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Bishops in the Netherlands have canceled Christmas Midnight Masses again this year, due to the coronavirus pandemic. The bishops said they want to prevent large crowds, and that it is difficult to maintain good ventilation with multiple Masses in one evening. There have reportedly been cases of the new variant in the Netherlands.
Former vice president Mike Pence has called on the U-S Supreme Court to overturn legalized abortion nationwide. The court heard oral arguments today in a case that challenges two landmark abortion decisions: Roe v Wade, and Planned Parenthood v Casey. The case, out of Mississippi, would restrict most abortions after 15 weeks.
Pope Francis is praying for catechists during the month of December. In a video accompanying the announcement of his intention, Pope Francis prayed that catechists would witness to the Gospel with courage and creativity. Earlier this year, the pope created a new ministry of catechist, for lay people who have a particular call to serve as a teacher of the faith.
Today is the feast of the sixth-century French saint, Eligius. He is the patron saint of metalworkers, horses and veterinarians.