This episode of “Inside the Vatican” was originally slated to be our mailbag Q. and A. episode, but with so much news, Gerry and Colleen are focusing this week on the most newsworthy moments from Pope Francis’ visit to Belgium. Sexual abuse was a main issue going into this visit; what was less expected were the criticisms the pope faced on the role of women in the church and society.

In the second half of the show, Colleen and Gerry explain the expulsion of ten members of an influential Catholic lay group in Peru. One of those suspended was a Catholic journalist, which raises the question: Are Vatican sanctions like these in conflict with the freedom of the press?

More on stories from this episode:

Pope Francis addresses war in the Middle East, sexual abuse and abortion on plane home from Belgium

Vatican’s expulsion of members of scandal-plagued Catholic group shocks Peru | America Magazine

Synod coverage from other America podcasts:

Jesuitical Podcast: Why the Synod on Synodality is working, from the perspective of a lay delegate

Interview: Timothy Radcliffe on how he prepares to give homilies—and preach to synod delegates

Further synod coverage from America:

Synod opens with unusual penitential service: 7 cardinals ask for forgiveness for church’s sins

Father James Martin: What will happen at the synod’s final session? It’s up to the Holy Spirit.

Pope Francis at synod opening Mass: No one has an ‘an exclusive right’ to God’s voice

Cardinal Müller questions ‘canonical status’ of synod because so many non-bishops are participating