Increasing Numbers. . .

. . .of Catholics worldwide

The Pontifical Yearbook for 2010 was presented to Pope Benedict on Saturday. The increases, slight as percentages, reflect not a small number of people throughout the world. Some details are summarized here.

And Counting

Zenit.com has listed key words at the Second Special Synod for Africa still in progress in Rome this month. The list also includes the numbers of times the words have been used. It provides a snapshot of the orientation of the synod.

The Vatican website offers more detailed information, including the preparation documents and Reflection of Pope Benedict during the synod's first general congregation (on 05 October). The proceedings synods and more in Rome are aids to learning the world and its situations beyond those in North America.