Brazil's Catholic bishops have called for an impartial investigation into the federal government's handling of COVID-19 vaccine purchases amid the pandemic. They highlighted the loss of over half a million lives and allegations of corruption. The Brazilian Senate is conducting a hearing to assess potential crimes by President Jair Bolsonaro and health officials. A Ministry of Health employee alleged pressure to authorize an overpriced vaccine purchase. The bishops have previously criticized Bolsonaro's pandemic response, which has downplayed the severity of COVID-19 and dismissed safety measures.

The Brazilian bishops' conference congratulated Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his presidential election victory, emphasizing the need for continued work and unity in Brazil. The election, which saw da Silva defeat incumbent Jair Bolsonaro by a narrow margin, was the closest since the end of military rule. The bishops echoed Pope Francis's call for politics to serve the common good. Advocates for the poor and Indigenous communities expressed hope for positive changes under da Silva's leadership, particularly in the Amazon region. Da Silva plans to address Brazil's re-addition to the UN Hunger Map, a situation that has worsened since his previous presidency.

The 19th Loyalty & Awards Conference by Global Flight was successfully held in Rio de Janeiro, marking its first occurrence in South America. The event highlighted Brazil's position as one of the top three loyalty markets globally and featured discussions on loyalty program trends, including subscription programs, with insights from industry leaders. Technology's role in loyalty programs was also debated, with a consensus that emerging trends like AI and NFTs are still in early stages. The conference facilitated valuable idea exchanges among competitors and culminated in the Golden Loyalty Awards, recognizing achievements in marketing, technology, management, and partnerships.

Peru's GDP grew by 2.7% in 2022, driven by a 2.3% increase in domestic demand, with household consumption contributing 3.6% and gross fixed capital formation 0.8%. Exports rose by 5.9%, while imports expanded by 4.2%. Government consumption decreased by 1.1%. In the fourth quarter, GDP increased by 1.7%, with domestic demand growing by 2.1%. Employment and average monthly labor income saw significant increases. Public investment rose by 23.4%, despite a 1.8% contraction in private investment. Mining investment decreased by 7.9%. Key sectors contributing to GDP included lodging, restaurants, transportation, and construction, while fishing, telecommunications, financial services, and manufacturing saw declines.

The 2019 Pan-Amazon Synod formally acknowledged the significant contributions of women in the Church, particularly in remote Amazon communities facing a shortage of priests. Women like Angela Thereza Correa de Almeida and Sr. Rose Bertoldo have seen increased recognition and support for their roles. The Synod has spurred greater discussions about women's roles, including the potential for female diaconate, and has led to the formation of new groups focused on these issues. Despite institutional changes, the practical impact on local communities remains minimal, as women have long been integral to Church activities.

An estimated 6,000 Indigenous people, along with Catholic religious leaders, camped in Brazil’s capital, Brasilia, to urge the Supreme Court to reject the 'time-frame thesis,' which could strip Indigenous land rights. The case, focusing on the Xokleng people in Santa Catarina, could impact over 300 Indigenous land demarcation processes. Supreme Court Justice Edson Fachin rejected the thesis, affirming Indigenous rights. The trial was suspended, and Indigenous groups vowed to return if necessary. The article highlights the potential negative impact on Indigenous communities and the support from religious and advocacy groups.

ArtRio's 13th edition in Rio de Janeiro saw a significant increase in international gallery participation, with 80 galleries, up from 62 in 2022. The fair, held at Marina da Glória, featured exhibitors from Uruguay, the United States, Italy, and Portugal. Key figures like Brenda Valansi and Martin Castillo highlighted the fair's renewed international interest. Notable galleries included Sur Galeria and Francisco Fino, with artists like Priscila Rooxo and René Machado drawing significant attention. The fair's structure, divided into Earth and Sea pavilions, showcased a diverse range of contemporary and modern Brazilian art, emphasizing themes like gender, territory, and class.

Catholic nuns in Brazil are deeply concerned about a proposed bill that would limit the recognition of new Indigenous reservations to lands occupied before the 1988 constitution. If passed, this bill could open up Indigenous lands to ranchers, miners, and farmers, leading to potential conflicts and violence. The Indigenous Missionary Council and other religious figures argue that the bill would lead to genocide and ethnocide. The Brazilian Supreme Court is also reviewing the bill's constitutionality. Despite the potential for increased violence, the nuns and other religious workers remain committed to supporting Indigenous peoples and their rights.

