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Between November 17 and 22, 2025, armed bandits abducted over 290 schoolchildren and dozens of teachers from schools in Nigeria's Niger and Kebbi states. The largest attack targeted St. Mary's Catholic School in Niger state, with 215 students and 12 teachers taken. Security forces are actively searching for the victims amid rising kidnappings and violence across northern Nigeria.
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A referendum in Slovenia has rejected a law legalising assisted dying, with about 53% voting against. The law, approved in July, would have allowed terminally ill patients to end their lives under specific conditions. The suspension of the law will last at least one year, following a campaign backed by the Catholic Church and conservative groups.
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On Christmas 2025, Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and Syria observed the holiday with a mix of solemnity and hope amid ongoing hardships. Bethlehem held its first festive celebrations since 2022, with a towering Christmas tree and parades marking a fragile truce in Gaza. Gaza's Christian community faced grief and loss, with many churches damaged and families mourning loved ones. Syrian Christians celebrated quietly amid security concerns. Religious leaders emphasized resilience and peace.
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Pope Leo XIV appointed Bishop Ronald Hicks of Joliet as the new Archbishop of New York, succeeding Cardinal Timothy Dolan. Hicks, known for his conservative stance and Latin Mass support, is seen as aligning with Pope Leo's approach of quiet leadership and traditional values. The appointment marks a shift in the city's Catholic leadership amid ongoing church challenges.
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Pope Leo emphasizes the importance of Vatican II reforms, plans a cardinals' meeting to discuss church governance, and marks the end of the 2025 Holy Year with a series of ceremonies. He signals a reform-minded agenda, including addressing liturgical divisions and church unity, amid a busy start to his pontificate.
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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani did not attend the installation of Archbishop Ronald Hicks, the city’s new Catholic leader, instead posting a brief message on X. His absence has sparked criticism from the Catholic community and highlights ongoing tensions between city leadership and the church.