What is the way out of polarization? And why does that question—along with the now-commonplace observation that society suffers from deepening divisions about everything from gun control to abortion to public funding for religious schools—seem so exhausting?
US Church
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Do Catholics care about climate change?
A recent Pew survey found that overall Catholics show a higher degree of worry about the impact of climate change than other Christian denominations, but the issue appears to divide U.S. Catholics along the same political and racial lines as within the wider public.
Posted inOf Many Things, Politics & Society
The synod is not an event. It’s a new way of being church.
“Our communion is unsure of itself.” We must “recover a sense of what holds us together.” The stakes are very high for our church, and listening to one another is the first step on a much longer journey.
Posted inNews, Politics & Society
Pro-life leaders reject South Carolina bill allowing death penalty for women who have abortions
Under the bill, an abortion would be considered homicide, subject to sentences of 30 years in prison or the death penalty.
Posted inExplainer, Faith
When St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Friday in Lent, should we eat the corned beef?
Can (or should) you eat meat this St. Patrick’s Day? Some archdioceses are giving out dispensations, while others insist upon fasting. Who is right?
Posted inFaith, News
Bishop Daniel Flores named to synod preparatory commission
Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the Synod, has named Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, Texas, and six others to be members of the preparatory commission for the general assembly of the Synod of Bishops in October.
Posted inFaith, Interviews
Cardinal Cupich on 10 years of Pope Francis: women, LGBT Catholics, sex abuse and what comes next
In a wide-ranging interview with America, Cardinal Blase Cupich reflected on what Pope Francis has accomplished so far, describing the Francis era as “a historic papacy” that comes at “a watershed moment” for the church.
Posted inFaith, News Analysis
LGBT Catholics appreciate Pope Francis’ welcome, but hope for change
While many L.G.B.T. Catholics have welcomed Pope Francis’ emphasis on inclusion and welcome, they hope for future changes in policies and rhetoric around L.G.B.T. issues in the church.
Posted inFaith, News
New legislation in 3 states would break seal of confession, require priest to report child abuse
House Bill 74 would do away with the privilege in a sacramental confession by requiring priests to report information relating to child abuse and neglect that is shared in a confessional.
Posted inFaith, Faith and Reason
A gentle warning for Pope Francis critics (and cheerleaders): The synod is about conversion, not winning an argument
How many are willing to have their minds changed, to desire for something from this synodal process that goes deeper than their pre-existing agenda?