Inside The Vatican

Do we really trust the Holy Spirit to guide the election of a pope? What does that trust feel like? Are we hopeful or fearful for what is to come? Why does it feel so hard to pray in Rome sometimes? The cardinals have asked for our prayers repeatedly in the run-up to the conclave. While they are sequestered away on the second day of conclave, Sebastian Gomes, Ashley McKinless, Zac Davis and J.D. Long García talk about what their prayer has been like while covering the lead-up to the conclave. Read more: Conclave watch: Which cardinals are likely contenders? Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: ⁠⁠AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. In today’s episode from Rome, the team discusses: The protocols being followed by the cardinals in conclave The “habemus papam” moment, what the pope wears and other telling symbolic gestures What happens in the days immediately following the election of a pope? This episode features: Sam Sawyer, S.J., America’s editor in chief Colleen Dulle, co-host of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast David Gibson, director of Fordham University’s Center for Religion and Culture Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show: Cardinal Re’s pre-conclave homily: ‘Love is the only force capable of changing the world.’ Conclave: Everything you need to know about electing a new pope What time will we see black or white smoke? Past conclaves give clues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. In today’s episode from Rome, the team discusses the frontrunners entering the conclave, and explains how the voting could quickly confirm papabile lists or pivot to an unexpected candidate. Featuring: Gerard O’Connell, America’s Vatican correspondent and author of The Election of Pope Francis: An Inside Account of the Conclave that Changed History Colleen Dulle, co-host of the “Inside the Vatican” podcast Sam Sawyer, S.J., editor in chief of America Read more at: https://www.americamagazine.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. In today’s episode from Rome, the team discusses: Final preparations for the conclave, including additional meetings for the cardinals President Trump’s A.I. pope image Covering the conclave for secular media, with NPR’s Scott Detrow The quirky procedures and protocols of the conclave, with Religion News Service’s Thomas Reese, S.J. This episode features: Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast Scott Detrow, weekend host of “All Things Considered,” and a co-host of the “Consider This” podcast. Thomas Reese, S.J., senior analyst at Religion News Service Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: ⁠⁠AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe⁠⁠ Links from the show: ⁠⁠Conclave: Everything you need to know about electing a new pope⁠⁠ ⁠⁠‘God is not mocked’: US Catholic leaders criticize Trump’s AI pope meme⁠⁠ ⁠⁠The conclave is a referendum on synodality⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Interview: Cardinal Müller on if Pope Francis was a heretic and what he wants in the next pope⁠⁠ ⁠⁠The pope is not the point⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. In today’s episode from Rome, the team discusses: The security measures being taken at Casa Santa Marta, where the cardinal electors will stay during the conclave, including lock inspections and sealed windows The history and recent rise of betting on who will be the next pope, as well as Fantasy Football-style apps for building your conclave team The influence of the Synod on Synodality for the conclave—and what the result of the conclave might mean for the future of synodality This episode features: Sebastian Gomes, America’s executive editor of audio and video Colleen Dulle, co-host of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast Anna Rowlands, a professor of theology at Durham University Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show: The conclave is a referendum on synodality Over $10 million in bets placed on who will be the next pope Vatican guesthouse secured and sealed ahead of secret papal election Interview: Cardinal Müller on if Pope Francis was a heretic and what he wants in the next pope Hong Kong’s Jesuit Cardinal Chow on the conclave, the next pope and Francis’ legacy How will the next pope strengthen safeguards against sex abuse? Pope Francis and the future of Catholic moral theology Is it time for the second Latin American pope? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. In today’s episode from Rome, the team discusses: The latest conclave news, including the installation of the chimney of the roof of the Sistine Chapel and how many cardinals have arrived in Rome The cardinals have asked Catholics to pray for them and the conclave. What exactly should we be praying for? And should we be scandalized by the intermingling of politics and spirituality? This episode features: James Martin, S.J., America’s editor at large and founder of Outreach Colleen Dulle, co-host of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast J.D. Long García, senior editor at America Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show: Vatican firefighters install a chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel for the conclave With five days before the conclave, all but four cardinal electors are in Rome The prayer Rome needs right now: Come, Holy Spirit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. In today’s episode from Rome, the team discusses: Cardinal Beniamino Stella’s stunning attack on Pope Francis in Wednesday’s general congregation meeting of the College of Cardinals The “election” of a new bishop in mainland China—while the chair of St. Peter is empty Papabile: How do conclave watchers come up with their lists of the next pope (and should we trust them?) This episode features: Sebastian Gomes, America’s executive editor of audio and video Colleen Dulle, co-host