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A piece of American history came to life at the Nov. 4 red carpet premiere of a new film called "Jimmy." With music from the 1940s playing in the background, a military color guard paying tribute to legendary actor Jimmy Stewart, and a B-24 Liberator flying overhead, the evening in Dallas celebrated a side of Stewart that many don't know: his service as a World War II bomber pilot.

James "Jimmy" Stewart was a beloved American actor best known for his portrayal of George Bailey in the Christmas classic "It's a Wonderful Life." But at the height of his Hollywood career, Stewart put acting on hold to serve his country during World War II. The new film explores this transformative chapter of his life and how his wartime experiences would later influence his iconic portrayal of the family man from Bedford Falls.

Stewart served in the military from 1941 to 1945, eventually deploying to England in 1943 as a heavy bomber pilot with the United States Army Air Forces. Assigned to the Eighth Air Force, he rose to become a squadron and group commander and flew the B-24 Liberator on 20 combat missions over occupied Europe, including raids on targets such as Berlin.

He would later serve as a strategic bomber officer and attain the rank of brigadier general in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.

It was Stewart's service to his country that inspired director Aaron Burns to create the new film.

In an interview with EWTN News at the premiere of "Jimmy," Burns shared that he grew up watching Stewart's movies but he had "no idea that the life he lived was every bit as interesting — maybe even more so — than the films he made."

"I read an article that Jimmy wrote about this period of his life and how 'It's a Wonderful Life' was the first movie he made when he came back from serving in World War II," he added. "And I had no idea that Jimmy was in a war and so it uncovered, for me, a whole new chapter to explore."

For Kelly Stewart-Harcourt — one of Stewart's daughters — her initial reaction upon hearing someone wanted to make a biopic on her father was that it would be "boring because he had a scandal-free life."

"But then, when it was focused on this particular chapter of his life, then I started thinking more about it," she said. "My biggest concern was, 'Would dad approve?' And I think, it doesn't glorify war, it tells a really true story, and I think he would approve."

Stewart-Harcourt also recalled the role her father's faith played in his life professionally as an actor, during his service, and as a father and husband.

"Faith was very important to dad. He didn't wear it on his sleeve. He was very quietly religious but he went to church every single Sunday … A few times, I would burst into the bedroom to tell him something, and it would be before he was going to bed, and he would be kneeling at the bed like a little boy saying his prayers."

She added that he often told her that his faith is what "gave him great strength and comfort."

KJ Apa, the actor who portrays Stewart in the film, shared that taking on this role impacted the way in which he thinks about what it truly means to live a meaningful life.

He admitted that in his early 20s he got "caught up for the wrong reasons" in the entertainment industry. Now, as a father and in a committed relationship, it "puts things in perspective."

"At the end of the day, what it comes down to is what kind of person you are behind closed doors. That's who you really are. I can say with certainty that Jimmy was that same guy behind closed doors and hopefully it inspires other people to practice what you preach, in a way," he said.

Apa added: "Because in a time where people like to capitalize on fame, and one opportunity, and they're very quick to kind of forget about everything else in order to gain this thing that's going to make them huge — this story kind of shows the opposite of what that looks like, to throw that away and be like I'm doing this because it's the right thing to do. It's pretty cool. It's the ultimate to me. It's the ultimate story."

Karolyn Grimes, the actress who played ZuZu Bailey in "It's a Wonderful Life," recalled her time working alongside Stewart and called him "an angel on earth" and that the beloved American Christmas classic "was a gift to people."

She said she hopes viewers will "realize that there is kindness in this world and there is goodness. Sometimes you have to look for it, but it's there."

"Jimmy was the epitome of kindness and he set such a wonderful example that I hope they could take that away from him and maybe make some changes in their lives to be more of a good Samaritan and to give of themselves more," Grimes added.

Hien Papaian, the founder of the production studio behind the film, Papaian Studios, shared similar sentiments. She told EWTN News that she hopes viewers will see "the kindness and the love that exudes from every part of this movie. Again we can disagree, we can have differences, but we can love each other through that and still unite in kindness."

As for Stewart-Harcourt, she said she hopes viewers will come to see "how very honorable" her father was.

"Jimmy" can be watched in theaters nationwide now. Veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families can receive free tickets to see the film.

