Caritas in Veritate ("Charity in Truth")

Caritas in Veritate online

• From the Vatican Information Service, a chapter-by-chapter summary of the encyclical
• Full text of Caritas in Veritate from the Vatican's website
• Ignatius Press, the primary English-language publisher of the works of Pope Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger), makes use of the occasion to announce its expansion into electronic and audio formats, beginning of course with the encyclical.

Helpful Summaries

• Benedict XVI dedicated Wednesday's general audience to a consideration of Caritas in Veritate July 8, 2009.
• the letter Benedict XVI sent July 1 to Italy's Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi ahead of the G8 Summit. July 9, 2009.
• A helpful summary from Dr. Jeff Mirus (CatholicCulture.com)
• Sandro Magister provides selected highlights.
• Encycli-bites for reading “Caritas in veritate” - key thoughts from the encyclical condensed into helpful bullet points, courtesy of L’Osservatore Romano and Fr. John Zuhlsdorf.

Press Conference Accompanying Encyclical's Release

• A Capitalist or Anti-Capitalist Encyclical? Vatican Aides Present "Caritas in Veritate" remarks of Stefano Zamagni, an economics professor from the University of Bologna and a consultor to the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. Zenit. July 7, 2009.
• "The Heart of Social Doctrine Remains the Human Person" Address Cardinal Paul Josef Cordes, the president of the Pontifical Council Cor Unam, gave July 7 at the press conference that marked the release of the encyclical.

Guides for Study

• The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops offer free small group study guides - for stand-alone use or as a series, as well as an action guide on putting Caritas in Veritate into practice.

Additional Commentary

First Things Online Symposium - August 21, 2009

• Pope Benedict XVI: Economist, by Ivan Kenneally. August 21, 2009.
• Is Benedict in Favor of World Government?, by Douglas A. Sylva. August 20, 2009.
• A Return to Augustinian Economics, by John D. Mueller. August 19, 2009.
• Confirmed in Centesimus Annus; Perplexed by Caritas in Veritate, by Joseph A. Swanson. August 18, 2009.
• Doing The Truth In Love: An Evangelical Call for Response to Caritas In Veritate August 18, 2009.
• Pope Benedict XVI’s Caritas, by Michael Novak. August 17, 2009.

