Pope warns against climate change hysterics

The Daily Mail

In his World Peace Day message Jan. 1, Pope Benedict XVI will remind the faithful that any solutions to global warming must be based on solid science, not dogma of the environmental movement. "Humanity today is rightly concerned about the ecological balance of tomorrow," he said in the message titled "The Human Family, A Community of Peace." "It is important for assessments in this regard to be carried out prudently, in dialogue with experts and people of wisdom, uninhibited by ideological pressure to draw hasty conclusions, and above all with the aim of reaching agreement on a model of sustainable development capable of ensuring the well-being of all while respecting environmental balances." More info>

Do charity and shopping mix?

The New York Times

Americans often feel the desire to give to charities this time of year and, increasingly, retailers help them out by building a donation into the purchase of items such as scarves or jewelry. Consumers who think they are doing a good thing might want to watch out, though, because nonprofit experts warn that such giving is unregulated and, in most cases, unaccountable — and no one knows who, if anyone, is claiming a tax deduction for it. “It’s virtuousness as a marketing gimmick run amok,” Lucy Bernholz, founder and president of Blueprint Research and Design, a consulting firm for nonprofit organizations, told The New York Times. More info>

Priest receives his penance

The Canadian Press

A judge in southern Chile has sentenced a Catholic priest to recite seven psalms daily during three months as punishment for illegal parking. Judge Manuel Perez said he issued the unusual sentence after the Rev. Jose Cornejo said he could not afford the $100 fine that would have been the regular sanction for illegal parking in the city of Puerto Montt. More info>