A Reflection for the Feast of Sts. Philip and James, Apostles, by Kevin Clarke

In a pre-conclave meeting, an Italian cardinal, and backer of Cardinal Parolin as next pope, attacked Pope Francis for opening positions of responsibility in the church to men and women not in holy orders.

As we prepare for a new papacy, an important question faces the church: What foundations do we inherit from Pope Francis’ bold reimagining of Catholic moral theology? How will the church carry forward the vision he nurtured—a vision both thoroughly traditional and courageously new?

Somehow, incredibly, this celibate, elderly man often doled out some of the best and most valuable parenting advice I’ve received along the way.

Mario Vargas Llosa's long literary life established him as a monumental figure in Spanish-language literature and Latin American history.

In an April 29 statement, the Vatican said “the oath of the officials and attendants of the conclave will take place” May 5 in the Pauline Chapel, not far from the Sistine Chapel where the cardinals will vote for the next pope.

Deacon Marlowe Sabater, minister to seafarers and port workers, reflects on the Gospel story of the risen Christ meeting his disciples on the shore—and connects it to those who work and live at sea today.

An exclusive interview with Archbishop Costelloe about the legacy of Pope Francis and what he hopes for from the conclave

Listen to the first episode of a new daily podcast series by America magazine’s editors on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the new pope.

What happens when a pope dies or resigns? How does a papal conclave work? What can we expect from a new pope?