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Vatican's Archbishop Paglia on coronavirus bioethics
25 april 2020 · 12 min
In recent weeks, the Vatican has made it clear that it sees the coronavirus pandemic as a pressing call for the transformation of society. This past week, Pope Francis put together a task force with specific mandates for coordinating humanitarian aid, international relations, and the protection of the environment, all at the service of a broader vision of human solidarity in a time of pandemic.
That vision was laid out on March 30 in a note entitled “Global Pandemic and Universal Brotherhood,” issued by the Pontifical Academy for Life, which focuses on moral theology and bioethics. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” the president of that academy, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, speaks to producer Colleen Dulle about that document and some of the specifics of the Vatican’s vision for a new human solidarity arising from this pandemic.
In the interview, Archbishop Paglia describes the theological and health considerations that have factored into the decisions to cancel public Masses while keeping churches open: “Precisely because of the principle of incarnation, which is at the heart of our faith, we must take seriously the concrete concerns to which our body is subject,” the archbishop said.
He also speaks in depth about the need that Vatican leadership has expressed for a globally coordinated health care network which would ensure care for the most vulnerable people. Speaking about how decisions about rationing care when resources are scarce, Archbishop Paglia said, “the choice is not about the dignity of the person or the value of his or her life, which is equal and priceless for all, but on the treatment: priority must be given to those who—when needs are equal— are expected to benefit the most.”
Links from the show:
Read “Global Pandemic and Universal Brotherhood”
Find America Magazine’s full coronavirus coverage here
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Pope Francis assembles COVID-19 task force
22 april 2020 · 28 min
Pope Francis has focused his messages to the world this week on the importance of international cooperation and the sharing of resources in order to overcome the coronavirus pandemic and build a more equitable society.
On this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” America’s Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell and producer Colleen Dulle discuss the vision Pope Francis laid out in his new “plan for rising up again.”
Then, the hosts talk about the task force the pope has assembled to actualize this vision. He appointed to its steering committee an Argentinian priest who is an expert in economics and has experience working with the Vatican on environmental issues and with church humanitarian organizations in areas affected by epidemics. Gerry explains Father Augusto Zampini’s connections to the pope and the work he will be doing in this key decision-making role.
One aspect of the task force’s work will be finding new ways for the Vatican to raise money to cover its operating expenses and provide aid to other nations. On the show, Gerry breaks down where the Vatican’s money comes from and how those sources are quickly drying up. The hosts also cover a slew of meeting and conference cancellations at the Vatican.
Links from the show:
On Divine Mercy Sunday, Pope Francis urges countries to put aside ‘selfish indifference’ during coronavirus pandemic
Pope Francis shares his vision for Covid-19 aftermath
Pope Francis taps Argentinian priest to help lead Vatican response to coronavirus crisis
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How data mapping can help the Vatican fight COVID-19
18 april 2020 · 20 min
Molly Burhans, the founder and executive director of GoodLands, has created what may be the world’s largest set of Catholic geographic information. Her nonprofit organization has mapped church-owned properties around the world with a view towards using the church’s resources more responsibly.
This work has taken on an increased importance during the coronavirus pandemic: As she explains on “Inside the Vatican,” knowing the location of church hospitals in relation to, for example, low-income communities, potable water, and other health programs can help the church to use its resources more efficiently to extend care to the largest number of people.
Molly speaks with producer Colleen Dulle about her recent work consulting with the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Development on its new document about water, sanitation, and hygiene. The two discuss the links between ecology and the coronavirus pandemic, and Molly makes the case for environmental programs as a necessary part of Catholic healthcare.
Links from the show:
Aqua Fons Vitae
Explore GoodLands’ Catholic GeoHub
Listen to Molly Burhans on America’s “Jesuitical” podcast
Can high-tech maps help the church and save the planet?
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Pope Francis supports ‘universal basic wage’
15 april 2020 · 23 min
In his Easter messages, Pope Francis came out in support of a universal basic wage, relaxing economic sanctions, and forgiving the debts of poor countries. This week on the “Inside the Vatican” podcast, veteran Vatican reporter Gerard O’Connell joins producer Colleen Dulle to talk about these policies and to look back at the response to St. John Paul II’s call for debt forgiveness in 2000.
Colleen and Gerry also take a look at the new commission to study women deacons, which they reported on in print last week. The new commission features no members of the first commission to study women deacons and instead includes more obscure scholars. On the show, the hosts take a look at how these commission members are chosen.
Finally, Pope Francis gave his first interview to the English-language media last week. Gerry and Colleen review their takeaways from the interview.
America Media will celebrate its 111th anniversary Friday. Please consider supporting our journalism at the intersection of the church and the world by making a donation here. Lees meerLinks from the show:
In Easter message, Pope Francis proposes ‘universal basic wage’
In Easter ‘Urbi et Orbi’ address, Pope Francis calls for an end to indifference
Pope Francis has set up a new commission to study women deacons
Pope Francis on Living with COVID-19
Support America Media
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Vatican official–Archbishop Arthur Roche–on liturgies during COVID-19
11 april 2020 · 20 min
Usually, Holy Week doesn’t require any extra work from the Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. A separate office organizes the pope’s liturgies, and the guidelines used around the world stay the same from year to year.
This year, though, with coronavirus bringing the widespread suspension of public Masses, several needs arose that only the Congregation for Divine Worship could respond to: The congregation worked quickly to establish the new Mass in Time of Pandemic, as well as a special intention for the Good Friday liturgy and guidelines for celebrating the Holy Week liturgies without a congregation physically present.
“In this moment of trial, the challenge is to stop the contagion without stopping the prayer,” said Archbishop Arthur Roche, secretary of the congregation.
Archbishop Roche joins “Inside the Vatican” host Colleen Dulle for a special Holy Week interview on the Vatican’s response to rapidly changing liturgical needs around the world and his advice for celebrating Holy Week at home.
“Our Catholics are as creative as our priests are, and they won’t let this time pass without celebrating what is the certainty of their faith,” the archbishop said. “In other words, what the Lord has achieved, what he has given to us through his suffering and death on the cross and his resurrection. They’ll celebrate it, I feel quite sure, with deep joy, knowing that we’re safe with the Lord who is with us in our anxiety and in our suffering, because he knew what that was personally.” Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis approves new ‘Mass in Time of Pandemic’ and Good Friday coronavirus intention
On Holy Thursday, Pope Francis counsels world’s priests: ‘Take risks for forgiveness’
Pope Francis oversees an emotional Way of the Cross in empty square
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Update: Pope Francis gives English media interview
8 april 2020 · 2 min
Pope Francis has given his first interview to the English-language media, which he was invited to give as a message to the anglophone world in this time of crisis. Host Colleen Dulle gives an update on what you can find in the interview, and on the new commission to study women deacons that the Vatican announced today.
Links from the show:
‘A Time of Great Uncertainty’: An Interview with Pope Francis
Pope Francis has set up a new commission to study women deacons
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Cardinal Pell’s conviction was overturned. Now what?
8 april 2020 · 23 min
After almost five years of hearings and trials and appeals, Cardinal George Pell’s conviction of child sexual abuse was overturned April 6 with a unanimous decision from Australia’s highest court. Cardinal Pell has now left prison and will stay at a Carmelite monastery.
Now that a final judicial decision has been made in the Australian legal system, the Vatican will need to revisit the canonical investigation it had previously opened into historical complaints against Cardinal Pell, which had been paused until the appeals were complete. On this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” producer Colleen Dulle and Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell discuss whether that investigation should continue, after Gerry’s sources in Rome revealed that it may not.
