VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis pulled shut the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, formally ending the Holy Year of Mercy he declared to stress the need for greater reconciliation and forgiveness in his church and in the world. After closing the ornate door, Francis urged some 70,000 people attending Mass in … Continue reading
LAHORE, Pakistan (AP) — In an emotional televised address, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif vowed Monday to hunt down and defeat the militants who have been carrying out attacks like the Easter bombing that targeted Christians and killed 72 people. “We will not allow them to play with the lives of the people of Pakistan,” Sharif … Continue reading
WASHINGTON (AP) — Anglican scholar N.T. Wright says the Bible contains many overlooked truths, but it doesn’t necessarily tell believers how to vote. The retired bishop says some modern political and cultural issues don’t present a clear biblical choice. But other matters are clear, such as Jesus’ concern for the poor. Wright took … Continue reading
MOSCOW (AP) — For much of the Orthodox Christian world, Thursday is celebrated as Christmas Day. Believers in Russia, Ukraine, and parts of Eastern Europe and the Middle East flocked to churches for the holiday. Some Orthodox churches follow the liturgical calendar observed by the Roman Catholic and Protestant churches and celebrate Christmas on Dec. … Continue reading
Spartan Echo 