behalf of the bishops and congregational leaders of the Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand. I also apologise to you on behalf of those who preceded us as bishops and congregational leaders”, the Cardinal said. The country is currently conducting an “Abuse in Care” enquiry to ascertain the extend of abuse and to resolve historic claims. Also read: In setback for gay Catholics, Vatican says church cannot bless same-sex unions “Any kind of abuse is unacceptable and indefensible. We are deeply sorry. We acknowledge that the systems and culture of the church allowed abuse to occur. These systems and culture failed you and must change”, Cardinal John Dew said. It is part of this enquiry that the Cardinals comments came in, along with witness statements from religious institutions. The Royal Commission was set up by New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in 2018, claiming that the country must confront a “dark chapter” in its history. Also read: In another archaeological discovery, ancient churches, rooms found in Egypt The Commission was later extended to include churches, along with other religious institutions. The enquiry revealed astounding discoveries about the extent of abuse under the church. Reportedly, kids as young as nine months old suffered years of abuse. Among other things, the victims were raped, given electric shock treatments by psychiatric and state care facilities.

'Deeply sorry': New Zealand's Catholic Church apologises to victims of abuse

The Archbishop of Cologne outlined steps on Tuesday to help victims report abuse, improve priests' training and keep better records to prevent future misconduct after a report on the handling of sexual abuse was released last week.&nbsp;

The 800-page report into the archdiocese of Cologne between 1975 and 2018 found 202 abusers and 314 victims, and said Church officials had failed in their duties in some 75 cases.&nbsp;

It prompted the Archbishop of Hamburg to offer his resignation to the Vatican and Cologne Archbishop Rainer Maria Woelki has suspended three other officials.&nbsp;

In his official public response to the report, Woelki, who was himself cleared, acknowledged many mistakes had been made and that victims had not been heard.&nbsp;

"The reputation of the church was given higher priority than the pain of the victims," he told reporters, adding that administrative chaos, unclear areas of responsibility and negligence had led to a cover-up caused by the system.&nbsp;

"This should never have been allowed to happen and it is high time we tackle it," he said. "I want to and I will listen," said Woelki, widely criticised for not publishing an earlier report and commissioning a new one instead.&nbsp;

He acknowledged that he had also made mistakes.&nbsp;

"Moral responsibility lies with me," Woelki said, adding that although he had not broken any laws, he had not done everything possible in the clearing up of cases.&nbsp;

The Archdiocese will set up a commission to work through abuse cases, introduce more rigorous procedures for investigating reports of abuse and be more meticulous in keeping records.&nbsp;

The report comes as the Catholic Church in Germany discusses a Synodal Path reform project on issues such as homosexuality, the ordination of women and sexual morality.&nbsp;

Launched a year ago by the bishops and laypeople, the project is aimed at rebuilding trust lost in the decade-old abuse scandal but some Catholics warn it could cause a schism.&nbsp;

An unprecedented number of people are leaving the Church in Cologne which with its landmark Gothic cathedral has the largest membership of any diocese in the German-speaking world.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Archbishop of Cologne outlined steps on Tuesday to help victims report abuse, improve priests' training and keep better records to prevent future misconduct after a report on the handling of sexual abuse was released last week.

The Archbishop of Cologne outlined steps on Tuesday to help victims report abuse, improve priests' training and keep better records to prevent future misconduct after a report on the handling of sexual abuse was released last week. The 800-page report into the archdiocese of Cologne between 1975 and 2018 found 202 abusers and 314 victims, and said Church officials had failed in their duties in some 75 cases. It prompted the Archbishop of Hamburg to offer his resignation to the Vatican and Cologne Archbishop Rainer Maria Woelki has suspended three other officials. In his official public response to the report, Woelki, who was himself cleared, acknowledged many mistakes had been made and that victims had not been heard. "The reputation of the church was given higher priority than the pain of the victims," he told reporters, adding that administrative chaos, unclear areas of responsibility and negligence had led to a cover-up caused by the system. "This should never have been allowed to happen and it is high time we tackle it," he said. "I want to and I will listen," said Woelki, widely criticised for not publishing an earlier report and commissioning a new one instead. He acknowledged that he had also made mistakes. "Moral responsibility lies with me," Woelki said, adding that although he had not broken any laws, he had not done everything possible in the clearing up of cases. The Archdiocese will set up a commission to work through abuse cases, introduce more rigorous procedures for investigating reports of abuse and be more meticulous in keeping records. The report comes as the Catholic Church in Germany discusses a Synodal Path reform project on issues such as homosexuality, the ordination of women and sexual morality. Launched a year ago by the bishops and laypeople, the project is aimed at rebuilding trust lost in the decade-old abuse scandal but some Catholics warn it could cause a schism. An unprecedented number of people are leaving the Church in Cologne which with its landmark Gothic cathedral has the largest membership of any diocese in the German-speaking world. (With inputs from agencies)

Cologne Archbishop outlines steps to prevent abuse in future 

A gunman shouting "Kill me!" opened fire from the steps of New York City's Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine just after an outdoor choir performance there on Sunday, and was himself shot dead by police, according to police and a Reuters photographer at the scene.

Gunman shot dead by police at NYC church after concert; no one else wounded

Pakistan's Christian transgender people, often mocked, abused and bullied, say they have found peace and solace in a church of their own. Shunned by other churches, they can raise their voices high here. The church, called the First Church For Eunuchs, is the only one for transgender Christians in Pakistan.

