As an aid to Lenten reflection over the next few weeks, Spero columnist Prof. Michael Martin offers readers some thoughts on a few of the films he uses in a Religion and Film course he offers every winter semester.

Fr. Francis Wang, chaplain of the Chinese community in Prato, speaks to AsiaNews about value of mission and promoting integration in a foreign land. The day of prayer for the Church in China was attended by over 400 faithful from 300 Italian cities. During Mass Mgr. Savio Hon baptised five adults. ...

During Lent, parishes promoted moments of meeting and communion to strengthen the faith. For the archbishop of Saigon, Lent is the ideal time "to renew religious life and consolidate our faith and community ties". Fundraisers bring in money for the sick and needy.

Lent, like the priesthood, is about sacrifice.

Only prayer can drive out some kinds of spirits.

Card. Turkson, Justice and Peace, and the Custodian of the Holy Land for the fourth edition of the Day. Prayers and Eucharistic adoration, Mass at Calvary in Jerusalem. Angelus with the Pope.

The government made an "unofficial" apology, but the church wants an official statement withdrawing all charges against Sister Eliza and the hostel for unmarried mothers. On 15 December there will be the first hearing.