Bishop Tomé Ferreira da Silva of São José do Rio Preto resigned following the viral spread of a video showing him exposing himself on an internet call. Pope Francis and the Brazilian bishops' conference accepted his resignation, and Archbishop Moacir Silva was appointed as the apostolic administrator. The Vatican had previously investigated allegations of sexual abuse and embezzlement involving da Silva, but he was cleared of these accusations in an internal investigation.

Brazil continues to require proof of Covid-19 vaccination for entry, despite President Bolsonaro's vaccine-critical stance. The Supreme Court mandated this requirement in December 2021. The tourism industry, represented by ANBTR, attributes the decline in foreign tourists to high travel costs and global economic issues rather than vaccination requirements. Anvisa enforces the regulations, while ABEAR ensures compliance among airlines. The sector remains optimistic about recovery by 2024, with promotional efforts by government agencies like Embratur.

SP-Arte, Latin America's largest art and design fair, opened its 19th edition with significant participation and interest from galleries and collectors. The fair is experiencing a resurgence in international attention, coinciding with Brazil's improved geopolitical image post-election and the upcoming Sao Paulo Biennial. The fair showcases a strong representation of Brazilian Indigenous artists and a special project by Carollina Lauriano. Despite logistical challenges, the sentiment among participants is optimistic, with foreign galleries like Maât Gallery expressing positive experiences and a commitment to the Brazilian market.

The Diocese of Petrópolis and local parishes are offering shelter to victims of severe mudslides caused by a torrential rainstorm in Petrópolis, Brazil. Bishop Gregório Paixão Neto has called for solidarity, personally housing a family, and the Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro has initiated a donation campaign. The mid-February storm, the worst in 70 years, resulted in over 100 deaths with many still missing. The Brazilian bishops' conference has also urged action and prayer in response to the disaster.

The Diocese of Petrópolis and local parishes in Brazil have opened their doors to assist victims of a devastating rainstorm that caused severe mudslides in Petrópolis. Bishop Gregório Paixão Neto urged priests and parishioners to shelter those affected, emphasizing solidarity. The Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro, through Caritas, launched the SOS Petrópolis campaign for donations. The Brazilian bishops’ conference called for unity and prayer for the victims. The storm, one of the worst in 70 years, resulted in significant loss of life and property.

Pope Francis formally installed Brazilian catechists Regina de Sousa Silva and Wanderson Saavedra Correia, recognizing their essential roles in the church, especially in remote Amazon communities with a shortage of priests. This recognition is seen as a significant boost for lay leaders, emphasizing their importance in sustaining faith and teaching in areas where priests are scarce. The decision is praised for bringing stability and consistency to the work of laypeople, highlighting the critical role they play in the Catholic Church's mission in the Amazon region.

Brazilian artist Maxwell Alexandre demanded the Inhotim Institute, Brazil's largest outdoor contemporary art museum, to remove his work from the Quilombo exhibition, criticizing the museum's treatment of Black subject matter. The museum complied, removing his large-scale paintings from the Novo Poder series on December 7, 2022. The exhibition, which features 32 other artists and a collective, honors the legacy of Brazilian artist Abdias do Nascimento and continues at Inhotim’s Galeria Lago. Alexandre also has a solo show at The Shed in New York until January 8.

The Brazilian bishops' conference congratulated Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his presidential election victory, emphasizing the need for continued work and unity in Brazil. They highlighted the importance of politics serving the common good, echoing Pope Francis. With da Silva's win, there is renewed hope for the protection of Indigenous minorities, the Amazon, and the environment. Da Silva plans to address Brazil's removal from the UN Hunger Map, a problem exacerbated since 2018, with millions facing food insecurity.

Several Brazilian Catholic organizations criticize President Jair Bolsonaro for reducing social programs and harming marginalized groups. They highlight his negative impact on the Amazon, Indigenous rights, and food security. The groups express hope that former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, if elected, will adopt better policies. Civil society remains committed to fighting for social justice regardless of the election outcome.

ArtRio, Brazil's art fair, returned for its 12th edition in Rio de Janeiro with an in-person event after two years of a hybrid model. The fair featured 62 galleries divided into Terra and Mar pavilions, showcasing established and emerging artists respectively. São Paulo gallery Almeida & Dale celebrated Antônio Bandeira's centenary with a display of his works, while the Solo Project curated by Ademar Britto highlighted young artists addressing social issues. Elian Almeida's works, which explore Afro-Brazilian history, sold out quickly. The fair continues to focus on Brazilian art, with the recent addition of SP-Arte's Rotas Brasileiras, indicating strong collector demand.

