During his interview with the Catalonian newspaper, Pope Francis said he was concerned about everything which has been thrown at poor Pius XII, noting the many Jews he had hidden in the convents of Rome and other Italian cities, as well as the summer residence in Castel Gadolfo. I do not mean to say that Pius XII did not make mistakes. I make many mistakes myself but his role must be read in the context of the time, Pope Francis said.More than fifty years have now passed since the death of Pope Pius XII and his legacy remains the focus of a passionate, and sometimes acrimonious, debate among Catholic leaders, Jewish authorities and historians. The pursuit of truth and justice together paved the way for Salt+ Light Television’s documentary A Hand of Peace: Pope Pius XII and the Holocaust. Ever since German Playwright Rolf Hochhuth’s controversial 1963 play “The Deputy,” Pius XII has gradually come to be seen as something of a pariah in the public eye. The true version of events, supported by the latest historical research and the eyewitness testimony of those who lived through those perilous times, tells a vastly different story.
We joyfully welcome our new Holy Father Pope Leo XIV. If you'd like to learn more, here's a brief biography.
Popular depictions of Conclaves often show a political drama with lots of maneuvering and intrigue. At heart, it's also a deeply synodal act of spiritual discernment. How can we reconcile these two diverging perspectives on papal elections?
Deacon Pedro explores the ins and outs of a modern Conclave, and asks, "Where is the Holy Spirit in all this?"
Ever wondered about the rules of a Conclave? Why can only cardinals vote? And what does the word “Conclave” mean in the first place? Here's a friendly Q and A to help you out.
Are you wondering what goes into electing the next Pope? Here's a timeline to help walk you through it!