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The Democratic Party will head into the 2027 legislative session with majorities in the House of Representatives and the Senate following a landslide victory in the midterm elections, and one of its focuses will be to advance pro-abortion legislation.

Earlier this year, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries promised healthcare would be one of the top Democratic priorities for 2027 and created a Cost-of-Living Healthcare Working Group to develop a legislative plan, led by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-New York, and Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Alabama.

Based on a memo developed by the working group and obtained by Politico in late September, Democratic plans to codify the now-defunct Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision, which made abortion legal nationwide, and plans for tax-funded elective abortions, "should be considered for advancement in the first 100 hours" of the legislative session.

"Reestablish a federal right to abortion care and end restrictions that prevent people covered through federal health programs from receiving abortion coverage," read the memo, which is dated Sept. 1 and was published by Politico on Sept. 25.

EWTN News reached out to Ocasio-Cortez's office and Sewell's office to ask whether this is still the plan but did not receive a response by the time of publication.

The White House provided a statement to EWTN News when asked about Democrats' plans to prioritize abortion legislation but did not specifically say whether President Donald Trump would veto any pro-abortion bills.

"The Trump Administration is committed to Gold Standard Science, as outlined in detail by President Trump's Executive Order, 'Restoring Gold Standard Science,'" White House spokeswoman Allison Schuster said in the statement. "The mifepristone safety review by the FDA is just one example of President Trump's total commitment to ensuring the health and safety of all Americans."

2 bills for immediate consideration

One bill the working group suggests Democrats consider to advance in the first 100 hours is the Women's Health Protection Act, which was first introduced in 2013 to codify Roe. This bill would declare abortion "a human right" and prevent state governments from restricting abortion before fetal viability, which is typically in the 23rd or 24th week of pregnancy.

According to the 2025 version of the bill, viability is when the unborn child can survive outside of the womb. Whether the unborn child is viable would be determined by "the treating health care provider," who is typically the abortionist.

Although some post-viability abortion restrictions would be allowed, all state laws would need to allow abortion through the ninth month of pregnancy if "the treating health care provider," who is typically the abortionist, deems it necessary to protect "the life or health of the patient." The text is unclear as to what qualifies as a threat to the patient's health.

If this bill were to become law, it would immediately invalidate state-level pro-life laws across the country.

"It would sweep aside state protections for unborn children," Laura Echevarria, communications director National Right to Life, told EWTN News.

She said the bill would "take away the ability for [people's] elected representatives … [to] protect babies before viability." And after viability, she said abortions would be allowed "if the abortionist determines the abortion is necessary."

Echevarria said the text used in the bill offers a "very broad definition" for the health exemption and warned that it could include not just physical health complications but also mental health complications, as determined by the abortionist.

The second bill the working group suggests Democrats consider within the first 100 hours is the Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance (EACH) Act, which would add abortion coverage to tax-funded health insurance plans for government workers and people enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Essentially, the bill would eliminate the Hyde Amendment, which has been included in spending bills since 1976 to prohibit federal funds for elective abortions. Although the ban on tax-funded abortion originally had bipartisan support, Democrats have sought to eliminate the ban in recent years.

Echevarria said the EACH Act would "require abortion coverage across specific government health programs," with the goal being to eliminate Hyde. She said: "The federal government would ensure that abortion would be covered, so it's very broad and very sweeping."

She said the Democrats' plan to prioritize these bills is "disappointing" but "not surprising." She said that although the Democratic Party used to welcome pro-life voices, "now it's the party that encourages women to 'shout their abortion.'"

"It used to be we had more pro-life Democrats in the House years ago, [but] the Democratic Party has not welcomed pro-lifers in years," Echevarria said. "So they are not welcoming that viewpoint."

Kelsey Pritchard, the communications director for Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, said in a statement to EWTN News that this agenda shows "pro-abortion Democrat extremism will be on full display next Congress."

In addition to the two bills included in the memo, Pritchard said: "We also anticipate efforts to revive the expansion of Obamacare subsidies that further taxpayer funded abortion coverage, another avenue for more babies to die at the hands of the federal government."

The incoming members of Congress will be sworn in at noon on Jan. 3, 2027. Although not all of the results are finalized, Democrats will have at least 253 seats in the House and at least 54 seats in the Senate.

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Father Alberto Medel reported that staff at Mexico's Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE, by its Spanish acronym) demanded he remove his clerical attire for the photo to renew his passport, a requirement he described as discriminatory and a violation of his right to religious freedom.

