Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, later Pope Benedict XVI, didn’t think much of bishops’ conferences. Among those who disagreed with the cardinal was Francis A. Sullivan, S.J.

To better understand the concerns of those who are critical of the Synod on Synodality, ‘Jesuitical’ hosts Zac and Ashley speak with George Weigel, who is in Rome contributing to First Thing’s “Letters from the Synod” series.

A number of assumptions continue to float around the synod that are only partially true or largely false.

Our readers weigh in on the recent discussion between Rachel Lu and Matthew Cortese, S.J. on diverse forms of reverence in the Mass.

A look back at the Second Vatican Council through the coverage offered by America and Commonweal offers two lessons: First, we should not expect the journey of the church after the Synod on Synodality to be smooth sailing. Second, the church is very much capable of getting through such turmoil, and emerging stronger from it.

Edward Schillebeeckx, O.P., wasn't officially a 'peritus' at the Second Vatican Council, but that didn't stop him from having a powerful influence on the council and on church theology for decades afterward.