The Moon, seen here backlit by the Sun during a solar eclipse on April 6, 2026, is photographed by one of the cameras on the Orion spacecraft’s solar array wings. Orion is visible in the foreground on the left.
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Catholic educators and parents say the proposal could deepen learning gaps and increase screen addiction, especially for low-income families.
Vilnius’ hospice stands as a living work of Divine Mercy as city prepares to host global congress #Catholic – 
(OSV News) — Thousands of pilgrims are expected to gather in June in the Lithuanian capital for the sixth World Apostolic Congress on Mercy, or WACOM, a five-day event that has previously been held in cities such as Rome, Kraków, Bogota and Manila.
But in Vilnius, the theme “Building the City of Mercy” is not only a slogan — it is a living heritage.
The June 7-12 congress, organized by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, is expected to draw up to 5,000 participants from around the world. The choice of Vilnius as host city is not accidental.
It was here, in 1934, that St. Faustina Kowalska received visions that led to the painting of the first image of Divine Mercy, created by Eugeniusz Kazimirowski. Since then, numerous versions of the image have been painted by other artists, including a popular interpretation by Adolf Hyla in Kraków — both images are now found in churches across the globe.
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The WACOM program will include conferences, testimonies, concerts and daily moments of prayer held across the city. “While in Vilnius, WACOM participants can explore the Way of Mercy — a pilgrimage route linking 14 sacred sites, St. Faustina’s house and the Gate of Dawn chapel, home to a 17th-century icon of the Mother of Mercy,” said Archbishop Gintaras Grušas of Vilnius.
At the Hospice of Blessed Father Michal Sopocko — named after St. Faustina’s confessor — the message of Divine Mercy takes concrete form in daily care for the sick and dying. In fact, the hospice is an indispensable part of the Way of Mercy itself.
The building now housing the Sisters of Merciful Jesus was once the studio of painter Kazimirowski, where he created the first Divine Mercy image. It was also a place associated with Blessed Sopocko, and St. Faustina would come here often.
Sister Michaela Rak, the founder of the hospice, told OSV News — speaking ahead of April 12 Divine Mercy Sunday — that the continuity is clear: The message that began in this place is now lived out daily through care for the over 300 sick and dying patients.
The image of Merciful Jesus “came out of Vilnius and went to the whole world,” she said. “But it is not a decoration on a wall. It is a call: Experience my mercy and bring it where you are sent.”
“For many people, hospice is still something they are afraid of,” Aneta Górniewicz, deputy director of the facility, told OSV News. “But what we try to give here first of all is a sense of safety, dignity and daily care.”
Górniewicz did not plan such a path. She arrived in 2013, just after finishing her studies. “I was looking for work that would have a deeper sense — not just a source of income,” she said. A meeting with Sister Michaela changed everything. “I thought, ‘It’s worth trying.’ And I’ve been here 13 years.”
Sister Michaela, a Polish nun from the Congregation of the Sisters of Merciful Jesus, arrived in Vilnius in early 2000s with the idea of creating the country’s first hospice, which opened in 2009. Sister Michaela built the institution from the ground up, turning it into a place that now serves both adults and children at the end of life.
Inside the hospice, mercy is often expressed in small, almost invisible moments, such as a physiotherapist helping a woman, weakened by cancer, achieve a simple goal: to sit up on her own.
“It may seem like a small thing,” Górniewicz said, “but for that patient it was a huge success, a great achievement.” Other days bring different forms of care — reading books to patients who can no longer hold them, organizing shared moments of music, or even laughter therapy for a young woman with lung cancer. “It looked unusual,” Górniewicz recalled, describing a room filled with staff and patients laughing together. “But it really helped her — both physically and emotionally.”
The hospice also cares for children, some only a few years old. When possible, they are taken outside for walks. Volunteers sit with them, read stories or simply remain present. “Sometimes you don’t need words,” Górniewicz told OSV News. “You hold a hand, you pray, you just are with the person.” She described this as a “language of the heart.”
“We often tell volunteers that not every meeting will be about talking,” she said. “Sometimes it is about silence, about presence.” That presence extends to families as well. Górniewicz remembers one family thanking her simply for a kind welcome. “For me, it felt like something completely natural,” she said. “But for them it was very important — that someone received them with kindness and empathy.”
Moments like these have convinced her that mercy is not abstract. “Mercy is love of the heart,” she said. “Giving your time, your attention, your care to another person.”
Her work has also deepened her faith. Accompanying people at the end of life brings both difficulty and clarity. “From a human perspective, it is hard — especially when young people die,” she said. “But I believe that life does not end, it changes. That gives hope.”
Górniewicz recalled a patient who initially refused any spiritual care: “She said, ‘I don’t want a chaplain, I don’t need confession.’” But as her condition worsened, something shifted. “In the end she asked for the sacraments,” she said. “It was like she took hold of a lifeline.”
For Sister Michaela, this connection between faith and action is essential.
“Jesus looks at everyone with the same gaze — with a gaze of mercy,” she told OSV News. “At the one who loves him and at the one who rejects him.” That gaze, she said, defines what mercy truly is. “To look with the same love at the one who hurts me as at the one who loves me — that is mercy,” she said.
She pointed to another key element: initiative. “Jesus takes the first step,” she said, referring to the Gospel account of the risen Christ entering the room where the disciples were hiding. “He does not accuse them. He says, ‘Peace be with you.’” For Sister Michaela, this movement outward is at the heart of Christian life. “Mercy is to take the first step toward another person,” she told OSV News.
“We look at each person as we look at the image of Jesus — with love,” she said of her hospice. “We take the first step to relieve their suffering.”
Pope Francis made a surprise stop to bless patients of the Blessed Father Sopocko hospice during his 2018 apostolic trip to Vilnius.
“We feed the body, but also care for the soul,” Sister Michaela told OSV News, pointing to the role of the sacraments and spiritual support. If that dimension is lost, she warned, the consequences extend far beyond one institution. “When people lose the source of mercy, the world becomes a place of war, hatred and exploitation,” she said.
The June congress is expected to highlight not only Vilnius’ key religious sites — including the Shrine of Divine Mercy and the Gate of Dawn — but also the lived experience of mercy in the city.
“I would encourage everyone to come and see Vilnius,” she said. “Not only for its beauty, but to discover this spirit of mercy.” She pointed to the congress program, which will include not only conferences but also testimonies and opportunities to encounter works of mercy directly — also at the hospice.
“People today need mercy — even if they don’t always realize it,” she said. “We need to return to its source.”
Katarzyna Szalajko writes for OSV News from Warsaw, Poland.
– (OSV News) — Thousands of pilgrims are expected to gather in June in the Lithuanian capital for the sixth World Apostolic Congress on Mercy, or WACOM, a five-day event that has previously been held in cities such as Rome, Kraków, Bogota and Manila. But in Vilnius, the theme “Building the City of Mercy” is not only a slogan — it is a living heritage. The June 7-12 congress, organized by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, is expected to draw up to 5,000 participants from around the world. The choice of Vilnius as host city is not accidental. It was here,
Pope Leo praises ceasefire as ‘genuine hope,’ presses for dialogue, peace #Catholic – 
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Leo XIV welcomed the newly announced ceasefire in the Middle East as “a sign of genuine hope” after what he described as “hours of extreme tension,” while urging a return to negotiations and calling the faithful to prayer.
“Only by returning to negotiations can the war be brought to an end,” he said in remarks in Italian following his April 8 general audience in St. Peter’s Square.
His comments came just hours after a two-week ceasefire was reached between Iran and the United States, narrowly averting further escalation. The agreement followed a stark warning from U.S. President Donald Trump late April 7, when he threatened to destroy Iran’s critical infrastructure, saying “a whole civilization will die tonight” if Tehran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz to oil and gas tankers. The ceasefire was announced roughly two hours before the White House’s deadline.
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The pope’s appeal for dialogue echoed remarks he made the previous evening at Castel Gandolfo, where he urged leaders to return to the negotiating table even before the ceasefire was announced.
“Today, as we all know, there has also been this threat against the entire people of Iran, and this is truly unacceptable,” he told journalists April 7. “There are certainly issues of international law here, but even more, it is a moral question concerning the good of the people as a whole.”
Expanding on the broader implications of the conflict, he warned of a global economic crisis marked by “great instability,” which he said risks fueling further hatred, and he called on ordinary citizens to contact their political leaders to advocate for peace.
The pope also invited the faithful to join him in a prayer vigil for peace on April 11 in his general audience address. As flowers lined the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica during the Easter season, he used his main talk to reflect on holiness, emphasizing that it is a calling shared by all believers.
