Gloria TV News on the Feast of St. Catharine of Bologna.

"Our Arab Countries Are Not Ready for Revolutions"

Arab World

Melkite Catholic Patriarch Gregorios III Laham has cautioned leaders of the Western world that they should not throw their support behind revolutionary movements in the Arab world - CAN reported last week. "Our Arab countries are not ready for revolutions," said the Melkite Patriarch. Laham’s flock is concentrated in Syria, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories. He said that the overthrow of existing regimes could cause chaos in the region, and allow more radical forces to gain power. Rather than encouraging revolutionary movements, the Patriarch said, the leaders of the Western world should press Arab governments "to develop democratic structures, freedom, and respect for human rights."

Attack Against Cardinal Sodano

Vatican

There is a rising current of unease at the Vatican about the continuing prominent role played by Cardinal Angelo Sodano – claims John Allen of the liberal National Catholic Reporter. Sodano is the former Secretary of State. At the age of 83 he is still the Dean of the College of Cardinals. If the Pope dies the Dean of the College of Cardinals presides at the funeral, and at the meetings prior to the conclave. So the eyes of the world would be on Cardinal Sodano. Sodano has been targeted by anti-Church-media for his public criticisms on the way the media have handled sex-abuses. Therefore Allen would like Sodano to resign as Dean--as last two of his last three predecessors did, shortly after their 80th birthdays.

Charges Dropped

USA

St. Joseph County prosecutor Michael Dvorak has dropped charges against almost all of the “ND88” pro-life demonstrators arrested for protesting President Barack Obama’s 2009 commencement appearance at the University of Notre Dame. The charges were dropped as part of an agreement between the Chicago-based Thomas More Society and the university. Thomas More Society president and chief counsel Tom Brejcha said: “This is a big step forward and a victory for the pro-life cause”. Brejcha voiced appreciation for the steps Notre Dame has taken to mark the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision on abortion. He noted Fr. Jenkins’ participation in the March for Life in Washington, D.C. in 2010 and 2011. Jenkins is the president of Notre Dame.

Vatican Museums Opened on Fridays in the Evening

Vatican

The Vatican Museums will be open in the evening on Fridays this summer, for the 3rd consecutive year. "To be open during the evening means offering the possibility for families and friends to visit the Vatican Museums together,” said Antonio Paolucci, the director of the Vatican Museums. He said that Pope Benedict had approved the policy, to allow more people to enjoy the priceless Vatican collection.