Edward Schillebeeckx, O.P., served as theological adviser to the Dutch bishops during the Second Vatican Council and was seen as the main inspiration behind the Dutch catechism for adults.

A total of four bishops have now resigned as a result of a recent report on how the Dublin Archdiocese covered up allegations of clerical sex abuse.

Archbishop Rowan Williams, spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion, said the ecumenical situation really is a “glass half full.”

The bishops heard a report from an ongoing study of sexual abuse by priests conducted by the John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

The organization has pledged "to continue its services even if a same-sex marriage bill passes” said Bishop Barry C. Knestout.

The U.N.-sponsored World Summit on Food Security in Rome ended with many participants frustrated with the lack of progress on food security goals.