EWTN NEWS NIGHTLY

America's heartland is preparing for an ecological event it hasn't seen in 221 years. Pope Francis has officially proclaimed the 2025 Jubilee, a special Holy Year of Grace and Forgiveness. And Mother's Day can be a rather difficult day, especially for those who have lost a child.

President Biden announced the U.S. will stop supplying weapons to Israel all together if it invades Rafah. In Brazil, the death toll tops 100 people amid heavy flooding and the forecast this weekend calls for another set of storms. And, the latest data from the EU showed that April was the hottest month on record for global sea surface temperatures.

The United States is pumping the breaks on a shipment of bombs to Israel. Police in riot gear cleared away the pro-Palestinian protest on the campus of George Washington University. And the state of Florida is suing the Biden Administration over new federal laws on gender-based surgeries.

Israeli tanks rolled into Gaza seizing control of the Rafah border crossing. Stormy Daniels took the stand in the trial against Trump, where she recounted her encounter with him. And the Thomas More Society is accusing the NY attorney general of a witch hunt against pro-lifers.

Hamas Supreme Leader Ismail Haniyeh agreed to a cease-fire proposal. Today marks Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day to commemorate the 6 million Jewish lives lost in WWII, and the survivors. And among those gearing up for the 2024 Olympic games is the Vatican and the French Embassy to the Holy See.

Tens of thousands of dreamers, come this November will be allowed to enroll in ObamaCare. According to the US Labor Department, the unemployment rate rose to 3.9% in April, up slightly from March. And what started as a weekly exercise in prayer for men in Ireland has spread throughout the world.

The Biden Administration's plan to reclassify marijuana as a less-dangerous drug is seen as an election-year move to try and win young voters. And a new study into the 2024 election finds voters in the US are divided along religious lines, with 61% of white Catholics supporting Trump.

Pro-life advocates are celebrating Florida’s new pro-life measure that just became official May 1st. Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene announced she'll force a vote to oust Speaker Johnson. And today is the start of a month dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Campus protests are intensifying throughout the US. The International Criminal Court may soon issue arrest warrants for the Israeli prime minister and other top leaders for war crimes. And in Nebraska, residents are picking up the pieces after devastating tornadoes swept through the heartland on Friday.

Secretary of State Blinken says it’s up to Hamas to sign off on a ceasefire proposal he called “extraordinarily generous”. The Cardinal Newman Society is releasing its report card for college graduation speakers. And during his visit to Venice, Pope Francis met with prisoners, artists and young people.

There are no signs the pro-Palestinian protests in the US are ending anytime soon. The annual March for Martyrs takes place tomorrow in the nation's capital. And Pope Francis recently met with tens of thousands of pilgrims who use a hands-on approach to spreading the Gospel.

Former President Trump's lawyers were before the US Supreme Court, arguing presidential immunity. The annual Young Catholic Professionals conference kicks off on Friday and the theme is "workers in the vineyard". And Catholic athlete Joe Alt is following in his father's footsteps in many ways.

The US Supreme Court is deciding whether Idaho's abortion restrictions conflict with a federal law requiring hospitals to provide emergency care. President Biden has signed into law a controversial $95 billion war aid measure. And the US is weighing in on Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day.

As President Biden campaigns in Tampa he says, "Florida is in play" in 2024. Lawmakers are reacting to the DOJ report that finds there was "no malicious intent" behind the FBI memo targeting Traditional Catholics. And Cardinal Christophe Pierre recently received an honor, a little closer to Rome.

The Biden Administration has made it clear that the US was not involved in Israel's offensive operations against Iran. A recent article examines the state of the Catholic Church in Ireland. And the Catholic Church commemorates today the 19th anniversary of German Pope Benedict XVI's election.

The number of jurors in the hush money trial of Donald Trump has dropped by 2. Speaker Mike Johnson is facing a tough decision - pass foreign aid and risk his job or don't pass funding. And Rome is preparing for the Jubilee Year of 2025 and the arrival of millions of pilgrims.

As Israel contemplates a response, Iran issued a warning. There has been a push in Poland to allow abortion until the 12th week of pregnancy. And a new survey finds the latest group of soon-to-be ordained priests are younger than in years past.