First Church of Eunuchs; transgender Christians unite at new Karachi church - only one in Pakistan

A global scandal has hit the Vatican. - 3000+ complaints of child sexual abuse by priests were ignored in Britain - Former Archbishop of Washington sexually abused a minor - Pope's ex-envoy to France has been charged for misconduct. WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Church sex abuse: A decades-long Priest sex abuse crisis explained

For decades, The Vatican has received thousands of complaints from around the world against 'predator priests'. But the institution repeatedly chose secrecy over transparency and protected the guilty priests.

Gravitas: Why 'Predator Priests' must face trial in courts

Roman Catholic Church has been banned in China for at least 60 years. Under Pope Francis, the Vatican is trying to change that.

Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern-day China severed ties with the Vatican in 1951 soon after the communist party took over.

China created the Chinese Catholic patriotic association. The Vatican did not give recognition to the association. The association chose its own bishops.

World over, only the pope has the authority to appoint senior catholic clergy. But this rule doesn't apply in China.

Catholics loyal to Rome started underground churches but in the eyes of Beijing, they are illegal. These churches have been demolished and their followers have faced persecution

Pope Francis is perhaps the first Pope in decades to successfully open a dialogue with China. Before him, Pope John Paul the second and Pope Benedict the 16th both tried but failed. Pope Francis is bending the rules for China and considering giving China a say in the appointment of bishops.

In 2018, a provincial agreement was signed. The specifics of this agreement are unclear. The deal allows the Vatican to only confirm the candidates picked by China.

Not everyone in the Catholic Church cheered this arrangement. Hong Kong's outspoken Cardinal Joseph Zen has criticised the deal.

In 2018, he said that the deal will put 12 million Catholics in China in a communist cage. Despite the criticism, the Vatican and China signed the accord in September 2018. On his part, Pope Francis did try to assuage some of the critics.

The Pope wanted the last word on naming bishops in China But the arrangement has failed to halt the oppression of Catholics in China.

More Churches have been demolished, Crosses have been removed, clerics have bee detained at black sites. Online sales of the Bible have been banned.

Talks are believed to be underway to renew the Vatican-China accord. If the deal is extended, the Vatican may continue to turn a blind eye to China's religious persecution and human rights violation. 
&nbsp;

Roman Catholic Church has been banned in China for at least 60 years. Under Pope Francis, the Vatican is trying to change that. Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern-day China severed ties with the Vatican in 1951 soon after the communist party took over.

Roman Catholic Church has been banned in China for at least 60 years. Under Pope Francis, the Vatican is trying to change that. Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern-day China severed ties with the Vatican in 1951 soon after the communist party took over. China created the Chinese Catholic patriotic association. The Vatican did not give recognition to the association. The association chose its own bishops. World over, only the pope has the authority to appoint senior catholic clergy. But this rule doesn't apply in China. Catholics loyal to Rome started underground churches but in the eyes of Beijing, they are illegal. These churches have been demolished and their followers have faced persecution Pope Francis is perhaps the first Pope in decades to successfully open a dialogue with China. Before him, Pope John Paul the second and Pope Benedict the 16th both tried but failed. Pope Francis is bending the rules for China and considering giving China a say in the appointment of bishops. In 2018, a provincial agreement was signed. The specifics of this agreement are unclear. The deal allows the Vatican to only confirm the candidates picked by China. Not everyone in the Catholic Church cheered this arrangement. Hong Kong's outspoken Cardinal Joseph Zen has criticised the deal. In 2018, he said that the deal will put 12 million Catholics in China in a communist cage. Despite the criticism, the Vatican and China signed the accord in September 2018. On his part, Pope Francis did try to assuage some of the critics. The Pope wanted the last word on naming bishops in China But the arrangement has failed to halt the oppression of Catholics in China. More Churches have been demolished, Crosses have been removed, clerics have bee detained at black sites. Online sales of the Bible have been banned. Talks are believed to be underway to renew the Vatican-China accord. If the deal is extended, the Vatican may continue to turn a blind eye to China's religious persecution and human rights violation.

Why is Vatican so keen on engaging with China?

From atop of stage scaffolding on Sunday (August 23), Father Luis Carlos Ayala surveyed his congregation, gathered in about 80 cars below in a parking lot normally used for the local drive-in cinema.

Colombian church holds drive-in mass amid pandemic

A church in the Mexican city of Cuernavaca is offering Catholic faithful the chance to attend Mass from the safety of their cars amid the coronavirus pandemic. For the past two Sundays, the Cuernavaca Diocese has celebrated Mass at a drive-in cinema.

Church offers drive-in Mass services

Hagia Sophia, which was reconverted to a mosque from a museum under the endorsement of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will cover Christian figures during prayers here on.

The work to prepare the museum as a mosque is in full-throttle, as per the spokesperson for Erdogan, Ibrahim Kalin.

Prayers to begin on Friday

When prayers begin in the newly named mosque starting Friday, Christian mosaics would be covered with curtains or lasers.

<h6><img alt="Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, accompanied by Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and the head of Turkey's Religious Affairs Directorate Ali Erbas, visits the Hagia Sophia or Ayasofya-i Kebir Camii in Istanbul, Turkey, July 19, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc40d22e-0e15-4485-9e56-1f3e0b7c11fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-2_40.jpg" /> 
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, accompanied by Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and the head of Turkey's Religious Affairs Directorate Ali Erbas, visits the&nbsp;Hagia&nbsp;Sophia&nbsp;or Ayasofya-i Kebir Camii in Istanbul, Turkey, July 19, 2020. | AFP</h6>

A court ruling in the beginning of July claimed that the 1934 conversion of the structure to the museum was unlawful. After this, Erdogan declared Hagia Sophia was now open to the Muslim world for worship, which garnered criticism and critique across the world. The Council of State, which was debating a case brought by a Turkish NGO, cancelled a 1934 cabinet decision and ruled the UNESCO World Heritage site would be reopened to Muslim worshipping.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/why-india-should-not-remain-silent-on-hagia-sophias-decision-313064" hreflang="en">Why India should not remain silent on Hagia Sophia's decision</a>

The structure dates back to the sixth century and has, on multiple occasions, served as a church and a mosque, before being turned into a museum.