The incident took place on Nov. 4 at the passport office in the Coyoacán borough of Mexico City, according to an account the priest shared on X.

In response to the complaint, Roberto Velasco Álvarez, who heads the SRE, said on X that he had given instructions "for the photograph to be retaken with him wearing his ecclesiastical attire, and for the passport to be issued."

What happened?

According to Medel, the coordinator of the theological committee for the college of exorcists of the Primatial Archdiocese of Mexico, an SRE employee told him that he "could not have the photograph taken while wearing his ecclesiastical attire."

The priest refused to remove his attire, arguing that he had the right to dress according "to my state of life, provided that my face remained perfectly visible."

The employee consulted with a supervisor, and Medel was allowed to be photographed in his clerical attire.

However, while waiting for his new passport, the priest was told by another person, who "did not identify herself by name or position and displayed a hostile attitude from the start," that the SRE would not process a passport application with a photograph showing him in clerical attire.

When Medel requested that she show him the law that prohibited his attire, the official "showed him a page from the secretariat's internal regulations, which state that photographs containing religious symbols are not permitted."

Medel said a police officer standing behind the official seemed to indicate "a clear attitude of intimidation."

"We Catholic priests are second-class citizens whose freedoms and rights are restricted because of our choice of faith," he stated, alleging that what occurred violated the rights stipulated in the Mexican Constitution concerning nondiscrimination and religious freedom.

"Today, I was subjected to discrimination; my human rights were violated, and I was humiliated through clear expressions of anticlericalism and Christianophobia," he said.

Passport regulations and the Supreme Court precedent

Article 14 of Mexico's "Regulations for Passports and Identity and Travel Documents" stipulates that for the passport application process, "the photograph must be taken facing forward, in color, with a white background; the head must be uncovered, and there must be no garments or objects that partially or completely cover the face, including eyeglasses."

The article does not establish a general prohibition against the use of religious attire or symbols in photographs for a Mexican passport.

On Dec. 11, 2025, the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation resolved a dispute concerning Muslim women who had been required to remove their hijabs in order to obtain a passport.

In that case, the court determined that the women could wear the hijabs; regulations must be interpreted in a manner consistent with freedom of religion, ideology, and conscience; and individuals may wear "religious garments, attire, or symbols" that do not hinder their identification.

Furthermore, the court cautioned against "the absolute sacrifice of religious freedom."

'I am not the only person who has suffered this'

In a statement to EWTN News Español, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News, Medel confirmed that following Velasco's statement, he received an email and a phone call from SRE staff in order to facilitate the renewal of his passport.

However, he has been unable to return to the government office due to his pastoral commitments including the celebration of the 500th anniversary of his parish, Santa María de la Visitación, in the Indigenous town of Santa María Tepepan. This event is scheduled for this Saturday, Nov. 7, and will be attended by the apostolic nuncio to Mexico, Archbishop Joseph Spiteri.

Medel said he plans to travel to Rome on Monday, Nov. 9, which is why he needed his passport.

He said he hopes to be able to complete the process but also believes it is necessary for the SRE to take measures to prevent other religious from facing similar situations.

"I don't need an apology," he said, expressing his hope that this case will lead to "firmer steps" being taken to ensure that nothing like this happens again.

He said other priests and religious sisters told him they have had similar experiences.

Medel clarified that clerical attire "is not a uniform; it is my way of life." He noted that because he dresses as a priest, he's been insulted but has also experienced "a great deal of good: People I encounter ask for a blessing, and I have heard confessions in airports, on airplanes, on buses, and out on the street."

He said he is requesting from the authorities, "in writing, a commitment and an instruction to all offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, that ensures this does not happen again to any priest or religious."

After EWTN News Español contacted the General Directorate for Social Communication of the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs, the office forwarded Velasco's public statement.

This story was first published by EWTN News Español, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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The shrines dedicated to the Virgin of the Thirty-Three, Our Lady of Luján, and Our Lady of Peace are part of Pope Leo XIV's itinerary through Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, respectively.

Two of these devotions are linked to the history of South American independence, while the third was a source of inspiration for Robert Prevost during his years as bishop of Chiclayo.