Today is day 2 of former President Trump's hush money trial and jury selection is moving at a snail's pace. President Joe Biden is hitting the campaign trail. And Caitlin Clark was the number one overall pick in last night's women's professional basketball draft. Her former coach speaks with us.

Donald Trump became the first former president to face a criminal trial. The US and world leaders are weighing in as the Israeli War Cabinet weighs a response to Iran's attack. And Pope Francis encourages the faithful to share their personal encounters with Christ.

A new poll shows Americans believe both President Biden and Donald Trump did more harm than good while occupying the highest political office in the land. Pew Research released a brand new study on the Catholic Church in America. And EWTN has inaugurated a new office at the Vatican.

The Republican House leadership is once again hanging by a thread. A detransitioner in Oregon is suing Providence Milwaukie Hospital for professional malpractice. And Archbishop of Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory received a special award at the Pontifical North American College.

President Biden met with Japan's prime minister at the White House. Reaction from lawmakers continues about Arizona's Supreme Court decision, outlawing almost all abortions. And Biden announced a plan to cancel upwards of $20,000 in student debt for nearly 30 million borrowers, again.

A teen in Idaho is accused of planning attack on churches in the name of ISIS. ​In Nicaragua, the Ortega regime is sentencing 11 Protestant leaders to 12 to 15 years in prison. And at the Vatican, the goal of Dignitas Infinita is to reiterate that "every human person possesses an infinite dignity, inalienably grounded in his or her very being".

Former President Donald Trump released a video laying out his stance on abortion, putting the issue in states’ hands. Many pairs of sunglasses were gazing at the sky today as North America had a rare solar eclipse. And International experts and the Holy See gathered to discuss issues surrounding surrogacy.

An earthquake shook the densely populated New York City metropolitan area Friday morning. Preparations are underway for Monday's total solar eclipse. And while the opening of the 2025 Jubilee Year is months away, the planning is in progress.

Biden told the Israeli prime minister, “strikes on humanitarian workers… are unacceptable”. As Congress weighs banning TikTok, lawmakers say they are receiving a variety of threats. And the St. Pio Foundation in the US will be releasing ten never-before-seen photos of St. Padre Pio.

As the 2024 election heats up, Democrats are betting big again on abortion as a winning issue. This week, Michigan became the last state in the union to legalize surrogacy. And a new law against so-called hate speech has taken effect this week.

Israeli strikes hit an aid convoy, killing 7 members from the World Central Kitchen. The owner of the cargo ship that rammed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge filed a court petition this week, seeking to limit their legal liability. And today, the Church honors the death of St. John Paul II.

President Biden responded to criticism for making Easter Sunday, Transgender Day of Visibility. Survivors of the fallen Francis Scott Key bridge and the victims' families share their stories. EWTN Vatican Bureau reviews the Easter Triduum and the celebrations presided over by Pope Francis.

Donald Trump is partnering with country singer Lee Greenwood to promote the God Bless the USA Bible. All is set at the Vatican for the traditional Easter celebrations. And, with secularism making it difficult for parents to teach their children about the sacredness of Easter, one book attempts to tackle that challenge.

A major bridge in Baltimore, Maryland collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship. President Biden thanked “the brave rescuers who immediately rushed to the scene”. And in a US Supreme Court case, a group of pro-life medical doctors is challenging the FDA's approval of mifepristone.

Former President Donald Trump will head to trial next month. A Russian official says the death toll at a Moscow concert hall that was attacked is now at 139 people. And during Palm Sunday Mass, Pope Francis decided to let silence do the talking for his homily.

The House barely passed the more than $1 trillion government funding bill, but it could cost Speaker Mike Johnson his job. Monday's deadline looms for Donald Trump to come up with $454 million. And 10 years ago today, Pope Francis instituted the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors.

The baseball season kicked off, but the league is making headlines for all the wrong reasons. The Vatican Museums organized a special initiative so visitors can get a closer look at art that depicts the Lord's Passion and Resurrection. And today we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day.