of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show: Backer of Cardinal Parolin attacks Pope Francis’ push for lay involvement in church governance The new pope: How journalists (and cardinals) come up with their list of candidates Designers up in arms over Pope Francis’ tombstone Despite the death of Pope Francis, auxiliary bishop elected in Shanghai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. In today’s episode from Rome, the team discusses: President Donald Trump’s choice for pope The latest from the cardinal pre-conclave meetings The question: Will the next pope be an Italian? The unfinished business of Pope Francis’ papacy, including: synodality, fighting sexual abuse, reforming Vatican governance and an ecumenical trip to Turkey on the anniversary of the Council of Nicaea This episode features: Sam Sawyer, S.J., America’s editor in chief Sebastian Gomes, America’s executive editor of audio and video Colleen Dulle, co-host of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe Links from the show: Cardinals say they are expecting a short conclave Watch: Trump jokes he’d ‘like to be Pope’ Synodality—and ‘controversial’ issues—are here to stay: Takeaways from the Synod’s final document The four signs of a truly synodal church Pope Francis issues new rules for accountability and response to allegations of sexual abuse Pope Francis’ new sex abuse rules are a revolution for the Catholic Church Vatican to consider classifying ‘spiritual abuse’ as new Catholic crime With Pope Francis’ reform of the Roman Curia, nine years of work is coming to fruition Podcast: Pope Francis’ Roman Curia reform, explained Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to America magazine’s Conclave Podcast. Our editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. In today’s episode, the team discusses: - The controversial presence at the pre-conclave meetings of Cardinal Becciu, convicted of embezzlement, and Cardinal Cipriani, who was sanctioned by the Vatican for alleged sexual abuse - The topics emerging in the cardinals’ secret meetings - How “unity” and “clarity” are becoming buzzwords for reversing Francis’ style of governance This episode features: - Sebastian Gomes, America’s executive editor of audio and video - Colleen Dulle, co-host of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast - Gerard O’Connell, Vatican correspondent and co-host of America’s “Inside the Vatican” podcast - Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast - Zac Davis, director of digital strategy and co-host of America’s “Jesuitical” podcast - Sam Sawyer, S.J., America’s editor in chief Sign up for America’s subscriber-exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: ⁠AmericaMagazine.org/Subscribe⁠ Links from the show: - ⁠What Pope Francis taught us: Church teaching finds clarity and power in acts of mercy⁠ - ⁠Cardinal Becciu will not participate in conclave following dispute over right to vote⁠ - ⁠As Cardinals Prepare to Elect a Pope, One Motto Is ‘Unity.’ That’s Divisive.⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

America Magazine’s editors are on the ground in Rome covering the conclave to elect the next pope. As part of the coverage, the team is producing a new podcast episode every day and releasing it on Inside the Vatican and Jesuitical. In today’s episode, the team discusses: - The funeral of Pope Francis - The cardinal’s decision to start the conclave on May 7 - The College of Cardinals by the numbers - How the conclave is (and isn’t) a referendum on Pope Francis’ pontificate Hosted by Sebastian Gomes, America’s executive editor of audio and video, and featuring commentary from “Inside the Vatican” co-hosts Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell, Jesuitical hosts Zac Davis and Ashley McKinless, editor in chief Sam Sawyer, SJ, editor at large James Martin, SJ, and senior editor J.D. Long García. Sign up for America’s exclusive “Conclave Diary” daily newsletter and get all of our extensive coverage at: AmericaMagazine.org Links: - ⁠Conclave to elect a new pope will start on May 7⁠ - ⁠The three surprises of Pope Francis’ funeral⁠ - ⁠Mourners from around the world flock to Rome to say goodbye to ‘pope of the people’⁠ - ⁠Father James Martin: Don’t be afraid of the conclave—or the next pope⁠ - ⁠The papal transition: What you need to know⁠ - ⁠Cardinal Becciu will not participate in conclave following dispute over right to vote⁠ - ⁠The prayer Rome needs right now: Come, Holy Spirit.⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis—the first Jesuit and Latin American pope—has died. As 1.4 billion Catholics begin mourning the loss of their pastor, and the world grieves one of its most prominent spiritual leaders, the Church remembers the pope who saw himself not only as the bishop of Rome, but as a parish priest to the whole world. Now, a momentous process begins in Rome: the funeral, the mourning rites, and the election of a new pope. In this special deep-dive episode of Inside the Vatican, host Colleen Dulle guides listeners through the rituals, rules, and hidden dynamics that unfold when a pope dies—from the certification of his death and the breaking of the papal ring to the solemn gathering of cardinals from around the world, and the quiet conversations that begin among them as they prepare to discern who will lead the church into its next chapter. These cardinals will soon enter the conclave—the oldest surviving method of leadership selection in the world. Held beneath Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, the conclave is a spiritual event wrapped in secrecy and tradition. There, 135 cardinal electors, bound by oath and guided by prayer, will choose the next successor of Peter. You’ll hear from: John Thavis, veteran Vatican journalist and former Rome bureau chief for Catholic News Service, and author of The Vatican Diaries Anne Thompson, NBC News’ Chief Environmental Affairs Correspondent, who has long reported on the Catholic Church Gerard