In the way of Qiblah

A few mosaics of Mary and Gabriel are positioned in the direction of Qiblah, the same direction which Muslims face during prayers. These will be covered with curtains.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/pope-francis-voices-distress-over-turkeys-hagia-sophia-conversion-to-mosque-312751" hreflang="en">Pope Francis voices distress over Turkey's Hagia Sophia conversion to mosque</a>

Besides these, other Christian depictions and figures will be left untouched as they are simply not located in the way of prayer, but the representative did not say whether these will be uncovered or left bare at all times.

When prayers are not ongoing, the Hagia Sophia will be open to all visitors and tourists, with no images and depictions being concealed. Ergodan visited the mosque on Sunday to inspect the progress being made in preparation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/turkish-president-erdogan-rejects-criticism-over-hagia-sophias-conversion-to-mosque-312589" hreflang="en">Turkish President Erdogan rejects criticism over Hagia Sophia's conversion to mosque</a>

Pope Francis on July 12 said that he was "very distressed" over Turkey's decision to convert the Byzantine-era monument Hagia Sophia back into a mosque.

The proposal has been criticised by several religious and political leaders, including the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarch, spirtual leader of the world’s Orthodox Christians, as well as Greece, France and the United States.

Hagia Sophia, which was reconverted to a mosque from a museum under the endorsement of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will cover Christian figures during prayers here on.

Hagia Sophia, which was reconverted to a mosque from a museum under the endorsement of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will cover Christian figures during prayers here on. The work to prepare the museum as a mosque is in full-throttle, as per the spokesperson for Erdogan, Ibrahim Kalin. Prayers to begin on Friday When prayers begin in the newly named mosque starting Friday, Christian mosaics would be covered with curtains or lasers. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, accompanied by Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and the head of Turkey's Religious Affairs Directorate Ali Erbas, visits the Hagia Sophia or Ayasofya-i Kebir Camii in Istanbul, Turkey, July 19, 2020. | AFP A court ruling in the beginning of July claimed that the 1934 conversion of the structure to the museum was unlawful. After this, Erdogan declared Hagia Sophia was now open to the Muslim world for worship, which garnered criticism and critique across the world. The Council of State, which was debating a case brought by a Turkish NGO, cancelled a 1934 cabinet decision and ruled the UNESCO World Heritage site would be reopened to Muslim worshipping. Also read: Why India should not remain silent on Hagia Sophia's decision The structure dates back to the sixth century and has, on multiple occasions, served as a church and a mosque, before being turned into a museum. In the way of Qiblah A few mosaics of Mary and Gabriel are positioned in the direction of Qiblah, the same direction which Muslims face during prayers. These will be covered with curtains. Also read: Pope Francis voices distress over Turkey's Hagia Sophia conversion to mosque Besides these, other Christian depictions and figures will be left untouched as they are simply not located in the way of prayer, but the representative did not say whether these will be uncovered or left bare at all times. When prayers are not ongoing, the Hagia Sophia will be open to all visitors and tourists, with no images and depictions being concealed. Ergodan visited the mosque on Sunday to inspect the progress being made in preparation. Also read: Turkish President Erdogan rejects criticism over Hagia Sophia's conversion to mosque Pope Francis on July 12 said that he was "very distressed" over Turkey's decision to convert the Byzantine-era monument Hagia Sophia back into a mosque. The proposal has been criticised by several religious and political leaders, including the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarch, spirtual leader of the world’s Orthodox Christians, as well as Greece, France and the United States.

Christian mosaics in Hagia Sophia to be concealed during prayers starting July 24

French cathedral catches fire in Nantes; contained within hours

Two milestones served to illustrate Sao Paulo's emergence from the shadow of the coronavirus crisis on Monday (June 29): the closure of a temporary field hospital to treat COVID-19 patients and the reopening of Sao Paulo's Catholic Cathedral for public religious services.

Field hospital closes, church reopens as Sao Paulo sees light at end of coronavirus tunnel

A church in Bengaluru, India, took the line 'Modern problems require modern solutions' quite seriously, as it came up with an interesting and useful hack to make sure people visiting the church stay safe.

Bethel AG Church, in Bengaluru, introduced the concept of 'drive-in worship' for their Sunday service, to promote social distancing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-tamil-nadu-and-delhi-record-more-cases-than-maharashtra-305843">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: Tamil Nadu and Delhi record more cases than Maharashtra</a>

The organizers divided the mass into five service and three batches.&nbsp;The first batch was of people coming on&nbsp;two-wheeler&nbsp;at 7 am and 5 pm, the second batch was for cars commuters from 9 am to 7 pm and the third batch was for people who took public transport or walked to the church at 11 am.

"It is not a must in these pandemic times for all the people to come into the church. For, those in vehicles performed the prayers from inside their vehicles, those who came without vehicles went into the main building and those who could not make it to the mass attended it online," pastor Dani Kuruvilla&nbsp;told a news agency.

The officials also made it compulsory for the attendees to wear masks, and the people who entered the building were urge to maintain safe distance. All the common points where there were chances of people passing on infections were disabled.

The church also asked all elders and young children to stay at home and attend the digital service.

