Pope Francis recently gave a new mandate to the Pontifical Academy of Theology. Interestingly, it reflects the contributions of Fr. Bénézet Bujo, a pioneering African theologian who died Nov. 9.
Appreciation: As a psychologist, then-Fr. Pat Nidorf recognized the limits of the church's approach to homosexuality and he began a group in 1970, "to bring dignity into the spiritual and social lives of some very special people."
Appreciation: Reporter Patricia Lefevere was an editor's dream, ready to go anywhere on a moment's notice and eager to talk to as many people as she could to get the story, remembers retired NCR editor Tom Roberts.
The dynamic, groundbreaking Dolores Curran arrived in heaven on Dec. 4. At a time when the U.S. church was dominated by priests and religious, she introduced the then-shocking notion that laity might also play a part.
Passionist Fr. Donald Senior began homilies and teachings with "Dear friends." He had a unique way of making everyone he met feel like they were a beloved friend. May he rest in peace.
Appreciation: In the dark years of apartheid in South Africa, Dominican Fr. Albert Nolan offered a message of hope and a prophetic vision. A well-known Catholic anti-apartheid activist and theologian, he died Oct. 17.
Appreciation: Mayor Moon Landrieu's commitment to racial equity sparked scorn among some whites in 1970s New Orleans, yet when he died this Labor Day at age 92, surrounded by family, praise poured out from many corners.
Appreciation: Apart from his achievements in many areas of historical scholarship, Jesuit Fr. John O'Malley embraced the importance of studying history itself. His question, one of his favorite phrases, was, "So what?"
