Joan Didion was capable both of conjuring up the horrors of modern life and of offering solace that there was still a point to it all.

John Padberg, S.J., the noted Jesuit historian, died on Christmas Day. He is remembered here by his longtime friend and colleague, John W. O'Malley, S.J.

The South African human rights campaigner and Anglican clergyman was known throughout the world for his human rights accomplishments. But above all, he was a committed priest and person of deep prayer.

Anne Rice's lush fantasy fiction reflected the lifelong influences of religion and spirituality in her life.

Charles R. Morris, who died on Dec. 13, was a prolific author with a broad range of interests and expertise. He also wrote a two-part history of America Media for our 100th anniversary.

“Reading authors like bell hooks taught me to be alert not only for instances of sexism and racism but for patterns of it,” writes Father James Martin.