Explainer

Napoleon’s consolidation of power in France in 1801 involved the recognition of the pope as the “ordinary and immediate pastor” of the universal church—a key component in the impending agreement between the Vatican and China.

Pope Francis will be spending a few precious hours at the Basilica of Knock while he is in Ireland this weekend.

The "regular canonical trial" for an accused bishop, experts say, usually would be conducted by the apostolic tribunal of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

With a new solid conservative majority in SCOTUS, could there be new restrictions on abortion?

It is rare for penalties to be discussed in relation to a subject other than abortion.

A new Vatican document considers the impact of sports on society, the pursuit of the common good and the unity of the human family.