Press and Periodicals

• Pope proposes a 'Christian humanism' for the global economy, by John Allen, Jr. National Catholic Reporter July 7, 2009.
• Encyclical breaks new ground on social issues, commentators say, by Nancy Frazier O'Brien. Catholic News Service July 7, 2009.
• Benedict XVI Tightens Up the Church's Social Teaching, by Deal W. Hudson. InsideCatholic.com. July 7, 2009.
• A New Framework for Social Justice: Pope Places Charity and Truth at Heart of Debate, by Father Joseph Fessio, SJ. Zenit. July 7, 2009.
• Pope's Encyclical Both New and Ancient Interview with Vincentian Father David O'Connell is president of The Catholic University of America. Zenit. July 7, 2009.
• Benedict XVI's New Social Encyclical Interview with Legionary of Christ Father Thomas D. Williams. Zenit. July 7, 2009.
• "Economy Is Not a Moral-Free Zone" Interview with Andrew Abela is a marketing professor and chair of Catholic University of America's department of business and economics. Zenit. July 7, 2009.
• "It's a Moral Document, Not a Political One", by Carl Anderson. Zenit. July 7, 2009.
• Encyclical Reconnects Rights and Duties, by Father James V. Schall, SJ. Zenit. July 8, 2009.
• Catholic World Report hosts a Caritas Roundtable, with contributions from J. Brian Benestad, Francis J. Beckwith, Father Joseph Fessio, S.J., Richard Garnett, Thomas S. Hibbs, Paul Kengor, George Neumayr, Tracey Rowland, Father James V. Schall, and Rev. Robert A. Sirico.
• Your Life Is a Gift, by John Zmirak. InsideCatholic.com July 8, 2009.
• New Encyclical Reflects Common Sense: Pope Takes Business Ethics to Transcendent Level, by Gabriel Martinez, chair of the Economics Department at Ave Maria University. Zenit. July 8, 2009.
• Caritas in Veritate: A Symposium, by Michael Novak, James V. Schall S.J., Joseph Wood, Robert Royal. The Catholic Thing July 8, 2009.
• Caveat Venalicium Libertas, by Terence Corcoran, Financial Post July 8, 2009.
• Metaphysics Has Returned, and More Overlooked Themes of New Encyclical, by Stratford Caldecott. Zenit. July 9, 2009.
• The Family Wage in "Caritas in Veritate": Encyclical Contains Potential Ambiguity on Key Point, by Allan Carlson. President of The Howard Center for Family, Religion and Society. Zenit. July 9, 2009.
• "The $64,000 question from Benedict's encyclical", by John Allen, Jr. National Catholic Reporter July 9, 2009.
• Why You Can't Just 'Love Your Neighbor' Francis J. Beckwith. Christianity Today July 10, 2009.
• "Capitalism with a Conscience", by William Doino Jr. The Times [UK] July 10, 2009.
• Mater Si, Magister Si! 'Charity in Truth' Calls for a Truly Human Economic Order, by Deacon Keith Fournier. Catholic Online. July 12, 2009.
• Pope Benedict is the man on the money, by Ben Griffiths, Vice-Chairman of Goldman Sachs International. The Times [UK] July 13, 2009.
• Charity in Truth: The Vatican, the United States, and the issues, after the week that was, by George Weigel. National Review July 13, 2009.
• The Audacity of the Pope, by Ross Douthat. New York Times July 13, 2009.
• Encyclical Has Message for Catholic Universities Interview with William Fahey, President of the Thomas More College. Zenit July 13, 2009.
• Caritas in Veritate: "Its Principal Driving Force", by Fr. James V. Schall, S.J. Ignatius Insight July 14, 2009.
• Split in Consciousness: Split in Conscience: “liberal” and “conservative” reactions to Caritas in Veritate, by Michael D. O'Brien. July 14, 2009.
• "The Pope and Global Tyranny", by John Zmirak. Zenit. July 14, 2009.
• Encyclical Puts God in His Place, by Archbishop Giampaolo Crepaldi, president of the Cardinal Van Thuân International Observatory for the Social Doctrine of the Church. Zenit. July 15, 2009.
• What We Could Learn From Pope Benedict: Good Fences, by J.J. Goldberg. The Forward July 15, 2009.
• The pope, the market and morality, by Darrell Delamaide. "Marketwatch" July 15, 2009.
• Population Growth and the Encyclical: Development Expert Considers Benedict XVI's Innovations, by Antonio Gaspari. Interview with Riccardo Cascioli, president of the European Center for Studies on Population, the Environment and Development. July 16, 2009.
• Benedict gives social teaching an injection of theology, by Fr Aidan Nichols. Catholic Herald July 17, 2009.
• Primacy of Culture in "Caritas in Veritate", by Jennifer Roback Morse. Zenit. July 17, 2009.
• "Justice and Charity", by Roberto de Mattei. The Catholic Thing July 17, 2009.
• "Morals, Markets, and the Pope", by Joseph Loconte. The American July 17, 2009.
• Morals, Markets and the Pope, by Joseph Loconte. The American [Journal of the American Enterprise Institute]. July 18, 2009.
• "From the Vatican, a Tough Read", by Peter Steinfels. New York Times July 18, 2009.
• The Pope Needs a Dose of Marxism, by Leonardo Boff. ALAI, América Latina en Movimiento July 20, 2009.
• "Caritas in Veritate": A Defense of Life, by Archbishop Salvatore Fisichella. Pontifical Academy for Life. (Zenit, July 23, 2009).
• Understanding Caritas in Veritate, by David Warren. InsideCatholic.com. July 29, 2009.
• Caritas in Veritate -- One Month Later Michael Novak, Father Robert Sirico and Kirk Doran reflect on the meaning and impact of the encyclical. (Headline Bistro, August 7, 2009).
• Truth & Charity, by Thomas E. Woods Jr. Taki's Magazine August 7, 2009.
• Encyclical brings light to Economy of Communion movement, by Jessie Abrams. Catholic News Service. August 12, 2009.