Brazil's bicentennial of independence has prompted a focus on Indigenous cultures, leading to the reopening of Rio de Janeiro's Museu do Índio and the opening of São Paulo's Museu das Culturas Indígenas. The Museu do Índio, closed since 2016, is set to reopen next year after renovations and has been involving Indigenous groups in curating its collection. The Museu das Culturas Indígenas, which opened on June 30, features exhibitions by Indigenous artists and aims to foster respect for Indigenous cultures through engagement and storytelling.

Amazonian church leaders emphasize the urgent need to protect the region's remaining semi-nomadic, isolated Indigenous peoples following the death of an Indigenous man in Brazil. The man, known as the 'man of the hole,' symbolized resistance against external threats. Organizations like FUNAI and CIMI highlight the dangers posed by loggers, ranchers, and economic pressures, exacerbated by reduced government protections under President Bolsonaro. The article underscores the broader implications of protecting these groups for biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and preventing pandemics, calling for global Catholic support.

The Brazilian bishops’ Indigenous Missionary Council reported a dramatic increase in violence and rights violations against Indigenous peoples in Brazil, with 2021 being the most disastrous year in history. The report highlighted a 180% increase in invasions and mining on Indigenous lands since President Jair Bolsonaro took office. It registered 355 cases of violence, including 176 murders, and criticized the government for legal actions that undermine Indigenous rights, such as allowing mining on their lands. The report also noted the spread of diseases like COVID-19 and malaria by invaders. Despite federal public ministry actions, Bolsonaro has not demarcated any Indigenous lands for three years. The Catholic council emphasized the importance of protecting Indigenous peoples and the reflection of a nation's values in how it treats its vulnerable populations.

Over 6,000 Indigenous people from 172 tribes gathered in Brasília to protest against Brazilian government policies that threaten their lands. The Acampamento Terra Livre 2022-ATL aims to pressure lawmakers to reject legislation allowing mining and agriculture on protected lands. President Jair Bolsonaro's stance on opening Indigenous lands to commercial use has been met with strong opposition from Indigenous groups, environmentalists, and religious leaders. Key figures like Archbishop Roque Paloschi, Fr. Mauricio da Silva Jardim, and Sr. Maria Inês Ribeiro have voiced their support for Indigenous rights and environmental preservation.

Catholic leaders are actively encouraging discussions and lobbying against the death penalty in the United States. Recent webinars have highlighted the Catholic Church's stance and the need for bipartisan support in Congress to pass anti-death penalty bills. The Catholic Mobilizing Network has launched an online petition to end the federal death penalty, and leaders are urging discussions within parishes and families. The article also mentions recent executions and the Supreme Court's role in denying stays of execution.

Bishops from the Amazon region, through a message by the Pan-Amazonian Church Network, urged COP26 participants to commit to protecting vulnerable communities and the Amazon ecosystem. They emphasized the need for urgent and concrete measures to combat climate change, echoing Pope Francis's call for responsible and courageous action. The bishops' plea highlights the critical role of international cooperation and political will in addressing the environmental crisis.

The Our Lady of Mystic Rose Shelter in Montes Claros, Brazil, founded by Gregorio Ventura and supported by the Brazilian bishops’ National Solidarity Fund, provides housing and psychological support to socially vulnerable and homeless women. Women like Beatriz Silva and Maria have found refuge and the opportunity to rebuild their lives through the shelter's support. Archbishop João Justino de Medeiros Silva commends the project for embodying the Gospel's teachings.

The 17th edition of SP-Arte, the São Paulo International Art Festival, is taking place from October 20th to 24th at ARCA in São Paulo. This year's fair features a hybrid model with in-person activities and online visitation through SP-Arte's digital space, The Viewing Room, marking a historic edition with the return of face-to-face interactions.

Immigration advocates and church leaders express disappointment over Senate parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough's ruling against including immigration reform measures in the budget reconciliation package. The decision hampers efforts to provide a pathway to citizenship for millions of undocumented individuals, including Dreamers and essential workers. The ruling is seen as a significant setback for Democrats, who now face challenges in passing immigration reform through traditional means due to the partisan nature of Congress. Advocates emphasize the urgency of comprehensive immigration reform, citing the situation in Del Rio, Texas, as evidence of the broken immigration system.

Bishop Tomé Ferreira da Silva of São José do Rio Preto resigned after a video of him exposing himself went viral. Pope Francis and the Brazilian bishops’ conference accepted his resignation. Archbishop Moacir Silva was appointed as the apostolic administrator. The bishop confirmed his identity in the video but declined further comment. Local Catholics are petitioning for his replacement, citing previous unaddressed petitions. The Vatican had previously investigated allegations of sexual abuse and embezzlement involving the bishop, but he was cleared of the latter.

