News
Human Formation & the Crisis of Trust
In 1990, 238 synod fathers met in Rome for the 8th Ordinary General Synod on “The Formation of Priests in Circumstances of the Present Day.” They presented Pope John Paul… Read More
The Trouble with Bishops’ Conferences
Stephen White of Catholic University reflects on the role of bishops’ conferences in view of the comments of Pope Francis in his interview with America Magazine. “The pope’s words can… Read More
Baby Step: Phone Calls
Today I continue the series I promised last time: baby steps toward increased trust between bishops and priests. Today’s step is phone calls—both from the bishop to priests and priests’… Read More
Our Shared Point of Reference
Stephen White of Catholic University reflects on the Eucharist as the only sure foundation of unity in the Church: “If the Church is in need of unity, turn to the… Read More
Baby Steps: What’s in a Name?
I have been slowly reading through the first write-in section of our national survey of Catholic priests. We asked priests, “In your opinion, what is one step that should be… Read More
Listen to the Communion of Saints
Stephen White of Catholic University reflects on synodality in light of the celebration of All Saints and All Souls. “Synodality either has deep roots in the life of the Church… Read More
Shot Rolling on the Deck
Sometimes I send my column to particular friends who I think may have insights on the topic that would help either the writing or the content. One friend who shares… Read More
A National Study of Catholic Priests
Stephen White of Catholic University writes about the highlights from the National Study of Catholic Priests that was released on October 19, 2022. “For decades, there have been warning signs… Read More
Authority: Patrick O’Brian and the Church
I wrote recently about obedience in the context of authority in the Church, and I promised a part two on leadership. It is easy to see how obedience can be… Read More
The Church of 2050
Stephen White of Catholic University reflects on the Church of 2050. “Anywhere the Gospel is proclaimed confidently in full; anywhere the adventures (and risks) of discipleship are taken seriously; anywhere… Read More
One’s crosses are not public property—until they are
The Church is nourished by the blood of the martyrs. This is something that is communicated nonverbally almost everywhere you look in the Church. Walk into one and try not… Read More
Blessing or a Curse?
Stephen White of Catholic University writes about the news of the Flemish bishops’ document allowing for a blessing of same-sex relationships. “Of course, the Church’s fundamental objection to homosexual unions… Read More