This election highlights the deep divisions in American society. But perhaps the strange working of mercy and providence is evident even there, keeping us attentive to the need for conversion and reconciliation.

Our readers weigh in on the value and spiritual benefits of vegetarianism, inspired by the experience of Fr. Francis X. Clooney, S.J.

Especially in places like the United States, where structures like pastoral councils are already relatively common, it is important to hear the synod’s call to ensure that consultation and dialogue are effective and not merely nominal.

We have recently seen entire communities wiped off the map by wildfires fueled by ever-hotter weather. This has grave implications for tradition, family and other goods that social conservatives value.

Helene’s devastation is offering a hard lesson: No community or U.S. region can consider itself safe from the extreme weather events that global warming is seeding and supercharging.

External realities are complicating the traditional structures on which parishes have relied for decades.

A trip to Argentina shows not only Francis’ legacy here, but also the model of ministry that shaped him.