Blog Discussions

• Caritas in Veritate: Responses and commentary from The Acton Institute.
• "Pope Benedict XVI and the False Hope of Marxism", by M.J. Andrew. July 6, 2009.
• The Pope of Caritapolis, by Michael Novak. First Things "First Thoughts" July 7, 2009.
• The Truths in Caritas in Veritate Katherine Jean Lopez of National Review Online. July 7, 2009.
• The usury crisis and Catholic social teaching, by Michael Liccione. What's Wrong With The World July 7, 2009.
• Caritas in Veritate: Why Truth Matters, by Samuel Gregg. The Acton Institute. July 7, 2009.
• First impressions of Caritas in Veritate, by Amy Welborn. Via Media July 7, 2009.
• Caritas in Veritate: Not the Left’s Encyclical, by Samuel Gregg. The Acton Institute. July 8, 2009.
• The Economy of Grace: Pope Benedict's Social Theology, by Drew Christiansen, SJ. "In All Things" (America) July 7, 2009.
• Benedict Meets Wharton, by James Martin SJ. "In All Things" (America) July 8, 2009.
• Pope Benedict: A Call to a Higher Moral/Economic Plane, by Peter Schineller, S.J. "In All Things" (America) July 8, 2009.
• The hidden hand in 'Caritas' of Focolare, by Austen Ivereigh. "In All Things" (America) July 8, 2009.
• Is the Pope for New World Order?, by Lewis McCrary. The American Conservative July 8, 2009.
• Caritas in Veritate and Human Ecology Whosoever Desires July 8, 2009.
• Caritas Veritate and Immigration Joe Hargrave. Evangelical Catholicism July 9, 2009.
• Benedict’s (Non-partisan) Truth , by Kishore Jayabalan. "The Corner" (National Review) July 10, 2009.
• "Own It.", by Matthew Boudway. dotCommonweal July 13, 2009. [Response to Matt Cavedon on the principle of subsidiarity].
• Split in Consciousness: Split in Conscience: “liberal” and “conservative” reactions to Caritas in Veritate, by Michael D. O’Brien. July 14, 2009. Caritas in Veritate and the Invisible Ideology, by Nate Wildermuth. Catholic Peacemaking July 18, 2009.
• Neither Truth Nor Charity: The Destructive Influence of a Papal Encyclical (7/28/09) | Part II: Globalization and the Pope's Discontents (8/3/09) | Part III: The Attack on Classical Liberalism (8/14/09), by Mario Rizzo. ThinkMarkets.
• Benedict on Business: What's Love Got to Do With It? , by Jon Medaille. The Distributist Review August 1, 2009.
• On Caritas in Veritate, by Maclin Horton. Light on Dark Water August 9, 2009.
• The Mixed Blessing: Caritas in Veritate, Part I (8/10/09) | Part II (8/19/09) | Part III (8/26/09); Part IV (9/7/09); Part V. (9/16/09) The Distributist Review

• Jody Bottum's 10-part reading of Caritas in Veritate, posting his "first thoughts" along the way.

  one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, and ten.

• Stratford Caldecott (editor of Second Spring), maintains a blog devoted to Catholic social doctrine, of which Caritas in Veritate is the current topic of discussion.
• John Schwenkler of Upturned Earth hosts a weekly, chapter-by-chapter discussion of Caritas in Veritate.

The Weigel Controversy

• Caritas in Veritate in Gold and Red, by George Weigel. National Review July 7, 2009.
  -- George Weigel, Source Criticism and Biblical Scholars, by John W. Martens. "The Good Word" America July 10, 2009.
  -- Weigel is Right, by Sam Rocha. Vox Nova July 13, 2009.
  -- On the Sheer Implausibility of George Weigel’s Story, by M.J. Andrew. Evangelical Catholicism July 8, 2009.
  -- The Good Pope and the Bad Advisers — A Fable by George Weigel Vox Nova July 7, 2009.

On the question, "How 'authoritative' is a Catholic social encyclical?"

• The Authority of Catholic Social Teaching: Why Should Catholics take the New Encyclical Seriously?, by M.J. Andrew. Evangelical Catholicism July 7, 2009.
• "A Technical Question", by Blackadder. American Catholic July 8, 2009.
• Re: Are Social Encyclicals Binding on Catholics?, by Stephen M. Barr. First Things "First Thoughts" July 8, 2009. Dr. Barr recommends on this topic:
  -- Lumen Gentium (Vatican II)
  -- John Paul II's Ad tuendam Fidem (and then-Cardinal Ratzinger's doctrinal commentary on the same).

Spe Salvi ("Saved in Hope")

• Spe Salvi: "Saved in Hope" Given in Rome, at Saint Peter's, on 30 November, the Feast of Saint Andrew the Apostle, in the year 2007.