Colleen and Gerry also look at a number of financial incentives that came out of the Vatican this week in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Pope Francis has earmarked $750,000 to support the work of church organizations in remote parts of Africa, Asia, Oceania and Amazonia where the church is a vital provider of social services. With approval from the pope, papal almoner Cardinal Konrad Krajewski has also made an unprecedented request of the Roman curia to donate money for coronavirus relief.
“The Pope is saying, you know, we all have to put our hands in our pockets and bring out the wallets and put them on the table,” Gerry said. “These people are dying. These people are suffering. These people have got no help.”
The hosts also talk briefly about Pope Francis’ similar Palm Sunday message, imploring young people to give their lives in service to others.
Links from the show:
Australia’s high court overturns guilty verdict against Cardinal George Pell on final appeal
Vatican responds with measure to Cardinal Pell’s acquittal and release from prison
Pope Francis establishes emergency fund to combat Covid-19 in mission countries
Papal almoner issues extraordinary appeal to Vatican churchmen for coronavirus offering
A Palm… Lees meer -
Pope Francis approves new coronavirus Mass prayers
4 april 2020 · 20 min
As the coronavirus pandemic rages on, the Vatican is looking both to provide for people’s spiritual needs and to ensure justice for those on the margins of society.
In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell and producer Colleen Dulle give an update on two new cases of coronavirus in the Vatican. Then, they turn to the Vatican’s response, beginning with the new prayers Pope Francis authorized this week.
The pope approved a special intention to be added to the Good Friday liturgy, a measure that was expected as part of the Vatican’s guidelines for celebrating Holy Week liturgies without the presence of the faithful, and he authorized a new set of prayers for “Mass in the Time of Pandemic.” Both texts pray for the sick, the dead, and mourners, as well as their caretakers and world leaders.
Up next, Father Arturo Sosa, Superior General of the Jesuits, held a webinar for 1,000 Jesuits and lay people this week urging them to discern how the world’s injustices have come to the fore during this pandemic and how each of them may be called to respond. “Listening to the Spirit, trusting in God and allowing ourselves to be guided by him does not exempt us from the effort to understand in depth the causes of this crisis, its consequences and the ways to make it an occasion to advance towards a more just and humane world,” Father Sosa said.
One way the Vatican is working to advance justice is through a new document released this week on the just use of water. Christiana Zenner, a Fordham University theologian and author of the book Just Water: Theology, Ethics, and Fresh Water Crises joins Colleen Dulle to discuss the document’s important points.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis approves new ‘Mass in Time of Pandemic’ and Good Friday coronavirus intention
Father Arturo Sosa: ‘Covid-19 reminds us that we are one humanity.’
Read: Aqua Fons Vitae: Orientations on Water, symbol of the cry of the poor and the cry of the Earth
Learn more … Lees meer -
Coronavirus should provoke economic conversion, Vatican leaders say
1 april 2020 · 26 min
In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” America’s Rome correspondent Gerard O’Connell and producer Colleen Dulle cover how Pope Francis and other Vatican leaders are making a concerted effort to draw people’s attention to the major ethical questions arising from the coronavirus pandemic—especially, how to protect poor and vulnerable people amidst economic instability.
“The governments that face the crisis” with social distancing and lockdowns “show the priority of their decisions: the people first,” Pope Francis wrote in a recent letter to an Argentinian judge. “This is important because we know that to defend the people supposes an economic setback.” Colleen and Gerry discuss the pope’s letter and his understanding of how governments should balance economic interests and public health interests.
The pope also joined United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres in calling for a global ceasefire on Sunday, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle urged nations to forgive one another’s debts and to redirect military spending toward health and social services, keeping in mind many people’s economic precarity.
Building on these calls, the Pontifical Academy for Life, which focuses on the intersection of biomedical research and moral theology, issued a new note this week stressing the importance of solidarity between people and the sharing of resources between nations during and after the pandemic. On “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen and Gerry explain the note’s important points and how they fit into the Vatican’s ongoing coronavirus response.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis warns of ‘a viral genocide’ if governments put the economy before people amid coronavirus pandemic
Pope Francis calls for a global cease-fire, attention to overcrowded prisons in response to coronavirus
Papal academy says solidarity needed in pandemic Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Francis’ ‘urbi et orbi’ prayer to end coronavirus
28 maart 2020 · 14 min
In the first special coronavirus update episode of “Inside the Vatican,” veteran Vatican reporter Gerard O’Connell and producer Colleen Dulle discuss Pope Francis’ unprecedented “urbi et orbi” blessing given Friday, March 27.
Colleen spoke with Gerry just after Pope Francis blessed “the city and the world.” Pope Francis spoke about how the world currently feels the way Jesus’ disciples felt when a storm threatened to flood their boat but Jesus stayed asleep. “We have realized that we are on the same boat, all of us fragile and disoriented, but at the same time important and needed, all of us called to row together, each of us in need of comforting the other,” the pope said.
Earlier in the show, Colleen gives an update on the known coronavirus cases in Vatican City, including one priest who lives in the same Vatican guesthouse as Pope Francis.
Follow our new Twitter account: @InsdeVaticanPod
Links from the show:
Facing the Covid-19 storm, put your faith in the Lord, Pope Francis tells Rome and the world
Read: Pope Francis’ Urbi et Orbi address on coronavirus and Jesus calming the storm
Watch Pope Francis’ prayer service for the end of coronavirus
Italian priest at guesthouse where Pope Francis lives tests positive for coronavirus Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Take your sins directly to God, Pope says
25 maart 2020 · 23 min
As Italy’s death toll rises and Catholics worldwide find their access to churches and the sacraments limited, the Vatican has taken two initiatives to grant the faithful forgiveness of their sins. One measure from the Apostolic Penitentiary, the Vatican’s “tribunal of mercy,” grants an indulgence specially for those who are suffering from the coronavirus and anyone who cares for them, even simply through prayer. A second decree also allows for priests to absolve sins without hearing one-on-one confessions in certain grave cases.
On this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Rome correspondent Gerard O’Connell and producer Colleen Dulle unpack these measures along with two worldwide prayer initiatives Pope Francis announced this week. The hosts examine how the pope is using every spiritual and communications tool available to give people around the world a sense of consolation.
Colleen also announces that “Inside the Vatican” will provide twice-weekly updates for the duration of the coronavirus crisis.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis authorizes plenary indulgences and general absolution as coronavirus crisis escalates
Pope Francis calls on Christians worldwide to combat coronavirus pandemic with midday prayer on March 25
The North American College in Rome sends seminarians back to the United States Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Francis walks deserted streets of Rome
18 maart 2020 · 22 min
With more countries shutting down nonessential businesses because of the coronavirus, church leaders have faced tough decisions about whether to keep churches open to the faithful or to close them to mitigate the spread of infections. This week, Pope Francis weighed in after a Vatican cardinal announced that all of Rome’s churches would close.
The pope prayed for pastors at his daily Mass the day after the announcement, saying, “Drastic measures are not always good. Therefore, we pray that the Holy Spirit might grant pastoral discernment to pastors so that they might perceive measures that might not leave the holy, faithful people of God alone.” Within a few hours, the decision was overturned, and instead, each pastor would decide whether to open his church.
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” producer Colleen Dulle and Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell, both recording from home due to the pandemic, unpack the ways Pope Francis and other Vatican leaders have been navigating the balance between public health and pastoral closeness. The hosts discuss Pope Francis’ Mass intentions responding to current events like the migrant crisis and Italian prison riots, as well as the pope’s pilgrimage through the empty streets of Rome, where he visited the icon and crucifix at the center of two famous plague-ending miracles.
“This was a dramatic expression of faith in the midst of crisis,” Gerry said.
Links from the show:
Coronavirus: News, Reflections, Analysis. What you need to know.
In Italy, church and state join together to fight coronavirus
Pope prays for pastors to find ways to minister amid pandemic
Vatican says public will not be admitted to papal Holy Week liturgies
Pope Francis prays in Rome churches asking God to rid the world of the coronavirus Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Coronavirus case in Vatican City
11 maart 2020 · 23 min
Vatican City reported its first case of coronavirus last week after a non-Vatican resident passed through its medical center for a routine medical evaluation. Over the weekend, the Italian government announced a total lockdown and a ban on public gatherings, advising residents not to leave their homes. On “Inside the Vatican” this week, America’s Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell details what it’s like living in Rome under the lockdown and how the Holy See and the pope are handling the crisis.
The Vatican has also announced that the 2022 synod of bishops will focus on the theme of “synodality.” Gerry and producer Colleen Dulle explain what synodality is, where the idea came from, and why Pope Francis is choosing to hold what some have jokingly called a “meta-synod.”
The hosts also give an update on Cardinal George Pell’s final appeal, which will be brought to Australia’s High Court this week.
Links from the show:
Watch Pope Francis’ daily Santa Marta Masses
The Vatican reports first case of coronavirus
Following Italy’s lead, Vatican to begin strong measures to counteract coronavirus
Pope Francis will hold Angelus and public audience via video streaming in response to coronavirus concerns
Delivering Angelus by video, Pope Francis expresses closeness to all affected by coronavirus
Pope Francis chooses ‘synodality’ as theme for 2022 synod Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Francis catches a cold
4 maart 2020 · 22 min
Pope Francis canceled his public audiences beginning Thursday, February 27 due to what his spokesman called a “slight indisposition.” Amid media reports that Francis had been tested for coronavirus, the pope addressed a smaller-than-normal crowd in St. Peter’s Square and said he had a cold.
On this week’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast, Rome correspondent Gerard O’Connell describes the fear surrounding coronavirus that has gripped the Eternal City. Then, Gerry and producer Colleen Dulle unpack the pope’s most extensive comments to date on the ongoing reform of the Legionaries of Christ.
The hosts also discuss a new task force that will bring together the Vatican’s top experts on sexual abuse prevention to help dioceses and religious orders that are not yet in compliance with Vatican guidelines catch up.
Finally, Colleen and Gerry give a few quick updates on the opening of the Vatican’s secret archives on Pope Pius XII, which they covered previously on the show, as well as the death of Nicaraguan priest and poet Ernesto Cardenal.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis, recovering from his cold, greets pilgrims
After slight cold, Pope Francis reportedly tests negative for coronavirus
Inside the Vatican, June 27, 2019: What does the pope do on vacation?
Pope Francis tells scandal-marred Legion of Christ they still haven’t reformed
AP: Vatican task force offers help to church on abuse prevention
Vatican wartime archives ready for new batch of scholars
Inside the Vatican, March 7, 2019: Vatican opens secret wartime archives
Father Ernesto Cardenal, poet and revolutionary, dies in Nicaragua Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Francis’ vision for global politics
26 februari 2020 · 26 min
This week’s “Inside the Vatican” explores the relationship between faith, global politics, and the Catholic understanding of sainthood.
First up, Colleen and Gerry discuss Pope Francis’ recent address to the Mediterranean bishops in the Southern Italian city of Bari. Speaking to a diverse group from North Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe, the pope addressed the many conflicts in the Mediterranean and North Africa that have displaced millions of refugees, and the global rise of populism that has swelled up in response. Francis stressed that the Gospel calls for peacemaking; on “Inside the Vatican,” the hosts discuss the challenges that brings.
Up next, the Vatican has taken a groundbreaking step towards making peace with another global power that is at times hostile to it: China. Holy See and Chinese foreign ministers met for the first time in more than 70 years. Colleen and Gerry explain how this meeting took the Vatican’s relationship with China to a new level and how much more lies beyond the surface of this diplomatic discussion.
Colleen and Gerry also give an update on the new credible allegations of abuse against L’Arche founder Jean Vanier. Colleen expresses her disappointment with the revelations about a man who was considered a ‘living saint,’ and Gerry explains how it is a sign of progress that Catholic institutions are taking transparency measures themselves rather than waiting on external investigations.
Finally, the hosts turn to a canonization cause that has long been in the works: that of Jesuit Father Rutilio Grande. Pope Francis recognized Father Grande’s death as a martyrdom last week, and Gerry explains how the church’s understanding of sainthood has grown to include those who work for social justice, who in the past may have been dismissed as primarily political actors. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis urges bishops of the Mediterranean to promote peace and counteract populist hate speech
Vatican and Chinese foreign ministers meet f… -
Deep Dive: Querida Amazonia
19 februari 2020 · 25 min
Pope Francis’ highly-anticipated exhortation “Querida Amazonia” or “Beloved Amazon” came out last week, sparking more conversation about what the document did not say, that is, anything on ordaining married men as priests, than what it did say. Pope Francis expressed his discontent with the media’s fixation on married priests to a group of American bishops last week.
This week on the “Inside the Vatican” podcast, the hosts take a deep dive into “Querida Amazonia,” beginning with its calls for environmental, cultural and economic justice. We unpack the hostile reception the document has gotten from Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and examine what kind of impact the Catholic Church could have by siding with the poor and marginalized in the region.
Then, we turn to the hot-topic questions of married priests and women deacons. We try to contextualize Francis’ decisions on the topics within his broader vision of the church as lay-led, and we discuss frankly the challenges that have appeared on the road to actualizing that vision.
Links from the show:
Querida Amazonia
James Martin, S.J.: Five Takeaways from 'Querida Amazonia'
Gerard O’Connell: What’s in Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation on the Amazon synod?
Colleen Dulle: Inside ‘Querida Amazonia:’ A Conversation with Cardinal Michael Czerny, S.J.
Pope Francis shares with U.S. bishops his frustration with reaction to ‘Querida Amazonia’
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Update: “Querida Amazonia” in 3 minutes
12 februari 2020 · 3 min
The Vatican published Pope Francis’ long awaited follow-up document to the Amazon Synod, “Querida Amazonia,” or “Beloved Amazon,” this morning. This document was highly anticipated because it was expected to include Pope Francis’ final decision on whether or not to allow the ordination of mature, Indigenous, married men as priests or of women as deacons in the Amazon region.
Although the synod bishops recommended that Pope Francis approve the ordination of married men, the pope avoided the topic in his document, opting instead to encourage more vocations to the priesthood in the region. Some analysts have taken this, combined with Francis’ emphasis on the bishops’ recommendations document, to mean that the question of married priests is still open.
On the question of female deacons, Francis says no, but encourages the church to find other, creative ways to increase women’s roles in ministry.
In this brief update episode of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast, I explain how these decisions, along with Francis’ comments on creating an Amazonian liturgical rite, fit into his pattern of entrusting important decisions to local churches—and what challenges churches face when trying to make these decisions.
“Querida Amazonia” is about much more than these two issues. You can find more coverage of the document at americamagazine.org, along with a full analysis next week on “Inside the Vatican.”
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‘Three popes’: Where is Archbishop Gänswein?
