“Fraternal correction and dialogue” were something very positive, Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, said, but a “public denunciation” was not helpful and only led to further polarization.

The pope will create 20 new cardinals on Aug. 27. Sixteen of them are eligible to vote in a papal conclave, and 11 are from or based in countries outside Europe and North America.

Two state-sponsored church bodies in China have elected new leaders, who promised to invigorate the Catholic faithful pastorally in line with the socialist principles of the Chinese Communist Party.

Retired Archbishop Rembert Weakland, O.S.B. of Milwaukee, a leading Catholic intellectual who pushed for social justice and increased power for women in the church before he resigned amid a sexual and financial scandal, has died.

At his Sunday noon remarks, Pope Francis described his worry and sorrow for events in Nicaragua. Police have detained several Catholic clergy in the country.

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, currently facing charges of embezzlement and abuse of office, said Pope Francis invited him to attend the Aug. 27 consistory.