News, analysis, and documents on the Catholic Church, by Sandro Magister, Rome
24.12.2008
> "Veni Creator Spiritus." For an Ecology of Man
And of man created male and female. In his pre-Christmas address to the Roman curia, Benedict XVI contests the ideology of "gender." And he strikes a blow in defense of the most contested of the encyclicals, "Humanae Vitae"
17.12.2008
> Advent in Music. Seven Antiphons, All Worth Discovering Again
They're sung one per day, at the Magnificat during vespers. They are very ancient, and extraordinarily rich in references to the prophecies of the Messiah. Their initials form an acrostic. Here they are in transcription, with a guide to interpretation
11.12.2008
> And It Was Night. The Real Story of Original Sin
It is one of the most overlooked and rejected dogmas. But for Benedict XVI, it is "overwhelmingly obvious." He has talked about it three times in eight days. Without it, he says, Christian redemption "would lose its foundation"
9.12.2008
> The Three Deep Marks Made by the Synod on the "Word of God"
The first is that Christianity is not a "religion of the book," but is identified with a person. The second is that the Bible is not only past, but also present and future. The third is that exegesis cannot do without theology, and vice versa... An assessment of the synod from the notebook of a special observer
5.12.2008
> The Encyclical on Social Doctrine Can Wait. But the Wager on Poor Countries Can't
This is the proposal of Ettore Gotti Tedeschi, on the front page of the Vatican newspaper. Financing consumption and investment for two or three billion people who are waiting only to improve their lives. The example of microcredit
3.12.2008
> Great Music in the Churches of Rome. But in the Vatican, They're Deaf
The Wiener Philarmoniker and other illustrious performers have played in the Roman basilicas, in one case with the pope present. But there's paralysis in the curia. The musical accompaniment of the papal Masses continues to be of appalling mediocrity
1.12.2008
> For the First Time, a Muslim Writes for the Pope's Newspaper
The new columnist is Khaled Fouad Allam. In surprising harmony with Benedict XVI. Both are in favor of a Christian-Islamic dialogue that is not a compromise between the faiths, but an encounter of cultures
29.11.2008
> India. Christians between a Rock and a Hard Place
They are the only ones to reject the recourse to violence, in a country bloodied by two forms of armed fundamentalism, Muslim and Hindu. From Mumbai to Orissa, the analysis of interreligious conflicts that seem to have no end
26.11.2008
> The Samurai with the Cross. From the Acts of the Martyrs of Japan
On November 24, another 188 of them were proclaimed blessed, all of them killed for the faith. The mystery of Christianity in the Land of the Rising Sun, repeatedly persecuted but always reborn, even from the harshest trials
24.11.2008
> Shocking News: A Cardinal Sings the Praises of Orthodoxy
Cardinal Biffi writes in his latest book: "Today, it is no longer heresy, but correct doctrine that makes news." For example, about chastity. Or about Jesus, who is not only God, but also man
19.11.2008
> At the Vatican, One Newspaper Is Making Noise. For Some, Too Much
It's "L'Osservatore Romano." Twice in recent months, it has prompted negative reactions from part of the hierarchy and the Catholic world, over organ transplants and euthanasia. But on other issues as well, its commentaries are raising discussion, within the Church and outside of it. For example, about Pius XII and the Jews
12.11.2008
> God Is Not Catholic, Cardinal's Word of Honor
Carlo Maria Martini publishes a book "on the risk of faith," and calls for distrust of doctrinal definitions, because God "is beyond." But this brings the risk of emptying the articles of the Creed, object Professor Pietro De Marco. And he explains why
10.11.2008
> Cattolici e musulmani hanno sottoscritto una carta dei diritti. Ma il difficile viene adesso
Il difficile è passare dalla teoria alla pratica. Parole, silenzi e retroscena del primo incontro del Forum tra le due religioni nato dalla lezione di Benedetto XVI a Ratisbona e dalla lettera al papa di 138 saggi islamici
7.11.2008
> "An extraordinary preacher, a model for many priests and for myself..."