12 februari 2020 · 23 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell and producer Colleen Dulle explain why Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s personal secretary and prefect of Pope Francis’ household, has been missing from public events in recent weeks. The Vatican said it was due to an “ordinary redistribution of his responsibilities,” but the timing seems to suggest it has to do with Archbishop Gänswein facilitating Benedict’s involvement in a recent controversial book on priestly celibacy. The hosts explain what’s known and unknown about Archbishop Gänswein’s situation.
The hosts also take a look at the Legionaries of Christ, who elected a new superior general last week. The new leader, the Rev. John Connor, will be tasked with the continuing reform of the order amid new allegations of past sexual abuse by Legionary priests, as well as the lingering financial questions about the order’s offshore holdings. On the show, the hosts explain the basics of the Legionaries’ abuse and financial scandals and the challenges Father Connor will face.
Finally, we give brief updates on Pope Francis’ forthcoming document “Querida Amazonia” as well as the Vatican’s report on former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick and the pope’s upcoming trip to Malta. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Inside the Vatican: America’s Vatican correspondent explains Benedict’s book controversy
Vatican seeks to explain absence of Archbishop Georg Gänswein after book scandal
Graduate of Loyola University Chicago elected as Superior-General of the Legionaries of Christ
10 years after Vatican reform, Legionaries of Christ in new abuse crisis
Legionaries of Christ report ‘chain of abuse’ as victims went on to abuse others
Who knew what about former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick?Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Will Francis finally visit Argentina?
5 februari 2020 · 25 min
Last week, Pope Francis met with Argentinian President Alberto Fernández, whose country is currently weathering an economic crisis that has led to widespread hunger and a crippling national debt. In their meeting, Pope Francis expressed his solidarity with his home country and offered to help however possible. On this week’s “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I explain what form that help might take.
This past week also brought “news” on Pope Francis’ forthcoming document on the Amazon: an Italian historian reported that he had obtained advance sections of the document proving that Pope Francis would endorse ordaining mature, married men to the priesthood. Gerry explains on the show why he was skeptical about this report.
Finally, the Vatican has sent more than 600,000 masks to Wuhan Province in China to help fight the spread of coronavirus. This aid comes even as the Chinese government continues to crack down on religious communities, even banning Catholic priests from leading graveside prayers in cemeteries. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis, a son of Argentina, welcomes its new president to the Vatican
Inside the Vatican: Who is the papal almoner and what does he do?
Vatican delivers 600,000 masks to help combat coronavirus in ChinaLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope’s new secretary worked with street children, addicts
29 januari 2020 · 22 min
On a recent episode of “Inside the Vatican,” in the midst of Cardinal Robert Sarah’s book controversy, Gerry and I discussed how Archbishop Georg Ganswein’s role as Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s personal secretary—and often, by default, his gatekeeper and spokesman—has been called into question. Since the start of his papacy, Pope Francis has expressed a desire to keep his personal secretaries out of the spotlight. This week on “Inside the Vatican,” we look at how Francis has changed the role and discuss Father Gonzalo Aemilius, the pope’s new personal secretary, who is known for his work with street children and drug addicts in his native Uruguay.
This week, we also give updates on the pope’s recent meetings with U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Iraqi President Barham Salih. Since the Holy See has good relations with the U.S., Iran, and Iraq, could it be stepping in as a mediator?
We also explain the election of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re as dean of the College of Cardinals and Cardinal Leonardo Sandri as vice dean. The election followed the traditional line, electing the former vice-dean as dean and the former chief of staff as vice-dean. We discuss what it means for both roles to go to Vatican insiders, for better and for worse. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis names new secretary: a priest who worked with street children and drug addicts
Mike Pence and Pope Francis meet in a surprisingly long first visit
Pope Francis meets with Iraqi president amid growing tensions after Soleimani assassination
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re is the new Dean of the College of Cardinals
“Inside the Vatican” explains the role of dean of the College of CardinalsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Francis appoints woman to top role in Secretariat of State
22 januari 2020 · 19 min
Last week, Pope Francis appointed a woman to a top role in the Vatican’s Secretariat of State for the first time, while also upgrading that role from the department head level to the undersecretary level. On “Inside the Vatican” this week, Gerry and I take a look at these two decisions and what they reveal about Francis’ international priorities as well as his desire to include more women at leadership levels in the Vatican.
Then, we look forward to the upcoming election of a new dean of the College of Cardinals. When Cardinal Angelo Sodano’s resignation was accepted in December, Pope Francis announced that he hoped to make a few changes to the role, including imposing term limits and making the job a full-time position. Gerry and I examine the reasons behind these changes.
We also give updates on several stories including last week’s controversy surrounding “From the Depths of Our Hearts,” Cardinal Robert Sarah’s book on priestly celibacy; U.S. Vice President Mike Pence’s upcoming meeting with Pope Francis; and when to expect Pope Francis’ follow-up document to the Amazon synod.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis appoints a woman for the first time to senior role in the Vatican’s Secretariat of State
Pope Francis: “I will never grow tired of condemning every form of anti-Semitism” Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Did Benedict XVI co-author a new book on priestly celibacy?
15 januari 2020 · 22 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I dedicate the entire episode to the questions surrounding the new book From the Depths of Our Hearts, written by Cardinal Robert Sarah with a contribution from Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. The book argues against the ordination of married men as priests, a subject that Pope Francis is currently considering as he prepares his final document following up on the Vatican’s Synod on the Amazon. In October, the synod bishops recommended ordaining mature, married permanent deacons as priests to serve in their remote indigenous communities.
Gerry and I explain why the book’s subject matter prompted questions. Then, we unpack the debate about the book’s authorship that swept social media on Monday and Tuesday. After the book was announced as being co-authored by Pope Emeritus Benedict and Cardinal Sarah, a source or sources close to Benedict told members of the press that the pope emeritus had not agreed to co-author the book. This led to a back-and-forth between Cardinal Sarah, Archbishop Georg Gänswein—Benedict’s personal secretary—and the book’s publishers over how the pope emeritus should be credited and whether or not his photo should appear on the front of the book.
Gerry and I explain what each party has said and how this controversy exposes a lingering theological question—namely, what is the role of the pope emeritus?
Links from the show:
Benedict XVI and Cardinal Sarah coauthor book on celibacy, opposing the ordination of married men
Benedict XVI has asked Cardinal Sarah to have his name removed from the book on priestly celibacy Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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What’s fact and what's fiction in ‘The Two Popes’?
8 januari 2020 · 19 min
Last week, a viral video circulated on social media showing Pope Francis slapping the hand of a woman who yanked his arm as he walked through a crowd in St. Peter’s Square. On “Inside the Vatican” this week, Gerry and I explain what happened and discuss the pope’s apology for losing his patience.
Then, we turn to the growing tensions between the United States and Iran following the assassination of Iranian General Quasem Suleimani. Without mentioning the two nations directly, Pope Francis called for “all parties to fan the flame of dialogue and self-control.” How much of a difference can the Vatican make in this situation? Gerry takes us back to 2003 and explains what happened when Pope John Paul II asked President George H.W. Bush not to invade Iraq.
Finally, “The Two Popes” has made a splash on Netflix and at the Vatican, but what’s fact and what’s fiction in the new movie? Gerry and I break down which parts of the movie are true, and which are simply “inspired by true events.” Lees meerLinks from the show:
The papal hand slap divides Catholics and the media
Pope Francis begins New Year with apology for hand slap, prayers for peace
Pope Francis prays for dialogue as tensions mount between the U.S. and Iran
Catholic leaders speak out as tensions escalate between the U.S. and Iran
‘The Two Popes’: What’s fact and what’s fiction?
