The late pope’s attention to geographic detail led to what was described as the most diverse conclave in the history of the church.

The pope’s visit to Egypt was a turning point, not only for many Egyptian Christians in strengthening their faith, but also in the way they were perceived by their Muslim peers.

These brothers talked on the phone every day. Now one of them is the pope.

Cardinal Robert Prevost, O.S.A. has chosen to be known by Leo XIV.

It’s hard to describe the mood in Vatican City right now. There is great expectation and excitement but also a sense of unease.

That is the question ghosts really should be made to answer: Why remain where you have been most miserable?

As expected, the 133 cardinals who entered the Sistine Chapel May 7 failed to elect the next pope on their first ballot.

Now that the 133 cardinal electors are ensconced in the Sistine Chapel to elect a successor to Pope Francis, some potential candidates have come to the fore.

When else do we get an opportunity like this, to take someone at this level of leadership at face value?

As the Catholic Church prepares to elect a new leader, the editors of 'America' remember an extraordinary and beloved pontiff: Francis, a pope of monumental surprises.