A reader's guide to the book: "Homilies. The liturgical year narrated by Joseph Ratzinger, pope," on bookshelves as of just a few days ago. This is how a cardinal who knows the author well presents him
5.11.2008
> Homilies. The Liturgical Year Narrated by Joseph Ratzinger, Pope
This is the title of a book that, for the first time ever, collects Benedict XVI''s preaching at Masses and vespers, over the course of the year. It's required reading for understanding this pontificate. Here's the preface. Plus a sample page
3.11.2008
> Cardinal Martini's Jesus Would Never Have Written "Humanae Vitae"
He is a Jesus who struggles against injustice. So he also opposes the "lies" and "damage" of the encyclical by Paul VI prohibiting artificial contraception. So writes the former archbishop of Milan in his latest book. But in the meantime, in another book, two scholars take a different approach to the spirit of that document
31.10.2008
> A Philosopher Reissues the Pope's Wager: To Live as if God Exists
He is the German Robert Spaemann. In a book about the "immortal rumor," always alive, always controversial, of the existence of God. Against the backdrop of the advice given by Benedict XVI "also to our friends who do not believe"
29.10.2008
> In the "Opera Omnia" of Ratzinger the Theologian, the Overture Is All about the Liturgy
And Benedict XVI explains why, in the preface to the volume that he wanted to have published first. He recalls that this is how Vatican Council II began, too. By giving God first place. And about the direction to face in prayer, he writes...
27.10.2008
> Eve of Christian-Muslim Forum in Rome. The Perspective of a Jesuit Participant
The aim of the meeting is to speak "a common word." That was the title of the open letter written to the pope by 138 Muslim scholars. But Fr. Christian Troll says that in addition to words, action is needed. Especially in regard to religious freedom
22.10.2008
> The Church in Vietnam Isn't Afraid. But the Communist Regime Is
Because it sees the Catholic Church as a place of the freedom desired by all. That's why it's oppressing it, to stop the contagion. The report from a correspondent on the ground
21.10.2008
> "The day will come when our two Churches will fully converge"
The complete text of the address by the ecumenical patriarch of Constantinople to the synod of bishops of the Catholic Church, delivered in the Sistine Chapel on Saturday, October 18, 2008
19.10.2008
> "Interpretations are proposed that deny the real presence of God in history"
The complete transcript of the popes address to the synod of bishops on "The Word of God in the life and mission of the Church," on the morning of Tuesday, October 14, 2008
17.10.2008
> The Synod Wants Better Homilies. With the Pope as the Model
The synod fathers are proposing a "manual" to elevate the quality of preaching. But the living example is Benedict XVI. Here is the unscripted meditation with which he opened the working sessions, while stock markets were collapsing around the world
16.10.2008
> The Art of Reading the Scriptures. A Lesson for Today's Illiterates
It is the liturgy that must again shape the reading and understanding of the Bible. Just as in medieval monasticism, creator of modern civilization. Timothy Verdon explains why, at a synod that has reached the halfway point
10.10.2008
> Blessed Pius XII? But First of All, Get Him Right
The rabbi of Haifa protests, and "La Civiltà Cattolica" bridles. But the beatification of Pope Eugenio Pacelli continues to draw near. And history will also have to do him justice, according to Paolo Mieli, a secular Jew, in "L'Osservatore Romano"
8.10.2008
> While Rome Talks, Québec Has Already Been Lost
It was the most Catholic region of North America, but today is the most secularized. It's where Cardinal Ouellet is from, a relator general at the synod of bishops on the Word of God. And Benedict XVI is also looking to it, as to a new missionary territory
3.10.2008
> "As a believing Hindu, I am ashamed..."
An authoritative disciple of Vivekananda breaks the general silence over the violence in India. And he comes to the defense of the Christians, accusing their attackers of betraying the spirit of Hinduism
1.10.2008
> Benedict XVI Has a Father, Romano Guardini
He was the guide of the young Ratzinger, who has not ceased to draw inspiration from his thought. Forty years after the death of the great Italian-German intellectual, an analysis of his influence on the current pope
26.9.2008
> "My Summers with the Popes in Castel Gandolfo." The Director of the Pontifical Villas Reminisces
The children born in the bedroom of Pius XII. The secret getaways of John XXIII. John Paul II went swimming. Benedict XVI plays sonatas on the piano. This and more, in an interview with a unique eyewitness
23.9.2008
> The Two Sides of Pacelli. Courageous as Pope, Too Cautious as Secretary of State
Benedict XVI praises Pius XII for helping the Jews during the war. But "La Civiltà Cattolica" criticizes his actions as cardinal, when he reacted feebly to the racial laws. Here is the article from the journal, published with the imprimatur of the Vatican authorities
19.9.2008
> The Surprising Geopolitics of Joseph Ratzinger, Pope
After three years in the pontificate, and defying the expectations of most, the refined theologian has left his mark on international politics as well. In the West, with Islam, with China. The journal of the Aspen Institute in Italy explains how, and why
16.9.2008
> From Paris and Lourdes, the Lesson of the "Liturgist" Pope
On his trip to France, Benedict XVI did not only defend the ancient rite of the Mass. He also explained and demonstrated repeatedly what he believes to be the authentic meaning of the Catholic liturgy of today and always. And, about sacred music, he said...