Commentary

• Christ Our Hope: A Parish Study Guide To Pope Benedict XVI’s Encyclical Letter, On Christian Hope (Spe salvi) prepared for the Archdiocese of Washington by Jem Sullivan, Ph.D., professor in the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies, Washington, D.C.
• Saved in Hope: Benedict’s Second Encyclical, by Richard J. Neuhaus. First Things February 2008.
• Spe Salvi and Liberation Theology, by Teresa Polk. Blog By The Sea January 13, 2008.
• Spe Salvi and Vatican II, by Brian A. Graebe. Homiletic & Pastoral Review March 2008.
• Commentary on Spe Salvi by Abbot Joseph of the Holy Transfiguration Monastery (aka Mt Tabor Monastery), Byzantine-rite Ukranian Catholic. Word Incarnate December 21, 2007.
• 10 Points on Prayer and Contemplation in Spe Salvi, by Teresa Polk. Blog By The Sea December 20, 2007.
• Pope Benedict and the Defense of Reason Claremont Review of Books December 13, 2007. Interview with Fr. James V. Schall (in part on Spe Salvi and the Regensburg address).
• The Pope’s Anti-Political Politics, by Dr. Samuel Gregg. The Acton Institute. December 12, 2007.
• Hope: An Encounter with Love, by Legionary of Christ Father Juan Pablo Ledesma, dean of theology at the Regina Apostolorum university. Zenit News Service. December 7, 2007.
• On Christian Hope by Charles J. Chaput, archbishop of Denver. First Things December 5, 2007.
• Encyclical Seen As Tackling "Urgent Need" Zenit interview with Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi of the Vatican Press Office. December 2, 2007.
• The Encyclical on Hope: On the "De-immanentizing" of the Christian Eschaton, by Fr. James V. Schall. Ignatius Insight December 2007.
• Spe Salvi a 'Greatest Hits' collection of core Ratzinger ideas, by John Allen, Jr. National Catholic Reporter November 30, 2007.

The Regensburg Address: "Faith, Reason and the University"

• "Faith, Reason and the University: Memories and Reflections" University of Regensburg. 12 September 2006.

Blog Coverage

• Pope Benedict XVI on "Faith, Reason and the University" - Regensburg, 2006 The Benedict Blog Sept. 16, 2006.
• The Controversy over Pope Benedict's Remarks on Islam The Benedict Blog Sept. 16, 2006.
• Pope Benedict's Regensburg Address and the Muslim Reaction (Part II) The Benedict Blog Sept. 19, 2006.
• Pope Benedict and "Regensburg Rage" - The Islamic Reaction (Pt. III) The Benedict Blog Sept. 23, 2006.

Commentary on the Address

• The God of philosophy and of the Bible: theological reflections on Regensburg, by Thomas G. Guarino. Logos: A Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture Fall, 2007.
• Much Ado About Something: The Unaccepted Invitation of Regensburg, by Joseph K. Grieboski. Liberty Magazine March/April 2007.
• Church-Islam dialogue: the path starts from Regensburg's Pope, by Samir Khalil Samir, SJ. AsiaNews.it. January 16, 2007
• Scholar Notes Positive Response to Regensburg Speech - Zenit News Service. January 30, 2007.
• The Regensburg Lecture: Thinking Rightly About God and Man, by Fr. James V. Schall, S.J. Ignatius Insight September 15, 2006.
• Ratzinger and Regensburg: On What Is a University?, by Fr. James V. Schall, S.J. Ignatius Insight September 18, 2006.
• Socrates or Muhammad?: Joseph Ratzinger on the destiny of reason, by Lee Harris. Weekly Standard Volume 012, Issue 03.
• The Regensburg Moment, by Fr. Richard J. Neuhaus' "The Public Square" (First Things 167. November 2006).

Islamic Responses

• The Church and Islam: A Sprig of Dialogue Has Sprouted in Regensburg, by Sandro Magister. www.Chiesa. Oct. 30, 2006.
• The Regensburg Effect: The Open Letter from 38 Muslims to the Pope, by Sandro Magister. www.Chiesa. Oct. 18, 2006.
• Two Muslim Scholars Comment on the Papal Lecture in Regensburg, by Sandro Magister. www.Chiesa. Oct. 04, 2007.
• Open Letter to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI - 38 leading Muslims & scholars. Islamica Magazine. Oct. 12, 2006.
• A Muslim Response to The Pope: For They Know Exactly What They Do, by Imam Zaid Shakir. Oct. 2, 2006.
• A Muslim’s Commentary on Benedict XVI’s “Faith, Reason and the University: Memories and Reflections” by Aref Ali Nayed.
• Benedict XVI and Islam: the first year, by Abdal Hakim Murad.