While this was the church's first trial at such an arrangement, the management and the worshipers were happy with the smooth functioning of the Sunday mass.

(With inputs from PTI)

A church in Bengaluru, India, took the line 'Modern problems require modern solutions' quite seriously, as it came up with an interesting and useful hack to make sure people visiting the church stay safe.

A church in Bengaluru, India, took the line 'Modern problems require modern solutions' quite seriously, as it came up with an interesting and useful hack to make sure people visiting the church stay safe. Bethel AG Church, in Bengaluru, introduced the concept of 'drive-in worship' for their Sunday service, to promote social distancing. Also read| COVID 19: Tamil Nadu and Delhi record more cases than Maharashtra The organizers divided the mass into five service and three batches. The first batch was of people coming on two-wheeler at 7 am and 5 pm, the second batch was for cars commuters from 9 am to 7 pm and the third batch was for people who took public transport or walked to the church at 11 am. "It is not a must in these pandemic times for all the people to come into the church. For, those in vehicles performed the prayers from inside their vehicles, those who came without vehicles went into the main building and those who could not make it to the mass attended it online," pastor Dani Kuruvilla told a news agency. The officials also made it compulsory for the attendees to wear masks, and the people who entered the building were urge to maintain safe distance. All the common points where there were chances of people passing on infections were disabled. The church also asked all elders and young children to stay at home and attend the digital service. While this was the church's first trial at such an arrangement, the management and the worshipers were happy with the smooth functioning of the Sunday mass. (With inputs from PTI)

WOW: Bengaluru church adopts 'worship on wheels' to promote social distancing

Greece shows the way! Social distancing and measures followed even as churches reopen

Italy recorded its worst daily toll with 368 deaths in just 24 hours. Italy faces shortage of medical supplies and the government is planning to come up with a new crisis plan

Italy faces shortage of medical supplies, Govt announces new crisis plan soon

The Church of England&nbsp;has announced plans to ''apologise'' for the racism that was faced by minorities, namely African, and Asians.

In a recent statement, the Church said that their legislative body ''The General Synod'' voted in favour of formally apologising for the injustices faced by racial minorities in the last 70 years.

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Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the church's senior-most bishop asserted that ''no doubt'' over the ''deeply institutionally racist'' nature of the church, CNN reported. 
 
Reverend Andrew Moughtin-Mumby had introduced the motion regarding the apology to the synod. It was as a response to him that Welby made these comments. 
 
"We did not do justice in the past, we do not do justice now, and unless we are radical and decisive in this area in the future, we will still be having this conversation in 20 years time and still doing injustice," he said. 
 
Moughtin-Mumby alluded to the family of Doreen Browne. In 1961, they were prohibited from entering the St Peter's Church in Walworth owing to the colour of their skin.

<h6><img alt="pppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01896a26-0bd5-467e-bd8a-1ffc285759e3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_71.jpg" /> 
Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Portal Welby, gestures as he delivers a speech during his visit at a church in Amritsar&nbsp;on September 10, 2019 | AFP</h6>

&nbsp;

"Doreen's family suffered horrible, humiliating racism which still affects Doreen's relationship with the Church even today," Moughtin-Mumby had asserted.

Referring to it ''as a scandal of our own'', he added that the family was later able to find a church, but that many like them didn't, pushing them away from the Church itself.

It's imperative to note here that Church was specifically talking about the ''Windrush generation'', who were a group of Caribbean migrants that came to the UK after the culmination of World War II.

The government of Britain had called on them to help rebuild their country, which led to an influx of migrants into the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trending-bishops-church%20of%20england-church-apologises-after-saying-sex-should-be-for-married-heterosexual-couples-only-277683">Church apologises after saying 'sex should be for married heterosexual couples only'</a>

However, with the global political discourse following suit of geographical protectionism against immigrants, the group has recently been put under scrutiny.

Earlier, the citizens of any Commonwealth country could work and live in the UK legally. But the immigrants now face tougher laws that demand concrete proof of their citizenship, which is difficult for the ''Windrush generation''.

This is not the first official British apology to the immigrant group, for the government had earlier apologised for their ill-treatment.

The Church of England has announced plans to ''apologise'' for the racism that was faced by minorities, namely African, and Asians. In a recent statement, the Church said that their legislative body ''The General Synod'' voted in favour of formally apologising for the injustices faced by racial minorities in the last 70 years.

The Church of England has announced plans to ''apologise'' for the racism that was faced by minorities, namely African, and Asians. In a recent statement, the Church said that their legislative body ''The General Synod'' voted in favour of formally apologising for the injustices faced by racial minorities in the last 70 years. Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the church's senior-most bishop asserted that ''no doubt'' over the ''deeply institutionally racist'' nature of the church, CNN reported. Reverend Andrew Moughtin-Mumby had introduced the motion regarding the apology to the synod. It was as a response to him that Welby made these comments. "We did not do justice in the past, we do not do justice now, and unless we are radical and decisive in this area in the future, we will still be having this conversation in 20 years time and still doing injustice," he said. Moughtin-Mumby alluded to the family of Doreen Browne. In 1961, they were prohibited from entering the St Peter's Church in Walworth owing to the colour of their skin. Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Portal Welby, gestures as he delivers a speech during his visit at a church in Amritsar on September 10, 2019 | AFP "Doreen's family suffered horrible, humiliating racism which still affects Doreen's relationship with the Church even today," Moughtin-Mumby had asserted. Referring to it ''as a scandal of our own'', he added that the family was later able to find a church, but that many like them didn't, pushing them away from the Church itself. It's imperative to note here that Church was specifically talking about the ''Windrush generation'', who were a group of Caribbean migrants that came to the UK after the culmination of World War II. The government of Britain had called on them to help rebuild their country, which led to an influx of migrants into the country. Also read: Church apologises after saying 'sex should be for married heterosexual couples only' However, with the global political discourse following suit of geographical protectionism against immigrants, the group has recently been put under scrutiny. Earlier, the citizens of any Commonwealth country could work and live in the UK legally. But the immigrants now face tougher laws that demand concrete proof of their citizenship, which is difficult for the ''Windrush generation''. This is not the first official British apology to the immigrant group, for the government had earlier apologised for their ill-treatment.

