The most controversial blocks for exploration are located offshore at the mouth of the Amazon River basin. Petrobras, a government-controlled oil company, is pushing to begin preliminary drilling in search of new oil reserves.

The U.S. Catholic bishops’ latest annual report on child and youth protection shows abuse allegations are down, while safe environment protocols have taken root in the church—but guarding against complacency about abuse prevention is critical, as is providing ongoing support for survivors.

On the Feast of the Uganda Martyrs, James Martin, S.J., recounts the story of young men revered throughout East Africa.

A Reflection for the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, by Christine Lenahan

The current Farm Bill, at $1.5 trillion, represents the largest spending package in U.S. agricultural policy history; 80 percent of the spending is directed to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The context of the incident, the Vatican’s response, and the implications for L.G.B.T.Q. Catholics.

Pope Francis' use of a homophobic slur has raised questions about the limits of his welcoming and inclusive stance towards L.G.B.T.Q. persons, despite a swift apology from the Vatican.

As a gay priest, I was shocked and saddened by the Holy Father’s use of an offensive slur during a discussion with Italian bishops.

Archbishop Gabriel Mestre of La Plata has resigned unexpectedly after only eight months in the Argentine archdiocese previously headed by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.

What do you make of a pope who has embraced the L.G.B.T.Q. Catholic community, but who reportedly used a gay slur while reiterating the church’s ban on admitting gay men to seminaries?