First Anniversary of Benedict XVI's Pontificate

• "Alone I Could Not Carry Out This Task" Vatican translation of the address Benedict XVI gave at the Wednesday general audience on April 19, the first anniversary of his pontificate. April 27, 2006.
• Benedict XVI, One Year Later: What’s New, by Sandro Magister. L'Espresso April 18, 2006. The Pope's First Year: How He Simplified His Role, by Jeff Israely. Time Magazine. "100 People Who Shape Our World" April 2006.
• Photo Essay: The Pope's First Year - Time Magazine April 2006.
• "Benedict XVI's Greatest Strength" Bishop Luigi Negri. Zenit News. May 7, 2006.
• "Benedict XVI and the Dignity of Women", Interview w. Salesian Sister Marcellina Farina of the Educational Sciences Auxilium. Zenit News. April 25, 2006.
• "Benedict XVI's Analytical-Rational Style", Interview with journalist Marco Tosatti of the Italian newspaper La Stampa. Zenit News. April 24, 2006.
• Assessing Benedict XVI's First Year Interview with Andrea Tornielli, Vatican-watcher for Il Giornale. Zenit News. April 16, 2006.
• Assessing the first year of Pope Benedict XVI - a helpful "cheat sheet" from ReligionLink.org, with an overview of the major events and issues in B16's first year, a list of the books on Benedict XVI published during his first year, and a contact list of Catholic spokespeople.
• "The Last 12 Months of Benedict XVI", by John Allen, Jr. "Word from Rome" National Catholic Reporter March 31, 2006.

Deus Caritas Est ("God is Love")

By Pope Benedict XVI

• Encyclical Letter Deus Caritas Est Given in Rome, at Saint Peter's, on 25 December, the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord, in the year 2005, the first of Benedict XVI's Pontificate.
• "I Wished to Show the Humanity of Faith" address Benedict XVI gave to participants in a meeting organized by the Pontifical Council "Cor Unum" on the theme "But the Greatest of These Is Love" (1 Corinthians 13:13). January 23, 2006.
• Benedict XVI on His First Encyclical At the end of January 18th, 2006' general audience, Benedict XVI announced the publication of his first encyclical, which is entitled "Deus Caritas Est" (God Is Love).

Commentary and Reaction

• Charity and Justice in the Relations among People and Nations: The Encyclical Deus Caritas Est of Pope Benedict XVI, by J. Augustine Di Noia, O.P. Undersecretary, Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Address to the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences / XIII Plenary Session 27 April 2007.
• Love, The Pope and C.S. Lewis First Things January 2007.
  
• “Why Love Matters: Understanding Pope Benedict XVI’s First Encyclical, Deus Caritas Est”, by Dr. Samuel Gregg (The Acton Institute). August 22, 2006.
• Viewing Love via Benedict XVI: Series of Reflections on "Deus Caritas Est" Zenit.org. June 17, 2006.
• Benedict Contra Nietzsche: A Reflection on Deus Caritas Est, by Benjamin D. Wiker. Crisis May 9, 2006.
• Benedict's Deus Caritas Est - God is Love: The Way of Love in the Church's Mission to the World, by David Schindler, Dean and Gagnon Professor of Fundamental Theology, Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family at The Catholic University of America. Houston Catholic Worker, Vol. XXVI, No. 3, May-June 2006.
• Tocqueville's Influence on "Deus Caritas Est" April 3, 2006. Interview with Dr. Samuel Gregg (The Acton Institute). April 3, 2006.
  
• Giving to God, Giving to Caesar: Encyclical Explains Church-State Relationship. Zenit News Service. Feb. 11, 2006.
  
