A disgraced cardinal's archdiocese in Scotland will be subject to a Vatican investigation. Bishop Charles Scicluna will be there April 8-10 to "listen to and report the testimony offered by past and present members of the clergy ... concerning any incidents of sexual misconduct committed against them by other members of the clergy whomsoever."
Speaking of sexual misconduct, the crisis is the worst crisis to hit the U.S. church in the 20th century, writes Fr. Tom Reese in his column.
Opinion: It seems administrators in some Catholic schools are ready to post signs that say "No gays need apply."
Another opinion on the sex abuse crisis: Youth Voices author Nicole Sotelo writes about how unfortunately the Vatican sometimes makes saints out of those responsible for abuse or abuse cover-up.
A Polish priest is warning parents that Legos are the tools of Satan. And yes, he is talking about the building block toys made for children.
A Kenya priest is calling on all believers to mobilize against the growing slaughter of rhinos and elephants.
In Central African Republic, Catholic clergy are being praised for showing "courage and leadership" in protecting Muslims.
And in Syria, apocalyptic prophecies drive both sides to a battle for the end of time.
Pew Research: A shrinking majority of Americans support the death penalty. 55 percent of U.S. adults say they support the practice, while 37 percent are opposed.
Meanwhile in Texas, a serial killer was executed the state's new drug supply.
Egypt: Bombings bring escalation in campus wars. Universities have emerged as the main centers of protests.
More campus news: Ted Cruz tells Liberty University students to defend their religious freedom.
Commentary: Will the pope condemn homophobia in Uganda? The country's leaders are invoking Africa's most prominent saints in their campaign against homosexuality.
Anti-Semitic incidents have been on the decline in the U.S., continuing a decade-long drop.
Nationwide it may be dropping, but there were 31 assaults on Jews in 2013, compared to 17 in 2012.
Looking for a little inspiration to begin your day? NCR's sister publication, Celebration, gives you two options, both based on the Scripture readings of the day:
Pencil Preaching is a blog in which Celebration editor Pat Marrin combines Scripture and sketching to reflect on the Word.
Daily Bread is a series of short reflections written by four authors who meet regularly to share the readings. Daily Bread is intended to help daily preachers and others who pray from the assigned Scriptures each day to orient themselves to the Living Word addressed to the church in the world. It's a great way to begin the day.
