"The summons to disobedience has not only left many Catholics shaking their heads, but has also triggered alarm and sadness," the Austrian bishops said.

The brutal crackdown on dissent in Syria continues unabated despite the signing of an Arab League peace plan on Nov. 2.

After being denied in June, federal funding for the AmeriCorps Education Awards disbursed through the Catholic Volunteer Network has been restored to 75 percent of its 2010 funding.

Even if Iran has been pursuing nuclear capability, a military response meant would lead only to more instability, says Notre Dame's Gerald Powers.

A mob led by government officials attacked a convent and church in early November.

“This Mass is a sign of solidarity, especially for immigrants who try to cross the border and encounter so many troubles to reach their goal."