The Changing Face Of Religion (in Switzerland)

Fewer and fewer people adhere to organised religion in the western world. Switzerland is no exception, with a rising number claiming to have no religious affiliation.

But although church attendance is falling, religion became a factor ahead of the 2007 federal elections, especially with an increasingly large and more visible Muslim population. swissinfo's special dossier takes a closer look at Switzerland's changing religious landscape.

The site above contains a multitude of articles, each pointing to the larger view of what “religion” is in Switzerland. As you read through the articles, pray for understanding, pray for workers to be called to the Swiss people, and pray for the Swiss people themselves - surrounded by so much turmoil and misunderstanding.

Moral battle over Spanish schools

“If you are able to lead kids to a certain way of thinking, you can have full control of them - that’s what I think the government is trying to do now,” complains Agustin Losada, a parent whose formal objection to the new classes is supported by Madrid’s Conservative regional government.

Mr Losada adds: “The right to educate children in moral principles does not belong to the government, it belongs to the parents. It’s a principle that's recognised by our constitution.”

Read the full article here

The situation in many countries of Europe is not too different than how it is in America. As you read this article, put yourself in the role of the Spanish parents - let your prayers for your own children also be prayers for the children of the peoples of Spain.

Germany named Europe’s top migrant destination

Germany has been named Europe’s principal country of destination for migrants, according to the World Migration Report (WMR) 2008 released on Tuesday.

As host to 10.1 million migrants in 2005, Germany was well ahead of the other top countries in the study by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) on how globalisation is effecting human movement. France came in second with 6.5 million migrants, the United Kingdom had 5.4 million, Spain had 4.8 million, and Italy 2.5 million.

Read the whole story here.

Western Europe has always seemed to be better known as a place where someone is “from” as opposed to where people go. With the increase of immigrants, migrants and refugees, Europe is a bridge to the world now more than ever. Take the time now to pray for the many peoples and places of Europe.