“Every baptized person is called to be holy; to live in God’s grace, to practice virtue and to become like Christ,” he said in his address to English speakers.
Continuing his series on the documents of the Second Vatican Council, he described charity as the foundation of holiness, “the fullness of love towards God and towards one’s neighbor,” and said its highest expression is martyrdom, calling it the “supreme witness of faith and charity.” He added that the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, sustain believers in this call.
He continued his analysis of the Dogmatic Constitution “Lumen Gentium,” specifically, the important role of consecrated life. “Indeed, signs of the Kingdom of God, already present in the mystery of the Church, are those evangelical counsels that shape every experience of consecrated life: poverty, chastity and obedience.
Poverty demonstrates “complete trust” in God — free of self-interest, obedience follows Christ’s “self-giving” offered to God, and chastity is the “gift of a heart that is whole and pure in love, at the service of God and Church.” The pope called these virtues a form of “radical discipleship.”
“These three virtues are not rules that shackle freedom, but liberating gifts of the Holy Spirit, through which some of the faithful are wholly consecrated to God,” he said.
Closing his main address, the pope said that Christ’s sacrifice makes holiness possible even in suffering.
“By contemplating this event, we know that there is no human experience that God does not redeem,” he said. “Even suffering, lived in union with the passion of the Lord, becomes a path of holiness.”
– VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Leo XIV welcomed the newly announced ceasefire in the Middle East as “a sign of genuine hope” after what he described as “hours of extreme tension,” while urging a return to negotiations and calling the faithful to prayer. “Only by returning to negotiations can the war be brought to an end,” he said in remarks in Italian following his April 8 general audience in St. Peter’s Square. His comments came just hours after a two-week ceasefire was reached between Iran and the United States, narrowly averting further escalation. The agreement followed a stark warning from
![Concordat with Vatican halted in Czech Republic over seal of confession - #Catholic - The Constitutional Court of the Czech Republic on April 1 found that parts of a treaty between the Czech Republic and the Holy See are inconsistent with the Czech constitution and therefore cannot be ratified.“We disagree with the decision of the majority of judges at the Constitutional Court but accept it,” the Czech Bishops' Conference wrote in a press release. The episcopate finds it “positive that the court did not reject the idea of the existence of a treaty with the Holy See but only limited itself to partial passages.”The agreement on certain legal issues was signed in 2024 by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and then-Prime Minister Petr Fiala. It was later approved by both chambers of the countryʼs Parliament and was submitted to the president of the country for ratification. However, a group of senators filed a complaint with the Constitutional Court, which on April 1 stated that two parts of the accord are problematic.The ruling says that the concordat would “give Catholic Church legal entities a powerful tool to prevent their documents (archive materials) from being made available.” Church archives are important sources of cultural wealth and history, but the accord would “exempt Catholic churches from the obligation to respect the Archives Act, which would, however, continue to apply to all other churches,” the court explained.The second objection deals with the seal of confession, which would be enacted without any exceptions and would be “a clear violation of the neutrality of the state and the principle of equal treatment of different churches.”
Czech bishop declares Year of Reconciliation 80 years after World War II expulsions
Each side of the treaty understood it differently, the ruling observed, adding that the seal of confession would be more protected than professional secrecy.Dissenting opinionsThree out of 15 judges of the Constitutional Court presented a different position, arguing the court did not deal with an important part of the legal file presented by senators, such as objections to “the alleged privilege of the Catholic Church in the provision of pastoral care in various types of institutions and facilities.”However, they admitted that “the Holy See is a subject of international law, which the Czech Republic has recognized,” and so it is “undoubtedly an objective reason for the different treatment of the Catholic Church in various issues.” They further argued that the two problematic passages in the majority decision are not in conflict with the constitution.Another two judges presented a different position each. One of them, Judge Tomáš Langášek, argued that “the dissenting opinions show that it was possible to adopt a rational interpretation of the concordat in good faith that would not in any way conflict with the constitutional order.”He said he considers the decision “a paradigmatic change in the role and function of the constitutional judiciary.” The Constitutional Court opposed the intention of the Parliament “to take on an international legal obligation to maintain” the already existing and “legally guaranteed standard of protection of fundamental religious rights and freedoms in [the] future,” Langášek opined.“The courtʼs concern for equal treatment among churches and religious communities is only a proxy problem,” the constitutional judge added.‘A legal defeat for people who consider religious freedom an important value’“It is a political victory for some, and a legal defeat for people, believers and nonbelievers, who consider religious freedom an important value,” commented Jakub Kříž, a lawyer who teaches at the Catholic Theological Faculty of Charles University in Prague.At the same time, he said he believes “the absence of a concordat is not a tragedy” either for religious freedom or “for Catholics who, after all, always benefit the most when the state does not get along with them.”The proposal “would have had no chance of success if” Czech President Petr Pavel “had not intervened and introduced new arguments,” for example suggesting that “the agreement contradicts the sovereignty of the state and its secular and republican character,” the scholar underscored.The negotiated agreement was “poor in content, innocent, almost devoid of substance,” and the Czech side did not try to “negotiate anything beyond what is already in force today,” Kříž said, adding that it had “more a symbolic” value.‘A big disappointment’The decision was a “big disappointment” and “a very unfortunate event,” lamented Father Jiří Rajmund Tretera, a Dominican and professor of canon law at the Faculty of Law of Charles University.On the seal of confession, there would be “no change to the current situation,” as all believers “were guaranteed that the current legal provisions” regarding “confessional secrecy could not be so easily eliminated” if a religion-averse group “came to power in our democratic state,” the priest said.Tretera also said he believes the Constitutional Court committed “an unintentional attack against the ecumenical movement.” It argued that the proposed agreement “was not in accordance with the principle of equality of all churches,” yet “this is in conflict with the reality commonly recognized in non-Catholic churches.”Kříž clarified that “non-Catholic churches did not” oppose the treaty, and “many even welcomed it, seeing its role as a stabilizer of guarantees of religious freedom.”The only way to proceed is “to start negotiations from the beginning,” as this is not “a bill where a sentence can be deleted,” the lawyer warned.Yet he said he is skeptical that the Holy See would risk another “embarrassment,” as “the Czech Republic showed to be a rather unreliable international partner.”](https://unitedyam.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/concordat-with-vatican-halted-in-czech-republic-over-seal-of-confession-catholic-the-constitutional-court-of-the-czech-republic-on-april-1-found-that-parts-of-a-treaty-between-the-czech-republic.jpg)
Experts say the ruling is a setback for religious freedom in one of Europe’s most secular countries, where a concordat had been decades in the making.
In 1959, having determined that military test pilots would make the best astronauts, NASA began screening the records of 508 candidates. From there the group was narrowed to 110 men who went through interviews and written tests; of the 110, 32 candidates were selected to undergo extensive physical and mental testing. Finally, on April 1,Continue reading “April 9, 1959: The Mercury 7 debut”
The post April 9, 1959: The Mercury 7 debut appeared first on Astronomy Magazine.