'Scandal of our own': Church of England to apologise over 'institutionalised racism'

Christian devouts across India attended midnight mass on the occasion of Christmas festival on Wednesday (December 25). People thronged illuminated and decorated church where they prayed, listened to carols and sermons and lighted candles to mark the occasion.

Christians across India attend midnight mass on Christmas

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-visit-thailand-japan-in-november-249418">Pope Francis</a> installed new cardinals on Saturday, putting his stamp on the future of the Roman Catholic Church with men who share his vision for social justice, the rights of immigrants and dialogue with Islam.

Ten of the 13 bishops elevated to the high rank are under the age of 80 and so are eligible to vote in a conclave to elect a new pope from their ranks.

Francis has now appointed more than half of the 128 cardinal electors, increasing the possibility that the next pope will continue his progressive policies.

Over six years he has appointed more cardinal electors than those still alive who were named by former Pope Benedict and the late Pope John Paul combined.

At a ceremony in St&nbsp;Peter's Basilica, known as a consistory, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-on-madagascar-visit-condemns-clan-culture-of-privilege-graft-248410">Francis</a> gave the new cardinals their trademark red biretta, or hat, and asked them to always be compassionate with others and loyal.

The geographical distribution of the new cardinal electors reflects Francis's desire to give more clout to small national churches outside of Europe and North America, countries on the periphery of world political power. Nearly 50 per cent of the cardinal electors now come from the developing world.

Pope Francis installed new cardinals on Saturday, putting his stamp on the future of the Roman Catholic Church with men who share his vision for social justice, the rights of immigrants and dialogue with Islam.

Pope Francis installed new cardinals on Saturday, putting his stamp on the future of the Roman Catholic Church with men who share his vision for social justice, the rights of immigrants and dialogue with Islam. Ten of the 13 bishops elevated to the high rank are under the age of 80 and so are eligible to vote in a conclave to elect a new pope from their ranks. Francis has now appointed more than half of the 128 cardinal electors, increasing the possibility that the next pope will continue his progressive policies. Over six years he has appointed more cardinal electors than those still alive who were named by former Pope Benedict and the late Pope John Paul combined. At a ceremony in St Peter's Basilica, known as a consistory, Francis gave the new cardinals their trademark red biretta, or hat, and asked them to always be compassionate with others and loyal. The geographical distribution of the new cardinal electors reflects Francis's desire to give more clout to small national churches outside of Europe and North America, countries on the periphery of world political power. Nearly 50 per cent of the cardinal electors now come from the developing world.

Pope installs new cardinals, puts another stamp on Church future

The head of a Mexican-based church, which claims over 1 million followers worldwide, was ordered held on $50 million bail in a Los Angeles court on Wednesday on charges that included human trafficking, child pornography and rape of a minor.&nbsp;

La Luz Del Mundo (Light of the World) church leader Naason Joaquin Garcia, 50, was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on Monday, prosecutors said.

Garcia and two of his co-defendants, Alondra Ocampo and Susana Medina Oaxaca, did not enter pleas, pending a formal arraignment on June 10. Judge Francis Bennett ordered the defendants to remain in custody until then.&nbsp;

A warrant has been issued for a fourth defendant Rangel Melendez, officials said. All the accused are affiliated with La Luz Del Mundo, prosecutors said. 
Defense lawyer Dmitry Gorin called Garcia`s $50 million bail "outrageous and unreasonable". Garcia`s wife and three children were in the courtroom. 
The church, which considers Garcia to be an apostle of Jesus Christ, called the accusations unfounded.&nbsp;

"The Apostle of Jesus Christ, Brother Naason Joaquin Garcia, has always behaved in accordance with the law and with full respect for the institutions and the dignity of the people," it said in a statement on its website on Wednesday.

`GOING AGAINST GOD`

A 19-page complaint, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Tuesday, says three minors and one adult woman were abused, with one child and the woman raped. Others were forced to perform sex acts and dances for Garcia wearing "as little clothing as possible", the complaint added.

Girls were told that if they defied Garcia`s desires "they were going against god", the complaint says.

Prosecutors said Garcia and co-defendants committed a total of 26 felonies in south California from 2015 to 2018 in Los Angeles County.&nbsp; 
The victims were not named.

California Attorney General Xavier Becerra will hold a news conference on Thursday to discuss the arrest, his office said.

Internet sites say the church has between 1 million and 5 million followers worldwide in more than 50 countries including many followers in the United States.&nbsp;

The church`s roots go back to the 1920s in Mexico, and adheres to nontrinitarianism, rejecting a mainstream Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity. It says it adheres to the earliest doctrines of the Christian church teachings.

The head of a Mexican-based church, which claims over 1 million followers worldwide, was ordered held on $50 million bail in a Los Angeles court on Wednesday on charges that included human trafficking, child pornography and rape of a minor.

