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An internal document at the European Union reportedly discourages staff from using the word “Christmas.” The document has been withdrawn, but Pope Francis spoke about the document today, on his return flight from Greece to Italy. The pope warned that many dictatorships have tried to replace religion with secularism, without success. He encouraged the European Union to uphold the ideals of its founding fathers, including several committed Catholics.
A bus fell into a river in southeastern Kenya on Saturday. At least thirty-three people, including children, died in the accident. The bus belonged to a minor seminary in the area. The bus toppled when its driver attempted to cross a submerged bridge.
Pope Francis visited a refugee camp on the Greek island of Lesbos on Sunday. During his visit, the pope met with dozens of refugees. He decried European indifference to the plight of migrants in the Mediterranean as a “shipwreck of civilization.” This was the pope’s second visit to the island. His first visit was in 2016.
Today is the feast of Saint Nicholas. The early-century bishop was known for generosity and love of children. He is the inspiration for the modern day Santa.