The whole semantic field of 'tool' and 'instrument' is fraught with negative moral connotations. St. Ignatius’ writings , however, show a different tendency. There, 'instrument' both serves as a central spiritual category and bears a positive connotation.

From both the Vatican and the pope, we have heard a consistent message: A.I. is a tool that is created by and shapes human culture. Thus far, however, we have not seen much in the way of specific recommendations. We believe that this is an important next step for Francis as he emerges as a leading global voice in conversations about A.I.

JD Vance tries to use Aquinas’s 'order of love' to support his political ideology, but is the ethical order he proposes actually consistent with the ethic of Aquinas or, more broadly, with the principles of Catholic social teaching?

The Eucharist is not simply a cultural legacy. It is more than a moving performance or a beautiful ritual symbolizing transcendence. And liturgy is more than aesthetics.

If U.S. Catholics seek to embrace Martin Luther King Jr.'s desire to "redeem the soul of America," we will also have to reclaim the soul of Catholicism, which is nothing less than a broad and inclusive love for all, including those considered “stranger.”

With his new encyclical, Pope Francis added his voice to this chorus of encouragement inviting people not to lose heart.