The head of a Mexican-based church, which claims over 1 million followers worldwide, was ordered held on $50 million bail in a Los Angeles court on Wednesday on charges that included human trafficking, child pornography and rape of a minor. La Luz Del Mundo (Light of the World) church leader Naason Joaquin Garcia, 50, was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on Monday, prosecutors said. Garcia and two of his co-defendants, Alondra Ocampo and Susana Medina Oaxaca, did not enter pleas, pending a formal arraignment on June 10. Judge Francis Bennett ordered the defendants to remain in custody until then. A warrant has been issued for a fourth defendant Rangel Melendez, officials said. All the accused are affiliated with La Luz Del Mundo, prosecutors said. Defense lawyer Dmitry Gorin called Garcia`s $50 million bail "outrageous and unreasonable". Garcia`s wife and three children were in the courtroom. The church, which considers Garcia to be an apostle of Jesus Christ, called the accusations unfounded. "The Apostle of Jesus Christ, Brother Naason Joaquin Garcia, has always behaved in accordance with the law and with full respect for the institutions and the dignity of the people," it said in a statement on its website on Wednesday. `GOING AGAINST GOD` A 19-page complaint, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Tuesday, says three minors and one adult woman were abused, with one child and the woman raped. Others were forced to perform sex acts and dances for Garcia wearing "as little clothing as possible", the complaint added. Girls were told that if they defied Garcia`s desires "they were going against god", the complaint says. Prosecutors said Garcia and co-defendants committed a total of 26 felonies in south California from 2015 to 2018 in Los Angeles County. The victims were not named. California Attorney General Xavier Becerra will hold a news conference on Thursday to discuss the arrest, his office said. Internet sites say the church has between 1 million and 5 million followers worldwide in more than 50 countries including many followers in the United States. The church`s roots go back to the 1920s in Mexico, and adheres to nontrinitarianism, rejecting a mainstream Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity. It says it adheres to the earliest doctrines of the Christian church teachings.

Mexican church leader held on $50 mln bail in Los Angeles for sex crimes

Facebook announced steps on Wednesday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-curb-live-streaming-amid-pressure-over-christchurch-call-218959">temporarily block users who break its rules from broadcasting live video</a>, in the wake of an international outcry after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mass-shooting-incidents-in-new-zealand-203666">gunman killed 51 people in New Zealand</a> last month and streamed the attack live on his page.

The tweaks to Facebook's rules came as the White House snubbed other world leaders, who met with tech companies in Paris to back a call by New Zealand's prime minister for stronger measures against social media hate speech.

Silicon Valley tech giants expressed their support for Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's so-called "Christchurch Call," named for the city where the gunman attacked two mosques on March 15 and broadcast his killings live.

But Washington declined to send a delegation to the meeting hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron. The White House said it would not endorse Ardern's initiative, although it supported the broader aims.

Facebook said in a statement it was introducing a "one-strike" policy for use of Facebook Live, a service which lets users broadcast live video. Those who broke the company's most serious rules anywhere on its site would have their access to make live broadcasts temporarily restricted.

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The range of offences that would qualify for one-strike suspensions would be broadened.

The company did not specify which offences would result in such a ban or how long suspensions would last, but a spokeswoman said it would not have been possible for the Christchurch shooter to use Facebook Live on his account under the new rules.

Facebook has come under intense scrutiny in recent years over hate speech, privacy lapses and its dominant market position in social media. The company is trying to address those concerns while averting more strenuous action from regulators.

Ardern called the changes announced on Wednesday "a good first step to restrict the application being used as a tool for terrorists, and shows the Christchurch Call is being acted on."

The company said it plans to extend the restrictions to other areas over coming weeks, beginning with preventing the same people from creating Facebook ads. It also said it would fund research at three universities on techniques to detect manipulated media, which its systems struggled to spot in the aftermath of the attack.

Ardern said the research was welcome and that edited and manipulated videos of the March 15 mosque shootings had been slow to be removed, resulting in many people, including herself, seeing video of the killings played in their Facebook feeds.

White house "Not in a position to join"

Macron hosted Ardern, British Prime Minister Theresa May, Canada's Justin Trudeau and other leaders at a summit on Wednesday to support Ardern's initiative.

Signatories would "encourage media outlets to apply ethical standards when depicting terrorist events online, to avoid amplifying terrorist and violent extremist content," although the initiative is non-binding, light on details and leaves countries and companies to decide how to apply guidelines.

Countries including Australia, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, India and Sweden said they backed it, as did U.S. tech giants Microsoft, Alphabet's Google and its video platform YouTube and Amazon.

But the White House said in a statement the United States was "not currently in a position to join the endorsement," although it added: "we continue to support the overall goals reflected in the call".

In comments made at a joint news conference with Ardern, Macron put a positive spin on the White House response.

"We'll do everything we can so that there is a more concrete and formal commitment, but I consider... the fact that the U.S. administration said it shared the objectives and the common will as a positive element," Macron said.

Brad Smith, the president of Microsoft, said the call was "leading to real action, even if it's not binding".

"The Christchurch Call will be assessed ultimately by the impact it has. And the impact it has will be determined not only by governments but also by tech companies," Smith told Reuters.

Facebook announced steps on Wednesday to temporarily block users who break its rules from broadcasting live video, in the wake of an international outcry after a gunman killed 51 people in New Zealand last month and streamed the attack live on his page.

