Catholic scholars, along with mainstream Protestant scholars, see in the primal stories of Genesis not literal history but symbolic, metaphoric stories which express basic truths about the human condition and humans.

Poland, one of Europe most Catholic nations, is facing new challenge in the practice of the faith as more people turn to Western secularization.

Every year, more than 1 million pilgrims from around the globe travel to the Czech Republic, praying in front of the Infant of Prague. They carry on a practice that stretches back hundreds of years.

Father John Corapi said he will not follow the order of his religious superior to leave his home in Montana to live in community with his fellow priests.

Father John A. Corapi was involved in “years of cohabitation” with a former prostitute, repeated abuse of alcohol and drugs and “serious violation” of his promise of poverty, according to a fact-finding team appointed by his religious order.

The Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity said it was “saddened” that Father John Corapi, one of the most visible members of its order, has decided to leave the order and the priesthood.

Father John Corapi, a popular author and preacher who has had speaking engagements all over the world, has been placed on administrative leave from priestly ministry over an accusation of misconduct.

“There is one notable thing about our Christianity: bad, bloody, merciless, money-grabbing and predatory … ours is a terrible religion.”

Their births made medical history as 29-year-old Stephania became the first known heart transplant recipient in the world to give birth to healthy twins.

“He was a good, good boy,” said Mr. Canzi, pausing to compose himself as his eyes moistened and his voice cracked. “I know he was a saint. I know his day will come.”