12.9.2008
> "To seek God and to let oneself be found by Him"
Exactly two years after Regensburg, another grand discourse from Pope Joseph Ratzinger to the intellectual world. In Paris, at the Collège des Bernardins, September 12, 2008. Here's the complete text
11.9.2008
> Not So Diligent, Not So Virtuous. But They're the "Church of the People"
They're the ordinary Catholics, the majority in Italy, but so far they have not received proper attention. They now govern the country. For the Church, they are an opportunity and a challenge. An exclusive analysis by Professor Pietro De Marco
5.9.2008
> ransplants and Brain Death. "L'Osservatore Romano" Has Broken the Taboo
The pope's newspaper has called into question whether cessation of brain activity is enough to certify a death. And with this, it has reopened the discussion on taking organs from "warm cadavers" while the heart is still beating. The scholars of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences are even more critical. And, when he was a cardinal, Ratzinger...
3.9.2008
> Ratzinger the Professor, as Recounted by His Former Students
A book has been released on Benedict XVI's years in the university. At the very same time when he was holding a seminar at Castel Gandolfo with his former theology students, to better prepare for the second and concluding volume of his "Jesus of Nazareth"
1.9.2008
> Matilda of Canossa, Champion of Church Freedom
Almost a thousand years later, her legacy is still valid. Because today's China also wants to determine the appointment of bishops on its own, like the emperors back then. A major exhibit dedicated to her has been opened
29.8.2008
> In India, the Christians' Offense Is Fighting Against Slavery
The slavery is that of the caste system. Against this, the Christians both preach and practice equal dignity for all. Professor Parsi explains the reasons for the growing Hindu violence. And he warns about the international repercussions
27.8.2008
> Obama's Pick for Vice President Is Catholic. But the Bishops Deny Him Communion
The reason is that Biden is a staunch abortion supporter. The archbishop of Denver says that he should refrain from presenting himself for communion. From Rome, Archbishop Burke is backing his stance. And in 2004, Ratzinger wrote to the American bishops...
25.8.2008
> Was the Founder of Taizé Protestant, or Catholic? A Cardinal Solves the Riddle
Fr. Roger Schutz was both. He adhered to the Church of Rome while remaining a Calvinist pastor. Wojtyla and Ratzinger gave him communion. Cardinal Kasper explains how, and why
13.8.2008
> How to Conduct Politics as Catholics. The Denver Memorandum
A book by American archbishop Chaput is making a stir ahead of the presidential elections, against those who want to water down the faith or remove it from the public sphere. "L'Osservatore Romano" is the first to review it, and recommends that it be read "in the United States and elsewhere"
11.8.2008
> The Pope Theologian Says: The Proof of God Is Beauty
The beauty of art and of music. The wonders of sanctity. The splendor of creation. This is how Benedict XVI defends the truth of Christianity, in a question-and-answer session with the priests of Brixen
7.8.2008
> Vatican Radio and the Web, a Happy Marriage
Since it has gone onto the internet, the pope's radio has expanded its range of action in astonishing fashion. It has become a multimedia phenomenon unique in the world, in 45 languages and 13 alphabets. And it's joined by a television production center
4.8.2008
> Women Bishops in the Catholic Church, Too? Some Are Trying
According to Church authorities, ordinations of women are invalid, and those who perform them are excommunicated. Meanwhile, fifty women have already received "sacred orders." The latest sensational case is from Saint Louis. Countermeasures by the Vatican
31.7.2008
> At Lambeth, Cardinal Kasper Calls for Another Newman
He was the most famous of the converts to the Church of Rome. The pope's representative at the conference of Anglican bishops asks them to return to the model of the apostolic Church. No to women bishops, and to gay bishops. The complete text of the address
25.7.2008
> The Library of the Popes Is Closed. But on the Web, It's More Open Than Every
For three years, major restoration work is blocking access to the most valuable library in the world. In compensation, it has opened a new internet site. With the images of many of its famous manuscripts
22.7.2008