President Biden and Trump are convincing voters across the country to select their name at the primary ballot box for president. The text for the $1 trillion funding bill is out and pro-life protections are included. And the National Association of Realtors has reached a settlement in an antitrust lawsuit.

It's shutdown week in Congress again, as lawmakers are scrambling to keep most of the government open, past Friday at midnight. An Arizona state Senator has announced that she is having an abortion. And today Catholics around the world celebrate the solemnity of Saint Joseph.

Russian President Vladimir Putin secured yet another 6 years in power. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is hitting back on comments from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. And Tuesday is a big day for Pope Francis as his first autobiography will be published in Europe and the US.

Special prosecutor Nathan Wade who was leading the case against Donald Trump has resigned. President Biden's budget to Congress takes aim at long-time pro-life policies. And Senator Chuck Schumer made comments sharply criticizing the Israeli Prime Minister's handling of the war with Hamas.

The fate of US aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan remains up in the air. For the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church visited the US. And the National Health Service in the UK says it will no longer prescribe puberty blockers for children.

Congress has taken the first step to potentially banning TikTok in the United States. As gangs in Haiti essentially now rule the country, the US Embassy has evacuated non-essential personnel. And a look at the past 11 years of Pope Francis' pontificate.

As Biden and Trump seek to win the White House in November, both men were the center of attention at a hearing today. Hawaii is holding GOP caucuses today while Washington, Mississippi and Georgia are holding their state primaries. And Boeing's year just went from bad to worse.

Some members of the Republican party are outlining their pro-life message. In Ireland, 2 constitutional amendments targeting women and the family have been rejected. And, Catholic bishops in Mexico are expressing their concern over the influence of drug cartels and organized crime.

The US military is preparing to set up a temporary aid station off of Gaza's coast. A new movie telling the true story of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini comes out today. And this weekend marks the annual 24 Hours for the Lord.

As the US prepares for President Biden's State of the Union Address, pro-lifers announce a big ad buy to counter the pro-abortion agenda. Tomorrow in Ireland, people will vote to change the definition of family. And today we look at the teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas, 750 years after his death.

Nikki Haley has ended her candidacy and both Biden and Trump want her supporters. And Former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow was on Capitol Hill as he testified about child sex abuse in front of a House panel.

Voters in 16 states are choosing who they want to run for the Oval Office in November of 2024. There's been another round of violence in Haiti. And on Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron will inscribe the right to an abortion into the country's constitution.

Supreme Court justices ruled that Trump cannot be removed from the ballot in Colorado or any other state with a similar lawsuit. Two popular pharmacy chains in the US have received certification to sell Mifepristone. And a look at the disposability of human life & human remains in today's society.

Russian President Vladimir Putin walked back his comments on nuclear war that stoked fears earlier this week. Congress is breathing a sigh of relief as a government shutdown is averted, again. And Cardinal Raymond Burke is launching a 9 month novena to pray for the Church amid "forces of sin".

President Biden and former President Donald Trump each visited Texas on the same day. The Supreme Court will consider for the first time whether a former president is immune from prosecution for alleged crimes committed while in office. And a new book is calling for a unity of faith and reason.

Senator Mitch McConnell, the longest serving Senate Leader announced he plans to step down as the Minority Leader come November. Hunter Biden faced off against House lawmakers on both the Judiciary and Oversight Committees. And, there's been an update on the health of Pope Francis.

Senators weighed in on a possible government shutdown and its impact on the country. Pope Francis is expressing grief for a tragic terrorist attack during Mass at a Catholic Church in Burkina Faso. And the University of Houston is set to unveil a statue that some believe is an homage to Satan.

In less than 24 hours, voters will head to the polls in Michigan to vote in the presidential primary. There are reports a new hostage deal with Hamas could be reached. And, the work of the Vatican and the Pope to find solutions to the conflict and stop the atrocities in Ukraine continues.

President Biden announced hundreds of new sanctions on Russia on the eve of the 2nd anniversary of its invasion of Ukraine. The much anticipated South Carolina Republican primary takes place tomorrow. And the Vatican Museums presented an exhibition to commemorate the tragic bombing by US forces in 1944.

