In a new book, the former pope makes a firm defense of celibacy for priests as Pope Francis is expected to decide whether to allow married priests in remote regions. Let the intrigue begin.
Tag: Priests
Pope Francis Abolishes Secrecy Policy in Sexual Abuse Cases
Church officials can now share information with secular law enforcement authorities. Critics said the confidentiality rule led to the concealment of abuse.
German Catholic Church Debates Sexuality, Celibacy and Women’s Roles
With the German church’s global influence, a meeting of bishops and laypeople to take up hot-button topics has led to warnings of a new schism, originating in the home of the Protestant Reformation.
2 Priests Convicted in Argentina of Sexual Abuse of Deaf Children
The priests at a now-shuttered school in Mendoza were each sentenced to more than 40 years in prison; a former gardener was sentenced to 18 years.
Catholic Bishops Back Ordination of Married Men as Priests in Amazon Region, a Milestone
It was the first time a summit of bishops convened by a pope has endorsed such a historic change to the tradition of a celibate priesthood. The final decision will be up to the pope.
A Bigger Role for Women in the Catholic Church? 185 Men Will Decide
Discussions at the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon have acknowledged that women must get recognition of some sort. But few expect real change.
Pope Francis May Not Change the World. But He Is Reshaping the Church.
On Saturday, Francis will create 13 new cardinals who reflect his pastoral priorities. He will now have named more than half of those who will elect his successor.
Mixing Politics and Piety, a Conservative Priest Seeks to Shape Poland’s Future
The Rev. Tadeusz Rydzyk has delivered millions of votes for Poland’s governing right-wing Law and Justice party, which in turn has helped him build a business empire.
In Africa, Pope Francis Comes Face to Face With the Future of the Church
The Roman Catholic Church continues to expand in Africa, even as it faces competition from increasingly popular Pentecostal and evangelical movements.
Pope Francis, in Africa, Urges Mozambique to Put Past Tensions Aside
The pontiff is on a three-country tour of Africa, where he plans to emphasize the continent’s role in the future of the Roman Catholic Church.