These are not three identical stops. In Florida, Uruguay, and Luján, Argentina, the Holy Father will celebrate the Eucharist. In Chiclayo, however, the program includes a meeting with bishops, priests, religious, seminarians, and pastoral workers.

All three locations, however, share something in common: They are places where the history of their respective peoples is intertwined with faith in the intercession of the Virgin Mary.

Our Lady of the Thirty-Three and Uruguayan nationhood

The first stop will be in Florida, a city linked to one of the decisive episodes in Uruguayan history. It is home to the National Shrine of the Virgin of the Thirty-Three, Uruguay's patroness, whose image is associated with a tradition concerning the nation's independence.

The small, wooden carving of the Virgin Mary is believed to have arrived in the region during the 18th century. Its history became intertwined with that of the men who spearheaded the territory's emancipation.

In 1825, representatives gathered in Florida proclaimed independence and, according to a tradition preserved by the Uruguayan Church, subsequently went to pray before the image of the Virgin, entrusting the future of the nation to the Mother of God.

Monsignor Esteban Puig Tarrats recounts this episode in his book "La Aurora de América" ("The Dawn of America"). The author notes that, after drafting the Declaration of Independence, the 33 patriots proceeded to the church carrying the tricolor flag and placed the cause they had just proclaimed under the protection of Mary.

The devotion took the name "Virgin of the Thirty-Three" in reference to the key figures in the fight for independence. Decades later, in 1962, Pope John XXIII declared her the patroness of Uruguay.

St. John Paul II also visited the shrine during his visit to the country in 1988. Now, it is Pope Leo XIV who will be in Florida. On Nov. 8, he will celebrate Mass there, a visit that will join together the nation's religious heritage with one of the most significant moments in its history.

Luján: The ox cart that wouldn't budge

The story of Our Lady of Luján begins with an episode that for nearly four centuries has been part of the Argentine Catholic tradition.

In 1630, a Portuguese landowner named Antonio Farías de Sá commissioned two religious images to be made for a chapel he intended to build on his estate, located in what is now the province of Santiago del Estero. The carvings arrived at the port of Buenos Aires and began their journey toward their destination by oxcart.

Upon reaching the banks of the Luján River, the oxen refused to budge. The teamsters tried to get them moving again, but were unable to do so. According to the traditional account, the cart could only continue on its way once the crate containing the image of the Immaculate Conception was removed. Those present interpreted this as a sign that the Virgin wished to remain in that place.

The episode is also recounted in Puig's book "La Aurora de América," giving special attention to Manuel, an African slave who was entrusted with the care of the image. Known as "El Negro Manuel," he remained by its side for decades and helped spread devotion to it. He also assisted in collecting donations for the construction of a chapel.

The small image, which was initially intended to continue its journey toward Santiago del Estero, ended up becoming the center of one of the most significant Marian pilgrimages in Argentina.

Over time, a shrine was built that today welcomes thousands of the faithful. The image was solemnly crowned in 1887 and the Virgin of Luján was recognized as the patroness of Argentina. The basilica, built in a neo-Gothic style, is now closely associated with the religious identity of the country.

Leo XIV will arrive in Lujan on Nov. 11. Mass is scheduled to take place in the square in front of the basilica, where a large number of the faithful are expected to gather to attend the pope's Mass and entrust their intentions to the patroness of Argentina.

Chiclayo and the shrine to which Leo XIV returns as pope

The visit to the shrine of Our Lady of Peace will have a special significance. For Leo XIV, Chiclayo is not just another city on the itinerary: He served as bishop there and carried out a large part of his pastoral ministry in Peru.

His connection to the shrine is recorded in its visitors' book. On Oct. 21, 2015, just months after taking charge of the diocese, Prevost wrote therein a handwritten message in which he entrusted his life and his episcopal ministry to the Virgin Mary.

Those who spent time with him during those years recall that he frequently visited the shrine to pray and see the sisters there. He also took part in gatherings with priests and in retreats, and spent time at the pre-seminary. Devotion to Our Lady of Peace was a part of his daily life during his time serving as bishop of Chiclayo.

Years later, now as pope, he reaffirmed that bond. In January, Leo XIV chose the shrine in Chiclayo as the site for the main celebration of the World Day of the Sick. In a letter, he recalled that ever since his episcopal ordination he had entrusted his mission and the growth in faith of the people of God to the Virgin Mary.

