The Code of Canon Law must more directly address the frequent spiritual manipulation and abuse of office wrought by members of the church to solicit sex, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández said.

A provisional document published by the Italian Bishops’ Conference and approved by the Vatican cautiously opens the door for the ordination of openly gay men to the priesthood, while maintaining the requirement of chastity.

“If women are doing practically everything that a deacon is doing ... [why] do we want to draw women into clericalism when we are having so many problems with it?”

Young priests are often described in the media as more “conservative” and “rigid” than their Boomer counterparts. We spoke with one to see if the stereotype holds up.

Those who knew Father Norman Fischer said the priest’s easy ability to model the love of Christ and build bridges—sometimes through a beaming selfie or a fist bump—was legendary.

Engagement with Catholic schools can help seminarians enter ministry with a clearer sense of the pastoral needs of their flock.