President Biden released a statement reacting to the Alabama Supreme Court’s ruling that frozen embryos are legally considered children. Conservatives are gathering for the annual Conservative Political Action Conference. And Saturday marks the 2 year anniversary of the start of the Ukraine war.

Biden's GOP opponents are focused on South Carolina. A group of senators is demanding that the FBI come clean about its efforts to monitor traditional Catholics. And a new report says the government in Poland is seeking to reduce the number of hours for religion classes in public schools.

Catholic bishops met with drug cartel leaders in Mexico, seeking an end to violence. The funeral service of a transgender activist held at Saint Patrick's Cathedral in NYC continues to garner reactions. And this past weekend, thousands gathered for a unique Catholic event in New York.

On "EWTN News Nightly" tonight: In the Roosevelt Room of the White House, President Joe Biden, reacting to the death of Alexei Navalny, told reporters “he bravely stood up to the corruption, the violence and all the bad things the Putin government was doing.” Biden added, “Even in prison, he (Navalny) was a powerful voice for the truth.” EWTN News Nightly White House correspondent Owen Jensen reports. Michael Kimmage, a professor and Department Chair of history at the Catholic University of America joins News Nightly to discuss why the death of Alexei Navalny is so consequential and if Vladimir Putin considered him a threat. After witnessing all the pictures of people laying flowers at monuments dedicated to victims of political repression after Navalny's death was announced, Kimmage shares how this is resonating with people in Russia. Nearly four dozen members of Congress are accompanying the Vice President and others to Munich. Foreign leaders will be turning their attention to those lawmakers, seeking to have the U-S pass more funding for the war in Ukraine. Capitol Hill Correspondent, Erik Rosales reports. Gordon Chang, author of 'The Coming Collapse of China' joins News Nightly to discuss article 23, if it will become law, and why it is being considered when the current National Security law is already resulting in numerous arrests and convictions. Bishop Earl Fernandes of Columbus, Ohio joins News Nightly to discuss Encounter, an event in New York City taking place this weekend. Bishop Fernandes is a featured speaker and will share why it is such a powerful and unique event, later he explains this year's theme, "Tearing Open the Sleeping Soul" which pays tribute to St. Gregory the Great. Don't miss out on the latest news and analysis from a Catholic perspective. Get EWTN News Nightly delivered to your email: https://ewtn.com/enn

On "EWTN News Nightly" tonight: Former President Donald Trump—trying to win back the White House in November of 2024—is headed to trial. His hush-money case gets going March 25, 2024. That’s what a judge has ruled. Trump said in Manhattan, “We’re here for something that is not a crime.” EWTN News Nightly White House Correspondent, Owen Jensen reports. The head of the House Intelligence Committee sent out a text message warning lawmakers of a "serious national security threat" involving Russia. It set off alarm bells, not just on Capitol Hill but through the nation. Capitol Hill Correspondent Erik Rosales reports. Ed Clancy, Director of Outreach of to 'Aid to the Church in Need' joins News Nightly to discuss the situation for Christians in Gaza, especially the Catholic Parish of the Holy Family. He also gives insight to the daily life of the people seeking refuge. AC Wimmer of CNA Deutsch joins News Nightly to discuss the reasons why European farmers have taken to the streets in protest. He also shares what support the farmers have received from government officials and the Catholic Church. Later Wimmer discusses the impact these protests will have, the response from the EU, and the long-term prospects for farming on the continent. Today marks the 80th anniversary of one of the most controversial moments of WWII. On February 15th,1944 allied forces bombed Monte Cassino, a Catholic monastery in Italy. Now the Benedictine community there is commemorating the day and sharing insight on what happened. EWTN Vatican Bureau Chief, Andreas Thonhauser reports. Don't miss out on the latest news and analysis from a Catholic perspective. Get EWTN News Nightly delivered to your email: https://ewtn.com/enn

An update on the situation in Gaza. Pro-life lawmakers are demanding answers from the Justice Department over the fate of 5 fetuses known as the DC 5. And what is the history of Ash Wednesday and is there a Biblical significance for Lent?