Facebook announced steps on Wednesday to temporarily block users who break its rules from broadcasting live video, in the wake of an international outcry after a gunman killed 51 people in New Zealand last month and streamed the attack live on his page. The tweaks to Facebook's rules came as the White House snubbed other world leaders, who met with tech companies in Paris to back a call by New Zealand's prime minister for stronger measures against social media hate speech. Silicon Valley tech giants expressed their support for Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's so-called "Christchurch Call," named for the city where the gunman attacked two mosques on March 15 and broadcast his killings live. But Washington declined to send a delegation to the meeting hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron. The White House said it would not endorse Ardern's initiative, although it supported the broader aims. Facebook said in a statement it was introducing a "one-strike" policy for use of Facebook Live, a service which lets users broadcast live video. Those who broke the company's most serious rules anywhere on its site would have their access to make live broadcasts temporarily restricted. × The range of offences that would qualify for one-strike suspensions would be broadened. The company did not specify which offences would result in such a ban or how long suspensions would last, but a spokeswoman said it would not have been possible for the Christchurch shooter to use Facebook Live on his account under the new rules. Facebook has come under intense scrutiny in recent years over hate speech, privacy lapses and its dominant market position in social media. The company is trying to address those concerns while averting more strenuous action from regulators. Ardern called the changes announced on Wednesday "a good first step to restrict the application being used as a tool for terrorists, and shows the Christchurch Call is being acted on." The company said it plans to extend the restrictions to other areas over coming weeks, beginning with preventing the same people from creating Facebook ads. It also said it would fund research at three universities on techniques to detect manipulated media, which its systems struggled to spot in the aftermath of the attack. Ardern said the research was welcome and that edited and manipulated videos of the March 15 mosque shootings had been slow to be removed, resulting in many people, including herself, seeing video of the killings played in their Facebook feeds. White house "Not in a position to join" Macron hosted Ardern, British Prime Minister Theresa May, Canada's Justin Trudeau and other leaders at a summit on Wednesday to support Ardern's initiative. Signatories would "encourage media outlets to apply ethical standards when depicting terrorist events online, to avoid amplifying terrorist and violent extremist content," although the initiative is non-binding, light on details and leaves countries and companies to decide how to apply guidelines. Countries including Australia, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, India and Sweden said they backed it, as did U.S. tech giants Microsoft, Alphabet's Google and its video platform YouTube and Amazon. But the White House said in a statement the United States was "not currently in a position to join the endorsement," although it added: "we continue to support the overall goals reflected in the call". In comments made at a joint news conference with Ardern, Macron put a positive spin on the White House response. "We'll do everything we can so that there is a more concrete and formal commitment, but I consider... the fact that the U.S. administration said it shared the objectives and the common will as a positive element," Macron said. Brad Smith, the president of Microsoft, said the call was "leading to real action, even if it's not binding". "The Christchurch Call will be assessed ultimately by the impact it has. And the impact it has will be determined not only by governments but also by tech companies," Smith told Reuters.

Facebook restricts Live feature, White House snubs call for New Zealand shooting response

The first Catholic mass has been celebrated at St. Sebastian’s Church in the Sri Lankan city of Negombo following the Easter Sunday suicide bombings that killed more than 100 people at the church and 250 people overall across the country.

Colombo: Mass held at church where 100s died in bombing

The Sri Lankan government on Friday ordered mosques to clamp down on extremists and to submit copies of sermons in new fallout from the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-secures-schools-before-reopening-following-easter-suicide-bombings-216119"> Easter suicide bombings </a>that left 258 dead.

The country has been on edge since the April 21 attacks by jihadist bombers who attacked three churches and three Colombo hotels which also left 500 people injured.

The Ministry of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs said mosques must not be used for radicalising congregations.

"In view of the prevailing situation in the country, the ministry directs all trustees of mosques not to engage in or permit any gathering to promote or propagate hatred or extremism in any form," the ministry said.

It said all mosques must submit copies of sermons given within their premises.

Sri Lankan radicals who had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group have been blamed for the April 21 bombings against three Christian churches and three luxury hotels.

Since the attacks, the government has carried out raids across the country and killed several suspected radicals. At least 56 suspects are in custody, according to police, while authorities have also expelled 200 foreign clerics who had overstayed their visas.&nbsp;

The government has imposed a state of emergency and ordered police and security forces to crack down on Islamic extremists.

Sri Lanka's police say they have killed or arrested all the jihadists responsible for the bombings but attacks are still possible.

The Sri Lankan government on Friday ordered mosques to clamp down on extremists and to submit copies of sermons in new fallout from the Easter suicide bombings that left 258 dead.

The Sri Lankan government on Friday ordered mosques to clamp down on extremists and to submit copies of sermons in new fallout from the Easter suicide bombings that left 258 dead. The country has been on edge since the April 21 attacks by jihadist bombers who attacked three churches and three Colombo hotels which also left 500 people injured. The Ministry of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs said mosques must not be used for radicalising congregations. "In view of the prevailing situation in the country, the ministry directs all trustees of mosques not to engage in or permit any gathering to promote or propagate hatred or extremism in any form," the ministry said. It said all mosques must submit copies of sermons given within their premises. Sri Lankan radicals who had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group have been blamed for the April 21 bombings against three Christian churches and three luxury hotels. Since the attacks, the government has carried out raids across the country and killed several suspected radicals. At least 56 suspects are in custody, according to police, while authorities have also expelled 200 foreign clerics who had overstayed their visas. The government has imposed a state of emergency and ordered police and security forces to crack down on Islamic extremists. Sri Lanka's police say they have killed or arrested all the jihadists responsible for the bombings but attacks are still possible.

Sri Lanka slaps controls on mosques after jihad attacks

Easter commemorates the day Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead

Holy Men, Unholy Act: How sex abuse scandals have shaken the Church

A priest was stabbed in front of his congregation live on television during morning mass on Friday at Canada's biggest church, in what police described as an isolated incident.

