Villanova University

Commentary: What does it mean for the community not to gather for Mass for some weeks? What is the meaning of vulnerability and how different can it be in different countries and societies? What does it mean to practice radical hospitality in the time of a pandemic?

Since the sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church broke open in 2002 in the United States and intensified globally last year, responses to it have focused on legal matters and administrative reforms. But theologians and other faithful thinkers are focusing now on a higher dimension, and the question of where God is calling his people at this moment.

Pope Francis has now appointed three of his former confreres in the Society of Jesus to the Vatican's highest posts. He is also including more members of his order in the College of Cardinals. 

Archbishop Charles Chaput has already presented his resignation notice to the pope, following church law as he turns 75 Sept. 26. Philadelphia Catholics spoke about Chaput's eight-year tenure, which will soon end.

Michael Sean Winters rounds up political news and commentary: Reflecting on the summer national conservatism conference; Trump's self-dealing is not a route to impeachment; note to candidates on ads

Pope Francis declared last month that Fr. Augustus Tolton lived a life of virtue; Tolton's cause has joined a number of U.S.-based causes that deal with racial issues in the country. Postulators see timely significance in the causes of these men and women.

The Field Hospital: At St. Malachy in the city and at suburban St. Thomas of Villanova, parishioners are pulling together to talk about sex abuse and the cover-up and to push for reform.

Cardinal Walter Kasper practically bounds down Borgo Pio as he heads to lunch at a favorite trattoria a few blocks from the Vatican, a broad smile on his face.