A number of Republicans in the Senate joined Democrats passing a $95 billion aid package. A Catholic hospital in Canada is preparing to face a lawsuit over refusing to end a patient's life. And EWTN is offering an online video series seeking to bring the faithful closer to Christ this Lent.

More on the fallout from former President Donald Trump's appeal and what it means for the January 6th federal case. A new book out on the benefits of marriage is revealing some surprising data. And Mama Antula became Argentina's first female saint this past weekend.

A report criticizing President Joe Biden's memory, stating he's not competent to stand trial was released in Congress. A look at a new report on the long term effects of gender treatments on adolescents. And the Catholic Chaplain for the San Francisco 49ers discusses the Super Bowl.

The US Supreme Court will determine if former President Donald Trump should be kept off the ballot. One human trafficking victim shares her story on the feast day of St. Bakhita, the patron of victims of human trafficking. And a look at the 19th annual National Catholic Prayer Breakfast.

The Senate's bipartisan border bill is officially dead after Republicans voted against it. A top US diplomat met with Israeli leaders as the fate of hostages continues to hang in the balance. And a Catholic prayer event is set for tomorrow in the nation's capital.

A federal appeals court delivered a significant defeat to former President Trump. Voters in Nevada head to the polls for both the Democratic and Republican presidential primaries. And, millions in Turkey commemorated the first anniversary of the tragic earthquake that struck the country.

A look at the United States' strategy in the Middle East. Connecticut is set to become the first state to eliminate medical debt for its residents. And, an event in Rome aimed at discovering the rich Irish culture and heritage inspired by the legends of Saint Brigid.

President Biden traveled to Dover Air Force Base for the dignified transfer of 3 US soldiers who were killed in action. There are new developments regarding 6 pro-lifers in Tennessee found guilty of violating the FACE Act. And, today we celebrate the World Day for Prayer for Consecrated Life.

The US responds to attacks in the Red Sea by Houthi rebels. Millions of working families in the US may soon have more money in their pockets. And the Holy Father is turning his attention toward Lent.

Senators are demanding Big Tech do more to safeguard children. On Capitol Hill, talks continue on a border security package that would unlock aid to Ukraine and Israel. And, a Catholic couple from Louisiana received an extraordinary honor from Pope Francis.

Biden says he's made a decision on how to respond to the drone attack that left 3 US soldiers dead. House Republicans are moving closer to impeaching Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. And the state of Maine is trying to make abortion a constitutional right.

President Biden responds to the death of 3 American service-members in Jordan. In Turkey, ISIS has claimed responsibility for an attack on a Catholic Church. And, culture often portrays the teenage years in a dark, difficult manner, but a new book shows there is an uplifting alternative.

EWTN News Nightly | Friday, January 26, 2024 The White House and Senate negotiators continue their weeks-long border policy negotiations. A study finds 51% of adults under the age of 30 say an open marriage is "acceptable". And a concerning new report by the UN finds in Afghanistan the Taliban are placing severe restrictions on women.

Members of the USCCB are praising lawmakers for a bipartisan plan to enhance the Child Tax Credit. Lawmakers in Ohio overrode the governor's veto of a ban on gender surgeries for minors. And, the 27th edition of the St. Francis de Sales Congress is taking place in Lourdes.

Former President Donald Trump secured victory in the New Hampshire primary. It’s looking more and more likely that a 2020 rematch between Joe Biden and Trump is inevitable. And 2 ships with US flags have come under attack near Yemen. Suspicion immediately fell on Houthi rebels.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem visited Hungary. Pope Francis has consecrated 2024 as the Year of Prayer in preparation for the Jubilee of 2025. And, a pro-life diaper company just wrapped up its ad campaign in the heart of the Big Apple.

With Ron DeSantis officially out of the presidential race, Donald Trump and Nikki Haley will go head-to-head tomorrow. In freezing temperatures and falling snow, thousands marched for life. And Pope Francis met this morning with 150 journalists who cover the Vatican.

Thousands of marchers are arriving in Washington, ahead of Friday's annual March for Life. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins today. And Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus Christ in 'The Chosen', discusses his new project.

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the Loper-Bright case. A new study sheds light on problems with foster care in the US. And, a look at a new initiative regarding the largest pediatric hospital in Europe, which is part of the Vatican.

