By Madalaine Elhabbal
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, May 2, 2025 / 15:14 pm
Here is a roundup of Catholic world news that you might have missed this week:
Catholic martyr refuses to deny faith and is shot by Islamic terrorists in India
A 57-year-old Catholic man, Sushil Nathaniel, was among 26 people killed during a terrorist attack in Kashmir, India, last week, according to an Asia News report.
Nathaniel’s wife, who escaped with their two children, told AsiaNews that her husband was shot in the head by terrorists after refusing to recite the Islamic declaration of faith.
While celebrating his funeral, Bishop Thomas Kuttimackal of Indore described Nathaniel as a “martyr” and praised his “courage in not hiding his faith even under threat of arms.”
Lebanese Christians honor Pope Francis for his special love for Lebanon
Lebanese Christians in the country and diaspora communities around the world have been taking the time to memorialize Pope Francis, remembering his “special paternal love” for Lebanon, according to ACI MENA, CNA’s Arabic-language news partner.
Bishops led solemn liturgies in Beirut, Zgharta, and Sidon, while Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi, recovering from surgery, sent a heartfelt message praising the pope’s spiritual impact. In Rome, Bishop Youssef Soueif led a Mass at the Mar Maroun Church with members of the Lebanese diaspora.
In Lomé, Togo, the Maronite faithful came together to pay tribute to the late pontiff through prayers and remembrance.
Throughout his time as Pope, Francis had a special affection for Lebanon, showing support for the youth-led protests in 2019 and calling for unity among political leaders. Despite the postponement of his planned visit in 2022, he continued to advocate for Lebanon, urging the prompt election of a president in 2024. In 2021, he organized a special day of prayer and reflection at the Vatican for Lebanese Christian leaders, focusing on the country’s future.
Conference on the Role of Christians in Shaping Syria’s Future Held in Aleppo
The Catholic Education Association in Aleppo launched the inaugural “Pentecost of a Nation” conference, shedding light on the vital role of Syrian Christians in determining the future of the country, as reported by ACI MENA.
Bringing together 250 participants from various religious and ethnic backgrounds, the event discussed topics such as constitutional reform, social justice, and national identity. Church leaders emphasized the active role of the Christian community in Syria’s development, advocating for forgiveness, coexistence, and civic engagement.
Nigerian Diplomats Praise Pope Francis as a Leader of Truth, Peace, and Equality
Members of the diplomatic corps in Nigeria have expressed admiration for Pope Francis, lauding him as a global symbol of peace, truth, humility, and justice.
“Words cannot fully capture the impact of Pope Francis as a leader,”