Jesuitical | What’s it like to play Pope Francis? An interview with Jonathan Pryce on ‘The Two Popes’Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Keep your eyes on Vatican-China relations in 2020
1 januari 2020 · 16 min
Happy New Year from Inside the Vatican!
For our New Year’s Day episode, Gerry and I are taking a look back at some of the biggest Vatican stories of 2019.
We start with February’s Vatican summit on the protection of minors, which Gerry and I covered together in Rome. We talk about the steps Pope Francis has taken to follow up on that meeting, including the elimination of the “pontifical secret” in December which paved the way for the long-awaited Vatican handbook that will establish universal norms for handling cases of clerical sexual abuse. Gerry also gives us a timeline on when to expect that document.
Next, we take a look at Gerry’s pick for the year’s most important papal trip: Pope Francis’ trip to Abu Dhabi, also in February. On this trip, the pope celebrated the first papal Mass on the Arabian Peninsula and signed a document on human fraternity with Muslim leaders. Gerry walks us through why these gestures were so significant and what lasting effects they have already had.
Skipping ahead to the fall, we discuss the Amazon synod, when all of the bishops from the Amazon region along with indigenous people, leaders and experts from around the world came to Rome to lay out how the church would respond to its many challenges in the region. We talk about when the pope is likely to issue a final document from that synod, and when its suggestions would be put into effect.
We wrap up this episode with a lightning round of the most important Vatican stories in categories like the most significant papal appointment, the top interreligious dialogue story, and what Vatican story we should keep our eyes on in 2020. (Check out the title of this episode for the answer!) Lees meerLinks from the show:
Inside the Vatican: The Vatican sex abuse summit already includes some surprises
Inside the Vatican: Unpacking Pope Francis’ historic trip to Abu Dhabi
Inside the Vatican: Are the Amazon bishops ready to become new martyrs?
The Catholic Church in China | A Short DocumentaryLearn more…
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Pope Francis’ Christmas address to the Roman Curia
25 december 2019 · 16 min
On Saturday, Pope Francis gave his annual Christmas speech to the Roman curia, which in past years has been the time that the pope speaks very clearly about where he thinks the curia needs improvement. In 2014, Pope Francis used his Christmas address to lead the curia through an examination of conscience, pointing out what he called the “curial diseases” of careerism, gossip, rivalries, and so on. In years since, he has spoken on the need for ongoing reforms and updated his collaborators on his restructuring of the Vatican bureaucracy.
This year, the pope’s talk focused on the need to fight rigidity and be open to change. He quoted St. John Henry Newman, canonized this year, who famously wrote about the way that doctrine develops and how change is natural and important both in human life and for the church. Francis also warned against rigidity which comes from a fear of change.
On this week’s episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I talk about why the pope chose this theme for his speech, who he spoke to, and how these Christmas addresses fit into the pope’s larger effort to reform the Roman curia. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis tells Roman Curia: Do not fear change, it is in the nature of the missionary church
Full text of Evangelii Gaudium, The Joy of the GospelLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Francis abolishes pontifical secret for abuse cases
18 december 2019 · 17 min
Yesterday morning, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis had abolished the pontifical secret, a confidentiality measure, in cases of sexual abuse of a minor or vulnerable person by clergy. This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I explain what information will now be available about these cases.
Next up, we dive into the Wall Street Journal’s report on the pope’s Peter’s Pence collection. The report alleged that the Vatican had misled donors by telling them that the Peter’s Pence fund was used exclusively for charity, when more than half of the money raised each year goes to plug the Vatican’s deficit. Gerry and I examine the report’s claim and discuss what actions the Vatican is taking to clean up its finances.
Finally, Pope Francis celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on Friday, December 13 and spent that evening shining a light on his spiritual mentor, Jesuit Father Miguel Fiorito. Gerry explains why Father Fiorito was so dear to Francis, and we take a look at how Francis’ spiritual mentor inspired his leadership style. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis abolishes the pontifical secret for sexual misconduct cases involving clerics
Is the Vatican misleading donors? Peter’s Pence, explained.Pope Francis celebrates 50 years as a priest
Pope Francis wants the world to know about his Jesuit spiritual directorLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Why was Fulton Sheen’s beatification postponed?
11 december 2019 · 18 min
In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I discuss the sudden cancellation of Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s beatification. We talk about why the beatification was postponed indefinitely, and Gerry explains what happened the last time a beatification was unexpectedly postponed.
Pope Francis selected Cardinal Luis Antonio “Chito” Tagle to head the Vatican’s Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples this weekend. The congregation, which handles evangelization in Africa, Asia and Oceania, is expected to be combined with the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization, which has focused primarily on Europe. The merger, part of Pope Francis’ reform of the Roman curia, would make the evangelization office the Vatican’s preeminent office and mark a shift in priority from doctrine and discipline toward evangelization. On the podcast, Gerry and I talk about what Cardinal Tagle will bring to his new position.
We end this episode with the heartwarming story of how Pope Francis visited with a young Argentinian boy who was dying of cancer throughout his last years, and how he granted the boy’s dying wish to be buried in the Vatican, near where his friend, the pope, will be buried. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis appoints Cardinal Tagle to head Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
Updated: Beatification for Archbishop Sheen postponed
A boy dying of cancer wanted to be buried near Pope Francis. His wish came true.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Francis wants to add immorality of nukes to Catechism
4 december 2019 · 19 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I recap the pope’s visit to Thailand and Japan, which Gerry believes is “one for the history books.” Lees meer
First up, in Thailand, the “land of smiles,” Pope Francis received a warm welcome. Gerry and I talk about the pope’s visits with his cousin and the leader of the nation’s Buddhists. Then, we look at the issues the pope hoped to bring to light: interreligious cooperation, migration, human trafficking, and giving Catholicism “a Thai face.”
Then, the pope traveled to Japan, where he spoke about nuclear weapons at the sites of the atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Gerry walks us through the moving scenes in both places, and we discuss Francis’ deep personal connections to Japan. We’ll also talk about the pope’s intention to add the immorality of nuclear weapons to the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
After returning to Rome, Pope Francis met with a group of U.S. bishops from Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and the bishops requested that the Vatican release its report on former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick. We update you on when to expect that report.
Finally, the pope visited the site of the first recreation of the Nativity scene to encourage Catholics to put up their crèche this Advent.
Links from the show:
What it means for Pope Francis to visit Thailand, a majority Buddhist country
Pope Francis focuses on human trafficking, migration and religious harmony on a busy day in Thailand
On last day in Thailand, Pope Francis tells missionaries to ‘give faith a Thai face and flesh’
On arrival in Japan, Francis recalls ‘the unique face’ of the Japanese church
Pope Francis at Nagasaki and Hiroshima makes impassioned plea for peace and nuclear disarmament
Pope Francis on the Vatican finance scandal and the dual threats of violence and nuclear power
Pennsylvania, New Jersey bishops ask Vatican for McCarrick report
Pope Francis, at site of first nativity scene, issues letter on the importance of the crècheLearn more about …
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Introducing PLAGUE: Untold Stories of AIDS and the Catholic Church
1 december 2019 · 42 min
This week the team at Inside the Vatican are sharing a new podcast from America Media.
In “Plague,” America’s Michael O'Loughlin investigates stories of AIDS and the Catholic Church. The release of the first episode coincides with World AIDS Day.
In this first episode, Mike tells the story of David Pais, whose journey exemplifies the experience of many gay Catholics who were personally affected by the AIDS epidemic in the early days. He describes the role his faith played helping him cope with his own diagnosis—and his struggle as he walked away from the church in anger.