This choice held special significance for the local community. The place where Prevost had so often gone to pray became the setting for a global-scale celebration dedicated to the sick and those who care for them.

On Nov. 13, the pope will return to the shrine to meet with representatives of the Peruvian Church. It will be one of the most personal moments of his visit to the country: He will return to the city where he once served as a pastor, and to a church where he entrusted his ministry to Our Lady.

3 stories that converge in Mary

The histories of these shrines differ. In Florida, devotion to the Virgin became closely associated with Uruguayan independence; in Luján, a stalled oxcart gave rise to a tradition that spread throughout Argentina; and in Chiclayo, the connection between Leo XIV and Our Lady of Peace began during his years of episcopal service.

This story was first published by EWTN News Español, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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Poland's Catholic bishops have asked the faithful to fast and do penance on Tuesday, Nov. 10, for social peace, national understanding, and reconciliation amid a political crisis over the Constitutional Tribunal.

The Permanent Council of the Polish Bishops' Conference issued the appeal after an emergency meeting Wednesday in Warsaw. In a Nov. 4 statement ahead of Independence Day on Nov. 11, the bishops said they were witnessing deep social and political divisions that had been growing for years and were turning into hatred and aggression.

They asked Catholics "to take up fervent prayer for social peace, national understanding, and reconciliation" and for "light and wisdom for those who govern," recommending Father Piotr Skarga's prayer for the homeland among other prayers. "Let us also take up fasting and penance this coming Tuesday, Nov. 10," they wrote.

Citing Article 1 of the Constitution, they recalled that the Republic of Poland "is the common good of all citizens" and that politicians "will give an account for it before God, the nation, and history."

"Out of concern for the good of the homeland and for social peace, we call once again for the conflict not to be escalated, for constructive dialogue to be taken up, for all difficulties to be resolved peacefully, and for prejudices and forceful actions to be abandoned!" the bishops wrote. "All parties to the conflict need the gifts of prudence, humility, and responsibility."

They also declared readiness "to give every possible help to initiate and support a process of mediation and dialogue" in the present crisis.

Jesuit Father Leszek Gesiak, the conference spokesman, said the bishops had carefully examined media reports from Poland. "We clearly have a serious crisis," he said, according to PAP. Asked if they would mediate if asked, he said yes — ready to initiate and support a process so that "dialogue and reconciliation" prevail.

The appeal comes amid the ongoing power struggle over the Constitutional Tribunal.

This story was first published by CNA Deutsch, the German-language sister service of EWTN News, and has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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South Korean Catholic organizers have announced the principal venues for World Youth Day Seoul 2027. Seoul World Cup Stadium will host the opening Mass, papal welcome ceremony, and Way of the Cross, while Seoul Airport in Seongnam, just outside the capital, will host the vigil and closing Mass.

Organizers expect about 500,000 registered pilgrims, including 400,000 international participants from approximately 190 countries, with up to 1 million people attending the closing Mass. The main events will take place Aug. 3–8, 2027. Archbishop Peter Chung Soon-taick of Seoul said the gathering would encourage young people to rediscover their dignity and encounter others across their differences.

On Oct. 31, the government of South Korea, the parliament, and the Catholic Church signed a joint declaration at the National Assembly Members' Office Building in Seoul, pledging nationwide support for World Youth Day 2027, "including measures on security, immigration, transportation, legislation, and funding," according to LiCAS News.

Ethiopia's Catholic bishops decry killing of Christians

Members of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Ethiopia (CBCE) have condemned the killing of Christians and destruction of property in the country, calling on the relevant authorities to take necessary law enforcement measures to protect lives, safeguard property, and restore peace and security, according to a report by ACI Africa, the sister service of EWTN News in Africa.

In a statement of condolence issued on Nov. 2, GBCE members referred to the tragic killing of Christians and the destruction of property that occurred in Merti and Shirka areas of Arsi Zone, South-East Oromia Region, during the month of October.

"We also wish to express our deep sorrow over additional conflicts and killings of innocent people that have taken place," the bishops said, according to ACI Africa. The Catholic leaders expressed sadness that such incidents continue to occur repeatedly in different parts of the country, strongly condemning what they described as "inhumane actions."

Australia Catholics mark Prison Sunday 2026

On Sunday, Nov. 8, Catholics in Australia mark Prison Sunday, an annual day to remember and pray for prisoners, their loved ones, and those who care for and minister to them, including prison chaplains.