On "EWTN News Nightly" tonight: A-P Correspondent Philip Crowther is live at the Iowa Events Center to discuss Trump's record-setting win in Iowa last night. From the White House, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are weighing in on Trump's win, including the topic of Roe v. Wade and its demise in 2022. CUA Professor Matthew Green joins News Nightly to discuss his thoughts on last night's Iowa results, considering this was the lowest Caucus turnout in 24 years. Later he explains the differences between the Iowa Caucuses and a New Hampshire primary, in terms of style of vote and who constitutes those votes. Congress has only four days to avoid a partial government shutdown. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced a new deal to keep some federal departments open. Bishop Kevin Rhoades from the diocese of Fort Wayne- South Bend is the new Chairman of the USCCB Religious Liberty Committee. He discusses why he and his brother Bishops decided to release a report on religious freedom and if the report will address gender ideology. In other news, Pope Francis responded publicly to questions about the Vatican's declaration on blessings for same-sex couples for the first time in a television interview on Sunday night. Pope Francis later touched on the possibility of a trip to his home country of Argentina, EWTN News Vatican Correspondent Colm Flynn reports. Don't miss out on the latest news and analysis from a Catholic perspective. Get EWTN News Nightly delivered to your email: https://ewtn.com/enn

We are just days away from the 51st annual March for Life in the nation's capital. Jess Ford is a writer and preacher whose mother almost aborted him until by the grace of God, she had a change of heart. And despite being pushed an abortion agenda, the LeBlanc's chose life for their baby girls.

The twin brothers of Liran Berman were abducted by the terrorists on October 7th. He joins to speak out. Elections are set for Saturday in Taiwan and they are taking place amid warnings from China. And many dioceses around the country will celebrate Mass on Monday in honor of MLK Day.

The director of the World Health Organization is reporting some startling numbers regarding COVID. A judge in Colorado is considering a case involving Catholic schools. And, the Knights of Columbus is supporting a restoration of the canopy over the high altar in Saint Peter's Basilica.

Members of a House committee held their first impeachment hearing for Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas. Gang violence has reached a fever pitch in Ecuador, with the president declaring a state of emergency. And one year after his death, Cardinal George Pell was commemorated in Rome.

Former President Donald Trump is back in a Washington DC court. Next week is the Iowa caucuses, and a Catholic group is doing its best to get Catholics out to vote. One candidate hoping to make an impact at the polls, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, joins to discuss his faith.

Congress will try to finish work on the federal budget this week. The State Department recently released its updated list of countries where religious freedom is being curtailed and the faithful are being targeted. And, kicking off 2024, around 20,000 young people converged on Saint Louis, for a week filled with worship of God, and witness to the Catholic faith.

Former President Trump looks to be in a strong position again to run against current President Joe Biden. The Christmas season is winding down and at the Vatican, as the solemnity of the Epiphany takes place on Saturday. And the Orlando Magic are turning heads across the NBA this season.

A trio of senators have spent weeks laboring to get a complex immigration deal with the Biden Administration. A new study is shedding light on the attitude toward abortion among voters in Iowa. And the Vatican has clarified its recent document on guidance for same-sex blessings.

The US issued a joint statement warning the Houthis against attacking commercial vessels in the Red Sea. 60 House Republicans cut their holiday recess short and made a trek to the Southern border. And in Nicaragua, 2023 ended with more than a dozen Catholic clergy in jail.

Donald Trump is battling Colorado and Maine, which have banned him from the states’ ballots. Ukraine held strikes on the Russian border city of Belgorod, where 25 people were killed on Saturday. And there are new developments in the terror threat against a major cathedral in Germany.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died on December 31st 2022 at the age of 95, following a brief illness. Scholars, experts and friends of the late pope are gathering near St. Peter's Basilica to discuss his impact on the Church and society. When it comes to Catholic thought, he will long be considered a gift to Church theologians.

In a special edition of EWTN News Nightly, we preview what’s ahead in 2024. We discuss the long road to the 2024 presidential election and the upcoming abortion ballot initiatives. Hear what’s to come with the Synod on Synodality - plus, exciting details on the National Eucharistic Congress.