Read More![Christians must be messengers of peace this Easter, Comboni missionary says – #Catholic – Christians are called to live the Easter message of peace, especially during times of war and violence, said a Comboni missionary priest once kidnapped in Uganda.“On the very day of Jesus’ resurrection, on Easter day, Jesus appeared to the apostles [and] the message he delivered to them was, ‘Peace to you!’” Father Giulio Albanese, MCCJ, said in an exclusive interview with EWTN News reporter Valentina Di Donato.“Peace, from a Christian perspective, is not simply a wish, it’s a gift, and we must be aware that this is our vocation, to bring peace to the world. What is shameful is that nowadays we are doing exactly the opposite,” he said.Albanese, who was kidnapped in northern Uganda by armed rebels in 2002 and witnessed several atrocities of war firsthand, said today’s Christians cannot turn a blind eye to people’s sufferings.“We have to be aware that we are living in a society, at an international level, where there are many, many contradictions,” he said.“There are many innocent people who are slaughtered out of human selfishness. Look at what is taking place in Iran, in the Middle East, in Africa,” he continued.In order to address the obstacles to peace, Albanese said it is necessary for Christians to undergo a conversion and to take Jesus’ Easter message of peace to heart.“During Easter day and even in the following days we have to pray for peace because if there is a lack of peace in the world it’s because our Christianity has become meaningless,” he said.After witnessing the violent killings of a woman and her young children in Uganda, Albanese shared with Di Donato how his faith in the risen Jesus was put to the test.“I must be sincere, in that very moment, I started screaming against the Lord, I said, ‘Lord where are you? Why are you allowing innocent people [to be] killed like that in that way? Why do they have to suffer in such a way? Lord have you forgotten us? Have you forgotten these people?” he said.But it was through the help of an elderly priest that Albanese was able to sense the presence of God, when he was told: “You should ask yourself where is man, not where is God.”Describing his heartfelt conversion as a “story of resurrection,” the Comboni missionary said these days of Easter can help Christians renew their commitment to work toward peace.“We have to believe that our life is in the hands of God,” he said. “The Lord is faithful, and in the very moment you live an experience like this you understand also the significance of life.”During Holy Week, Pope Leo XIV made several pleas to world leaders to bring all conflict and violence to an end.Describing Jesus Christ as the “King of Peace” during the Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square, the Holy Father said God does not listen to those who “wage war.”“Just as the Church contemplates the mystery of the Lord’s passion, we cannot forget those who today are truly sharing in his suffering,” he said in his March 29 homily.On Easter Sunday, the pope renewed his prayerful petition for peace during his “urbi et orbi” blessing delivered from the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.“The peace that Jesus gives us is not merely the silence of weapons but the peace that touches and transforms the heart of each one of us!” he said. “Let us allow ourselves to be transformed by the peace of Christ! Let us make heard the cry for peace that springs from our hearts!”Pope Leo will preside over a prayer vigil for peace in St. Peter’s Basilica on April 11.](https://unitedyam.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/christians-must-be-messengers-of-peace-this-easter-comboni-missionary-says-catholic-christians-are-called-to-live-the-easter-message-of-peace-especially-during-times-of-war-and-violence-said-a.jpg "Christians must be messengers of peace this Easter, Comboni missionary says – #Catholic – Christians are called to live the Easter message of peace, especially during times of war and violence, said a Comboni missionary priest once kidnapped in Uganda.“On the very day of Jesus’ resurrection, on Easter day, Jesus appeared to the apostles [and] the message he delivered to them was, ‘Peace to you!’” Father Giulio Albanese, MCCJ, said in an exclusive interview with EWTN News reporter Valentina Di Donato.“Peace, from a Christian perspective, is not simply a wish, it’s a gift, and we must be aware that this is our vocation, to bring peace to the world. What is shameful is that nowadays we are doing exactly the opposite,” he said.Albanese, who was kidnapped in northern Uganda by armed rebels in 2002 and witnessed several atrocities of war firsthand, said today’s Christians cannot turn a blind eye to people’s sufferings.“We have to be aware that we are living in a society, at an international level, where there are many, many contradictions,” he said.“There are many innocent people who are slaughtered out of human selfishness. Look at what is taking place in Iran, in the Middle East, in Africa,” he continued.In order to address the obstacles to peace, Albanese said it is necessary for Christians to undergo a conversion and to take Jesus’ Easter message of peace to heart.“During Easter day and even in the following days we have to pray for peace because if there is a lack of peace in the world it’s because our Christianity has become meaningless,” he said.After witnessing the violent killings of a woman and her young children in Uganda, Albanese shared with Di Donato how his faith in the risen Jesus was put to the test.“I must be sincere, in that very moment, I started screaming against the Lord, I said, ‘Lord where are you? Why are you allowing innocent people [to be] killed like that in that way? Why do they have to suffer in such a way? Lord have you forgotten us? Have you forgotten these people?” he said.But it was through the help of an elderly priest that Albanese was able to sense the presence of God, when he was told: “You should ask yourself where is man, not where is God.”Describing his heartfelt conversion as a “story of resurrection,” the Comboni missionary said these days of Easter can help Christians renew their commitment to work toward peace.“We have to believe that our life is in the hands of God,” he said. “The Lord is faithful, and in the very moment you live an experience like this you understand also the significance of life.”During Holy Week, Pope Leo XIV made several pleas to world leaders to bring all conflict and violence to an end.Describing Jesus Christ as the “King of Peace” during the Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square, the Holy Father said God does not listen to those who “wage war.”“Just as the Church contemplates the mystery of the Lord’s passion, we cannot forget those who today are truly sharing in his suffering,” he said in his March 29 homily.On Easter Sunday, the pope renewed his prayerful petition for peace during his “urbi et orbi” blessing delivered from the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.“The peace that Jesus gives us is not merely the silence of weapons but the peace that touches and transforms the heart of each one of us!” he said. “Let us allow ourselves to be transformed by the peace of Christ! Let us make heard the cry for peace that springs from our hearts!”Pope Leo will preside over a prayer vigil for peace in St. Peter’s Basilica on April 11.")
Father Giulio Albanese, MCCJ, who has witnessed several atrocities of war firsthand, said today’s Christians cannot turn a blind eye to people’s sufferings.
MIDDLE EAST — The nations of the Middle East celebrated the announcement of a ceasefire with an massive fireworks display that lit up the entire region.
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The U.S.-Iran War has captured hearts and headlines all over the world. Now, with a two-week ceasefire agreement in place, here’s how popular media outlets are reporting it:
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| Picture of the day |
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Viking Sky (ship, 2017) – moored in the harbour of Sète (Hérault, France)
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This is a Gateway Hispanic article.
The post Nearly six in ten Americans support limiting birthright citizenship to children of U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
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Roman Catholic dioceses across America saw a 38 percent increase in people attending church at Easter this year, compared to last, a sign that revival is breaking out.
The post Revival? Massive Number of Churches See Explosive 38 Percent Surge in Conversions at Easter Services appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
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A federal judge on Wednesday said President Trump cannot end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of Ethiopians.
The post Biden Judge Says President Trump Cannot End Protected Status for Thousands of Ethiopians appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
Read MoreA reading from the Book of the Acts of the Apostles
Acts 3:11-26
As the crippled man who had been cured clung to Peter and John,
all the people hurried in amazement toward them
in the portico called “Solomon’s Portico.”
When Peter saw this, he addressed the people,
“You children of Israel, why are you amazed at this,
and why do you look so intently at us
as if we had made him walk by our own power or piety?
The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob,
the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus
whom you handed over and denied in Pilate’s presence,
when he had decided to release him.
You denied the Holy and Righteous One
and asked that a murderer be released to you.
The author of life you put to death,
but God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses.
And by faith in his name,
this man, whom you see and know, his name has made strong,
and the faith that comes through it
has given him this perfect health,
in the presence of all of you.
Now I know, brothers and sisters,
that you acted out of ignorance, just as your leaders did;
but God has thus brought to fulfillment
what he had announced beforehand
through the mouth of all the prophets,
that his Christ would suffer.
Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away,
and that the Lord may grant you times of refreshment
and send you the Christ already appointed for you, Jesus,
whom heaven must receive until the times of universal restoration
of which God spoke through the mouth
of his holy prophets from of old.
For Moses said:
A prophet like me will the Lord, your God, raise up for you
from among your own kin;
to him you shall listen in all that he may say to you.
Everyone who does not listen to that prophet
will be cut off from the people.
“Moreover, all the prophets who spoke,
from Samuel and those afterwards, also announced these days.
You are the children of the prophets
and of the covenant that God made with your ancestors
when he said to Abraham,
In your offspring all the families of the earth shall be blessed.
For you first, God raised up his servant and sent him to bless you
by turning each of you from your evil ways.”
From the Gospel according to Luke
Luke 24:35-48
The disciples of Jesus recounted what had taken place along the way,
and how they had come to recognize him in the breaking of bread.
While they were still speaking about this,
he stood in their midst and said to them,
"Peace be with you."
But they were startled and terrified
and thought that they were seeing a ghost.
Then he said to them, "Why are you troubled?
And why do questions arise in your hearts?
Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself.
Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones
as you can see I have."
And as he said this,
he showed them his hands and his feet.
While they were still incredulous for joy and were amazed,
he asked them, "Have you anything here to eat?"
They gave him a piece of baked fish;
he took it and ate it in front of them.
He said to them,
"These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you,
that everything written about me in the law of Moses
and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled."
Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.
And he said to them,
"Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer
and rise from the dead on the third day
and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins,
would be preached in his name
to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.
You are witnesses of these things."
The Risen One (…) appears to his friends – the disciples – and he does so with extreme discretion, without forcing the pace of their capacity for acceptance. His only desire is to return to communion with them, helping them to overcome the sense of guilt. We see this very well in the Upper Room, where the Lord appears to his friends who are enclosed in fear. It is a moment that expresses extraordinary power: Jesus, after descending into the abysses of death to liberate those who were imprisoned there, enters the closed room of those who are paralyzed by fear, bringing them a gift that no-one would have dared to hope for: peace. His greeting is simple, almost ordinary: “Peace be with you!” (…). But it is accompanied by a gesture so beautiful that it is almost disconcerting: Jesus shows the disciples his hands and his side, with the marks of the passion. Why show his wounds to those who, in those dramatic hours, had denied and abandoned him? Why not hide those signs of pain and avoid reopening the wound of shame? (…) The reason is profound: Jesus is now fully reconciled with everything he has suffered. There is not a shadow of resentment. The wounds serve not to reproach, but to confirm a love stronger than any infidelity. They are the proof that, even in the moment of our failure, God did not retreat. He did not give up on us. (Pope Leo XIV – General Audience, 1st October 2025)
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Bishop Samson Shukardin said government committees are often delayed so people forget, as protests continue over the marriage of 13-year-old Maria Shahbaz.
![Pope will address tensions between Christianity and Islam in Africa, Nigerian bishop says – #Catholic – When Pope Leo XIV visits Africa for the first time as pontiff next week, Catholics and others across the continent will be watching with interest for what it reveals about the pope’s agenda and priorities for their region. One of those watching will be Bishop John Niyiring of Kano, Nigeria, a fellow Augustinian and longtime friend of the pope.The pope is scheduled to visit Algeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon on his first apostolic journey to the continent April 13–23.Growing conflict between African Muslims and ChristiansNiyiring is concerned about the state of Christian-Muslim relations in Africa, particularly in Muslim-majority countries such as Algeria.Niyiring described the situation as one of fear between the two religions. His comments on the situation echo those of several African prelates who have recently voiced concern over the plight of Christians on the continent, highlighting the struggle Christians often face to practice their faith in predominantly Muslim African countries.“There is always that fear between Christianity and Islam,” Niyiring told EWTN News. “Islam is becoming a religion that is quite strong in Africa, and we Christians will have to engage with Muslim leaders. … But it is dialogue that takes that fear out. Without dialogue, people will always be suspicious and afraid of one another. I am sure that the Holy Father will say something about that.”Niyiring said he hopes the pope’s trip also raises awareness of other issues often ignored in the West, including poverty, political corruption, and the plight of young girls in Africa.“In many countries, perhaps in the West, nobody discusses the issues facing young girls on the streets. We see many of them on our streets [as victims of sex trafficking], and there are situations where they don’t get the attention they need, especially in education,” he said.Regarding politicians, the bishop said: “In Africa today, there are people who want to be in government, but they’re hardly interested in the well-being of their people. We would like to hear Leo say more about [political corruption], encouraging our leaders to be leaders who love their people and are there to serve them.”Serving with the then-Father Robert PrevostThe future pope, then-Father Robert Prevost, served as prior general of the Augustinians from 2001 to 2013. During this period, Prevost played a key role in helping establish a new province for the Augustinians in Nigeria, an experience that greatly enhanced the future pope’s knowledge of the country and the African continent.“His trip to Nigeria in 2001 — one of several he made there — was the first canonical visit he made outside Rome as prior general. I worked closely with him after I became the provincial superior of the Augustinians in Nigeria in 2005, until I became a bishop in 2008. His presence there was crucial. There were also projects underway in Nigeria and across Africa, and he helped a lot in raising funds to build them. I brought many problems to his attention as the provincial of a young order. And he was always attentive and always emphasized the importance of finding new approaches to issues,” Niyiring said.Niyiring also praised the pope’s leadership style while serving the Augustinians, noting his attentiveness and calm.“He has a pleasant personality. He was always attentive and always emphasized the importance of finding new approaches to issues. He encouraged us to be open to the promptings of the spirit and willing to change in situations that needed it.”](https://unitedyam.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/pope-will-address-tensions-between-christianity-and-islam-in-africa-nigerian-bishop-says-catholic-when-pope-leo-xiv-visits-africa-for-the-first-time-as-pontiff-next-week-catholics-and-others-ac.jpg "Pope will address tensions between Christianity and Islam in Africa, Nigerian bishop says – #Catholic – When Pope Leo XIV visits Africa for the first time as pontiff next week, Catholics and others across the continent will be watching with interest for what it reveals about the pope’s agenda and priorities for their region. One of those watching will be Bishop John Niyiring of Kano, Nigeria, a fellow Augustinian and longtime friend of the pope.The pope is scheduled to visit Algeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon on his first apostolic journey to the continent April 13–23.Growing conflict between African Muslims and ChristiansNiyiring is concerned about the state of Christian-Muslim relations in Africa, particularly in Muslim-majority countries such as Algeria.Niyiring described the situation as one of fear between the two religions. His comments on the situation echo those of several African prelates who have recently voiced concern over the plight of Christians on the continent, highlighting the struggle Christians often face to practice their faith in predominantly Muslim African countries.“There is always that fear between Christianity and Islam,” Niyiring told EWTN News. “Islam is becoming a religion that is quite strong in Africa, and we Christians will have to engage with Muslim leaders. … But it is dialogue that takes that fear out. Without dialogue, people will always be suspicious and afraid of one another. I am sure that the Holy Father will say something about that.”Niyiring said he hopes the pope’s trip also raises awareness of other issues often ignored in the West, including poverty, political corruption, and the plight of young girls in Africa.“In many countries, perhaps in the West, nobody discusses the issues facing young girls on the streets. We see many of them on our streets [as victims of sex trafficking], and there are situations where they don’t get the attention they need, especially in education,” he said.Regarding politicians, the bishop said: “In Africa today, there are people who want to be in government, but they’re hardly interested in the well-being of their people. We would like to hear Leo say more about [political corruption], encouraging our leaders to be leaders who love their people and are there to serve them.”Serving with the then-Father Robert PrevostThe future pope, then-Father Robert Prevost, served as prior general of the Augustinians from 2001 to 2013. During this period, Prevost played a key role in helping establish a new province for the Augustinians in Nigeria, an experience that greatly enhanced the future pope’s knowledge of the country and the African continent.“His trip to Nigeria in 2001 — one of several he made there — was the first canonical visit he made outside Rome as prior general. I worked closely with him after I became the provincial superior of the Augustinians in Nigeria in 2005, until I became a bishop in 2008. His presence there was crucial. There were also projects underway in Nigeria and across Africa, and he helped a lot in raising funds to build them. I brought many problems to his attention as the provincial of a young order. And he was always attentive and always emphasized the importance of finding new approaches to issues,” Niyiring said.Niyiring also praised the pope’s leadership style while serving the Augustinians, noting his attentiveness and calm.“He has a pleasant personality. He was always attentive and always emphasized the importance of finding new approaches to issues. He encouraged us to be open to the promptings of the spirit and willing to change in situations that needed it.”")
An Augustinian confrere of Pope Leo XIV discussed the pontiff’s upcoming trip to four African countries.
The New York State Department of Health warned the sisters about “refusing to assign a room to a resident other than in accordance with the resident’s gender identity.”
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Earthset captured through the Orion spacecraft window at 6:41 p.m. EDT, April 6, 2026, during the Artemis II crew’s flyby of the Moon.
Read MoreThe phenomenon of a Full Moon arises when our planet, Earth, is precisely sandwiched between the Sun and the Moon. This alignment ensures the entire side of the Moon that faces us gleams under sunlight. Thanks to the Moon’s orbit around Earth, the angle of sunlight hitting the lunar surface and being reflected back toContinue reading “2026 Full Moon calendar: When to see the Full Moon and phases”
The post 2026 Full Moon calendar: When to see the Full Moon and phases appeared first on Astronomy Magazine.
Read More![Teen killed, 60 hurt after truck rams Easter procession in Pakistan – #Catholic – LAHORE, Pakistan — Police in Pakistan are continuing their search for a driver who fled after a truck rammed into an Easter procession, killing a teenage boy and injuring more than 60 people, as concerns grow over accountability and safety lapses four days after the incident.The crash occurred in the early hours of April 5 in Mariamabad in Punjab’s Wazirabad district, where around 200 Catholics had gathered for a predawn Easter service. Irfan Bashir, a 17-year-old laborer, died of a head injury on April 6.Officials said the suspect, identified as Muhammad Bilal, remains at large. The vehicle involved in the incident and the driver’s assistant are in police custody, and a case has been registered.“We are conducting daily raids to arrest the driver,” said Muhammad Ahmad, the assistant sub-inspector who filed the case, attributing the incident to overspeeding.He added that the vehicle was empty and heading to a poultry farm and claimed the procession was held without prior police notification.At least 14 injured remain hospitalized in two hospitals in nearby Gujranwala, some in serious condition. Doctors said most victims suffered fractures and trauma caused by the impact and the ensuing panic.The Punjab government set up a medical camp at the local Catholic church on April 6 to assist victims in Mariamabad, a village of about 100 families comprising both Christians and Muslims.Disputed claimsChurch representatives and community members have disputed police claims that authorities were not informed in advance. Organizers insist prior notice had been given, raising concerns over coordination failures.Father Shahrukh Nathaniel, who led the sunrise service, said road processions have now been suspended following the tragedy.“We have asked the government to install speed breakers [in some countries called speed bumps] and barriers outside the church, which is located on a main road,” he told EWTN News. “The faithful usually gather outside after Mass, which increases the risk.”He said authorities have promised financial compensation for the victims and praised the establishment of a medical camp amid shortages in government hospitals, while urging the swift arrest of the driver.‘It was the worst Easter’Among the injured is the father of Mark Mathew, a ninth-grade student who was setting off fireworks at the front of the procession when the truck struck. His father, a furniture maker, suffered a fractured leg and is bedridden, while his mother sustained injuries to her knee and eye.“I feel lucky to be alive,” Mark said. “It was the worst Easter, visiting injured relatives and friends in hospitals.”Rights advocates say the case highlights broader concerns over the safety of minority religious gatherings in Pakistan.Capuchin friar condemns ‘Christianophobia’In an April 8 statement, Capuchin Father Lazar Aslam, convener of the Justice, Peace, and Ecology Commission, “vehemently condemned this irresponsible and heinous act,” describing it as a “clear Christianophobia-driven hate crime.”“This was not a mere traffic accident; it was a targeted assault on innocent worshippers at the most sacred moment of their liturgical calendar,” he said. “The driver’s failure to stop or render aid, and his decision to flee the scene, further underscores the malicious nature of this crime.”He added that “the persistent silence and minimization of such incidents are as painful as the violence itself,” warning that genuine interfaith dialogue cannot exist without truth and safety.“Until the lives of Christians are treated with equal dignity and those responsible are held accountable, empty words of peace will remain insufficient to heal the wounds of the community,” he said.Aslam called for immediate justice for the victims and urged authorities to ensure comprehensive medical treatment for impoverished families most severely affected by the tragedy.In September 2025, a Catholic pilgrim was killed and a teenager injured when gunmen attacked a van carrying devotees to the country’s largest Marian shrine in Mariamabad. The group was traveling through the Sheikhupura district to attend the annual Sept. 8 feast of the Nativity of Mary, which draws thousands each year.](https://unitedyam.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/teen-killed-60-hurt-after-truck-rams-easter-procession-in-pakistan-catholic-lahore-pakistan-police-in-pakistan-are-continuing-their-search-for-a-driver-who-fled-after-a-truck-rammed-i.jpg "Teen killed, 60 hurt after truck rams Easter procession in Pakistan – #Catholic – LAHORE, Pakistan — Police in Pakistan are continuing their search for a driver who fled after a truck rammed into an Easter procession, killing a teenage boy and injuring more than 60 people, as concerns grow over accountability and safety lapses four days after the incident.The crash occurred in the early hours of April 5 in Mariamabad in Punjab’s Wazirabad district, where around 200 Catholics had gathered for a predawn Easter service. Irfan Bashir, a 17-year-old laborer, died of a head injury on April 6.Officials said the suspect, identified as Muhammad Bilal, remains at large. The vehicle involved in the incident and the driver’s assistant are in police custody, and a case has been registered.“We are conducting daily raids to arrest the driver,” said Muhammad Ahmad, the assistant sub-inspector who filed the case, attributing the incident to overspeeding.He added that the vehicle was empty and heading to a poultry farm and claimed the procession was held without prior police notification.At least 14 injured remain hospitalized in two hospitals in nearby Gujranwala, some in serious condition. Doctors said most victims suffered fractures and trauma caused by the impact and the ensuing panic.The Punjab government set up a medical camp at the local Catholic church on April 6 to assist victims in Mariamabad, a village of about 100 families comprising both Christians and Muslims.Disputed claimsChurch representatives and community members have disputed police claims that authorities were not informed in advance. Organizers insist prior notice had been given, raising concerns over coordination failures.Father Shahrukh Nathaniel, who led the sunrise service, said road processions have now been suspended following the tragedy.“We have asked the government to install speed breakers [in some countries called speed bumps] and barriers outside the church, which is located on a main road,” he told EWTN News. “The faithful usually gather outside after Mass, which increases the risk.”He said authorities have promised financial compensation for the victims and praised the establishment of a medical camp amid shortages in government hospitals, while urging the swift arrest of the driver.‘It was the worst Easter’Among the injured is the father of Mark Mathew, a ninth-grade student who was setting off fireworks at the front of the procession when the truck struck. His father, a furniture maker, suffered a fractured leg and is bedridden, while his mother sustained injuries to her knee and eye.“I feel lucky to be alive,” Mark said. “It was the worst Easter, visiting injured relatives and friends in hospitals.”Rights advocates say the case highlights broader concerns over the safety of minority religious gatherings in Pakistan.Capuchin friar condemns ‘Christianophobia’In an April 8 statement, Capuchin Father Lazar Aslam, convener of the Justice, Peace, and Ecology Commission, “vehemently condemned this irresponsible and heinous act,” describing it as a “clear Christianophobia-driven hate crime.”“This was not a mere traffic accident; it was a targeted assault on innocent worshippers at the most sacred moment of their liturgical calendar,” he said. “The driver’s failure to stop or render aid, and his decision to flee the scene, further underscores the malicious nature of this crime.”He added that “the persistent silence and minimization of such incidents are as painful as the violence itself,” warning that genuine interfaith dialogue cannot exist without truth and safety.“Until the lives of Christians are treated with equal dignity and those responsible are held accountable, empty words of peace will remain insufficient to heal the wounds of the community,” he said.Aslam called for immediate justice for the victims and urged authorities to ensure comprehensive medical treatment for impoverished families most severely affected by the tragedy.In September 2025, a Catholic pilgrim was killed and a teenager injured when gunmen attacked a van carrying devotees to the country’s largest Marian shrine in Mariamabad. The group was traveling through the Sheikhupura district to attend the annual Sept. 8 feast of the Nativity of Mary, which draws thousands each year.")
Police are searching for a truck driver who fled after plowing into a predawn Easter procession in Punjab, killing a 17-year-old and injuring more than 60.
VAN NUYS, CA — Newly engaged couple Barrett Brown and Melissa McClaren excitedly created a wedding registry at a local Chevron station, sources close to the happy couple said.
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TEHRAN — A cackling President Donald Trump completely psyched out the Iranian regime by threatening nuclear war and then dropping bombs that only shoot out little flags that say "POW!".
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Sand dunes of the Thar Desert in the Indian state of Rajasthan. On this day in 1949, the state was formed after a merger of several Rajput princely states into the Indian Union following India’s independence from British colonial rule.
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Piloto de la misión Artemis II predica el mandamiento al amor de Cristo durante sobrevuelo lunar #Catholic – 
(OSV News) — Mientras los astronautas de la primera misión tripulada de la NASA en sobrevolar la Luna en medio siglo han despertado asombro, reflexión y oración al alcanzar su punto de máxima aproximación a la Luna, el piloto del equipo recordó a la Tierra el mandamiento de Jesucristo de amar tanto a Dios como al prójimo.
“A medida que nos acercamos al punto más cercano a la Luna y más lejano de la Tierra, y mientras continuamos desvelando los misterios del cosmos, me gustaría recordarles uno de los misterios más importantes que existen allí en la Tierra: el amor”, dijo el astronauta Victor Glover, piloto de la misión Artemis II, dirigiéndose al control de tierra el 6 de abril desde a bordo de la nave espacial Orion de la NASA, bautizada “Integrity” (Integridad).
“Cristo dijo, en respuesta a cuál era el mandamiento más importante, que era amar a Dios con todo tu ser”, dijo Glover. “Y él también, como gran maestro, dijo que el segundo es igual a ese. Y ese es amar a tu prójimo como a ti mismo”.
Glover, un cristiano que ha hablado públicamente sobre su fe –citando el Salmo 30 durante su anterior misión a la Estación Espacial Internacional–, compartió ese mensaje minutos antes de que la cápsula Integrity se enfrentara a una interrupción prevista de 40 minutos en la comunicación con el control de tierra, al pasar la nave espacial por detrás de la Luna, lo que bloqueó las señales de radio y láser.
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La nave despegó el 1 de abril desde el Centro Espacial Kennedy, en Florida, para un viaje de 10 días que llevó a la tripulación a dar la vuelta a la Luna, recorriendo 695.081 millas desde el despegue hasta el amerizaje en el océano Pacífico frente a la costa de San Diego.