Bishop Tim Norton, SVD, Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference delegate for prisons, said in a press release that prisoners, released prisoners, and their family members often find themselves stigmatized. "But all people are deserving of dignity and respect which can be shown through personal connection," he said.

Norton expressed gratitude in advance of the day for all those who minister to people in prison across Australia.

Maronite prayer hall vandalized in northern Israel

The Maronite prayer hall of Sts. Peter and Paul in Nahariya, northern Israel, was vandalized by unidentified individuals on Nov. 1, the solemnity of All Saints, Vatican News reported. The Maronite Archeparchy of Haifa firmly condemned the action, saying "such acts can neither be justified nor tolerated" and called for a formal investigation.

Archbishop Moussa El-Hage of the Maronite Archeparchy of Haifa said in his statement: "This is a grave and unacceptable attack, not only against Church property" but "above all against the sacred character of a place dedicated to worship and against the right of the faithful to practice their religion freely, safely, and with dignity."

There are approximately 60,000 people living in the Christian community in Nahariya, which is located near the border with Lebanon.

Macau Church commemorates 450 years of faith and mission

The Church in Macau in China marked 450 years of missionary heritage at an event with thousands of lay faithful, clergy, and Catholic leaders on Oct. 31 in conjunction with a continental assembly of Asian bishops and communicators who gathered for the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences Office of Social Communication.

According to LICAS News, the two events converged in a solemn pontifical Mass at the Forum de Macau, which was presided over by Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, pro-prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for Evangelization and dean of the College of Cardinals.

For the anniversary, Bishop Stephen Lee Bun-sang of Macau issued a pastoral letter "honoring those who preserved and transmitted the apostolic faith across generations" and recalling Macau's historical role as a "Gateway of Faith" in the region. Established in 1576, the Macau Diocese was the first modern diocese created in Asia.

Christian youth festival in Holy Land draws hundreds

Over 300 young Catholics gathered the weekend of Oct. 31 with other young people from parishes across the Holy Land for an annual festival, according to Vatican News. The Hebrew- and Arabic-speaking participants "celebrated hope and unity."

Father Piotr Zelazko, patriarchal vicar for Hebrew-speaking Catholics in Israel, drew "attention to the wounds and difficulties that mark the daily lives and hearts of young people in the Holy Land" and said that every young person there bears "wounds inflicted by wars, suffering, and each person's individual experiences — all the burdens they carry in their hearts."

Zelazko said he hopes the festival, which was organized by the St. James Vicariate, a community of Hebrew-speaking Catholics associated with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, will continue as an annual event and eventually welcome young people from other countries as well.

Lebanese priest's court summons sparks anger

The summons of Father Najib Al-Amil, a priest in the southern Lebanese village of Rmeish, has sparked protests among Christians already facing the hardships of war and isolation, according to ACI MENA, the Arabic-language sister service of EWTN News.

According to Nidaa Al-Watan, the case stems from a construction dispute in which the priest requested a delay to prevent tensions. A judge reportedly interpreted his remarks as a threat involving Israeli forces.

Residents gathered in solidarity with the priest, who remained with his community throughout the conflict. He has agreed to appear for questioning once safe travel is possible, as the incident raises broader concerns about the state's treatment of vulnerable Christian border communities.

Iraqi Christian lawmaker warns electoral system threatens community's political voice

Iraqi Christian parliamentarian Kaldo Ramzi Oghanna is calling for electoral reforms to protect the political representation of Christians, warning that the current system allows voters outside the community to influence seats reserved for Christian candidates.

Speaking to ACI MENA, Oghanna, who heads the Sowayana-Al-Irada parliamentary bloc, proposed creating a dedicated Christian electoral register. He argued that the existing arrangement undermines independent representation and benefits political groups with support beyond the Christian community.

His concerns extend beyond elections. Decades of persecution, displacement, and emigration have significantly weakened Iraq's Christian presence, raising fears about the community's long-term survival.

Oghanna urged Iraqi authorities to address these challenges through stronger security protections, property rights, employment opportunities, and investment in Christian areas. He also called for initiatives encouraging emigrants to return, stressing that political representation should serve the community's security, rights, and future in Iraq.