O’Connell, veteran Vatican correspondent for America magazine, co-host of Inside the Vatican, and author of The Election of Pope Francis: An Inside Story of the Conclave That Changed History Join us as we explore the sacred traditions and profound moments that shape a papal transition—and gain unique insight into the process of choosing the next leader of the Catholic Church. Please support Inside the Vatican by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Links for further reading Pope Francis, trailblazing Jesuit with a heart for the poor, dies at 88 How Pope Francis changed the place of women in the church Pope Francis never stopped being a Jesuit Trump, Vance and Biden react to the death of Pope Francis A prayer for our beloved Pope Francis Vatican releases Pope Francis’ final testament What happens after a pope dies? Pope Francis died after stroke and heart attack, Vatican says Pope Francis’ funeral set for April 26, first photos of his body released Before picking a new pope, the cardinals will politick In last words, Pope Francis thanked his nurse ‘for bringing me back to the square’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“We’ve lost a friend on earth—and gained one in heaven,” says Gerard O’Connell as he mourns Pope Francis. In this special Inside the Vatican roundtable, recorded the day after the pope’s death, hosts Gerard O’Connell and Colleen Dulle join their producer, Ricardo da Silva, S.J., for a heartfelt conversation about the life, legacy and final days of a pope who changed the Catholic Church—and changed them. Gerry, who perhaps knew Francis more as a friend than as pope—having shared a personal bond for more than two decades, and whose children were baptized by him—recalls the last time he saw him alive: Easter Sunday, riding through the crowds in his popemobile. “That’s my last image of him,” he says. Colleen reflects on witnessing the pope’s final Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square and thinking, “He gave his all to the job,” she says. “Really left nothing on the table.” Ricardo remembers the pope’s joy at World Youth Day in Lisbon and the line that has stayed with him: “‘Todos, todos, todos!’ This is the church for all!” Together, they reflect on the global impact of Francis’ papacy: his outreach to migrants and the poor, his advocacy for peace and the planet, and his reforms on synodality and inclusion. Colleen recalls the pope’s final request, recorded in his last testament: It would be “just a simple grave in the ground with a stone over the top that just says Franciscus on it. No extra ornamentation.” Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Further reading Pope Francis, trailblazing Jesuit with a heart for the poor, dies at 88 How Pope Francis changed the place of women in the church Pope Francis never stopped being a Jesuit Trump, Vance and Biden react to the death of Pope Francis A prayer for our beloved Pope Francis Vatican releases Pope Francis’ final testament What happens after a pope dies? Pope Francis died after stroke and heart attack, Vatican says Pope Francis’ funeral set for April 26, first photos of his body released Before picking a new pope, the cardinals will politick In last words, Pope Francis thanked his nurse ‘for bringing me back to the square’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis died early this morning at 7:35 a.m. Rome time. He was 88. His death follows a 38-day hospital stay for double pneumonia that ended last month. He died at Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guesthouse where he lived. A brief service was held there, led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, who now oversees preparations for the next conclave. In announcing the pope’s death, Cardinal Farrell said Francis “taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and the marginalized.” The cardinals will meet tomorrow, April 22, to set the date of the funeral. Pope Francis will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, likely beginning Wednesday, April 23. We’ll have much more coverage in the days ahead. For now, you can find Gerry’s obituary and our ongoing reporting here: Pope Francis, trailblazing Jesuit with a heart for the poor, dies at 88 Pope Francis never stopped being a Jesuit How Pope Francis changed the place of women in the church Pope Francis pushed the U.S. church to move beyond the culture wars—with mixed results What happens after a pope dies? The official documents of Pope Francis’ papacy Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Nicene Creed, which emerged from the Council of Nicaea, remains a foundational declaration of Christian faith today. But what exactly was Nicaea? Why does it still matter to Christians centuries later? This special deep dive unravels what made the council groundbreaking and explores how it continues to impact Christian life today. Host Colleen Dulle brings listeners inside its rich history through interviews with experts; theologians, ecumenical scholars and historians. Our guests include: Aristotle (Telly) Papanikolaou, Professor of Theology and the Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture at Fordham University John Chryssavgis, deacon of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Archdeacon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate Donald Bolen, Archbishop of Regina in Canada and a member of the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity Married professors Ben Hohman, a Roman Catholic, and Claire Koen, an Eastern Orthodox Christian Sandra Beardsall, Professor of Church History and Ecumenics at St. Andrew’s College in Saskatoon, Canada, an ordained United Church minister and a member of the World Council of Churches’ Faith and Order Commission Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former cardinal Theodore McCarrick died on April 3; he was the first cardinal to be removed from the College of Cardinals over sexual abuse and was ultimately laicized. This week, we’re re-presenting “Inside the Vatican”’s 2020 deep dive, “The Rise and Fall of Theodore McCarrick,” which was published just after the Vatican published an unprecedented report into how McCarrick was able to rise through the church’s ranks despite his abuse being an “open secret.” In this episode, America’s Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell and host Colleen Dulle explain the rise and fall of Theodore McCarrick, once the most prominent prelates in the U.S. Catholic church. The two unpack the accusations made in Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò’s incendiary 2018 letter and how those are addressed in the Vatican’s recent report. Gerry gives an up-close view of how the events of the last two years unfolded, and Colleen raises questions about whether this report will usher in a new era of accountability. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find a transcript of this episode here. Links for further reading and listening: Inside the Vatican: A 3-minute summary of what the McCarrick Report reveals Disgraced former cardinal Theodore McCarrick dies at 94 Sexual abuse case against defrocked Cardinal McCarrick suspended in Wisconsin Timeline: The allegations against former Cardinal McCarrick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Mar. 20, Pope Francis said in his written Sunday Angelus address that he was experiencing Lent as a time of “healing” in his body and his soul. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” host Colleen Dulle and veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell walk us through the pontiff’s recovery, including “slight improvements” in his speech. In the second half of the show, Colleen and Gerry discuss an announcement made by the bishop of Lourdes that the mosaics on the doors of the Lourdes Shrine by alleged abuser Marko Rupnik will be covered up this week. Note: After this episode was recorded, the Sanctuary of Fátima announced that it would no longer use photos of its Rupnik mosaics in promotional materials, however it would leave the artwork on display. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find links to further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis has returned home after 38 days in the hospital, which included two life-threatening respiratory crises. In this episode, host Colleen Dulle and veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell discuss a revealing new interview that the pope’s doctor gave to an Italian newspaper. Gerry describes the scene at the Gemelli Hospital when the pope made his first public appearance on March 23, and the two describe what they know so far about what to expect from the pope’s planned two-month convalescence period. Note: After this podcast was recorded, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s planned visit to the Vatican had been postponed due to the pope’s need for rest. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find links to further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis’ doctors announced at a press conference early this evening Rome time, March 22, that he will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow, March 23, following a six week hospitalization for double pneumonia, the longest of his pontificate. The pope will give a quick wave from his balcony at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital tomorrow, then return to the Vatican. The doctors said he will have to observe a recovery period of two months before he can return to his usual pace of work. During this time, he can work and have individual meetings, but no big events or meetings with groups. Find the latest at americamagazine.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buckingham Palace announced a meeting between King Charles III, Queen Camilla and Pope Francis at the Vatican on April 8. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen and Gerry discuss whether the pope is on track to leave Gemelli Hospital in time for the royal visit, noting his gradual health improvements and the absence of setbacks since March 3. In the second part of the show, Francis appears to be shoring up his legacy, announcing the next stage in the global synodal process: a three-year implementation phase culminating in an ecclesial assembly in 2028. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis is no longer in imminent danger, according to the Vatican and doctors at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he has now entered his fourth week of treatment. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Ricardo da Silva, S.J., speaks with veteran Vatican reporter Gerard O’Connell to provide the latest updates on Pope Francis’ slow but steady recovery. In the second half, Ricardo and Gerry discuss a recent talk in Germany given by the Vatican’s doctrinal chief Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, which appears to present a pastorally sensitive response to those experiencing gender dysphoria. Find the full show page and links for further reading here. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 21 days of hospitalization, Pope Francis sent a brief message of thanks that was played for those praying for him in St. Peter's Square the night of March 6. Read Gerard O'Connell's report on the message here. Visit americamagazine.org for the latest on Pope Francis' health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis has been hospitalized for nearly three weeks with double pneumonia. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Ricardo da Silva, S.J., speaks with veteran Vatican reporter Gerard O’Connell about the pope’s health, ongoing work, and the misinformation surrounding his condition. While stable, the pope’s condition remains serious, and his prognosis is “guarded,” meaning he is not yet out of danger. In the second half, Ricardo asks Gerry about his recent interview with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s foreign minister, where they discussed ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as diplomatic relations with the U.S. and China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Earlier today, March 3, the Vatican announced that the Pope experienced two acute breathing crises caused by a significant buildup of mucus in his airways, linked to his ongoing pneumonia infection. Doctors performed two bronchoscopies to clear the mucus and resumed non-invasive ventilation with an oxygen mask to assist his breathing, without the need for intubation. His prognosis remains guarded, and doctors will continue to closely monitor his condition. Subscribe to americamagazine.org for the latest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special update, we report on a concerning turn in Pope Francis’ health. Earlier today, Feb. 28, the Vatican announced that the pope suffered a severe “bronchial spasm,” causing vomiting and inhalation complications that worsened his breathing. Doctors cleared his airways and stabilized him, but informed sources tell America he is back in a “critical state.” His prognosis remains guarded, and doctors say it will take a day or two to assess the impact of this setback. Subscribe to americamagazine.org for the latest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis remains in critical condition after being hospitalized for bronchitis that developed into double pneumonia. While his condition is serious, there are signs of improvement, including progress in his lab results and increased mobility. However, his doctors caution that he is not out of danger, and his condition could still worsen. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell provide a comprehensive update on Pope Francis’ health crisis, discussing the Vatican’s daily health reports and a recent press conference in which the pope’s medical team shared details of his condition. Despite the severity of his illness, his doctors highlighted his good humor and mobility. Colleen and Gerry also address the misinformation that has been circulating about the pope’s health. Links for further reading Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Vatican told the press this evening, Saturday, Feb. 22, that Pope Francis experienced what it called a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis”—essentially, the symptoms of a severe asthma attack—requiring him to receive high-flow oxygen. This evening’s update also said that Francis’ most recent blood tests revealed “thrombocytopenia,” which is a lowered level of platelets in the blood that is common in critical care patients. This condition resulted in a need for the pope to receive blood transfusions. Repeating what doctors said at the press conference yesterday, the Vatican said, Pope Francis’ condition remains critical, and he is not yet out of danger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis remains hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since his admission on Feb. 14 with a respiratory infection, later confirmed as double pneumonia. He is stable, without fever, and in good spirits. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell discuss his diagnosis, treatment, and how the week has unfolded for the pope. In the second half of the show, Colleen and Gerry use Pope Francis’ letter to the U.S. bishops—offering a strong critique of U.S. immigration policy under Trump—as a springboard to explore broader policy tensions between the new administration and the Vatican, from Gaza and Ukraine to U.S.A.I.D. funding, climate change, and artificial intelligence. They also consider whether any common ground can be found between the two. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find links for further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on Friday, February 14 for a respiratory infection that the pope referred to as bronchitis. He underwent tests and rested over the weekend, skipping his Sunday Angelus for the first time in 12 years. The Vatican said his condition was improving on Saturday and Sunday and that the fever he entered the hospital with had gone away. A statement from the Vatican Monday morning, however, revealed that Pope Francis may need to stay in the hospital longer than originally anticipated. When the pope entered the hospital, the Vatican announced all his engagements were cancelled through Monday. This morning’s statement said that the pope’s test results have shown “a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract,” which paints a “complex clinical picture that will require an adequate hospital stay.” It was unclear how long that stay would be. Read Gerry’s latest report here. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Vatican released the long-awaited document Antiqua et Nova ("Ancient and New") on artificial intelligence on Jan. 28. It explores the relationship between human and artificial intelligence, emphasizing that humans cannot be replaced by AI, which must always serve the common good. Bishop Paul Tighe, secretary for the culture section of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, joins Inside the Vatican host Colleen Dulle to discuss the document, and Vatican's broader approach and response to AI. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This morning, Feb. 11, Pope Francis sent a letter to the U.S. bishops denouncing President Trump’s mass deportation program, which has already deported thousands of people and sparked fear in the migrant community. Read more at americamagazine.