Father Grande was known as a champion of the poor and the oppressed at a time when El Salvador was on the threshold of a civil war, a war that eventually killed over 70,000 people.

By adopting an attitude free of judging others, the pope argues, the world will be a more peaceful place.

February has been one of the most violent months in the seven years of conflict.

The pope said Rebecca Bitrus and Asia Bibi are models for a society that today has ever more fear of suffering.

We now mark five years of Francis’ pontificate. The editors of America wish him many more.

Francis may well rank among the most consequential popes in the long and colorful history of the papacy.