First Christian elected as deputy speaker of Kurdistan Parliament

Rami Noori Syawish has become the first Christian elected deputy speaker of Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Parliament since its establishment in 1992, securing 52 votes in the 100-seat legislature, ACI MENA reported Nov. 5.

His election marks a milestone for Christian political participation amid continuing concerns over emigration, security, and the reduction of Christian quota seats from six to three.

A.C. Wimmer contributed to this report.

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MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay — Pope Leo XIV arrived in South America on Nov. 6, kicking off an 11-day trip that will take him from the continent's Southern Cone to the highlands of the Andes and Amazon rainforest.

The papal flight landed in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, at 4:17 p.m. local time (2:17 p.m. ET). Leo was scheduled later in the day to address President Yamandú Orsi and other dignitaries, and then to lead a vespers service in the city's cathedral with Uruguay's bishops, clergy, and religious.

It is Leo's first visit to the continent since his election as pope in May 2025, and one filled with personal significance for him. After stops in Uruguay and Argentina, the trip will culminate in Peru, where the man then known as Robert Prevost spent about 20 years as a missionary and a bishop.

Leo is making the demanding journey, which features over 40 public and private events in 14 cities and towns — including Cusco, over 11,000 feet above sea level — despite having undergone surgery for lung cancer less than a month ago, when doctors removed part of his right lung.

The pope's packed schedule includes many of the usual elements of an international papal visit, including open-air Masses; meetings with the local hierarchy; prayer vigils with youth; and visits to Church-affiliated charitable institutions.

Leo also will address local political leaders, when he is likely to speak about the Church's social teaching and in some cases to highlight where that teaching conflicts with government policies.

Argentina and Peru are among a majority of Latin American countries led by right-wing governments, and Leo may voice concerns there about cuts to social spending, immigration enforcement, and the need to respect human rights and the rule of law amid campaigns against drug trafficking and other forms of crime that plague the region.

In Uruguay, one of Latin America's most secular countries, currently under a center-left government, Leo may criticize last year's legalization of euthanasia.

The Argentina visit will prominently feature a tribute to Leo's immediate predecessor, Pope Francis, a former archbishop of Buenos Aires, who never returned to his native land as pope.

The longest portion of the visit, and its emotional core, will be Leo's five days in Peru, two of them in his former diocese of Chiclayo, where the U.S.-born pontiff will celebrate his return to his adopted home.

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ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT — Pope Leo came to the back of the plane on Friday to greet approximately 80 journalists traveling with him to South America. He got a bunch of questions in return, most of which he answered.

The pope usually pays a visit to the journalists' section on the outbound flight of an international trip. This is not supposed to be a press conference, which typically happens on the flight home, but reporters naturally spring at the chance to pose quick questions, and Leo is generally obliging.

Many of the questions this time were, unsurprisingly, about the pope's health. He is making the 12-day trip less than a month after undergoing surgery for lung cancer.

In brief remarks to the whole cabin, Leo acknowledged that "some people were doubtful about this trip taking place," but he said he "had no doubt and was convinced that this trip had to go forward."

Later, a reporter wanted to know the pope's secret for springing back so quickly from surgery. The answer: "Faith in God, good doctors, and a healthy lifestyle." Leo had advice for cancer patients: "Not to be afraid. Early detection is obviously the best way to go, and so regular checkups are a blessing. And take care of yourselves."

Asked if his surgery, which removed part of his right lung, had given him a new sense of urgency about his agenda, Leo replied that the experience had strengthened his desire to be close to the sick, and his conviction that "healthcare should be a right of all people" — a point he said he planned to make later in the day in a speech to Uruguay's president and other dignitaries.

The pope revealed that his reading in the hospital had consisted of his breviary, prayer book, and unspecified newspapers, and that he has not resumed his tennis game but intends to do so.

Leo said that, at the time of his September visit to the French shrine of Lourdes, where he prayed with the sick, "there were no signs of any difficulties" with his own health, and he was "much more concerned about the health of those there."

The pope was also asked about the recent news that he had voted in this month's election in Illinois by absentee ballot. "I'm proud to be an American and to exercise the right," he said. He declined to comment on election results.

The U.S.-born Leo, who is a naturalized citizen of Peru, said he would have voted earlier this year in that country's elections if he had been able to do so from Rome: "I didn't vote because it wasn't possible, but I would've done it, it's a good thing."