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, Feb. 3, the Vatican hosted its first International Summit on Children’s Rights, which Pope Francis called an “open observatory” for children’s protection in an attempt to showcase “the reality of childhood throughout the world, a childhood that is unfortunately often hurt, exploited, denied.” In this week’s episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen and Gerry dive into the goals of the summit and unpack Pope Francis’ plan to write a papal document dedicated to children, described as an attempt “to give continuity to this commitment and promote it throughout the church.” In the second half of the episode, Colleen and Gerry discuss Pope Francis’ call for a common date for Easter among all Christian Churches in 2025, which he announced during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity from Jan. 19-25. As it happens, the churches will share a common date this year on Apr. 20, 2025. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find links for further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This special deep dive episode recaps the 2024 VaticanRoman meeting of the Synod on Synodality, featuring interviews with five synod delegates about the tensions and unexpected breakthroughs in the Synod hall—and outside it. The episode brings listeners inside Synod meetings with archival audio, and parses the synod’s final document, which Pope Francis adopted as part of the church’s magisterial teachings. Finally, host Colleen Dulle and expert guests look at what the Synod’s results demand now from church leaders and every baptised Catholic. Guests include: - Archbishop Timothy Costelloe of Perth, Australia - Helena Jeppesen, a Swiss synod delegate - Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, S.J., dean of the Jesuit School of Theology at Santa Clara University and a synod delegate - Diana Macalintal, co-founder of “Team Initiation” Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find the full show page and links for further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Inside the Vatican,” host Ricardo da Silva, S.J., filling in for Colleen Dulle, speaks with Gerard O’Connell about Pope Francis’ recent interview on Italian TV. In the interview, given on the eve of the U.S. presidential inauguration, the pope announced that by March he would appoint a woman to lead the Vatican City-State government. He also criticized President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans as a “disaster.” Last week, the Biden administration announced that Cuba would release 553 political prisoners, and in return, the U.S. would remove Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism—a deal reportedly brokered by the Vatican. However, on his first day back in office, President Donald Trump reversed this decision reinstating Cuba’s status as a state sponsor of terrorismon his first day back in office. This reversal has jeopardized the agreement and raised concerns among the families of the prisoners who were set to be released. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Links for further reading Pope Francis assures Donald Trump of his prayers, but says mass deportations would be a ‘disgrace’ Cuba to release 553 prisoners for Jubilee at Pope Francis’ request Pope Francis falls, suffers bruise but no fractures Pope Francis dissolves Peru-based Catholic movement after abuses uncovered by Vatican Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Vatican has approved new guidelines from the Italian Bishops’ Conference, allowing gay men to enter seminaries if they commit to celibacy, as expected of all seminarians regardless of sexual orientation. This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell discuss whether this signals a shift in admissions policy and the potential implications for seminarians worldwide. They also cover Pope Francis’s annual address to diplomats accredited to the Holy See, where he called for a “diplomacy of hope.” Later, Gerry shares highlights from his interview with Filipino Cardinal Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” David, who faced death threats for opposing former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs. The cardinal also observes what he sees as contrasting approaches to evangelization between Pope Francis, who calls the church to go outside its doors and seek those on the peripheries, and Pope Benedict, who stressed opening the church’s doors to welcome people in. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis has appointed Cardinal Robert McElroy as archbishop of Washington and Sister Simona Brambilla, an Italian Consolata missionary, as prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. Her appointment makes her the first woman to lead a major Vatican department and to have a cardinal as her deputy. On this week's episode of “Inside the Vatican,” hosts Colleen Dulle and Gerard O'Connell discuss the challenges Cardinal McElroy may face in Washington, D.C., due to his views on issues like racism, migration, poverty, and climate change, which may conflict strongly with the incoming administration’s proposed policies. They also explore how Sister Brambilla’s appointment marks a milestone for the Vatican and consider Pope Francis’ ongoing efforts to elevate women to top leadership roles within the Vatican. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Catholic Jubilee Year, established in 1300 by Pope Boniface VIII, is rooted in the Jewish tradition of releasing prisoners, forgiving debts, and restoring harmony every 50 years. During the Jubilee, Catholics can receive plenary indulgences, which remove the temporal punishment for sins that have already been forgiven and can be offered for others, such as those in purgatory. In this episode of Inside the Vatican, Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell discuss the 2025 Jubilee Year, beginning on Christmas Eve 2024 and ending in January 2026. With the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” Pope Francis seeks to rekindle hope and trust in the future, encouraging Catholics to deepen their faith through acts of charity, penance, and pilgrimage. The hosts explore the history of the Jubilee Year, the Vatican’s plans for 2025, and Rome’s preparations to accommodate an anticipated 32 million pilgrims. They also offer travel tips for visitors