• Pope Benedict XVI - Deus Caritas Est - Reactions & Commentary Against The Grain January 30, 2006. [A compilation of reactions to the encyclical, primarily by Catholic bloggers and commentators].
• "Deus Caritas Est" and C.S. Lewis' "Four Loves". Interview with Andrea Monda. Zenit News Service. March 6, 2006.
• Philosophy Behind "Deus Caritas Est" - Interview with Monsignor Robert Sokolowski, philosophy professor at Catholic University of America. Zenit News Service. February 15, 2006.
• When Charity Isn't Christian - Interview with Jutta Burggraf, a professor at the University of Navarre. Zenit News Service. February 9, 2006.
• God's eros is agape, commentary by Fr. James V. Schall. Ignatius Insight
• First Musings on Benedict XVI's First Encyclical by Fr. Joseph Fessio, SJ. Ignatius Insight
• "Deus Caritas Est," Social Encyclical Interview with Stefano Fontana, director of the Cardinal Van Thuân International Observatory on the Social Doctrine of the Church. Zenit News Service. January 30, 2006.
• "God Is Love": in Benedict XVI and in Art Interview with Sister Maria Gloria Riva, a contemplative religious of the Perpetual Adorers of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Zenit News Service. January 27, 2006.
• Benedict XVI's Surprising Encyclical Interview with Legionary of Christ Father Thomas D. Williams, a dean at Rome's Regina Apostolorum university. Zenit News Service. January 25, 2006.
• The Humanity of Faith, by Massimo Camisasca. Traces January 2, 2006. [Commmunion & Liberation].

Selected Addresses of Pope Benedict XVI

• "A New Humanism for Europe. The Role of the Universities" address Benedict XVI gave to participants of the European Meeting of University Professors, gathered in Paul VI Hall in Rome. June 24, 2007.
• "Alone I Could Not Carry Out This Task" translation of the address Benedict XVI gave at the Wednesday general audience on April 19, the first anniversary of his pontificate. April 27, 2006.
• "The Catholic Church Is Close to You and Is Your Friend" Benedict XVI's Address to Chief Rabbi of Rome. January 16, 2006.
• Pope's Homily on Day of Baptisms in Sistine Chapel translation of the homily Benedict XVI delivered without notes on Jan. 8, 2006 - feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the day he baptized 10 infants in the Sistine Chapel.
  