In a special edition of EWTN News Nightly, we look back at 2023 - from the White House, Capitol Hill, Vatican, and beyond. And we review the headlines ranging from Pope Benedict XVI's funeral to the Synod on Synodality with National Catholic Register's Shannon Mullen and ACI Group's Kelsey Wicks.

On "EWTN News Nightly" tonight: 'Doctor Joseph Capizzi Dean of the School of Theology and Religious Studies at the Catholic University of America joins EWTN News Nightly to give a brief overview of the Catholic teaching on War, specifically the basic elements of the "Just War" theory. Dr. Capizzi discusses if this teaching supports Israel's decision to "eradicate" Hamas in the wake of the brutal October 7 attacks. He also responds to the upsurge in anti-semitism and anti-semeitc attacks on college campuses across the nation. President Joe Biden signs a new executive order targeting Russia. He wants to block Russian defense contractors from building more weapons to use against Ukraine. The president is also sending his secretary of state and homeland security secretary to Mexico to coordinate a response to the surge of migrants at the U.S. border. Tonata Lolesio, Principal of Sacred Hearts Catholic School in Lahaina, joins News Nightly to give an update on the community of Lahaina. Lolesio discusses the church and school community there and how everyone is rallying around one another through the ups and downs. Later she shares how they have still been able to teach and educate students despite all the challenges they have been facing. Lastly, all is set at the Vatican for the traditional Christmas celebrations. A busy two weeks for Pope Francis will begin Sunday with Christmas Eve mass in St. Peter's Basilica. EWTN Vatican News Correspondent, Colm Flynn reports. Get EWTN News Nightly delivered to your email: https://ewtn.com/enn

On "EWTN News Nightly" tonight: Senior advisor to the Israeli Prime Minister and former Israeli Ambassador to the UK, Mark Regev joins EWTN News Nightly to give the latest on the ongoing war in the Middle East and the status of the remaining hostages. Later, Regev shares his thoughts on the Biden Administration's urge to Israel to shift from high- intensity operations to more targeted intelligence- driven missions. Before leaving for a three week Christmas break, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Republican Leader Mitch McConnell put out a joint statement about border talks. Both leaders say they hope an agreement can be reached so that the senate can take swift action on the National Security bill early next year when Congress returns Capitol Hill Correspondent, Erik Rosales reports. A new study finds that 7 percent of U.S. workers say they have been treated unfairly in the workplace due to their religious identity. Alex Alonso, Chief Knowledge Officer at the Society for Human Resource Management joins News Nightly to discuss this study and why it was conducted in the first place. Jem Sullivan, Associate Professor at the Catholic University of America and author of "The Beauty of Faith' joins EWTN News Nightly to discuss the artist, Giorgione who painted a beautiful image of the Adoration of the Shepherds that hangs in the National Gallery of Art. Don't miss out on the latest news and analysis from a Catholic perspective. Get EWTN News Nightly delivered to your email: https://ewtn.com/enn

The Colorado Supreme Court has ruled that former President Donald Trump will not be allowed on the state's 2024 primary ballot. And lawmakers say they are renewing calls to reinstate those discharged from the military for refusing orders to get the COVID vaccine. Meanwhile, the Houthi rebels have said they are capable of turning the Red Sea into a graveyard.

A new report shows Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers received billions of dollars in tax-payer money. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed 3 bills into law in an effort to deter illegal immigration. And today is the 2nd day of the trial of Catholic, Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong.

Cardinal Angelo Becciu has been sentenced to 5 years and 6 months imprisonment. The IIDF is denying responsibility for the reported killing of 2 women at a Catholic Church in Gaza. And, over the weekend there were nearly 200 bomb threats against Jewish institutions and synagogues.

The Parents Television and Media Council has released its annual naughty and nice list. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception will hold its annual Christmas choir concert this Saturday. And a look at the tradition of the nativity scene which began 800 years ago.

Congress passed a massive defense policy bill before going on Christmas break. New retail data shows the holiday season is off to a strong start with sales in November up .3% over the prior month. And the Vatican has issued guidance earlier this week regarding cremation.