La misión Artemis II recorrió una distancia máxima de 252.760 millas desde la Tierra, es decir, más de 4.100 millas más allá de la misión Apolo 13 de 1970.
Acompañan a Glover en el espacio el comandante Reid Wiseman y dos especialistas de misión: Christina Koch y el astronauta canadiense Jeremy Hansen, quien se convierte en el primer ciudadano de esa nación en emprender una misión lunar.
Las prioridades de la misión Artemis II se centran en preparar la exploración del espacio profundo por parte de seres humanos y sentar las bases para lo que la NASA denomina “una presencia sostenida en la Luna”.
Dado que el vuelo tiene lugar en medio de conflictos y tensiones geopolíticas generalizados –desde Ucrania hasta una guerra en expansión en Oriente Medio–, las palabras de Glover hicieron eco ha comentarios sobre cómo esta misión lunar también está reafirmando la dignidad humana, así como la necesidad tanto de unidad como de gratitud en medio de conflictos arraigados.
Glover, desde la nave especial, le dijo a CBS el 5 de abril, “al adentrarnos en el Domingo de Pascua, pensando en todas las culturas de todo el mundo –independientemente de si lo celebran o no, de si creen en Dios o no– esta es una oportunidad para que recordemos dónde estamos, quiénes somos, que somos lo mismo y que debemos superar esto juntos”.
“Cuando leo la Biblia y contemplo todas las cosas asombrosas que se hicieron por nosotros quienes fuimos creados, veo este lugar increíble, esta nave espacial”, dijo. “Ustedes se están comunicando con nosotros porque nos encontramos en una nave espacial muy lejos de la Tierra; pero ustedes están en una nave espacial llamada Tierra, la cual fue creada para brindarnos un lugar donde habitar en el universo”.
Y añadió: “Tal vez la distancia que nos separa de ustedes les haga pensar que lo que hacemos es algo especial; pero, en realidad, nosotros estamos a la misma distancia de ustedes. Y lo que intento decirles –simplemente confíen en mí– es que ustedes son especiales”.
Glover –el primer astronauta de raza negra en orbitar la Luna– señaló a “todo este vacío”, “toda esta inmensidad de la nada” al que “llamamos universo”, y describió la Tierra como “este oasis, este lugar hermoso” donde “tenemos el privilegio de coexistir”.
En declaraciones a BBC News antes de la misión lunar, Glover comentó: “Cuando estemos detrás de la Luna, sin contacto con nadie, tomémoslo como una oportunidad. Recen, tengan esperanza, envíen sus buenos pensamientos y sentimientos para que logremos restablecer el contacto con la tripulación”.
Instantes antes del 6 de abril, fecha en que se produjo la pérdida de señal –que finalizó según lo previsto, con la tripulación emergiendo a salvo en su trayectoria de regreso a casa–, Glover dijo: “Mientras nos preparamos para perder la comunicación por radio, aún podemos sentir su cariño desde la Tierra. Y a todos ustedes, allá abajo en la Tierra y alrededor de ella, los queremos desde la Luna”.
“Houston, recibido”, respondió control terrestre. “Nos vemos al otro lado”.
Gina Christian es reportera multimedia de OSV News. Sígala en X: @GinaJesseReina
– (OSV News) — Mientras los astronautas de la primera misión tripulada de la NASA en sobrevolar la Luna en medio siglo han despertado asombro, reflexión y oración al alcanzar su punto de máxima aproximación a la Luna, el piloto del equipo recordó a la Tierra el mandamiento de Jesucristo de amar tanto a Dios como al prójimo. “A medida que nos acercamos al punto más cercano a la Luna y más lejano de la Tierra, y mientras continuamos desvelando los misterios del cosmos, me gustaría recordarles uno de los misterios más importantes que existen allí en la Tierra: el amor”,
Sermon on the Integrity: Artemis II mission pilot preaches Christ’s command to love on lunar flyby #Catholic – 
(OSV News) — As the astronauts of NASA’s first crewed lunar flyby in half a century reached their closest approach to the moon, the team’s pilot reminded the Earth of Jesus Christ’s command to love both God and neighbor.
“As we get close to the nearest point to the moon and farthest point from Earth, as we continue to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos, I would like to remind you of one of the most important mysteries there on Earth, and that’s love,” said astronaut Victor Glover, pilot of the Artemis II mission, speaking to ground control April 6 from aboard NASA’s Orion spacecraft Integrity.
“Christ said, in response to what was the greatest command, that it was to love God with all you are,” said Glover. “And he also, being a great teacher, said the second is equal to it. And that is to love your neighbor as yourself.”
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Glover — a Christian who has spoken publicly about his faith, citing Psalm 30 during his previous mission to the International Space Station — shared that message minutes before the Integrity faced an anticipated 40-minute communication lapse with ground control, as the spacecraft passed behind the moon, with radio and laser signals consequently blocked.
The craft launched April 1 from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida for a 10-day journey that took the crew around the moon, spanning 695,081 miles from launch to splashdown off the coast of San Diego.
Artemis II traveled a record-breaking maximum distance of 252,760 miles from the Earth, or more than 4,100 miles further than the 1970 Apollo 13 mission.
Joining Glover in space are commander Reid Wiseman and two mission specialists — Christina Koch and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who is the first from that nation to undertake a lunar mission.
Artemis II’s priorities focus on preparing for deep space exploration by humans and laying the groundwork for what NASA calls “a sustained presence on the Moon.”
With the flight taking place amid widespread geopolitical conflicts and tensions — from Ukraine to a widening war in the Middle East — Glover’s most recent words echoed earlier comments on how the lunar mission is also reaffirming human dignity, as well as the need for both unity and gratitude amid entrenched strife.
Glover, speaking from the spacecraft earlier on April 5 to CBS News, said that “as we go into Easter Sunday, thinking about all the cultures all around the world, whether you celebrate it or not, whether you believe in God or not, this is an opportunity for us to remember where we are, who we are, and that we are the same thing, and that we’ve got to get through this together.”
“When I read the Bible and I look at all of the amazing things that were done for us who were created — you have this amazing place, this spaceship,” he said. “You guys are talking to us because we’re in a spaceship really far from Earth, but you’re on a spaceship called Earth that was created to give us a place to live in the universe.”
He added, “Maybe the distance we are from you makes you think what we’re doing is special, but we’re the same distance from you. And I’m trying to tell you — just trust me — you are special.”
Glover — the first Black astronaut to travel around the moon — pointed to “all of this emptiness” and “whole bunch of nothing” that “we call the universe,” describing Earth as “this oasis, this beautiful place” where “we get to exist together.”
Speaking to BBC News ahead of the mission, Glover said, “When we’re behind the moon, out of contact with everybody, let’s take that as an opportunity. Let’s pray, hope, send your good thoughts and feelings that we get back in contact with the crew.”
Moments before the April 6 period of loss of signal — which ended as scheduled, with the crew safely emerging on a homeward bound trajectory — Glover said, “As we prepare to go out of radio communication, we’re still able to feel your true love from Earth. And to all of you down there on Earth and around Earth, we love you from the moon.”
“Houston copies,” replied ground control. “We’ll see you on the other side.”
Gina Christian is a multimedia reporter for OSV News. Follow her on X @GinaJesseReina.
– (OSV News) — As the astronauts of NASA’s first crewed lunar flyby in half a century reached their closest approach to the moon, the team’s pilot reminded the Earth of Jesus Christ’s command to love both God and neighbor. “As we get close to the nearest point to the moon and farthest point from Earth, as we continue to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos, I would like to remind you of one of the most important mysteries there on Earth, and that’s love,” said astronaut Victor Glover, pilot of the Artemis II mission, speaking to ground control April 6
A reading from the Book of the Acts of the Apostles
3:1-10
Peter and John were going up to the temple area
for the three o’clock hour of prayer.
And a man crippled from birth was carried
and placed at the gate of the temple called “the Beautiful Gate” every day
to beg for alms from the people who entered the temple.
When he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple,
he asked for alms.
But Peter looked intently at him, as did John,
and said, “Look at us.”
He paid attention to them, expecting to receive something from them.
Peter said, “I have neither silver nor gold,
but what I do have I give you:
in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk.”
Then Peter took him by the right hand and raised him up,
and immediately his feet and ankles grew strong.
He leaped up, stood, and walked around,
and went into the temple with them,
walking and jumping and praising God.
When all the people saw him walking and praising God,
they recognized him as the one
who used to sit begging at the Beautiful Gate of the temple,
and they were filled with amazement and astonishment
at what had happened to him.
From the Gospel according to Luke
24:13-35
That very day, the first day of the week,
two of Jesus’ disciples were going
to a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus,
and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred.
And it happened that while they were conversing and debating,
Jesus himself drew near and walked with them,
but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him.
He asked them,
“What are you discussing as you walk along?”
They stopped, looking downcast.
One of them, named Cleopas, said to him in reply,
“Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem
who does not know of the things
that have taken place there in these days?”
And he replied to them, “What sort of things?”
They said to him,
“The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene,
who was a prophet mighty in deed and word
before God and all the people,
how our chief priests and rulers both handed him over
to a sentence of death and crucified him.
But we were hoping that he would be the one to redeem Israel;
and besides all this,
it is now the third day since this took place.
Some women from our group, however, have astounded us:
they were at the tomb early in the morning
and did not find his Body;
they came back and reported
that they had indeed seen a vision of angels
who announced that he was alive.
Then some of those with us went to the tomb
and found things just as the women had described,
but him they did not see.”
And he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are!
How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke!
Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things
and enter into his glory?”
Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets,
he interpreted to them what referred to him
in all the Scriptures.
As they approached the village to which they were going,
he gave the impression that he was going on farther.
But they urged him, “Stay with us,
for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over.”
So he went in to stay with them.
And it happened that, while he was with them at table,
he took bread, said the blessing,
broke it, and gave it to them.
With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him,
but he vanished from their sight.
Then they said to each other,
“Were not our hearts burning within us
while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?”
So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalem
where they found gathered together
the Eleven and those with them who were saying,
“The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!”
Then the two recounted what had taken place on the way
and how he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.
The disciples of Emmaus walk sadly because they hoped for a different ending, for a Messiah who did not know the cross. Although they have heard that the tomb is empty, they cannot smile. But Jesus walks alongside them and patiently helps them understand that pain is not the denial of the promise, but the way through which God has manifested the measure of his love (cf. Lk 24:13-27). When they are finally seated at the table with him and break bread, their eyes are opened. They realize that their hearts were already burning, even though they did not know it (cf. Lk 24:28-32). This is the greatest surprise: to discover that beneath the ashes of disenchantment and weariness there is always a living ember, waiting only to be rekindled. Brothers and sisters, Christ’s resurrection teaches us that no history is so marked by disappointment or sin that it cannot be visited by hope. No fall is definitive, no night is eternal, no wound is destined to remain open forever. However distant, lost or unworthy we may feel, there is no distance that can extinguish the unfailing power of God’s love. (Pope Leo XIV – General Audience, 8 October 2025)
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Prime Minister of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, has urgently appealed to President Donald Trump to delay his looming military deadline on Iran by two weeks.
The post PANIC MODE: Pakistan Prime Minister BEGS Trump for 2-Week Delay to ‘End of Civilization’ Strikes on Radical Iran Regime appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
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Redemption lies within everyone’s grasp, for God can awaken even the coldest and most hardened hearts to His love.
The post Infamous Hollywood Personality Undergoes Radical Transformation After Meeting God During Near-Death Experience appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
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UK says ‘nay’ to Ye.
The post Kanye West BANNED from the UK for ‘Past Antisemitic Comments and Celebration Of Nazism’, Leading to Wireless Festival Being Cancelled appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
Read More![New record in France: More than 20,000 adults and teens baptized at Easter #Catholic This Easter, France recorded more than 20,000 adult and adolescent baptisms, a 20% increase compared with the previous year. A new report published by the French Bishops’ Conference presents the latest statistical data from Easter 2026, during which approximately 8,200 adolescents and 13,200 adults embraced the Catholic faith.The report indicates that the majority of converts are young adults between the ages of 18 and 25, closely followed by the 26-to-40 age group. Women constitute the largest segment, accounting for approximately 62% of the total.In general, the new catechumens have no prior religious tradition, driven primarily by difficult life experiences, a profound search for meaning, or spiritual encounters that left a lasting mark on their lives, according to the report.The ecclesiastical provinces with the highest number of baptisms were Paris, with 3,184, followed by Marseille with 1,437 and Lyon with 1,200. The report highlights a notable increase in the military diocese, headquartered in the French capital, particularly during the military pilgrimage to Lourdes.The ‘magnitude of the thirst for God’Olivier de Germay, archbishop of Lyon and the official responsible for the catechumenate in the country, reflected on this new reality, one that “never ceases to surprise and challenge us.”Although society has long been aware of the world’s failure to provide answers to “the deep aspirations of the human being,” the French prelate expressed his surprise at the “rapidity and magnitude of the thirst for God manifesting itself today.”This phenomenon opens up a new horizon and presents a “major challenge” for the Church, he said, which must offer appropriate guidance for initiation into the Christian life.For De Germay, the situation also calls upon the “seasoned veterans of the Christian life,” who are invited “to once again become aware of how God can break into [a person’s life] and transform it.”Among some new initiatives to address the increasing numbers, the regional council launched by the eight dioceses of the Île-de-France region stands out. Titled “Catechumens and Neophytes: New Perspectives for the Life of Our Church in Our Dioceses,” the council will run until May 2027. After gathering feedback from Catholics, including the newly baptized, the council aims to develop an appropriate response to the growing number of converts and to establish common guidelines at the provincial level.The provincial council is encouraging the other dioceses outside the Île-de-France region to launch other initiatives focused on specific proposals to increase the participation of the newly baptized in the liturgy.This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.](https://unitedyam.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/new-record-in-france-more-than-20000-adults-and-teens-baptized-at-easter-catholic-this-easter-france-recorded-more-than-20000-adult-and-adolescent-baptisms-a-20-increase-compared-with-the-previo.webp "New record in France: More than 20,000 adults and teens baptized at Easter #Catholic This Easter, France recorded more than 20,000 adult and adolescent baptisms, a 20% increase compared with the previous year. A new report published by the French Bishops’ Conference presents the latest statistical data from Easter 2026, during which approximately 8,200 adolescents and 13,200 adults embraced the Catholic faith.The report indicates that the majority of converts are young adults between the ages of 18 and 25, closely followed by the 26-to-40 age group. Women constitute the largest segment, accounting for approximately 62% of the total.In general, the new catechumens have no prior religious tradition, driven primarily by difficult life experiences, a profound search for meaning, or spiritual encounters that left a lasting mark on their lives, according to the report.The ecclesiastical provinces with the highest number of baptisms were Paris, with 3,184, followed by Marseille with 1,437 and Lyon with 1,200. The report highlights a notable increase in the military diocese, headquartered in the French capital, particularly during the military pilgrimage to Lourdes.The ‘magnitude of the thirst for God’Olivier de Germay, archbishop of Lyon and the official responsible for the catechumenate in the country, reflected on this new reality, one that “never ceases to surprise and challenge us.”Although society has long been aware of the world’s failure to provide answers to “the deep aspirations of the human being,” the French prelate expressed his surprise at the “rapidity and magnitude of the thirst for God manifesting itself today.”This phenomenon opens up a new horizon and presents a “major challenge” for the Church, he said, which must offer appropriate guidance for initiation into the Christian life.For De Germay, the situation also calls upon the “seasoned veterans of the Christian life,” who are invited “to once again become aware of how God can break into [a person’s life] and transform it.”Among some new initiatives to address the increasing numbers, the regional council launched by the eight dioceses of the Île-de-France region stands out. Titled “Catechumens and Neophytes: New Perspectives for the Life of Our Church in Our Dioceses,” the council will run until May 2027. After gathering feedback from Catholics, including the newly baptized, the council aims to develop an appropriate response to the growing number of converts and to establish common guidelines at the provincial level.The provincial council is encouraging the other dioceses outside the Île-de-France region to launch other initiatives focused on specific proposals to increase the participation of the newly baptized in the liturgy.This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.")
The surge in baptisms of young persons continues in France in 2026, a 20% increase over the already previous record-high number in 2025. The influx represents a major challenge for the French Church.
New directives by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ban Title X abortion funding while favoring fertility education and “body literacy.”
NASA’s Great Observatories – the Hubble Space Telescope, the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory (CGRO), the Chandra X-ray Observatory, and the Spitzer Space Telescope – were launched between 1990 and 2003, each intended to observe the universe in a different wavelength. Hubble, launched in 1990 and still operational today, observes primarily in visible light and near-ultraviolet.Continue reading “April 7, 1991: Compton Gamma Ray Observatory is deployed”
The post April 7, 1991: Compton Gamma Ray Observatory is deployed appeared first on Astronomy Magazine.