• "Courage and Trust in God and Man Is Necessary" Pope's Homily on January 1, World Day of Peace.
• Pope's Message for 40th Anniversary of Nostra Aetate, message to Cardinal Walter Kasper, President of the Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews. October 28, 2005.
• "We Must Start Again From the Eucharist" homily Benedict XVI delivered in Italian, Polish, Ukrainian and Spanish during the Mass that closed the Synod on the Eucharist and the Year of the Eucharist. October 23, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's Catechetical Dialogue With Children addressed Saturday afternoon to children who were receiving their First Communion this year.
• "The Lord Is Close to Each One of Us" translation of Benedict XVI's spontaneous meditation on Monday morning at the Synod of Bishops, after the reading of the Third Hour of the Liturgy of the Hours, taken from the Second Letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians (13:11). Oct. 4, 2005.
• Papal Homily at Opening of Synod Oct. 2, 2005.
• "Live in Complete Conformity With the Gospel" letter sent to participants in the plenary assembly of the Vatican Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, held Sept. 26-27, 2005.
• On the Eucharist and Love: "Source of the Spiritual Energy That Renews Our Life" Angelus. Sept. 25, 2005.
• Pope's Address to Chief Rabbis of Jerusalem delivered to Sephardic Chief Rabbi Shlomo Moshe Amar and Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi Yona Metzger, both of Jerusalem, in audience in the papal summer residence. Sept. 16, 2005.
• "To Achieve the Full Communion of Christians Must Be an Objective for All" message to the inter-Christian symposium on "The Eucharist in the Eastern and Western Tradition with Particular Reference to Ecumenical Dialogue", organized by the Institute of Spirituality of the Pontifical University Antonianum of Rome and the Department of Theology of the Aristotle University of Thessalonica, Greece. September 5, 2005.
• "Central Character of the Sacrament of the Real Presence" On the Final Phase of Year of the Eucharist. September 4, 2005.
• "Wherever God Is Not in the First Place, Man's Dignity Is Endangered" address before praying the midday Angelus with the crowds gathered in the courtyard in the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo. August 28, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's Homily on Feast of the Assumption celebrating Mass in the parish church of Castel Gandolfo, August 25, 2005.
• "Young People Relaunched … the Message of Hope" reflections on his first foreign apostolic trip to Germany, for World Youth Day. August 24, 2005.
• God "Loves Us Inasmuch as We Are Free" translation of Benedict XVI's message, sent by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican secretary of state, to the Communion and Liberation movement's "Meeting for Friendship Among Peoples. August 20, 2005.
• "An Encouragement to Us Never to Lose Heart" translation of the address Benedict XVI gave Aug. 14 when he prayed the midday Angelus with crowds gathered at the papal summer residence.
• "The Magi as Unique Models of People Seeking Christ" translation of the address Benedict XVI gave Aug. 7 when he prayed the midday Angelus with crowds gathered at the papal summer residence. August 7, 2005.
• Pope's Address to Diocesan Clergy of Aosta - spontaneous comments at a closed-door question and answer session on Monday, July 25, 2005, with 140 priests, religious and deacons of the Diocese of Val d'Aosta -- addressing the problem of "widespread religious indifference that exists in Western societies."
• On the Value of Vacation: "Days in Which More Time Can Be Dedicated to Prayer" Zenit. Address Benedict XVI before praying the midday Angelus with some 6,000 people gathered in the Alpine village of Les Combes, Italy. July 17, 2005.
• On St. Benedict of Norcia: "Prefer Nothing to the Love of Christ" translation of the address Benedict XVI delivered before praying the midday Angelus with some 40,000 tourists and pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square. July 10, 2005.
• "Catholicity and Unity Go Together", Homily for Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul. June 29, 2005.
• Papal Address to Secretary-General of World Council of Churches Zenit. June 16, 2005.
• Benedict XVI on Anthropological Foundation of the Family Part 1; Part II delivered Monday in the Basilica of St. John Lateran, at the opening of the Ecclesial Congress of the Diocese of Rome. The theme of the congress was "Family and Christian Community: Formation of the Person and Transmission of the Faith." Zenit. June 9, 2005.
• "Jesus Goes Before Us to the Father" translation of the homily Benedict XVI delivered last Thursday during the Mass on the solemnity of Corpus Christ, held in the square of the Basilica of St. John Lateran. Zenit. May 30, 2005.
• "The Sacrament of Unity" translation of the homily Benedict XVI gave today in Italian during the closing Mass of the 24th Italian National Eucharistic Congress, in the esplanade of Marisabella. Zenit. May 29, 2005.
• Trinity-Sunday Reflection on the Human Person "Image of God, Fulfilled In Love" translation of the address Benedict XVI gave today before praying the Angelus with the crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square. Zenit. May 22, 2005.
• "We Christians Must Be Ready to Explain Our Faith" a translation of the spontaneous speech given by Benedict XVI to the clergy of Rome on May 13, in the Basilica of St. John Lateran, after hearing the priests' testimonies and questions. Zenit. May 20, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's 1st Homily From Cathedral of Rome Part 1 | Part II. A translation of the first part of the homily Benedict XVI delivered Saturday when taking possession of the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome, the Basilica of St. John Lateran. Zenit. May 9/10, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's Address to Bishops of Sri Lanka: "Renew Your Trust in Christ! Open Your Hearts to Him!" Address delivered on Saturday to the bishops of Sri Lanka, on the occasion of their five-yearly visit to the Holy See. Zenit. May 8, 2005.
• Papal Address to Representatives of Other Religions and Confessions April 26. 2005. Delivered Monday in the Clementine Hall of the Apostolic Palace, when meeting with representatives of other religions and Christian confessions who came to Rome for the Pope's inauguration.
• Benedict XVI's Homily at St. Paul Outside the Walls. Zenit. April 25, 2005. Homily delivered when visiting the sepulcher of the Apostle to the Gentiles in the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.
• Benedict XVI's Inaugural Mass Homily. Zenit.org. April 24, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's Message to Cardinals: "A Church That . . . Has No Fear of the Future". Zenit. April 20, 2005.
  
• Pope Benedict's XVI's 1st Public Greeting, a translation of his first greeting, which he gave from the balcony of the facade of St. Peter's Basilica. Zenit. April 19, 2005.

