China Ramping Up Catholic Persecution

April 17th, 2026 - Happy feast of Pope St. Anicetus and St. Stephen Harding! President Trump said Iran has “agreed” not to develop or possess a nuclear weapon. He added that the U.S. has “a very good relationship with Iran right now,” which he thinks is because of “a combination of about four weeks of bombing and a very powerful blockade.” The Trump administration has ended an $11 million federal contract with Catholic Charities in Miami, to very mixed reactions. President Trump announced a 10-day Israel-Lebanon cease. Human Rights Watch reports that Catholics in China are facing escalating repression, and it is becoming more difficult for them to practice the Faith. A fake bomb threat was called in regard to Pope Leo’s brothers’ home. Rise Right is a live morning program hosted by Sarah Cain & Jakob Martin Kraft, designed to help Catholics begin their day grounded in faith, clarity, and peace. The goal is simple: help listeners start their day well. Stay rooted in prayer, informed about the world, and able to face each day with joy and reason. RiseRight.org