and alternatives for those unable to make the trip to the Eternal City. Links for further reading from the episode Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On his 88th birthday, Pope Francis revealed he survived two assassination attempts during his 2021 apostolic visit to Iraq, a journey already recognized as high-risk. In this episode of Inside the Vatican, Colleen and Gerry examine this shocking disclosure and other insights from his forthcoming autobiography, Hope, with excerpts released to mark the occasion ahead of its January publication. They also reflect on the first-ever visit of a pope to the Mediterranean island of Corsica on Sunday, Dec. 5, where he participated in a conference on popular religiosity and celebrated Mass for the island’s predominantly Catholic community. Links for further reading from this episode Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell take a closer look at Pope Francis’ latest consistory, which created 21 new cardinals on Saturday, Dec. 7. In the second half of the show, they discuss the pope’s call for an end to the death penalty in the United States and for ceasefires in the world’s wars before Christmas. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find the links for further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell investigate Pope Francis’ new letter on the final synod document, his address to experts of the International Theological Commission on developing a theology of synodality and Gerry’s interviews with Archbishops Charles Scicluna and Timothy Costelloe. They also unpack Pope Francis’ hope to leverage the 2025 Jubilee Year to end international wars. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find the links for further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell discuss Hope Never Disappoints: Pilgrims Toward a Better World, a new book being released this week in which Pope Francis calls for the investigation of allegations of genocide in Gaza. They also unpack the Pope’s celebration of the eighth World Day of the Poor on Sunday, Nov. 17 with a lunch shared by 1300 poor and homeless people in St. Peter’s Square and a moving homily at Sunday Mass. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find the links for further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inside the Vatican’s Colleen Dulle and Gerard O’Connell unpack the Vatican’s response to the re-election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States. They also cover several stories, including a new AI model of St. Peter’s Basilica developed in part by Microsoft, new Vatican appointments and a slate of Jesuit news out of Rome. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Find links for further reading here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode, host Colleen Dulle interviews Catholic author and academic Michael W. Higgins to discuss his new book, “The Jesuit Disruptor: A Personal Portrait of Pope Francis.” They unpack the pope’s responses to scandals, his reform efforts, and his spiritual and intellectual formation—all of which have profoundly shaped his moral voice at the helm of an evolving church. Find full show notes and links for further reading here. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gerry and Colleen unpack their takeaways from the 2024 Synod on Synodality’s final document and from the 2021-2024 synodal process as a whole. In the second part of the show, Colleen interviews Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark about what the experience at the synod means for the U.S. church and how bishops exercise authority. More from this episode: An English translation of the Synod's Final Document will be posted here Father James Martin: The conversions I had at the synod To teach faith and morals in a diverse church, we must recognize the doctrinal authority of bishops’ conferences Pope Francis calls for a ‘church that gets its hands dirty’ at synod’s closing Mass Synod Diary: The synod’s final document didn’t solve everything—and I’m grateful for that. Jesuitical Podcast: Cardinal Tobin on the synod and the future of women deacons Women Deacons and the Catholic Church: A Video Explainer Pope Francis says he will not write his own exhortation on synod, publishes members’ final document Vatican releases audio of meeting on women deacons between Cardinal Fernández and synod members Please support our coverage of the Synod on Synodality by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Inside the Vatican's synod coverage is sponsored in part by the Jesuit School of Theology at Santa Clara University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Ricardo da Silva, S.J., interview Dr. Catherine Clifford, a professor of systematic and historical theology at St. Paul’s University in Ottawa, Canada, who served as an elected member of the 2024 Synod on Synodality’s drafting commission for the final document They discuss the meetings on the discernment of women deacons that happened during the synod, as well as the document-drafting process and Dr. Clifford’s reactions to the final decisions the synod took. More from this episode: - Pope Francis says he will not write his own exhortation on synod, publishes members’ final document - To teach faith and morals in a diverse church, we must recognize the doctrinal authority of bishops’ conferences - Vatican releases audio of meeting on women deacons between Cardinal Fernández and synod members - Pope Francis calls for a ‘church that gets its hands dirty’ at synod’s closing Mass - Synodality—and ‘controversial’ issues—are here to stay: Takeaways from the Synod’s final document - Synod Diary: The synod’s final document didn’t solve everything—and I’m grateful for that. - Jesuitical Podcast: Cardinal Tobin on the synod and the future of women deacons - Deep Dive: What just happened at the Synod on Synodality? - Deep Dive: Why Pope Francis is worried about seminaries and young priests with ‘authoritarian