The U.S. bishops' harsh critique of a Elizabeth Johnson's book was not meant to question her “dedication, honor, creativity or service.”

Researchers acknowledged that there is uncertainty about the scale of future risk, but argued, “Uncertainty is not a reason for inaction."

“Things are worse than I thought,” said a volunteer for Caritas Japan cleaning up a community damaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

Hundreds of people are missing, according to sources inside Vietnam; many escaped into the bush fleeing from attack helicopters.

Nations and individuals have a duty to enact policies that mitigate global warming, said a Vatican-sponsored working group.

The fallout following the forced retirement of Australian Bishop William Morris has grown more caustic in recent days.