> From the "New World" Symphony of Benedict XVI. An Anthology
In Sydney, at World Youth Day, Joseph Ratzinger preaches a "new age" of the Spirit to renew the face of the earth. Three years ago, to the young people gathered in Germany, he had proposed a "revolution." The historic hope of the pope theologian
17.7.2008
> In Mecca, a King Is Giving Lessons in Peace
A survey among pilgrims to the Muslim holy sites shows that they return home with sentiments of greater tolerance. Meanwhile, in Madrid, the Saudi king dialogues with Christians and Jews. Cardinal Tauran is there to represent the pope. An important document
14.7.2008
> Clodovis and Leonardo Boff, Separated Brethren
The liberation theology that once united them now divides them. The former criticizes it at its roots, and has passed over to the Ratzinger camp, while the latter continues to defend it, and feels betrayed. The complete texts of the dispute
7.7.2008
> The Encyclical on Hope Commented by Two Non-believing Thinkers
They are the professors Aldo Schiavone and Ernesto Galli della Loggia, on the front page of the official newspaper of the Holy See. Pope Joseph Ratzinger knows them, and has read them. Will he respond?
2.7.2008
> Pauline Year: The Ecumenical Dream of Pope Benedict
Together with the patriarch of Constantinople, the successor of Peter has proclaimed a special jubilee year dedicated to another great apostle, Paul. The stated objective: "to create the unity of the 'catholica', of the Church formed from Jews and pagans, of the Church of all peoples"
28.6.2008
> "The Pope Does Not Put On Prada, But Christ"
So writes "L'Osservatore Romano," and explains why. Papal master of ceremonies Guido Marini replies to the objections against the latest decisions by Benedict XVI in liturgical matters, from the motu proprio to the placement of the cross at the center of the altar
26.6.2008
> In Florence, Catholics Are Rewriting Their History
Catholic progressivism in the twentieth century, in Italy and the world, has an epicenter in the capital of Tuscany. A major conference on Fr. Milani, La Pira, and Fr. Balducci has analyzed the phenomenon for the first time. Professor Pietro De Marco has opened the discussion. Here are his theses
23.6.2008
> The Old Form of the Neocatechumenal Mass Is Illicit
This is established by the new statutes for the community founded by Kiko, imposed by the Vatican authorities. It is prohibited to take communion seated around a table. Homilies in dialogue form are also forbidden
19.6.2008
> African Diplomats, Take Note: This Is How the Church Works
They came to Rome from 22 African countries, for an intensive course on the foreign policy of the Holy See. Their instructors included the heads of Vatican diplomacy. They left again enthusiastic. It is on their continent that Catholicism is growing most vigorously
16.6.2008
> Christian Pop Art Takes the Stage in the Alps
The Sacred Mountain of Varallo is a triumph of "total art" at the service of the faith. Architects, sculptors, painters, scenographers, have reproduced the life of Jesus in 45 chapels on the mountain. After a period of neglect, the Church wants to restore their splendor. A commentary by Timothy Verdon
11.6.2008
> Dialogue among the Religions. The Vatican Prepares the Guidelines
Enough with the ceremonies. And more conviction in proclaiming the Gospel. New signs of openness come from Saudi Arabia. Algerian philosopher Mohammed Arkoun criticizes the pope, but even more the cultural void in the Muslim world
6.6.2008
> The Credo of Paul VI. Who Wrote It, and Why
The Church had a 1968 upheaval of its own, expressed for example in the Dutch Catechism. The response of pope Montini was the "Credo of the People of God." It has now come to light that it was written by his friend, the philosopher Jacques Maritain
3.6.2008
> Pilgrims at the Tomb of Peter. As in Ancient Rome
Ten meters beneath the Vatican basilica, it is possible to walk the same path that led to the tomb of the apostle, among rows of Roman tombs that have emerged, intact, from the excavations. The latest restoration was presented just a few days ago. A marvel of art, history, faith
30.5.2008
> Miracle in Illegio, a Little Mountain Village
The miracle is a magnificent exhibit on Genesis, with masterpieces on loan from the most famous museums in the world, and a drawing never before displayed, which may be a work by Michelangelo. In a remote little Alpine village. As on a new Mount Tabor