attitudes’ Please support our coverage of the Synod on Synodality by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Inside the Vatican's synod coverage is sponsored in part by the Jesuit School of Theology at Santa Clara University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the eve of the highly anticipated publication of the final report for the Synod on Synodality, Inside the Vatican host Colleen Dulle and Jesuitical host Zac Davis speak with their colleague and synod delegate James Martin, S.J., about his experience this month inside the second assembly. Zac and Colleen discuss: - The atmosphere at this year’s synod assembly compared to last year’s - How controversial topics like L.G.B.T. issues and women’s ordination have been tackled - The deep conversion that took place among the members and the long-term impact of this gathering on the global church Jesuitical’s synod coverage is sponsored in part by the Jesuit School of Theology at Santa Clara University. Links from the show: The Jesuit roots of the synod’s ‘conversations in the spirit’ ‘Palpable outrage’: Synod delegates react to women deacons study group meeting Synod Diary: The Vatican Curia is still learning synodality Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The “Inside the Vatican” team is together in Rome—live and in person—for the Synod on Synodality’s final week. Host Colleen Dulle, veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O'Connell and producer Ricardo da Silva, S.J., discuss last week’s most contentious story out of the Vatican: the scheduled meeting of Study Group 5, which is considering ways to increase participation for women in the Church, including the possibility of women deacons. The team examines the “palpable outrage” reported by delegates during their scheduled meeting, where they expected to engage with the Vatican's doctrinal chief and study group members. Instead, they were met by staffers from his office. This unexpected turn not only frustrated delegates but raises serious questions about the real commitment to synodality in the church’s highest ranks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of “Inside the Vatican,” Colleen Dulle and Ricardo da Silva, S.J., are joined by Rev. Matthew Laferty, a Methodist minister who works for the World Methodist Council and represents the Methodist church’s relationship with the Catholic Church and the Vatican. They discuss how the Catholic Church’s current Synod on Synodality is inspiring deeper conversations and greater unity between the Christian churches. A link to further reading from the episode will be added here soon. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2024 session of the Synod on Synodality has reached its halfway point. In this episode of “Inside the Vatican,” producer Ricardo da Silva, S.J., reporting from Rome, provides an overview of the second week of the synod. Then, joined by Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell, the two explore some central themes that are beginning to emerge from this session of the synod, including the growing role for theologians, the reimagining of ordained ministries and how the Catholic Church's efforts to foster unity with fellow Christian churches are central to its understanding of synodality. Inside the Vatican's synod coverage is sponsored in part by the Jesuit School of Theology at Santa Clara University. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Links: Synod Diary: Father James Martin’s halftime report from inside the synod hall Brazilian Cardinal talks restoring women deacons, ordaining married men at synod press briefing Pope Francis hears testimonies from transgender and intersex Catholics Further synod coverage from America: The keys to a bishop’s role in a synodal church: collaboration and compassion Interview: Laurence Gien, the abuse survivor and opera singer who spoke at the Vatican Writing to 21 new cardinals, Pope Francis urges them to be compassionate shepherds Synod Diary: Lessons from the Jesuit pilgrimage for the synod slog Synod Diary: Women deacons are not a ‘Western’ obsession Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of “Inside the Vatican,” host Colleen Dulle is joined by Laurence Gien, a survivor of clerical sexual abuse who spoke about his experience as part of a penitential celebration in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on Oct. 1, 2024. Calling for healing for survivors and administrative urgency from the church to address their pain, Mr. Gien saw his testimony as an important symbolic act to promote transparency and accountability for people wounded by the Catholic Church—many of whom remain unnamed and unheard. Find links for further reading from the episode here. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The second session of the Synod on Synodality began with a penitential liturgy at St. Peter's Basilica, where a victim of child sexual abuse shared his story for the first time during an official liturgy there. This underscored the church's commitment to naming its sins, greater transparency and accountability. On this episode of Inside the Vatican, host Colleen Dulle and veteran Vatican correspondent Gerard O’Connell are joined by producer Ricardo da Silva, S.J., to recap the first week of the synod. While the consideration of contentious issues like the ordination of women to the diaconate have been tabled from the official agenda and set aside for deeper study, they continue to be raised by delegates despite this, as Ricardo reports. Later, Colleen and Gerry discuss some of the 21 cardinals-elect named at the weekend by Pope Francis—all but one eligible to vote in the conclave—and how each aligns with his vision for a more inclusive, compassionate church, serving the most marginalized. Find links for further reading from the episode here. Please support this podcast by becoming a digital subscriber to America Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices