"It appears that some leaders of the Catholic Church failed once more to read the signs of the times, and tried to insist that this inspiring and epoch-transforming election, this turning point in American history, was once again just about abortion. The laity saw things differently; the Catholic vote was indistinguishable from the population as a whole."

The Tablet, editorial, Nov. 8.

'Therapeutic' embryos

"Abuses and trafficking of organs are unacceptable. The same ethical principle must be reiterated when it is suggested that human embryos be created and destroyed for therapeutic purposes. The very idea contradicts the ethical foundations upon which the dignity of the person rests."

Pope Benedict XVI addressing a congress on November 11.

India persecution

Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, called for respect for religious freedom during his visit to India. Catholics have been the victims of violent attacks particularly in Orissa, India. ''Orissa is a name alive in our heart and lips, we are with the persecuted Church," he said.

No reconciliation without reparation

"We know that the word 'reconciliation' is much used. But often the word is misused," the Kenyan bishops said in a November 6 statement. "Catholics, especially those in leadership positions, have to "first recognise our mistakes, failures and sins and redressing all aspects of the evil committed," said the bishops.

Child victims

Four million newborns die within the first month from infectious diseases, malnutrition and poverty revealed Cardinal Javier Lozano Barragan, president of the Pontifical Council for Health Care Ministry. Armed conflict killed two million children and injured six million in the past 10 years. One in six children in rich countries lives in poverty.

Compiled by Fr Joe Borg.