28.5.2008
> The Peaceful Revolution of Vietnam's Catholics
Like the Buddhist monks in Burma, in Hanoi and other cities of Vietnam bishops, priests, sisters, and faithful are taking to the streets. They want buildings and land confiscated by the state to be given back. Their weapons are crosses and rosaries. The apprehensions of the Vatican
22.5.2008
> Olympics of the Faith: China Disqualifies the Virgin of Sheshan
Pilgrimages banned to the most important Chinese Marian shrine – on the day of prayer established by the pope. A book by the sinologist Bernardo Cervellera lays bare the contradictions of the regime, on the eve of the Olympic Games in Beijing
19.5.2008
> India at Peace. But Not with the Christians
In step with the economic indices, attacks against the churches and faithful are also rising in the big Asian country. Amid the silence and disinterest of the world. A report from the state of Orissa, the area most affected by the violence
13.5.2008
> Saint Pius X, a Backward Pope? No, an Unprecedented Cyclone of Reform
A 1300-page study treatise written by a great scholar overturns judgments of the antimodernist pope. The new Code of Canon Law he created had tremendous effects. It reinforced more than ever the public role and freedom of the Church with respect to the world
7.5.2008
> When the Turbans of Persia Pay Homage to the Pastor of Rome
Two days of talks, at the Vatican, between the scholars of Christianity and those of Shiite Islam. As in the medieval disputes. On the topic dearest to Joseph Ratzinger: faith and reason. The strange openness of Iranian president Ahmadinejad
2.5.2008
> An American Dispute: Should Communion Be Given to Pro-abortion Catholic Politicians?
In the United States, controversy has erupted over the giving of communion during the papal Masses to Nancy Pelosi, John Kerry, Ted Kennedy, and Rudy Giuliani. Cardinal Egan harshly criticizes the former mayor of New York. Joseph Ratzinger's positions on the question
30.4.2008
> Reading the Bible. Who, When, Where, How, Why
A massive survey spanning thirteen countries. The initial results on the United States, the United Kingdom, Holland, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Poland, Russia. All in preparation for the next synod of bishops
25.4.2008
> Jews, Muslims, Christians. The Latest News from the Dialogue Workshop
In France, a mosque brings in a Jew to collaborate. In Bangladesh, Christians and Muslims meet at a university. The letter of the 138 gets follow-through in Moscow, in Geneva, in Brussels. And meanwhile, Benedict XVI clarifies what he means by interreligious dialogue
21.4.2008
> The Pope's Sixth Day in the U.S. – The Prayer at Ground Zero, and the Last Homily "in this land of freedom"
Benedict XVI prays for the conversion of the terrorists. And to American Catholics, he explains that true freedom is founded upon Christ, who is "the way, the truth, and the life." For the pope theologian, a success beyond expectations
20.4.2008
> The Pope's Fifth Day in the U.S. – The Homily in the Heart of Manhattan, and the Meeting with Young People
A "new Pentecost of the Church in America": this is the dream of Benedict XVI. To explain it, he takes his inspiration from the "pure Gothic style" of the church in which he is saying Mass. And he gives an assignment to young people: to follow the example of the saints
19.4.2008
> The Pope's Fourth Day in the U.S. – Benedict XVI Explains Why Christians Are So Divided
Because they conform themselves to the world. And instead of teaching the objective truth of the faith, they urge everyone to choose the community that best meets his tastes. The Pope's shocking discourse to representatives of ecumenism
18.4.2008
> The Pope to U.N.: "The human person is the high-point of God's creative design for the world and for history"
Address to the General Assembly of the United Nations Organization, New York, April 18, 2008
18.4.2008
> The Pope's Third Day in the U.S. – With Catholic Educators, Other Religions, Jews
In regard to interreligious dialogue, Benedict XVI says that the main objective is not peace, but "to discover the truth." Which is Jesus, who said that "salvation is from the Jews." In an unannounced addition to the itinerary, a meeting with some of the victims of sexual abuse
17.4.2008
> The The Pope's Second Day in the U.S. – Benedict XVI Lays Down the Guidelines for the Bishops
