Pope strongly defends priestly celibacy in vigil with priests, doesn’t dwell on abuse scandal

Pope defends celibacy for priests at Vatican rally

Right-wing alliance possible after indecicive Dutch election, but talks likely to take months

Anti-Islam party might join Dutch Cabinet

AMSTERDAM — A hard right-wing government including the anti-Islam party of populist Geert Wilders emerged as an increasing possibility Thursday, as Dutch voters weighed the inconclusive outcome of a national election.

Cuba’s Roman Catholic church hopes for more movement on political prisoners

Church in Cuba hopes for more progress on inmates

Afghans stone German base over proselytising allegations

KUNDUZ - At least four people were injured in northern Afghanistan Thursday when protesters threw stones at a German military camp over claims that two aid organisations had preached Christianity in the country.

Turkey’s Erdogan emerging as leader in Muslim world, hosting Arab league on home soil

Turkey’s Erdogan: emerging leader in Muslim world

Coalition talks to begin after polarized Dutch voters back both right and left parties

Polarized Dutch voters back right and left parties

Church officials say Susan Boyle in talks to perform for Pope Benedict XVI during British tour

Susan Boyle to perform for pope during UK tour

Canadian Muslim woman to lead mixed-gender prayers in London

LONDON - A Canadian author may become the first Muslim-born woman to lead the prayers at a mixed-gender congregation in Britain Friday as mosques bow to demands from modern Muslim women for their right to pray and representation.

Thousands of priests gather in Rome in show of support for pope amid abuse scandal

Thousands of priests rally in defense of pope

US commander in Afghanistan says Kandahar operation will take longer than planned

General: Kandahar operation will take longer

Muslim woman invited to lead mixed-gender prayers

LONDON - A Canadian author, Raheel Raza, may become the first Muslim-born woman to lead the prayers at a mixed-gender congregation in Britain Friday.