In a decision described as a brave and generous witness of fidelity to his little flock, Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali is staying on in the Sudanese city of El-Obeid, even as organizations warned that the North Kordofan’s state capital was increasingly being encircled by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, and its allies.

Preparations are underway in Norway to open a canonization cause for the Nobel Prize-winning novelist Sigrid Undset, Bishop Fredrik Hansen of Oslo announced July 8.

In Canada’s province of Québec, Bill 21, officially known as “An Act Respecting the Laicity of the State,” prohibits public servants in positions of authority — such as teachers, police officers, and government lawyers and judges — from wearing religious symbols at work. The law also extends the ban to staff at subsidized day cares, private schools and professional development centers.

Father Mark Logue transformed two parishes during 43 years of priesthood – but friends say his real legacy was the people he welcomed.

Father Mike Schmitz entered the green room of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale with his characteristic warm smile — and an extra bounce in his step.