The complete text of his address to the bishops of the United States, and through them, to those of the whole world. With the transcription of the ensuing question-and-answer
16.4.2008
> The Pope's First Day in the U.S. – Against Sexual Abuse, and for America as a "Model of Positive Secularism"
Benedict XVI explains what should be done so that the "scandal" does not happen again. And he praises the relationship between religion and politics in the United States, as a lesson for Europe
15.4.2008
> Buddhism Is Changing, Too – from Quietism to Active Politics
The Dalai Lama is issuing repeated appeals for nonviolence to his faithful. But not all of them are obeying. Like Christianity and Islam, this religion is also breaking onto the public stage in new forms
12.4.2008
> "Oremus pro conversione Judæorum." Cardinal Kasper Takes the Field
The president of the commission for relations with Judaism replies to those who reject prayers for the conversion of the Jews: "The when and how of the salvation of Israel must be left in the hands of God"
8.4.2008
> Between the Church and Jews, an Intermittent Dialogue
Benedict XVI will receive a friendly welcome at the Park East synagogue of New York. But in Rome, the head rabbi has decided on "a pause for reflection" on relations with Catholic authorities. In an interview, he explains why
4.4.2008
> The America of Benedict XVI, a Model for Catholic Europe
The agenda of the papal voyage to the United States. And a major study by the Pew Forum. On the nation in which the religions are the most changeable in the world, losing or gaining faithful each day
31.3.2008
> For the Vatican, King Abdullah Matters More than 138 Muslim Scholars
This is made clear by "L'Osservatore Romano," which is dialoguing with the Saudi sovereign while criticism rages against the pope for baptizing a famous convert from Islam. Pietro De Marco's reply to Aref Ali Nayed
28.3.2008
> The Story of a Convert from Islam – Baptized by the Pope at St. Peter's
His name is Magdi Cristiano Allam. For five years he has lived under guard, threatened with death. But his baptism has raised harsh criticism, against him and against Benedict XVI. The complete text of the accusation written by Aref Ali Nayed, architect of the letter of the 138
25.3.2008
> Holy Week: The Hidden Homilies of Pope Benedict
Hidden, except for those who were able to listen to them in person: a few thousand out of 1.2 billion Catholics in the world. Here are the complete texts. Required reading for understanding this pontificate
19.3.2008
> The Via Crucis of the Archbishop of Mosul of the Chaldeans
Paulos Faraj Rahho is the latest of the Christian victims in Iraq. His martyrdom is part of the background to the dialogue between the Catholic Church and Islam. Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran comments on his recent meetings with Muslim representatives
14.3.2008
> Tarcisio Bertone, the Carry-on Cardinal
Seven trips in nine months. The latest to Cuba, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. To defend the interests of the Church with the arts of political realism. What the pope does not do, his secretary of state does
11.3.2008
> Exclusive: The Words that Benedict XVI Adds Spontaneously, When He Preaches to the Faithful
Textual analyses of five of his most recent Wednesday catechesis, on Saint Augustine. The words that the pope added spontaneously, beyond the written text, are underlined. They're on the themes closest to his heart
7.3.2008
> A Bishop and a Rabbi Defend the Prayer for the Salvation of the Jews
The bishop is Gianfranco Ravasi. The rabbi is Jacob Neusner. The prayer is the one for Good Friday in the ancient rite. This is why Benedict XVI wanted to change the text
3.3.2008
> Abstract Art, Too, Can Help Explain the Scriptures. A Letter by Giuseppe Betori
The archbishop and secretary of the CEI writes to www.chiesa to defend the new Lectionary for the Sunday Masses, illustrated by contemporary painters. "It is the tearing down of a wall, the overcoming of a lack of dialogue between today's art and the Church"
29.2.2008
> The Pro's and Con's of the New Liturgical Lectionary. Two Experts Go Head to Head
They are Timothy Verdon and Pietro De Marco. The former defends the works of the modern artists that accompany the passages from the Sacred Scriptures. The latter severely criticizes both the artists and the patrons
23.2.2008
> Religious Superiors Report to the Pope. Between Decline and Rebirth
