Editorials
The Legacy of John Paul II
John Paul II presided over the Catholic Church for 26-and-a-half years, longer than any other pope except St. Peter and Blessed Pius IX.
Articles
On Papal Transition
What happens when the pope dies?
The interregnum and election of a new pope are governed by the rules established in the 1996 constitution Universi Dominici Gregis (Of the Lord’s Whole Flock) of John Paul II.
The Theologian
As bishop and later as pope, John Paul II did not have the freedom to propose purely personal theological positions in his official documents.
Cardinals in Conclave: A Troubled History
After more than a quarter-century, cardinals from around the world are once again gathering in the Vatican, soon to be sequestered “in conclave” for as long as it takes to elect a new pope.
A Jewish Perspective
Because Karol Joseph Wojtyla was Polish-born, his election as pope on Oct. 16, 1978, was met with widespread skepticism within the Jewish community.
Insights of a Family Friend
Suppose all the people called Roman Catholic had wanted to say goodbye to the pope. Allow them three seconds each for a handshake and a blessing.
The World Leader
Pope John Paul II spent more than 26 years as a dominant figure on the world stage, using his moral leadership to promote human rights, condemn ethical failings and plead for peace.
Books and Culture
Books
A dark joke about prognostication concerning the successor to Pope John Paul II is that he outlived many of those once considered most likel
Books
Derek Walcott published his first book of verse, Twenty Five Poems, at the age of 18, then went on to a career that has produced 20 b
Books
An icon bears witness. Maybe that’s why people who know about icons tell us to notice the eyes.
