And Now for the News of the Day - Firday, October 7

News for the Day

From Becoming A Devout Disciple

Here are today’s News briefs from around the world. Here is some information to read, to reflect upon. Each of these events and issues require our prayers. Remember that God has a plan for each believer, each faithful follower. 

Always direct love and generosity toward God. Strive to be good tenants of the vineyard. Do not betray God. Fidelity with God is essential for our spiritual health, spiritual well-being.

35 new deacons studying at the Pontifical North American College in Rome were ordained at an October 6 ceremony in St. Peter’s Basilica. Deacon means “one who serves” and the 35 new deacons will have the opportunity to do that within the ministry of the Sacred Liturgy, of the Word, and of charity.

There are reports that Syrian troops stormed villages close to the border with Turkey yesterday, hunting armed military defectors who fought back in clashes that left at least four soldiers and three others dead, activists said. This new wave of fighting in Syria’s restive northern region of Jabal al-Zawiya, was the latest sign of a trend toward growing militarization of the uprising. It is believed that former military defectors have joined the rebels and are now fighting against the government. The United Nations human rights office estimates almost 3000 people have been killed during the seven months of unrest in Syria.

NATO is being warned that an exit from Afghanistan will lead the women vulnerable to harsh treatment. A law to prevent violence against women is only being enforced in 10 of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces. Young girls in rural Afghanistan are still married off as young as 12, some are sold to pay of debts. The United Nations estimated that at least 87 percent of Afghanistan women are victims of domestic abuse.

On this day October 7, 1963 President John F. Kennedy signed the documents of ratification for a nuclear test ban treaty with Britain and the Soviet Union.

On this day October 7, 1985 Palestinian gunmen hijacked the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro in the Mediterranean with more than 400 people aboard.