Vatican revises synod process, emphasizing local consultation

Approving the revision of the entire process of the Synod of Bishops, Pope Francis has asked that it begin with serious, widespread consultations with laypeople on the diocesan level.

Riding the green wave: Momentum for Laudato Si’ rises for next decade

When the special Laudato Si' Anniversary Year closes May 24, it will celebrate progress made over the past five years and launch new initiatives in an ongoing response to Pope Francis' call for the care of creation.

Archbishop congratulates newly named bishop of Wilmington

Pope Francis named Msgr. William Koenig, a priest of the Rockville Centre Diocese with whom Archbishop Perez served when he was an auxiliary bishop there, as the next bishop of the Delaware diocese.

Little things make a big difference on path to holiness

Reflecting on Pope Francis' third encyclical, Nicole Perone cites four ways to grow in holiness, including acting in small gestures like choices for the good, simple acts of charity and brief moments of prayer.

Family portraits: Sometimes messy, but grace-filled

There aren't any perfect families, and Pope Francis says this in effect in 'Amoris Laetitia,' but they can perfect themselves with the sacrament of marriage," said a Vatican official on the year dedicated to the document.

Transparency on sex abuse still needed, church experts say

While Pope Francis' reform of canon law is a good step toward accountability for church leadership, more must be done, including support for the rights of victims, said canonists in Rome.

Archbishop Pérez named to Vatican panel for Latin America

See Archbishop Nelson Pérez's statement on being named by Pope Francis March 10 to the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He is the only American among the five new prelates on the commission.

Interfaith prayer marked by respect, not relativism

In his recent trip to Iraq, Pope Francis followed the model of Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict in respecting one's religious traditions, not sacrificing them, when coming together for prayer with those of other religions, writes Msgr. Gregory Fairbanks of St. Charles Seminary.

In tough times, look to St. Joseph

For a model of accepting life's troubles with courage and not giving up, Sister Constance Veit finds inspiration in St. Joseph's "Christian realism," as Pope Francis puts it.

Papal trip influences Muslims beyond Iraq’s borders, analyst says

Pope Francis' historic visit to the Middle East's most conflict-riven nation gives hope and comfort to Iraqis of all faiths, and "has been very well received by Muslims in the region," said one observer.