Monday 20th April. Please find below this week’s media update, kindly provided by the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, Office of Communications and Evangelisation. The briefing includes coverage from Scotland and the wider UK, together with Vatican and international developments. Please click on the link in each item to be taken to the full article.
SCOTLAND
Scottish Catholics urged to pray for peace amid global tensions
Source: https://www.scottishdailyexpress.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scottish-catholics-told-pray-peace-37009365
At a Glance:
• Scottish Catholics have been encouraged to pray for peace amid global instability.
• The call reflects growing concern among Church leaders over international conflict.
• Highlights the Church’s role in responding spiritually to world events.
• Also seen in: ICN, EWTN
Scottish bishops back SCIAF’s Lenten appeal
Source: https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/in-your-area/lanarkshire/scots-bishops-give-blessing-sciafs-37010701
At a Glance:
• Scotland’s Catholic bishops have supported SCIAF’s latest appeal.
• The campaign focuses on tackling poverty and supporting vulnerable communities.
• Demonstrates continued episcopal backing for Catholic social action.
• Also seen in: Yahoo News, DNG24, Paisley Daily Express, MSN, Glasgow Times
Lord High Commissioner reappointed ahead of General Assembly
Source: https://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/news-and-events/news/articles/lady-elish-angiolini-re-appointed-as-lord-high-commissioner-to-the-general-assembly
At a Glance:
• Lady Elish Angiolini has been reappointed as Lord High Commissioner.
• The role represents the monarch at the Church of Scotland’s General Assembly.
• Reflects ongoing links between Church and civic life in Scotland.
UK
Archbishop of Canterbury backs Pope’s calls for peace
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/apr/16/archbishop-of-canterbury-sarah-mullally-pope-leo-peace-trump
At a Glance:
• UK church leaders were referenced in discussion on global peace and politics.
• Pope Leo XIV featured in wider commentary on international leadership.
• The story reflects continued religious influence in public discourse.
Bishop campaigns for universal free school meals
Source: https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/bishop-campaigns-for-free-school-meals-for-all-amid-heartbreaking-child-poverty/
At a Glance:
• A Catholic bishop is advocating for free school meals for all children.
• The campaign highlights rising concern over child poverty in the UK.
• Demonstrates Church engagement in social justice issues.
POPE / VATICAN
Pope Leo XIV begins Africa tour with visit to Algeria
Source: https://www.france24.com/en/africa/20260413-pope-leo-xiv-begins-landmark-algeria-visit-on-first-leg-of-africa-tour
At a Glance:
• Pope Leo XIV has begun a multi-country visit to Africa.
• The trip includes Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.
• Focus areas include peace, dialogue, and the role of the Church in society.
Pope expresses solidarity with Ukraine amid attacks
Source: https://kyivindependent.com/pope-leo-voices-solidarity-with-ukraine-amid-escalating-attacks-on-civilians/
At a Glance:
• Pope Leo XIV has voiced support for Ukraine amid renewed attacks.
• He called for protection of civilians and an end to violence.
• The Vatican continues to advocate for peace and humanitarian response.
WORLDWIDE
US government ends funding to Catholic Charities programme
Source: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/hhs-ended-miami-catholic-charities-173224784.html
At a Glance:
• A US federal programme supporting Catholic Charities has been ended.
• The decision affects services provided to vulnerable communities.
• Raises concerns about the future of Church-led social programmes.
Trump refuses to apologise after clash with Pope over Iran
Source: https://www.euronews.com/2026/04/14/trump-refuses-to-apologise-after-clash-with-pope-leo-xiv-over-iran-war
At a Glance:
• Donald Trump has refused to apologise following disagreement with Pope Leo XIV.
• The clash centred on the Iran conflict and global security.
• Highlights tension between political leadership and Vatican diplomacy.