The pope also introduced the press to the new prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for Communication, Montse Alvarado, who took office Nov. 1 and is accompanying the pope on his trip to South America. Leo praised Alvarado, who until this month was president and chief operating office of EWTN News, for her "wonderful experience, creativity, and liveliness."

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An annual forum on artificial intelligence held in Rome this week aimed to foster a new interdisciplinary community dedicated to supporting the development of AI products that serve the Church's mission.

The Builders AI Forum, held Nov. 5–6 at the Pontifical Gregorian University, was centered on Pope Leo XIV's encyclical Magnifica Humanitas and brought together companies leading in Catholic AI, venture capital, and angel investors as well as prominent AI thought leaders and researchers.

In his opening remarks, Cardinal Michael Czerny, a founder of the Vatican's inter-dicastery commission on artificial intelligence, drew on his work with the commission to remind participants that we "cannot treat learning as an isolated, transactional process but rather a communal, dialogue form." He went on to say that "we are all impacted by AI but nobody's listening [to one another]."

Vincent Higgins, CEO of the Builders AI Forum, said the event aims to cover four areas: AI in evangelization, in healthcare, in education, and in building and scaling AI for responsible development in creating critical safeguards online.

The prefect of the Vatican's Dicastery for Communication, Maria Montserrat "Montse" Alvarado, echoed the importance of collaboration — not only with those in the AI community — but also with the Holy Father. She asked the forum participants to ask themselves, "Who are we supposed to be as we develop and shape this technology?", reminding them that they must not lose their interdependence but "leverage the network through the people in this room."

The future of AI policy

Over the course of the two-day summit, religious and industry leaders, as well as policy advocates, gave testimonies reflecting what was being discussed in the workshop groups.

One participant was Megan Garcia, who tragically lost her son, Sewell, by suicide after forming a romantic attachment with a chatbot. She told EWTN News the primary message she wants to advocate for is accountability — "Who is responsible when AI hurts a child?"

To make AI chatbots safe for children in the future, Garcia said that companies need to partake in third-party release testing and make sure that they cannot release, retain, or sell children's data. Speaking through her personal experience, Garcia highlighted that any policy that is designed to protect children against the dangers of AI would absolutely need to include a measure of accountability.

Repeated many times over the conference, many participants said AI in Catholic schools needs to be kept in line with our Church systems, teaching, and philosophies. Families are operating in their own bubbles, but they need to start having a larger conversation with the community so everyone can be in tune with what is available for families and what should be censored, people at the forum argued.

Speaking on the importance of aligning AI with Catholic morals and beliefs, Matthew Sanders, CEO of Longbeard, a company that organizes the Builders AI Forum, told EWTN News: "AI when it is designed today is designed to align with a billion people, which is an impossible task."

AI access to information

A common theme through every workshop group, especially among AI entrepreneurs, was the need to train their own models by making sure they have access to all the right information. This has been a main focus for Longbeard, particularly its product, Magisterium AI, which Bishop Stephen Wang of the Diocese of Arundel and Brighton in England mentioned when speaking about priestly formation and AI.

"The reality is that so many people are discovering the faith or seeking answers to their questions through the internet, through AI... this is the starting point," Wang said in comments to EWTN News, noting the importance of using AI as a tool.

Through his experience at the Venerable English College in Rome, Wang reflected that young men coming into seminary are already immersed in AI, so it is important to give them the tools for discernment. The process of priestly formation is very holistic, and it is important to acknowledge the presence and utility of AI in this formation, he said.

Communicating through AI

According to in-house statistics by Magisterium AI and Hallow, their AI tools have helped bring people to the faith and into the Church. Erich Kerekes, CEO and founder of the Hallow app, told EWTN News that "prayer is fundamentally a relationship... coming before God, bringing your needs before him... that is something AI will never be able to come up with." Alvarado reiterated this notion, saying: "The message can't be communicated by AI. It's communicated through AI. AI is not a person, AI is a tool."

"The first thing AI builders need to hear from the Church is that [we're] listening... if they feel accompanied, we'll find a way together," said Czerny, as Sanders said builders should "start from the world and what you want to build and work backwards."

Jeffrey Quesnelle, co-founder and CTO of Nous Research, said in comments to EWTN News that "humans in our messiness and our incompleteness are a source of friction in a lot of instances in life." Ultimately, he added, "AI should make you better today than yesterday, better tomorrow than today."

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