Footage broadcast on a Catholic television station and picked up by the top-rated CTV network showed a man in jeans, parka and white baseball cap approach Claude Grou at St Joseph's Oratory in Montreal, in front of 60 horrified parishioners.

He is seen chasing the priest around the altar and standing menacingly over the 77-year-old as he falls to the ground, scattering candles and a banner, before stabbing his victim.

Witness Adele Plamondon told public broadcaster Radio-Canada the priest -- who escaped with minor injuries -- was about to start reading the gospel, when "this man drew a knife and ran up to stab him."

"I'd thought he was just going to kneel in front of the altar to pray, like many people do," she said.

The suspect remained silent during the assault but appeared "very determined," Plamondon added.

Grou recovered enough to get to his feet and is seen backing away as security officers surround the assailant, who drops his knife. Three guards restrained him while others tended to Grou, who appeared to be in shock.

The priest was taken to hospital, where his condition was said to be stable, with police reporting to AFP that he had been "slightly wounded in the upper body."&nbsp;

'Horrible and inexcusable'&nbsp;

The church was cordoned off, but services resumed later in the day.

The 26-year-old suspect, whose name was not released, was scheduled to appear in court on Saturday via video link from a detention facility.

Police did not reveal a motive for the attack, but spokeswoman Caroline Chevrefils told AFP he is "known to police."&nbsp;

"This was an isolated attack, and there is nothing to link it to terrorism," she added.

Church spokeswoman Celine Barbeau said Grou was conscious when he was rushed from the scene.&nbsp;

"We are hopeful he will pull through," she added.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke out to condemn the "horrible attack" while mayor Valerie Plante called the assault an "inexcusable act that has no place in Montreal."

"We are all in shock over this act of violence in a place dedicated to peace," Montreal Archbishop Christian Lepine said in a statement, lamenting that places of worship could be targets of violence.

Saint Joseph's Oratory, built from 1920 to 1955, sits atop the north face of Mount Royal overlooking Canada's second-largest metropolis and attracts some two million pilgrims and tourists each year.

The national shrine was founded by Brother Andre Bessette, a central religious figure among French-Canadians, who was canonized by Pope Benedict in 2010 for his devotion to the sick and disabled.

Jean-Francois Lefebvre, who was working in front of the oratory when the attack unfolded, said he saw police arrive and take away the suspect in handcuffs.

"I find this incident very unfortunate, in a place so peaceful, that attracts millions of visitors," he told AFP.

"With what happened in Christchurch, it seems that all places of worship are being targeted," he added, referencing an attack at two mosques in New Zealand last Friday that left 50 dead and 50 wounded.

In 2017, a shooter also gunned down six worshippers at a mosque in Quebec City.

A priest was stabbed in front of his congregation live on television during morning mass on Friday at Canada's biggest church, in what police described as an isolated incident.

A priest was stabbed in front of his congregation live on television during morning mass on Friday at Canada's biggest church, in what police described as an isolated incident. Footage broadcast on a Catholic television station and picked up by the top-rated CTV network showed a man in jeans, parka and white baseball cap approach Claude Grou at St Joseph's Oratory in Montreal, in front of 60 horrified parishioners. He is seen chasing the priest around the altar and standing menacingly over the 77-year-old as he falls to the ground, scattering candles and a banner, before stabbing his victim. Witness Adele Plamondon told public broadcaster Radio-Canada the priest -- who escaped with minor injuries -- was about to start reading the gospel, when "this man drew a knife and ran up to stab him." "I'd thought he was just going to kneel in front of the altar to pray, like many people do," she said. The suspect remained silent during the assault but appeared "very determined," Plamondon added. Grou recovered enough to get to his feet and is seen backing away as security officers surround the assailant, who drops his knife. Three guards restrained him while others tended to Grou, who appeared to be in shock. The priest was taken to hospital, where his condition was said to be stable, with police reporting to AFP that he had been "slightly wounded in the upper body." 'Horrible and inexcusable' The church was cordoned off, but services resumed later in the day. The 26-year-old suspect, whose name was not released, was scheduled to appear in court on Saturday via video link from a detention facility. Police did not reveal a motive for the attack, but spokeswoman Caroline Chevrefils told AFP he is "known to police." "This was an isolated attack, and there is nothing to link it to terrorism," she added. Church spokeswoman Celine Barbeau said Grou was conscious when he was rushed from the scene. "We are hopeful he will pull through," she added. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke out to condemn the "horrible attack" while mayor Valerie Plante called the assault an "inexcusable act that has no place in Montreal." "We are all in shock over this act of violence in a place dedicated to peace," Montreal Archbishop Christian Lepine said in a statement, lamenting that places of worship could be targets of violence. Saint Joseph's Oratory, built from 1920 to 1955, sits atop the north face of Mount Royal overlooking Canada's second-largest metropolis and attracts some two million pilgrims and tourists each year. The national shrine was founded by Brother Andre Bessette, a central religious figure among French-Canadians, who was canonized by Pope Benedict in 2010 for his devotion to the sick and disabled. Jean-Francois Lefebvre, who was working in front of the oratory when the attack unfolded, said he saw police arrive and take away the suspect in handcuffs. "I find this incident very unfortunate, in a place so peaceful, that attracts millions of visitors," he told AFP. "With what happened in Christchurch, it seems that all places of worship are being targeted," he added, referencing an attack at two mosques in New Zealand last Friday that left 50 dead and 50 wounded. In 2017, a shooter also gunned down six worshippers at a mosque in Quebec City.

Priest stabbed live on TV at Canada's biggest church

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