Benedict XVI wants a life of greater austerity and fidelity to the Gospel from them. In particular, he wants more obedience from the Jesuits. The surprising blossoming of a new community: the Institute of the Incarnate Word
20.2.2008
> India's Two Plagues: The "Missing Women" and Violence Against Christians
The first of these number in the tens of millions, killed in their mothers' wombs or as infants. As for anti-Christian intolerance, the latest explosion has taken place in Orissa. Behind it are fanatics of Hinduism and of the higher castes
15.2.2008
> Everyone to the "Sacred Theater of Heaven." A Theologian Acts as Guide
The theologian is Enrico Maria Radaelli. His latest book, entitled "Ingresso alla bellezza," is proof that the great tradition of Catholic theology continues, in the years of Joseph Ratzinger, theologian and pope
11.2.2008
> Benedict XVI Invokes the Judgment of God on this World. For Love of Justice
In a question and answer session with the priests of Rome, the pope revives one of the main themes of his encyclical on hope. In direct opposition to the modern utopias. And he brings back into question the Masses celebrated with large crowds
8.2.2008
> A Theologian Remakes the Catholic Faith from Scratch. But the Church Says "No"
He is Vito Mancuso, in a highly successful book that has been recommended by cardinal Martini. In it, there is no longer any sin or redemption, but instead man saves himself. After months of silence, a double "stop right there"' from the Vatican authorities. Here are the complete texts
6.2.2008
> Five Muslims at the Vatican, to Prepare the Audience with the Pope
They are the representatives of the "letter of the 138" written to Benedict XVI last October. Here's who they are, and from where they come. One of them, Yahya Pallavicini, tells in a book about how to live as Muslims in a Christian country, in peace between the two religions
1.2.2008
> Dateline Nairobi – A Report from the Vatican's Men on the Ground
The most in-depth analysis of the conflict that has broken out in Kenya appeared in "L'Osservatore Romano", written by a missionary working in the area. The real reasons for this fratricidal war among Christians
28.1.2008
> The Roman Curia Wakes Up and Strikes Three Blows
Thanks to a few carefully chosen changes in the Vatican offices, Benedict XVI is getting what he wants. The proof is in three recent decisions by officials for the clergy, the causes of saints, and the liturgy
23.1.2008
> Mission: Asia. The New Frontier of the Society of Jesus
The new superior general of the Jesuits lived for decades in Japan. In an article in "Concilium," he has summarized his plan this way: to evangelize the Orient "by the power of God alone"
17.1.2008
> The University of Rome Closes its Doors to the Pope. Here's the Lesson They Didn't Want to Hear
A group of teachers and students forced Benedict XVI to cancel his visit to "La Sapienza." But the professor pope did not give up: he made public, a day early, the address that he had written for the occasion. It is the follow-up to the formidable lecture in Regensburg, on the ultimate questions of faith and reason
11.1.2008
> Last Call for the Society of Jesus – To Obedience
The Jesuits elect their new superior general and discuss the reasons for their decline. But the Vatican authorities have already said what they expect from the order: more obedience to the pope, and more fidelity to doctrine
8.1.2008
> The Church's Diplomacy Has a Fixed Star: That of the Magi
In the new year address to the diplomatic corps, Benedict XVI took stock of the Vatican's politics in the world. But to the faithful, at the Mass of the Epiphany, he said much more. He preached his theology of history – and here it is
7.1.2008
> "Let No One Touch the Child." The Church Blesses the Worldwide Moratorium on Abortion
The initiative was born in the secular camp, but the Catholic hierarchy has immediately supported it. The Church's new politics for life and the family has a successful precedent: the 2005 Italian referendum in defense of embryos. A preview of an analysis by Luca Diotallevi
2.1.2008
> The Cardinal Writes, the Prince Responds. The Factors that Divide the Pope from the Muslims
The contrast is not only one of faith. It also concerns the achievements of the Enlightenment: from religious freedom to equality between men and women. The Catholic Church has made these its own, but Islam has not. Will they be able to discuss this, when Benedict XVI and the Muslims of the letter of the 138 meet together?
