Trump Backs Down on Iran Threat, Catholic Educators Called to Heal Hearts, and A Parish Remembers a Murdered Priest

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Maggie Murray of OSV News catches you up on the Catholic news of the day for April 8, 2026. Tune in and visit us online at osvnews.com.

Read the stories in this episode:

1. After threatening Iran’s “whole civilization” with destruction, President Donald Trump backed down hours before his deadline, saying he would suspend attacks for two weeks if Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz, following condemnation from Catholic leaders including Pope Leo XIV and Archbishop Paul S. Coakley. 
2. A federal judge in Louisiana temporarily halted the state’s challenge to the FDA’s abortion pill rules until the agency completes a promised safety review of mifepristone, though the court indicated the legal fight could continue afterward.
3. At the opening of the National Catholic Educational Association convention in Minneapolis, Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens told educators that Catholic schools must help heal young people’s wounded hearts by guiding them toward truth, love and self-giving. 
4. As Vilnius prepares to host the sixth World Apostolic Congress on Mercy, pilgrims will reflect on the legacy of St. Faustina Kowalska and witness mercy in action at a hospice inspired by the message of Divine Mercy. 
5. One year after the fatal shooting of beloved pastor Father Arul Carasala, parishioners in Seneca, Kansas, gathered in prayer and remembrance, reflecting on grief, faith and the legacy of the priest who served their community for decades.