You can learn more about "Plague" at americamag.org/plague.
You can find Mike on Twitter @mikeoloughlin.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Lees meer -
Pope Francis' plans for South Sudan, Japan, and Thailand
13 november 2019 · 15 min
This week, veteran Vatican reporter Gerard O'Connell speaks to Sebastian Gomes, who is filling in for Colleen Dulle.
First, they discuss a possible papal trip to South Sudan. Second, they talk about the pope's confirmed trip in a few weeks to Japan and Thailand. Lastly, they talk about the meeting of the U.S. Bishops Conference which takes place this week, and the news that Bishop Jose Gomez will be the new president of the conference.
The next episode of Inside the Vatican will be in December, when Gerry has returned from the papal trip.
Show notes:
Read more about the pope's desire to visit South Sudan here
Read more about the pope's trip to Thailand and Japan here
Read a profile of Bishop Jose Gomez
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Update: Vatican investigates ‘opaque’ London real estate deal
6 november 2019 · 27 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I explain the latest developments in the Vatican’s ongoing investigation into possible financial misconduct in the Vatican state department’s $200 million purchase of a building in an upscale London neighborhood. Cardinal Angelo Becciu was implicated in leaked documents about the deal, and this week denied any wrongdoing. Gerry and I cover what questions remain in the investigation.
For our second story, the Jesuits celebrated 50 years of their Secretariat of Social Justice and Integral Ecology this week, marking 50 years since the order began implementing the Second Vatican Council’s preferential option for the poor. In the last five decades, 57 Jesuits have been killed while evangelizing on the margins of society. (Just a note: We mistakenly said 59 on the show and regret the error.) This week, Gerry and I examine the theme of martyrdom that has emerged repeatedly in recent weeks and how it relates to Pope Francis’ vision of evangelization.
Finally, a group of U.S. bishops headed to Rome this week for their “ad limina” visits to the pope and the Roman curia. We talk about how those meetings have changed under Francis’ pontificate and what subjects the bishops are likely to address. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Vatican official denies allegations of financial mismanagement
From 2014: Were 'Hidden Funds' Really 'Discovered' in The Vatican?America Special Topic: The Jesuit Martyrs of El Salvador
Pope Francis recalls persecuted Christians during Mass in catacombsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Amazon synod proposes married priests, stops short of women deacons
30 oktober 2019 · 21 min
The Amazon synod is finally over after approving its final document of suggestions for Pope Francis. This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I unpack that document, and we dive into the specifics of its suggestion that the church ordain married men to the priesthood.
We also take a look at the synod’s call for additional research into women deacons. While Pope Francis’ commission to study women deacons previously focused on the role female deacons played in the early church, new calls from the synod are taking into account the urgent need for ministers in remote regions of the Amazon rainforest.
In addition to the synod’s concrete proposals, we take a look at the larger themes of the document, like the bishops’ commitment to take the side of the poor in the Amazon region. Faced with rapid industrialization by little-regulated corporations and the deaths of indigenous leaders, are the region’s bishops ready to follow in the footsteps of the “new martyrs” of the Amazon? Lees meerLinks from the show:
Bishop McElroy on the Amazon’s ecological crisis and what’s next for the women’s diaconate
Synod votes to ordain married men, and to protect Amazon’s indigenous peoples and rainforests
The cry of the poor is the hope of the church, Pope Francis says, closing Amazon SynodLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Despite outside distractions, Amazon synod presses on
23 oktober 2019 · 21 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I devote the entire episode to the Amazon synod, which just entered its final week. First, we discuss some of the ideas that have been brought up in the synod hall, including the establishment of an Amazonian rite, a permanent human rights observatory in the region and Catholic university education for indigenous people. After taking a look at what has been discussed, we break down what will happen between now and the release of the synod’s final document this weekend.
Then, we take you outside the synod hall and into two extra-synodal meetings: one with indigenous leaders speaking about the challenges they face, and another with bishops and synod auditors in a catacomb outside Rome. We unpack the famous 1965 Pact of the Catacombs and this updated version that was signed this weekend amid resistance to the synod, and we look at what these documents teach us about the evolution of the Latin American church since the Second Vatican Council.
Links from the show:
The Amazon synod is halfway over. Here’s what we know so far.
Synod groups propose an Amazonian rite and new ministries for women
Amazon Synod is a place of discernment that ‘must leave space for the Spirit’
Thieves steal wood carvings used at synod prayer and throw them in the river
Synod members sign new pact in the Catacombs of Domitilla, pledge simplicity Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Amazon synod takes on big ideas in first week
16 oktober 2019 · 24 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I update you on the resignation of the head of Vatican security, Commander Domenico Giani, who was nicknamed “the pope’s guardian angel.” Mr. Giani stepped down from his position after he was unable to identify who leaked Vatican security photos of the five employees who were suspended as part of a financial investigation last week. On the podcast, we explain why it was so important to Pope Francis that the source of this leak be identified, and who will replace Mr. Giani. Lees meer
Next up, the Amazon synod is in full swing, and it looks a little different from past synods: Lay auditors are sitting with bishops rather than in separate sections, and many bishops are wearing clerical suits instead of cassocks. Gerry describes the scene in the synod hall, and we talk about how the participants’ familiarity and level of comfort with one another has led to the synod taking on big ideas like women’s ministry, the possibility of ordaining married men and economic challenges early in its first week.
Finally, Pope Francis canonized Cardinal John Henry Newman this week. He is England’s first saint born after 1800, and to mark the occasion, Charles, Prince of Wales, penned an op-ed in the Vatican’s newspaper. Gerry and I discuss why Cardinal Newman is such an important figure to Prince Charles and to England in the time of Brexit.
Links from the show:
Head of Vatican security resigns following news leak connected to internal financial investigation
Pope Francis appoints cybersecurity expert to head Vatican Security Services
Amazon Synod Weekly Roundup: Calls for ecological protection and new ministries for women
Pope Francis canonizes five new saints, including John Henry Newman
Cardinal Nichols on why John Henry Newman is ‘a patron saint for everyone’Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Francis and Benedict stress loyalty in messages to new cardinals
9 oktober 2019 · 24 min
Last week, Vatican police raided five of the Vatican’s top offices as part of a financial investigation. On this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I break down what we know and what questions remain about this raid—the first of its kind to have been made public by the Vatican. Lees meer
Next up, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Pope Francis delivered a strong message about loyalty to the pope to the 13 new cardinals the pope created this weekend. Gerry gives us some insights about how this message was received.
Finally, the Synod on the Amazon is in full swing. Gerry explains the moving prayer service that kicked off the synod, and we unpack the direction Pope Francis has laid out for this meeting. We also talk about why women haven’t been allowed to vote in the synod, and whether that may change.
Links from the show:
Vatican police raid Secretariat of State and finance watchdog offices
Vatican employees suspended as finance investigation continues
Pope Francis creates 13 new cardinals, emphasizes the need for ‘compassion’ and ‘loyalty’
Pope Francis opens Amazon synod, says to ‘light the fire of the Gospel’ in the region
As Amazon Synod begins, Pope Francis looks to proceed with a ‘pastoral heart’
Catholic sisters and nuns call for voting rights for women at the Amazon synodLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Francis meets James Martin, S.J.
2 oktober 2019 · 17 min
On this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I discuss our colleague James Martin, S.J.’s meeting with Pope Francis. It was the pair’s first extended conversation, though Pope Francis is familiar with Father Martin’s work and read his book on LGBT Catholics, Building a Bridge.
