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On October 30, 2024, the Tokyo High Court declared Japan's ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, marking a significant victory for LGBTQ+ rights. This ruling is the seventh to challenge the ban, raising hopes for marriage equality in a country that has lagged behind its G7 peers. The government is expected to monitor further developments.
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Pope Francis has ruled out the ordination of women as deacons, stating the time is 'not ripe.' This decision has disappointed many Catholics advocating for gender equality within the Church, especially following a synod that raised hopes for reform. The ongoing debate highlights the Church's struggle with modern societal values regarding women's roles.
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On October 25, 2024, President Biden formally apologized to Indigenous communities for the U.S. government's historical policy of forcibly removing Native American children to boarding schools. This apology acknowledges decades of abuse and aims to foster healing and reconciliation, marking a significant moment in U.S. history.
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Edward Berger's film 'Conclave' delves into the secretive papal election process, featuring Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence. The movie, which premiered at the Rome Film Festival, highlights the political maneuvering and personal crises faced by cardinals as they vie for the papacy. It opened in theaters on October 25, 2024.
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As Halloween approaches, various traditions surrounding Samhain and All Saints' Day are highlighted. Kilmarnock's unique 'Killieween' celebration occurs earlier than Halloween, while many cultures reflect on the dead during this time, showcasing a blend of pagan and Christian customs.
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The Vatican's Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors released its first report, criticizing church leaders for inadequate responses to clerical sexual abuse. The report emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and better support for victims, while acknowledging ongoing challenges in safeguarding practices across various countries.
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Following devastating floods in Valencia that have killed at least 217 people, King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez faced intense public anger during a visit to the affected area. Locals criticized the government's slow response and lack of adequate warnings, leading to protests and calls for accountability.
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Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris is preparing for its grand reopening on December 8, 2024, after extensive restoration following the devastating fire in April 2019. The reopening will feature a ceremony attended by President Emmanuel Macron and Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, marking a significant moment for both the church and the French public.
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On November 12, 2024, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon formally apologized to over 200,000 survivors of abuse in state and faith-based care. This follows a July report detailing systemic abuse spanning seven decades, particularly affecting Māori individuals. Survivors expressed disappointment over the lack of immediate compensation details.
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Pope Francis has urged an investigation into potential genocide in Gaza following an Israeli airstrike that killed at least 30 people. The call comes amid reports of over 44,000 Palestinian deaths since the conflict began, with Human Rights Watch accusing Israel of war crimes and crimes against humanity through forced displacement and starvation tactics.
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Pope Francis has urged for an investigation into potential genocide in Gaza, following Israel's military actions that have reportedly killed over 40,000 Palestinians since October 2023. His comments, made in a forthcoming book, mark a significant escalation in his rhetoric regarding the conflict.