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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...
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Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Unity in Historic Inaugural Mass

In a momentous event that marked the beginning of his papacy, Pope Leo XIV, the first American to ascend to the papal throne, delivered a powerful plea for peace and unity during his inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square. The ceremony, attended by an estimated 200,000 faithful, including world leaders, dignitaries, and religious figures, underscored the pontiff’s vision for a reconciled world.

Leo XIV, a 69-year-old Augustinian missionary from Chicago, emphasized the need for harmony within the Catholic Church and beyond, urging the faithful to reject hatred, division, and economic exploitation. “I would like that our first great desire be for a united church, a sign of unity and communion, which becomes a leaven for a reconciled world,” he declared during his homily.

The Mass was steeped in tradition, with Leo XIV receiving the two potent symbols of the papacy—the pallium, a lambswool stole representing his pastoral duty, and the Fisherman’s Ring, signifying his role as the successor of St. Peter. The pope appeared visibly moved as these symbols were placed upon him, clasping his hands in prayer as the weight of his new responsibility settled in.

Among the distinguished guests were U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, reflecting the global significance of the event. The Vatican confirmed that Leo XIV would hold private meetings with several leaders, including Zelenskyy, to discuss pressing international issues.

Leo XIV’s message of unity resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom waved American flags in celebration of the historic moment. As the Mass concluded, jubilant cheers of “Papa!” echoed through the square, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church under its first American leader.

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