News Watch ( Kairos Global, May 2026, Issue 98 )

Beatification process for Fr Roberto Malgesini officially started 

The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints has authorised the opening of the beatification process for Fr Roberto Malgesini, an Italian priest from Como who was widely known for his dedication to the poor until he was killed in 2020. 

Cardinal Oscar Cantoni of Como announced the decision on 21 March during a Lenten retreat for young people, attended by Malgesini’s sister. Malgesini was murdered by a homeless man with mental health issues while preparing to distribute breakfast near his parish, Saint Rocco. Although it is unclear whether his case falls under the category of offering one’s life in charity, Pope Francis described his death as a martyrdom rooted in love for the poor. The attacker was later sentenced to 25 years in prison. 

Born in 1969 and ordained in 1998, Malgesini spent years serving different communities before becoming parish vicar at Saint Rocco. He became especially known for his quiet, consistent care for the needy, often delivering food each morning with volunteers. Despite facing challenges, including a briefly imposed fine for aiding the homeless, he remained committed to his mission. Remembered as humble and joyful, Malgesini was praised for seeing Christ in everyone and serving without distinction. Church leaders and his family continue to honour his legacy of compassion and faith. 

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Prolife March in Portugal Disrupted 

A pro-life march in Lisbon, Portugal, was disrupted on 21 March when a demonstrator threw a Molotov cocktail into the crowd. The device did not ignite, but it caused panic among participants, including families and children, who had gathered near the national Parliament. Fortunately, no one was injured. 

The suspect, a 39-year-old man, was quickly restrained by attendees before police intervened and arrested him. Authorities later stated that he is linked to an activist group known for causing disturbances at public demonstrations. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation and remains in custody. No clear motive has been identified, and this marks the first violent incident targeting a pro-life event in Portugal. 

Event organiser Nuno Marques Afonso condemned the act, emphasising the potential danger posed to the many families present. Similarly, Lisbon’s Patriarch, Archbishop Rui Valério, strongly denounced the violence, calling it incompatible with democratic values and especially troubling given the presence of children. He reaffirmed the Church’s support for participants and stressed that violence undermines truth and human dignity. 

The march drew about 4,000 people in Lisbon, advocating for the protection of life and opposing euthanasia. While abortion is legal under certain conditions in Portugal, euthanasia legislation approved in 2023 has yet to be implemented.

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Catholic Bishops warn about New Anti-Conversion Law 

Catholic bishops in India’s Maharashtra state have warned that a newly passed anti-conversion law could expose clergy and laypeople to imprisonment for carrying out normal religious activities. The concern centres on the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act, approved by the state legislature in mid-March. 

The bishops argue that the law interferes with essential Church practices, particularly the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), which prepares individuals to freely choose to become Catholic. They emphasised that the programme is designed to ensure conversions are voluntary and well informed. However, under the new legislation, even such conversions could be challenged – especially if family members object – leading to accusations of coercion or ‘brainwashing.’ Those involved in the process could face severe penalties, including up to seven years in prison and significant fines, despite no wrongdoing. The bishops also raised concerns about vague language in the law, the shifting of the burden of proof onto the accused, and the lack of safeguards against false allegations. 

Supporters of the law say it is intended only to prevent forced or fraudulent conversions. However, critics argue that similar laws in other Indian states have been used to discourage conversions to minority religions like Christianity. 

Maharashtra, India’s second most populous state, is expected to become the 13th state with such legislation once it receives final approval. Catholic leaders are calling for the law to be withdrawn or revised, insisting that it threatens religious freedom and could deepen social divisions.

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Record Number of Baptisms planned in the Diocese of Richmond 

A record 900 people are set to enter the Catholic Church during Easter Vigil Masses on 4 April in the Diocese of Richmond, marking a significant increase in adult conversions. These individuals will receive baptism, the Eucharist, and confirmation after completing their formation. Church leaders say the surge reflects a deeper spiritual search, especially among younger people. 

Catechists like Chris Emsley and Rose Scott noted that many are drawn to what they see as enduring truth in a world often shaped by relativism. After participating in the Rite of Election – led by Bishop Barry Knestout – the candidates are now known as ‘the elect’ until their initiation at Easter. A notable trend is the youthfulness of many participants. At parishes like St Stephen Martyr Church, many catechumens are in their 20s, while even teenagers are independently seeking the faith. Some are deeply engaged intellectually, reading theologians such as Thomas Aquinas and Augustine of Hippo.

Personal stories highlight this movement. Teenagers like Samuel Cece discovered Christianity through unexpected means, such as a comic-style Bible, while others like Isaiah Watrous and Kaelynn Lake were introduced through social media, online debates, or influencers like Fr Mike Schmitz. This growth reflects a broader national trend. Other dioceses, including Diocese of Trenton and archdioceses such as Archdiocese of Washington, Archdiocese of Seattle, and Archdiocese of Chicago, are also reporting sharp increases in people entering the Church. 

Church leaders attribute the rise to a renewed desire for meaning, community, and faith – especially among young adults seeking purpose and hope in a complex world.