Papal authority has expanded dramatically over the last 150 years. But our age has seen something new—informal papal teachings meant as pastoral encouragements more than doctrinal clarifications.

Two scholars consider Vatican statements on relations with other churches

Three theologians respond to the recent censure of Sister Margaret Farley for her 2006 book 'Just Love.'

Dialogue and deliberation during Vatican II

John Allen's 'The Future Church,' reviewed

One of the less noted contributions of the Second Vatican Council is its brief treatment of atheism in its “Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World.” In that groundbreaking document, the council avoided the shrill condemnations of atheism that were so common in preconcili

'Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church,' reviewed

Vatican II marked a watershed in the ecumenical movement. Where do things stand now?

Apologetics has enjoyed renewed interest among Catholics of North America in the past 25 years. One sign of this is the burgeoning popularity of the so-called new apologists, figures like Scott Hahn, Gerry Matatics, Karl Keating, Mitch Pacwa, S.J., Peter Kreeft and Patrick Madrid. Their distinctive

In the Judeo-Christian tradition, marriage has offered a set of images helpful in illuminating our communal relationship with God. Whether it is Israel’s covenant with Yahweh or the church’s bond with Christ, the nuptial images of bride and bridegroom have long helped believers reflect u