Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi cited the Gospel of Matthew as the motivation for her focus on social justice issues and said that U.S. bishops have focused too narrowly on abortion at the expense of other societal challenges.

In a wide-ranging interview with America, Cardinal Blase Cupich reflected on what Pope Francis has accomplished so far, describing the Francis era as “a historic papacy” that comes at “a watershed moment” for the church.

A Reflection for Monday of the Third Week of Lent, by Michael J. O’Loughlin

While many L.G.B.T. Catholics have welcomed Pope Francis' emphasis on inclusion and welcome, they hope for future changes in policies and rhetoric around L.G.B.T. issues in the church.

Two former F.B.I. agents who went on to hold leadership roles in the church say a memo characterizing traditionalist Catholics as possible domestic threats is a troubling example of the bureau not following its own guidelines.

Bishop David O’Connell, an auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles known for his advocacy for peace, was shot and killed Saturday, the Los Angeles Times reported.

A Reflection for Wednesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time, by Michael J. O’Loughlin

In addition to the critique of Cardinal McElroy’s focus on welcome and inclusion, critics are also reacting to the process through which that could happen: the ongoing synod of bishops.

The pope and Cardinal McElroy both made statements this week on L.G.B.T. issues, which have until recently not been discussed by church officials.

A Reflection for Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time, by Michael O’Loughlin