A pontificate begins

VATICAN CITY – Perhaps St. Francis — who wrote poetically of Brother Sun praising God — provided the weather for Pope Francis on the day of his inaugural Mass. After two weeks in Rome where the weather was wet, overcast and dreary, the sun shone brightly on St. Peter’s Square as the Holy Father began his Petrine ministry on March 19, the Feast of St. Joseph, patron and protector of the universal Church. Continue reading

Christ’s good news is for all

- in Vatican City -


The great mission’s name is Jesus

It’s March 12 and the conclave has opened. It was on that day in 604 that Pope St. Gregory the Great died — his birthday in heaven! It is a good reminder that no matter what the next pope may do or not do, no matter what qualities he may or may not have, his principal task is to lead as many souls to heaven as is possible. Not for nothing do the cardinals cast their ballots before the image of Michelangelo’s Last Judgment. Continue reading

Benedict brought back biblical theology

Before we receive a new pope, it is worthwhile to consider the impact of the pontificate itself.

There were several initiatives distinctive of Benedict’s priorities — restoring the liturgy, healing the breach with the Lefebrvists, pursuing unity with the Anglicans, speaking frankly with Muslims, challenging a ruthless secularism in public life. The great, overarching theme, though, is less about the current religious landscape and more about the broad sweep of Catholic history reaching back 500 years. Continue reading