Angola: “We cannot host the ‘Messenger of Peace’ with our hearts full of hate”

As the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to hear the Gospel prepares to receive a visit from Pope Leo XIV, the Church makes a renewed appeal for reconciliation in Angola. Pope Leo XIV will travel to Angola from April 18 to 21 as part of his apostolic journey to Africa, which also includes Algeria, Cameroon, …

Algeria: Visit of Pope Leo XIV bolsters mission of small, vibrant Church and dialogue with Islam

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Algeria yesterday, April 13, for a historic visit that shines a spotlight on the small but vibrant local Church and the role of dialogue between Christians and Muslims. Following his arrival in Algiers on Monday, the Holy Father visited Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba) on Tuesday, April 14, including sites linked …

People feel “dehumanized” as Lebanon buckles under bombardment

Among the priorities are reopening schools and paying teachers’ salaries, as these play a crucial role in passing on Christian values in the region. People are feeling “scared, angry and sad” after more than 100 bombs fell across Beirut in a single night, shattering any remaining sense of safety for those still living in their …

Pakistan – Truck Plows Into Easter Procession

Pakistan’s Christian community is in shock following a serious incident that occurred at dawn on Easter Sunday, when a truck travelling at high speed plowed into a procession of more than 200 worshippers in the city of Gujranwala, injuring around 60 people, some of whom are in critical condition. Authorities have arrested the driver and …

Lebanon – You can support now!

This Triduum 2026, don’t turn away from the Christians of Lebanon who are struggling to remain in their homes. The Church is there, supporting them through this new wave of violence, and you can be part of that help. Watch Bishop Jules Boutros’ message and give today. Thank you.

Middle East: Holy Week begins under the sign of the cross

Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) expresses concern over Palm Sunday restrictions in Jerusalem, Syria, and Gaza, and conveys its support for Christians in the Holy Land. The international Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) expresses deep concern over events that took place during Palm Sunday celebrations on March 29, 2026 …

Paschal hope among the ruins in Gaza

Holy Week has begun against a backdrop of persistent war and shortages in the Catholic compound in Gaza. Despite everything, the community intends to celebrate Easter to the full, sustained by a prayer for peace throughout the Middle East, as Father Gabriel Romanelli explained to the Catholic charity, Aid to the Church in Need (ACN). …

Nigeria:  “We are part of the martyrdom of the 21st century”

The bishop of Wukari tells ACN about the suffering of his people and says that the federal government of Nigeria must do more to stop violence. The Diocese of Wukari, in Taraba State, in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, is experiencing a severe security crisis caused by armed groups composed mostly of the Fulani ethnic group. “In …

Jerusalem: Christian schools under threat

On March 10, 2026, the Israeli Ministry of Education announced that no work permits will be issued for the 2026-2027 academic year to Palestinian teachers residing in the occupied West Bank who hold a “green card” – an administrative document allowing certain Palestinians to work or travel within Israeli-controlled areas. Consequently, over 200 Christian teachers …

Aid to the Church in Need increases emergency aid to Lebanon

Faced with the recent escalation of the conflict in Lebanon, Pontifical Charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) has significantly increased its aid to the country. Currently the focus is on the development of healthcare infrastructure, support for IDPs, and concrete aid for the regions worst affected by the attacks. One of the goals …