Religion News – Newsletter for January 11, 2011

Pope calls on world leaders to protect Christians

Vatican City, Jan 11 (IANS/AKI) Pope Benedict XVI has called on world leaders to step up efforts to shield Christians from discrimination and violence.

In his annual message for World Day of Peace to the diplomatic corp accredited to the Holy See Monday, he said countries must guarantee “religious freedom as the fundamental path to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope calls on world leaders to protect Christians.

Vivekananda movement grows in Nepal on 148th anniversary

KATHMANDU – More than a century after his death, the electrifying ideology of 19th century Indian philosopher and social reformer Swami Vivekananda is gathering momentum in neighbouring Nepal with people as diverse as police officers, the president of the national boxers’ association, and top bankers and businessmen coming together to spread the thoughts of the …. Original source  : Vivekananda movement grows in Nepal on 148th anniversary.

Pope urges respect for religious symbols

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI appealed Monday for freedom of faith in Egypt, Pakistan, China and the Middle East, and urged greater respect in Western countries towards religious symbols and beliefs.

The right to religious freedom “is indeed the first of human rights”, the pontiff told ambassadors and envoys of some 179 states which …. Original source  : Pope urges respect for religious symbols.