A Reflection for Friday before Epiphany, by Christopher Parker

Pope Benedict XVI was a renowned theologian, a “recognized authority,” who left “a rich legacy of studies and research on the fundamental truths of the faith,” said the official summary of his life and papacy.

Is the circle of our compassion limited by the suffering we see on prime time national television? Because that is the thing—so much of the suffering that football inflicts is hidden from view.

The bells tolled, the organ played, and the congregation of 50,000 Romans and pilgrims applauded warmly as pallbearers brought the casket of Pope Benedict XVI onto the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica.

A Reflection for Thursday before Epiphany, by Jill Rice

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration will allow retail pharmacies to offer abortion pills in the United States for the first time, prompting criticism from Catholic and pro-life groups.

A timeline of significant events in the life of Pope Benedict XVI.

Epiphany is a feast of light, “the shining forth” of the newborn Christ. It prompts a thought experiment, a mental realignment, if you will.

The death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has deprived the church of a dedicated pastor whose papal witness stands as a model of grace and humility for his successors.

Pope Francis will preside at the requiem Mass and impart the final blessing before the burial of Benedict XVI at a solemn ceremony marked by simplicity in St. Peter’s Square on the morning of Jan. 5.