The Catholic Leader Keeping Faith with You

Pope Benedict XVI strongly defended women's rights and praised the many "silent heroines" of Africa...

YAOUNDE, Cameroon (CNS): Pope Benedict XVI's declaration that distribution of condoms only increases the problem of AIDS is the latest and one of the strongest statements in a simmering debate inside the Church...

YAOUNDE, Cameroon (CNS): Arriving in Africa, Pope Benedict XVI said the Church's message of hope and reconciliation was sorely needed by a continent suffering disproportionately from poverty, conflict and disease...

Brisbane archdiocese is opening a spirituality centre to be "a powerhouse of prayer". ROBIN WILLIAMS reports on the idea behind the initiative.

SRI LANKA (ACN): The bishop of war-torn northern Sri Lanka has written to the country's President warning that more than 100,000 people face "total annihilation", unless an immediate evacuation is ordered...

KHARTOUM, Sudan (Zenit.org): Bishops of Sudan are expressing concern that arresting the nation's president might not do anything to help stop the suffering in the country.

Brisbane archdiocese, in an effort to support women facing difficulties because of pregnancy - difficulties that may have some considering an abortion - is establishing an outreach powered mainly by volunteers from the parishes. Journalist SELINA VENIER attended the first training day for volunteers.

A Vatican spokesman says an apology from formerly ex-communicated Society of St Pius X Bishop Richard Williamson is not enough...

ROME (CNS): Poland's chief rabbi said he hopes Pope Benedict XVI's trip to Israel will be an opportunity for the Pope to demonstrate to the world his deep knowledge of and respect for Judaism...