Up next, the first new sculpture in 400 years was unveiled in St. Peter’s Square on September 29. Titled “Angels Unawares,” the bronze sculpture shows 140 migrants and refugees from different historical eras. We discuss the sculpture’s provenance and how it fits with Pope Francis’ priorities.
Finally, Cardinal William Levada died last week. A former head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith a friend of Pope Benedict, we discuss Cardinal Levada’s legacy and how the college of cardinals looks different today than it did under Pope Benedict’s pontificate.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis meets with Father James Martin in private audience
Pope Francis unveils new sculpture in St. Peter’s Square
U.S. Cardinal William Levada, former head of C.D.F., dies in Rome Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Who is going to the Amazon synod?
25 september 2019 · 24 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I take a look at who has been invited to the synod on the Amazon region. Who decides who goes to a synod, and what kinds of people do they look for? We talk about several of the high-profile guests and the viewpoints they will bring to the synod hall next month.
Next up, we examine some of the plans that the German bishops are making for a national “synodal journey,” a meeting of bishops and lay people that will cover challenging topics like power and authority in the church; sexual morality; the priesthood, including mandatory celibacy; and the role of women in the church, including the possibility of expanding their roles in ministry.
Finally, Pope Francis addressed the United Nations summit by video this week, saying world leaders have not gone far enough to implement the Paris Agreement to limit greenhouse gas emissions and slow climate change. We take a look at the particulars of Pope Francis’ stance on climate change and his encouragement of young climate activists. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Vatican releases list of participants for Synod on the Amazon
Why can’t women vote at the Synod on Young People?
Vatican officials offer guidance for German church ‘synodal journey’
Pope Francis implores global community to do more on climate changeLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Can Pope Francis’ critics swing the next conclave?
18 september 2019 · 27 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I discuss new comments by the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, Arturo Sosa, about Pope Francis’ critics. “The attacks against Pope Francis in the church today,” Father Sosa said, are “a fight between those who want the church dreamed of by the Second Vatican Council and those who do not want this.”
Next, Archbishop Bernard Hebda of Minneapolis-St. Paul has become the first bishop to be asked by the Vatican to investigate a fellow bishop according to new Vatican laws on sexual abuse investigations. Gerry and I explain why although at least one investigation has been ordered, the laws have a long way to go before they are fully implemented.
Finally, we talk about Pope Francis’ recent dialogues with Eastern Catholic bishops, and what he means when he says that unity does not mean uniformity when it comes to the Eastern churches. We also explain, briefly, the differences between Eastern Catholics and the Eastern Orthodox Church, and unpack the significance of Pope Francis’ gift of relics of St. Peter to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.
Links from the show:
Father Sosa: Attacks against Pope Francis are aimed at influencing the next conclave
Analysis: Why do some Catholics oppose Pope Francis?
Minnesota archbishop opens sexual misconduct investigation into fellow bishop
Pope urges Eastern Catholic bishops to promote ecumenism
Pope Francis gives Orthodox patriarch relics of St. Peter Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Francis: “I am not afraid of schisms”
11 september 2019 · 20 min
This week’s “Inside the Vatican” is all about Pope Francis’ trip to sub-Saharan Africa. First, Gerry will give us some context on the three nations the pope visited: Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius. What sets these nations apart?
Then, we’ll talk about what Pope Francis’ goals were for this visit: what issues and people he wanted to highlight, and why.
Finally, Gerry and I will unpack the pope’s comments about his critics aboard the papal plane. “I am honored when the Americans attack me,” Pope Francis said on the way to Mozambique. On the return trip, he addressed the possibility of a schism, saying “I am not afraid of schisms. I pray they do not happen.” Fresh off the papal flight, Gerry explains some of the context for these comments, and whether a schism may actually happen. Lees meerLinks from the show:
Pope Francis to journalist: ‘I am honored that the Americans attack me.’
Pope Francis celebrates the fruits of peace in Mozambique
The anti-poverty project Pope Francis will visit in Madagascar
Pope Francis to Mozambicans: ‘You have a right to peace’
Pope Francis calls on Madagascar’s leaders to fight corruption, eliminate poverty and protect the environment
Pope Francis tells Madagascar’s bishops: Be sowers of faith, hope and peace in this land of contradictions
Pope Francis in Madagascar: We cannot remain indifferent.
“Poverty is not inevitable!”: Pope Francis’ message to the young people of Madagascar
400 years after first Jesuits arrived, Pope Francis celebrates Mass in Mauritius
Pope Francis praises diversity of Mauritius but encourages greater openness to migrants
Pope Francis on plane: ‘I am not afraid of schisms. I pray they do not happen.’Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Francis chooses 13 new cardinals in the ‘Francis mold’
4 september 2019 · 20 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I update you on who Pope Francis has chosen to make cardinals next month. The surprise announcement came after the pope was stuck in an elevator for 25 minutes! In this episode, we break down who has been chosen for a red hat, and what these selections tell us about the pope’s priorities.
Next, we talk about the fires that have raged in the Amazon rainforest and the tension that is growing between the Catholic church in Brazil and the Bolsonaro administration there. What is it about the Synod on the Amazon that makes the government so nervous?
Finally, we’ll give you an update on the case of Cardinal George Pell, the Australian Cardinal found guilty of sexually abusing a child last year. His most recent appeal was rejected, but the Vatican’s investigation may continue for years.
Links from the show:
Pope to create 13 new cardinals in October, including three Jesuits
Pope Francis rescued from trapped elevator by Vatican firefighters
Pope Francis urges action to save burning Amazon rainforest
Latin American bishops sound the alarm: “If the Amazon suffers, the world suffers”
Vatican issues statement after Australian court dismisses Cardinal Pell’s appeal Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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What does the pope do on vacation?
27 juni 2019 · 18 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” we’ll talk about the pope’s address to a group of theologians in Naples, which included a call for online learning opportunities for refugees who want to study theology.
Then, we’ll update you on Cardinal Pell’s appeal case in Australia, and what awaits him after a decision is made. What effect will the civil court’s decision have on his church investigation?
Next, we ask: What does the pope do on vacation?
Finally, since it’s our last episode before our summer break, we’ll talk about some of the stories we’ll be keeping our eyes on over the next few months, including a visit by Vladimir Putin to Vatican City.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis to theologians in Naples: One cannot do theology without freedom
Inside the Vatican examines Cardinal Pell’s mixed legacy Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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What would married priests in the Amazon region mean for the church?
20 juni 2019 · 19 min
This week on Inside the Vatican, we talk about the U.S. bishops’ new resolutions on sexual abuse. How does the USCCB compare to other bishops conferences around the world?
Then, we take a look at a new document prepared for the synod on the Amazon region, that officially introduces the possibility of ordaining married men. What are the implications for the rest of the church? And, what other findings in the document might we have overlooked?
Links:
Vatican will discuss ordaining married men as priests in Amazon region
U.S. bishops adopt new protocols for holding themselves accountable for sex abuse
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Lees meer -
Unpacking the Vatican’s document on gender identity
13 juni 2019 · 19 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I unpack a the most comprehensive Vatican document on gender identity yet. The document, which was released by the Congregation for Education, seeks to address what it calls “an educational crisis” surrounding sexuality and gender. Why is it so important? And what have transgender Catholics in the United States said about it?
Then, we htalk about what’s on the table at the U.S. bishops’ meeting, happening this week. Does Rome pay attention to these national meetings? And what are they saying about sex abuse?