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A view of the near side of the Moon, the side we always see from Earth, as seen from the Orion spacecraft.
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Boys Town founder Father Edward Flanagan, who was declared “venerable” by Pope Leo XIV on March 23, was formed by “the warm embrace of a loving family.”
PARIS — On Monday, French officials questioned how the United States could classify the airman rescue mission a success when no one surrendered to the Nazis.
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SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Local man Tony Flanders noted that, by the looks of it, his next-door neighbor was either very, very wealthy or in massive amounts of debt.
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| Picture of the day |
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Sunrise in Pieniny mountains, Poland
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Rep. Riley Moore, R-West Virginia, and Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Missouri, introduced legislation that would make the day after Easter Sunday a federal holiday.
A reading from the Book of the Acts of the Apostles
2:36-41
On the day of Pentecost, Peter said to the Jewish people,
“Let the whole house of Israel know for certain
that God has made him both Lord and Christ,
this Jesus whom you crucified.”
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart,
and they asked Peter and the other Apostles,
“What are we to do, my brothers?”
Peter said to them,
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you,
in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins;
and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
For the promise is made to you and to your children
and to all those far off,
whomever the Lord our God will call.”
He testified with many other arguments, and was exhorting them,
“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”
Those who accepted his message were baptized,
and about three thousand persons were added that day.
From the Gospel according to John
20:11-18
Mary Magdalene stayed outside the tomb weeping.
And as she wept, she bent over into the tomb
and saw two angels in white sitting there,
one at the head and one at the feet
where the Body of Jesus had been.
And they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?”
She said to them, “They have taken my Lord,
and I don’t know where they laid him.”
When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus there,
but did not know it was Jesus.
Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?
Whom are you looking for?”
She thought it was the gardener and said to him,
“Sir, if you carried him away,
tell me where you laid him,
and I will take him.”
Jesus said to her, “Mary!”
She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni,”
which means Teacher.
Jesus said to her, “Stop holding on to me,
for I have not yet ascended to the Father.
But go to my brothers and tell them,
‘I am going to my Father and your Father,
to my God and your God.’”
Mary went and announced to the disciples,
“I have seen the Lord,”
and then reported what he had told her.
John the Evangelist draws to our attention a detail that we do not find in the other Gospels: weeping near the empty tomb, Mary Magdalene did not immediately recognize the risen Jesus, but thought he was the gardener. (…) Cultivating and keeping the garden is the original task (cf. Gen 2:15) that Jesus brought to fulfilment. His last words on the cross – “It is finished” (Jn 19:30) – invite each of us to rediscover the same task, our task. For this reason, “he bowed his head and gave up his spirit” (v. 30). Dear brothers and sisters, Mary Magdalene was not entirely mistaken then, believing she had encountered the gardener! Indeed, she had to hear her own name again and understand her task from the new Man, the one who in another text of John says: “Behold, I make all things new” (Rev 21:5). Pope Francis, with the Encyclical Laudato si’, showed us the extreme need for a contemplative gaze: if he is not the custodian of the garden, the human being becomes its destroyer. Christian hope therefore responds to the challenges to which all humanity is exposed today by dwelling in the garden where the Crucified One was laid as a seed, to rise again and bear much fruit. (Pope Leo XIV – General Audience, 19 November 2025)
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Christians in the beleaguered nation of Myanmar are facing renewed bouts of persecution at the hands of the country’s military regime.
The post Christians in This Southeast Asian Country Face Worsening Persecution appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
Read More![‘He is risen’ ignites faith during Randolph Easter celebration #Catholic - Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, joined by Resurrection Parish in Randolph, N.J. rejoiced in the resurrection of Christ from the dead for the redemption of the world during an Easter Sunday Mass he celebrated on the morning of April 5. Easter is the principal feast of the Church’s ecclesiastical year.
Father Yojaneider Garcia, Resurrection’s pastor and director of the Office of Catechesis for the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey, concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Sweeney. Deacon Richard Reck assisted with the liturgy.
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Bishop Sweeney posted short Easter video messages in English and Spanish on social media.
“On this Easter day, we rejoice with our risen Lord Jesus. We pray for peace. We pray for joy. We pray for those Easter gifts that come to us from our risen Lord,” Bishop Sweeney said in English.
BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI
[See image gallery at beaconnj.org]](https://unitedyam.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/he-is-risen-ignites-faith-during-randolph-easter-celebration-catholic-bishop-kevin-j-sweeney-joined-by-resurrection-parish-in-randolph-n-j-rejoiced-in-the-resurrection-of-chri.jpg)
‘He is risen’ ignites faith during Randolph Easter celebration #Catholic – 
Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, joined by Resurrection Parish in Randolph, N.J. rejoiced in the resurrection of Christ from the dead for the redemption of the world during an Easter Sunday Mass he celebrated on the morning of April 5. Easter is the principal feast of the Church’s ecclesiastical year.
Father Yojaneider Garcia, Resurrection’s pastor and director of the Office of Catechesis for the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey, concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Sweeney. Deacon Richard Reck assisted with the liturgy.
Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
Bishop Sweeney posted short Easter video messages in English and Spanish on social media.
“On this Easter day, we rejoice with our risen Lord Jesus. We pray for peace. We pray for joy. We pray for those Easter gifts that come to us from our risen Lord,” Bishop Sweeney said in English.
BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI
– Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, joined by Resurrection Parish in Randolph, N.J. rejoiced in the resurrection of Christ from the dead for the redemption of the world during an Easter Sunday Mass he celebrated on the morning of April 5. Easter is the principal feast of the Church’s ecclesiastical year. Father Yojaneider Garcia, Resurrection’s pastor and director of the Office of Catechesis for the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey, concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Sweeney. Deacon Richard Reck assisted with the liturgy. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Bishop Sweeney posted short Easter video messages in English and Spanish
In his annual letter to shareholders, JPMorgan Chase CEO sent a warning to businesses trying to survive in NYC under radical socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
The post JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon’s Annual Letter to Shareholders Warns of the Dangers Facing NYC Under Mamdani appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
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Watch Wayne Allyn Root’s Top Ten Stories of the Week – including the illegal alien crime wave, the Democrat crime wave, and “The Great American National Divorce.” Watch Wayne’s “America’s Top Ten Countdown” with his World-Famous “Final Four” airing every Saturday at NOON ET/9 AM PT on Real America’s Voice TV Network.
The post Watch Wayne Allyn Root’s Top Ten Stories of the Week – Including the Illegal Alien Crime Wave, the Democrat Crime Wave, and “The Great American National Divorce.” (VIDEO) appeared first on The Gateway Pundit.
Read More![Christ’s resurrection sparks powerful Alleluia at Paterson Easter Vigil #Catholic - Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney proclaimed, “Alleluia! Happy Easter! Felices Pascuas! Jesus of Nazareth, who suffered and died on the cross, is risen,” in his homily during the bilingual Easter Vigil Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J., on Holy Saturday evening, April 4.
Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
The Church joyfully anticipates Christ’s resurrection during the Easter Vigil. The Mass began with the Service of Light, which includes the blessing of the new fire and the paschal candle, symbolizing Jesus, the Light of the World.
BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI
[See image gallery at beaconnj.org]](https://unitedyam.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/christs-resurrection-sparks-powerful-alleluia-at-paterson-easter-vigil-catholic-bishop-kevin-j-sweeney-proclaimed-alleluia-happy-easter-felices-pascuas-jesus-of-nazareth-who-s.jpg)
Christ’s resurrection sparks powerful Alleluia at Paterson Easter Vigil #Catholic – 
Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney proclaimed, “Alleluia! Happy Easter! Felices Pascuas! Jesus of Nazareth, who suffered and died on the cross, is risen,” in his homily during the bilingual Easter Vigil Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J., on Holy Saturday evening, April 4.
Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter.
The Church joyfully anticipates Christ’s resurrection during the Easter Vigil. The Mass began with the Service of Light, which includes the blessing of the new fire and the paschal candle, symbolizing Jesus, the Light of the World.
BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI
– Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney proclaimed, “Alleluia! Happy Easter! Felices Pascuas! Jesus of Nazareth, who suffered and died on the cross, is risen,” in his homily during the bilingual Easter Vigil Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J., on Holy Saturday evening, April 4. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. The Church joyfully anticipates Christ’s resurrection during the Easter Vigil. The Mass began with the Service of Light, which includes the blessing of the new fire and the paschal candle, symbolizing Jesus, the Light of the World. BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI
A married couple that leads the Teams of Our Lady, founded by newly-declared Venerable Father Henri Caffarel, explains how this lay apostolate helps couples grow together in holiness.
