Germany's biggest Catholic-owned publishing house has been rocked by disclosures that it has been selling thousands of pornographic novels.

The boutique insurance company that covers around half the country's churches has been brought to its knees pleading for mercy following the 'acts of God' still rattling Christchurch.

Once a dusty desert town, Mecca now soars above its surroundings with a glittering array of skyscrapers and luxury hotels.

Every now and then, Ramadan celebrations are marred by bickering between competing Islamic authorities over when Eid starts.