Vatican issues new document criticizing ‘gender theory’
Listen to the L.G.B.T. person: a response to the Vatican’s gender theory document
Bishops debate extent of lay involvement in sex abuse response Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Bonus: How this Jesuit leads the Vatican’s fight against sex abuse without losing faith
6 juni 2019 · 14 min
Introducing the Jesuitical podcast from America Media.
This week, while Colleen and Gerry are out, the Jesuitical hosts interview Hans Zollner, S.J.
Father Zollner has dedicated his life to protecting children from the horrific crime of sexual abuse. A psychologist and Jesuit priest, he has guided the church’s efforts to bring healing to survivors and to prevent such abuse from happening again. Father Zollner meets regularly with survivors and as one of the organizers of the Vatican summit on sexual abuse in February helped to lift up their voices.
To learn more about Jesuitical, visit www.Jesuiticalshow.org
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Lees meer -
What did the popes know about McCarrick?
30 mei 2019 · 21 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I discuss the first four women to be named to the Vatican’s office for synods. We talk about who these women are, how women’s involvement in Vatican leadership is changing, and what positions may be opened to women next.
Then, we unpack the most recent developments in the case of former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick. After the Archdiocese of New York found credible accusations that McCarrick had abused a minor, heated debate began over who knew what when about McCarrick’s misconduct. Correspondence leaked this week by McCarrick’s former secretary complicate the story, so on this episode, Gerry and I parse what we now know about each of the last three popes’ awareness of McCarrick’s case.
Finally, the pope is traveling to Romania this weekend. Gerry tells us briefly what to expect.
Links from the show:
October 2018: Why can’t women vote at the Synod on Young People? Lees meerReuters: Pope names women to key Vatican department for first time
Former secretary says officials knew McCarrick’s ministry was restricted
In Mexican TV interview, Pope Francis denies knowing of McCarrick restrictions
Pope Francis is visiting Romania. Here’s what to expect.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Is the pope a socialist?
23 mei 2019 · 14 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I unpack a recent confrontation between the Italian bishops and the pope, which came after the bishops failed to implement the pope’s 2015 annulment reforms. We talk about what those reforms were, and what this tells us about the way the Vatican is able to enforce change.
Then, we talk economics. Whenever Pope Francis discusses the economy, it sets off cries that the pope is a socialist or a communist. So this week, we ask: Is the pope a socialist? What is his vision for the economy?
Finally, we dig into the pope’s comments to journalists about fake news, freedom of the press, and why he thinks women make good reporters.
Congratulations to Jeff Johnson, the winner of our raffle of Gerry’s book, “The Election of Pope Francis: An Inside Account of the Conclave that Changed History.”
Links from the show:
Inside the Vatican: A brief explanation of the Vatican-China deal Lees meerPope Francis recognizes Chinese bishops ordained without papal approval
Pope Francis asks Italian bishops finally to implement marriage tribunal reforms
Pope Francis invites young people to pledge to build a new economy
Pope Francis tells the press: ‘The church is on your side,’ denounces fake newsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Vatican issues new universal laws on sexual abuse
16 mei 2019 · 20 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I explain why the papal almoner climbed down a manhole this weekend to illegally restore electricity to 450 homeless people squatting in a building in Rome. We also explain who the papal almoner is, and how the job has changed under Pope Francis.
Last week, the pope met with the group of women religious who first asked him about ordaining women to the diaconate in 2016. We talk through what he told them, then take a step back to consider how things have changed for women religious at the Vatican in recent years.
Finally, the Vatican issued new universal guidelines on how to handle sexual abuse. Included in the new laws are mandatory reporting requirements for all priests and religious, and new provisions for holding bishops accountable for abuse and cover up. Gerry and I talk through some of the key points and what to expect next.
Next week, we’ll be raffling off one copy of Gerry’s book, “The Election of Pope Francis: An Inside Account of the Conclave that Changed History.” You can enter to win by leaving a review of “Inside the Vatican” on iTunes. Then, email us at insidethevatican@americamedia.org and tell us what name you used to leave your review.
Links from the show:
Pope Francis authorizes the organization of pilgrimages to Medjugorje Lees meerPope Francis’ almsgiver restores power (illegally) to homeless shelter in Italy
Pope Francis tells women religious church cannot alter revelation on women’s diaconate
Cindy Wooden: Holy boldness: Profile of women religious rising at Vatican
Pope Francis issues new rules for accountability and response to allegations of sexual abuse
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Is the church getting closer to introducing women deacons?
9 mei 2019 · 23 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I talk about three stories from Pope Francis’ trip to Bulgaria and North Macedonia. We’ll talk about what he did on that trip, as well as two stories he commented on during a press conference aboard the papal plane.
The first of those is the death of “living saint” Jean Vanier, who founded L’arche, the communities where people with abilities and disabilities live together. I ask Gerry about the pope’s relationship to Mr. Vanier and more.
Next, we talk about why Pope Francis visited North Macedonia and Bulgaria, where there are tiny Roman Catholic minorities. Gerry explains the tensions between the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church, and how far the ecumenical relations have come in the last few decades.
And finally, we speak about the breaking news on the question of women deacons. Why hasn’t the Study Commission on the Women's Diaconate reached any conclusions? What, if anything, do they agree on?
This episode was brought to you by the documentary “Hesburgh,” available nationwide April 26. Learn more at hesburghfilm.com.
Links:
Jean Vanier, ‘living saint’ who ministered to people with disabilities, dies at 90An interview with Jean VanierPope Francis meets with Bulgarian Orthodox Patriarch NeofitPope Francis celebrates first Communion with 245 children in BulgariaPope Francis ends visit to Bulgaria, urging its religious leaders to work for peaceIn North Macedonia, Pope Francis encourages peace, prays at Mother Teresa memorialPope Francis makes history in North MacedoniaPope Francis says commission on women deacons did not reach agreement
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Lees meer -
Pope Francis' big reforms to the Roman Curia are finally coming
2 mei 2019 · 16 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I update you on the situation in Sri Lanka following a series of explosions in churches and hotels there on Easter Sunday.
Then, we’ll talk about the new editorial board of Women Church World. Will the new editor in charge have more freedom?
And finally, we’ll talk through some big reforms Pope Francis has planned for the Roman Curia. What is a super dicastery and what does it tell us about the pope's priorities?
This episode was brought to you by the documentary “Hesburgh,” available nationwide April 26. Learn more at hesburghfilm.com.
Links:
Rural Catholic church defies Sri Lanka threats and holds Mass
Vatican newspaper appoints new editorial board for women's magazine
Big changes to the Vatican’s Roman Curia are coming Lees meerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Pope Benedict breaks his self imposed silence
18 april 2019 · 19 min
This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Gerry and I talk briefly about the horrific fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Then, we’ll update you on Pope Francis kissing the feet of South Sudanese leaders, and the importance of gestures like this one.
We’ll also talk about a new letter from Pope Emeritus Benedict that addressed the sexual abuse crisis. We go through some of the questions that journalists are raising about the circumstances under which the letter was written and distributed.
Finally, I ask Gerry to share one of my favorite stories from his new book on the conclave that elected Pope Francis.
This episode was brought to you by the documentary “Hesburgh,” available nationwide April 26. Learn more at hesburghfilm.com. Lees meerLinks:
Father James Martin: Where was God when Notre Dame was in flames?
Grieving the fire of Notre Dame during Holy Week
Watch: Pope Francis kisses the feet of South Sudan leaders to beg for peace
Pope Benedict’s letter on sex abuse is not an attack on Francis (or Vatican II)
Exclusive: Inside the election of Pope Francis
Gerry's book: Buy from Orbis Books | Buy on AmazonLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices