Vatican

Scholars and Catholics spoke to NCR about how Pope Francis has dealt with the Catholic Church's history of colonialism, and how he has confronted colonialism in its continuing forms.

Pope Francis is a breath of fresh air to many as he urges the church to consider difficult topics through the ongoing synodal process. Yet the spirit of synodality can also trace its origins in the U.S. to much earlier.

Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the Synod, has named Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, Texas, and six others to be members of the preparatory commission for the general assembly of the Synod of Bishops in October.

The aesthetic and artistic elements surrounding the liturgy must foster prayer and a sense of communion, Pope Francis said.

Being an apostle does not mean climbing up the church's hierarchy to look down on others but humbling oneself in a spirit of service, Pope Francis said.

Establishing clear procedures for protecting vulnerable people against abuse "must become a priority in every local church," Pope Francis said.

Francis, the comic strip: Brother Leo's tailor shop is host to a Lenten competition among the friars.

Pope Francis' co-author Rabbi Abraham Skorka reflects on his 25-year friendship with the former Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio.