A Roman Observer

A Roman Observer features commentary and analysis on what's going on at the Vatican and in the Eternal City from Robert Mickens, a longtime resident of Rome.

Catholic church needs better way to select bishops

by Robert Mickens

Sep 26, 2016

A Roman Observer: Pope Francis' recent statements reveal that he believes there is a serious lack of quality among Catholic priests and bishops.

Moving seminarians prompts discussion about formation

by Robert Mickens

Sep 2, 2016

A Roman Observer – A talk by Pope Francis and news of seminarians moving into new digs raises questions about priestly formation.

Que sera Sarah?

by Robert Mickens

Jul 18, 2016

A Roman Observer: Pope Francis says he does not like to fire people. But it looks like he could be running out of patience with Cardinal Robert Sarah.

Church statements keep the door closed on gays

by Robert Mickens

Jun 20, 2016

A Roman Observer: Church doctrine and the practice of many bishops towards gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender persons is to put us in closets.

Blogs ›

Catholic church needs better way to select bishops

Moving seminarians prompts discussion about formation

Que sera Sarah?

Church statements keep the door closed on gays

Francis is reforming Roman Curia by circumvention

The pontificate might be stuck in the mud

Who will bring forth Pope Francis' vision?

The greatest story never told

Pope Francis: Year four begins

A 'revolution' based on the willingness to be vulnerable

Bread and circuses during the Year of Mercy? No, grazie!

Pope Francis: a not-so-clear, but very present danger

The pope's holy new year

Mercy, Vatican II comes alive!

Major changes coming for Roman Curia

Pope Francis' reforms will not be blocked

The pope has smoked out his opposition

The real synod has yet to arrive

Venit, vidit, vicit! Now what?

Pope Francis sharpens his focus

Pope Francis: forging a legacy

Is Pope Francis really going to the United States?

Vatican finances still lack transparency

The vocations shortage has become an acute crisis

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