Bishop Tomé Ferreira da Silva of São José do Rio Preto resigned after a video of him exposing himself went viral. Pope Francis and the Brazilian bishops’ conference accepted his resignation. Archbishop Moacir Silva of Ribeirão Preto was appointed as the apostolic administrator. The bishop confirmed his identity in the video but declined further comment. Previous allegations against him included sexual abuse cover-ups and embezzlement, which were investigated by the Vatican and São Paulo Cardinal Odílo Scherer.

Adecco Argentina's annual survey reveals that the highest salaries in Argentina are found in Patagonia, with the lowest in the NEA and NOA regions. Inflation remains a critical factor in wage adjustments, with companies forecasting an average annual adjustment of around 40%. Many companies offer additional benefits such as bonuses, private health coverage, company cars, and training programs. The survey included 302 companies, primarily from Buenos Aires and CABA, with a significant portion being service companies and light industry.

Researchers from Brazil, Finland, and the United States have discovered a new species of screech owl in the Amazon, named Megascops stangiae in honor of Sister Dorothy Stang, who was assassinated in 2005 for her efforts to protect the Amazon forest and its people. The tribute highlights her dedication to environmental conservation and human rights. Sister Stang's legacy continues to inspire many, and the naming of the owl aims to bring attention to the ongoing fight against deforestation. The article features insights from various individuals who knew Sister Stang and emphasizes the symbolic significance of the tribute.

Researchers from Brazil, Finland, and the United States discovered a new species of screech owl in the Amazon forest, named Megascops stangiae in honor of the late Sister Dorothy Stang, who was assassinated in 2005 for her environmental and social work in the region. The naming serves as a tribute to her life's work and aims to bring attention to the ongoing deforestation in the Amazon. Sister Stang's legacy continues to inspire environmental efforts and is recognized internationally.

Religious women in Brazil's Amazonas state have been pivotal in addressing the challenges posed by COVID-19, including hunger, isolation, and unemployment. Despite the difficulties of social distancing, they have adapted by distributing food, providing virtual support, and combating human trafficking. The Archdiocese of Manaus has initiated a hotline to alleviate loneliness, and efforts are underway to raise funds for oxygen supplies. The pandemic has underscored the resilience and dedication of these religious communities, who continue to support their regions through innovative and compassionate means.

Catholic bishops in Brazil's Amazon region, led by Archbishop Leonardo Steiner, urgently appeal for oxygen supplies as hospitals in Manaus face a severe shortage, leading to numerous deaths. The crisis, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted calls for help from business leaders, politicians, and the federal government. The situation is dire, with premature infants and other patients at high risk, and hundreds being airlifted to other states for treatment.

Sister Lorayne Caroline Tinti, a Brazilian nun and member of the Sisters of Our Lady of Resurrection, has advanced to the final of MasterChef Brasil, attributing her success to 'divine help' and prayer. She noticed and corrected an issue with the shrimp she was given to cook, which contributed to her victory. Sister Tinti learned to cook from her family and honed her skills at her order's mission house bakery. Her participation in the show has increased interest in the social projects conducted by the sisters and in religious life. She is known for her versatility with eggplant and her expertise in pastries and desserts. As she prepares for the finals, she plans to seek divine assistance and pray while cooking.

A Brazilian nun, Sister Lorayne Caroline Tinti, has advanced to the finals of MasterChef Brasil, attributing her success to 'divine help' and constant prayer. She prepared shrimp stroganoff and tiramisu, impressing judges and viewers alike. Sister Lorayne, a member of the Sisters of Our Lady of Resurrection, learned cooking from her family and honed her skills at the order’s mission house. Her participation in the show has brought attention to the social projects of her order and inspired interest in religious life. She remains confident and prayerful as she prepares for the final contest.

Sr. Lorayne Caroline Tinti, a Brazilian nun, has advanced to the finals of MasterChef Brasil, attributing her success to 'divine help' and constant prayer. She aims to use her platform to promote the social projects of her religious order and encourage young people to consider religious life. Her culinary journey began with her family and was further honed in the mission house's bakery. Despite initial reservations, her participation has garnered support from both laypeople and religious figures.

Father Julio Lancellotti, a priest from Sao Paulo, received a personal call from Pope Francis, thanking him for his longstanding service to the homeless. The Pope had seen photos sent by Father Lancellotti depicting the plight of the homeless in Sao Paulo and wanted to express his love and prayers for them. Despite threats against him, Father Lancellotti continues his work, supported by the homeless community and church officials. The pandemic posed challenges, but it also brought solidarity, with many contributing to help. Pope Francis highlighted the call during an Angelus talk, emphasizing the church's role in inviting everyone to God's banquet.