An inauspicious first day in Rome was also a chance for me to hit pause and and try to shed some of my own fears about the synod process.
Pope Francis
Posted inFaith, News Analysis
The Catholic Church thinks in centuries. But when it comes to climate change, Pope Francis doesn’t.
In “Laudate Deum,” Pope Francis revisits the themes of “Laudato Si’” after eight years—a clear sign of urgency for a Catholic Church that thinks in centuries.
Posted inFaith, Faith and Reason
The Synod on Synodality doesn’t take away papal authority. But it includes the entire people of God.
As delegates prepare to gather in Rome for the Synod on Synodality, is clear that in the present moment, Pope Francis is calling us to be a truly listening church—a church of discernment.
Posted inFaith, Podcasts
Podcast: The synod begins—inside and outside the synod hall
In this episode, host Colleen Dulle and veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell discuss the “dubia” and what Pope Francis’ responses, sent earlier this summer, reveal about the pope’s approach to these closely-watched topics as the synod begins.
Posted inFaith, News
Pope Francis: Media restrictions needed at synod to create spiritual atmosphere
Pope Francis asked forgiveness from journalists trying to cover the monthlong meeting but insisted “a certain fasting from public words” would be needed to ensure the proper spiritual atmosphere for synod members.
Posted inFaith, Vatican Dispatch
Analysis: The synod is not Vatican III. It’s Pope Francis’ implementation of Vatican II.
Pope Francis did not attend Vatican II, but from the beginning of his pontificate, he set out with determination to continue its implementation.
Posted inFaith, Synod Diary
Synod Diary: Taking the long view of the synod
I have spent the better part of the past two years trying to understand what synodality is. Today, it finally started to click.
Posted inEditorials, Politics & Society
Pope Francis makes it clear: Climate change must be a priority for all Catholics (especially Americans)
During this coming election cycle, Americans (including Catholics) need to hear far more about the moral duty to protect the environment.
Posted inFaith, Faith in Focus
Pope Francis’ first major document holds the key to understanding the synod
I believe that the apostolic exhortation “The Joy of the Gospel” holds the key to understanding Pope Francis’ hopes for the synod. And that is why I’m hopeful about the synod.
Posted inNews, Politics & Society
‘Laudate Deum’: Pope Francis takes aim at U.S. emissions levels in new climate change document
In ‘Laudate Deum,’ Pope Francis takes square aim at the United States, noting that per-capita emissions in the U.S. are twice as high as China and seven times greater than the average in poor countries