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How the Strait of Hormuz Crisis Is Hitting Your Wallet Right Now

Published May 17, 2026  |  Category: Oil Prices & Energy  |  By MoneySavings.ca If you've winced lately at the gas pump or noticed your grocery bill creeping up, you're not imagining it. A geopolitical crisis unfolding halfway around the world — at a narrow strip of water between Iran and Oman — is directly squeezing Canadian budgets. Here's everything you need to know, and what you can do about it. What Is the Strait of Hormuz? The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway just 33 kilometres wide at its tightest point, connecting the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. Despite its modest size, it is the world's single most critical energy chokepoint. Before this crisis, roughly 20 million barrels of oil moved through it every single day — about 20% of all the world's seaborne oil supply, plus significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Think of it as the world's energy jugular vein. When it gets blocked, the entire planet feels it. What Happened? On Februa...

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Pope Leo XIV Calls for Church to Illuminate the World in First Mass

 

 In his first Mass as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV urged the Catholic Church to serve as a guiding light in a world facing spiritual darkness. Speaking in the Sistine Chapel, where he was elected less than 24 hours earlier, the newly appointed pope emphasized the importance of faith and outreach.

Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, is the first American pope in the Church’s history. During his homily, he acknowledged the challenges of modern society, where faith is often dismissed or misunderstood. He expressed his vision for the Church as a beacon of hope, illuminating the “dark nights” of the world and offering guidance to those searching for meaning.

Dressed in simple white and gold vestments, Pope Leo XIV spoke briefly in English before continuing his homily in Italian. He described his role as a “faithful administrator” of the Church and called on Catholics to embrace their mission with joy and conviction.

The Mass was attended by over 130 cardinals, who had gathered for the conclave that elected Leo XIV as the 267th pope. Following the service, the new pontiff was scheduled to have lunch with the cardinals before they departed for their respective dioceses.

Leo XIV’s election marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, and his first words as pope suggest a commitment to unity, faith, and renewal. As he embarks on his papacy, many will be watching to see how he leads the Church into this new chapter.

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