20-26 July 2026

Vatican News

US Bishops: Racial profiling violates God-given dignity and inflicts profound harm (Photo: Vatican News)On July 20, 2026, US Bishops Daniel E. Garcia and Brendan J. Cahill issued a pastoral reflection condemning racial profiling in immigration enforcement after recent encounters resulted in deaths. They affirmed the role of civil authorities but insisted law enforcement must uphold human dignity and moral limits. The bishops called for reforms to address systemic injustices, warning that profiling violates dignity and fosters fear. They prayed for victims, families, and leaders while urging an end to dehumanizing rhetoric and prejudice. Read more →

'Man and Nature: Fragile Balances' exhibit debuts in Borgo Laudato si’ (Photo: Vatican News)The photography exhibition "Man and Nature: Fragile Balances," showcasing winning entries from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation Environmental Photography Award, opened on 3 July at Borgo Laudato si’ in the Pontifical Gardens of Castel Gandolfo. Organized by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s Italian branch and the John Paul II Youth Foundation, the exhibit runs until 30 July, highlighting humanity’s connection to Creation and the need to protect ecosystems. Ahead of the opening, the conference "Caring for Creation: Knowing in Order to Act" gathered Church leaders, scientists, and experts to discuss integral ecology and shared responsibility for safeguarding the environment. The event, hosted by Cardinal Fabio Baggio, included a tour of Borgo Laudato si’ and featured speakers like Professor Danilo Mollicone of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. Read more →

Regional Activities

Europe

Europe Looking Back On The Joint Session (Photo: OMI World)From 15 to 21 June in Romania, Oblates gathered for a week of shared discernment on Europe’s missionary future, engaging in dialogue, prayer, and Conversation in the Spirit. The session fostered deep communion and openness, with discussions on uniting the Belgium-Netherlands and France-Benelux Units as a hopeful step forward. Prayer and visits to local communities anchored the gathering, while the Superior General closed by urging continued passion in discernment and mission renewal. Participants described the experience as overwhelmingly positive, though some noted slower progress on administrative and formation decisions. Read more →