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Jan
06
2009
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CNS News
3 Minute Roundup
| Pope prays for families, especially those in need |
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VATICAN CITY — Christmas celebrations underscore the importance of the family in people’s lives, but for many it also is a time when wounds caused by one’s family become more painful, Pope Benedict XVI said. Reciting the Angelus Dec. 28, the feast of the Holy Family, Pope Benedict prayed for families in difficulty and for family members who are sick or out of work. “Christmas is the family celebration par excellence,” the pope told visitors in St. Peter’s Square. “This is demonstrated by many traditions and social customs, especially gathering together as a family to share festive meals and exchange best wishes and gifts.” But, he said, it also is a time when “the discomfort and pain caused by certain family wounds are amplified.” Speaking in Spanish, he sent his best wishes to people gathered in Madrid, Spain, “to pray for the family and to commit themselves to working on its behalf with strength and hope.” He also asked people to pray for the success of the Sixth World Meeting of Families, which will take place in Mexico City Jan. 14-18. The Pontifical Council for the Family is organizing the event. (CNS) |
| Anti-trafficking law hailed as step toward eradicating problem |
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WASHINGTON — The reauthorization of an anti-trafficking law signed at the White House Dec. 23 was hailed by the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ migration committee as “an important step toward eradicating this scourge.” Bishop John C. Wester of Salt Lake City said in a statement that President George W. Bush had done much to elevate public awareness about human trafficking. He encouraged President-elect Barack Obama and the incoming Congress to “remain vigilant and continue to work to end this abominable practice.” Congress passed the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act Dec. 10. Among the additions to the bill from previous versions are new services and benefits to trafficking victims, said Julianne Duncan, associate director of children’s services for Migration and Refugee Services of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, in the same release as Bishop Wester’s comments. The White House said the bill was named for English abolitionist William Wilberforce, who led the parliamentary movement against the British slave trade in the early 19th century. It authorizes appropriations through the 2011 fiscal year. (CNS) |