While economic growth in Latin America continues, many of its poorest citizens complain the benefits have passed them by.

At least 161 people were indicted and nine were killed in extrajudicial executions in 2011 because of accusations of blasphemy.

The millions of refugees and migrants in the world "are looking for a place they can live in peace,” Pope Benedict XVI said on Jan. 15.

Several legislative challenges to crucial domestic and international anti-poverty programs were turned back in 2011.

A persistent drought is forcing farmers to abandon traditional rain-reliant practices.

For decades the U.S. bishops have supported a decent minimum wage for U.S. workers in keeping with church teaching on a just wage.