Interviews with Pope Benedict XVI

• Benedict XVI's Q-and-A With Children Missionaries Vatican translation of the question-and-answer session Benedict XVI gave during an audience May 30, 2009 with children of the Pontifical Society of the Holy Childhood.
• Transcript of Benedict XVI's Q&A with priests in northern Italy The morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI met with some 400 priests of the diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone in the local cathedral. He was welcomed by the local bishop, made some brief opening remarks, and then took six questions. (John Allen Jr., National Catholic Reporter)
• "Question & Answer" with seminarians of Roman Major Seminary - February 17, 2007: Part I: "We Must Accept Our Frailty But Keep On Going"; Part II: "A Day Without the Eucharist Is Incomplete".
• Pope Benedict XVI’s interview with Bayerische Rundfunk (ARD), ZDF, Deutsche Welle and Vatican Radio RadioVaticana.Org. audio recording [RealAudio format]; Video.
• "Question & Answer" with priests of the diocese of Rome, on March 3, 2006.
• "Question & Answer" with children who had received first communion , in St. Peter’s Square on October 5, 2005.
• "Question & Answer" with priests of the diocese of Aosta, July 25, 2005.
• Interview with Polish State Television (TVT) interview granted by Benedict XVI to Polish State Television (TVP) for the occasion of the Day of the Pope [John Paul II], which has been celebrated in Poland on October 16 for the last five years. Transcript provided by the Vatican Information Service.

Special Compilations on Pope Benedict XVI

• benedictxvi.tv - video of Pope Benedict XVI (and before his election, as Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger). Compiled and/or personally edited by Richard Pavlov (Russia) - a tribute to the life of Pope Benedict XVI.
• Pope Benedict's Apostolic Journey to Poland (May 25-28, 2006) - Vatican website's collection of papal addresses and photo gallery.
• Pope Benedict XVI on Sacred Music. A collection of Pope Benedict's sayings on liturgical music, courtesy of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Auburn, Alabama.
• Benedict XVI's Top 15 "Words" Used during his first 100 Days a unique compilation of "some of the most striking 'words,' as Benedict XVI likes to call the formulation of his thoughts, articulated during the first 100 days of his pontificate." Zenit. July 27, 2005.

Pope Benedict Roundups @ The Benedict Blog

Since the 2005 conclave and his election, The Benedict Blog features occasional (usually monthly) "roundups" of news, articles, and commentary by bloggers and the MSM (mainstream media) on all things related to Pope Benedict XVI.

Selected Articles & Commentary on Pope Benedict XVI

• "The Conscience of Our Age" - Interview with Father Twomey, retired professor of moral theology at the Pontifical University of St. Patrick's College, in Maynooth, and author of Pope Benedict XVI: The Conscience of Our Age.
• "Moving Away from Religion Toward Christianity" - Interview With John Kenney, an Augustinian Scholar, on Benedict's pontificate. Zenit News. June 19, 2007.
• Public Reason and the Truth of Christianity in the Teachings of Benedict XVI , by Bishop Giampaolo Crepaldi, secretary of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the director of the Cardinal Van Thuân International Observatory. March 10, 2007.
• Benedict XVI on the Path to Peace (Part 1); Part II - interview with Paolo Carozza, law professor at the University of Notre Dame and a member of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. (Zenit News January 8, 2007).
• Benedict XVI and the newness of Christianity: Reflections of an Anglican, by John Milbank. Traces January 4, 2007.
• The Passion of the Pope, by David Van Biema & Jeff Israely. Time Nov. 19, 2006.
• Reconstruction of a Global Crisis: How the Pope Angered the Muslim World, by Alexander Smoltczyk in Rome. Der Spiegel Nov. 24, 2006.
• Intellectual Charity: On Benedict XVI and the Canadian Bishops, by Fr. James V. Schall, S.J. Ignatius Insight Oct. 2, 2006.
• "It seemed the end of the line. And instead . . ." - The Story of Joseph Ratzinger 1969-1977. 30 Giorni August 2006.
• War "no good to anyone" - The words of a Pacifist Pope? Against The Grain [blog] August 19, 2006.
• Benedict’s Priorities, by James Maldonado-Berry. Catholic Exchange July 22, 2006.
• 8 Keys to Reading Ratzinger's Work, by Archbishop Bruno Forte of Chieti-Vasto, a member of the International Theological Commission. Zenit News, June 25, 2006.
• The Church and the Secular Establishment: A Philosophical Dialog between Joseph Ratzinger and Jürgen Habermas, by Virgil Nemoianu. [.pdf format] LOGOS: Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture Vol 9:2 Spring 2006.
• Pope or Heretic? An Evaluation of Benedict XVI, by Jacob Michael of LumenGentleman Apologetics. June 2006.
• Pope Benedict XVI, Auschwitz, and the Nature of Anti-Semitism Against The Grain [blog] May 30, 2006.
• America: Benedict the abbot? – Pope’s focus on community, freedom in Christ By Christopher Ruddy. America Vol. 194 No. 19. May 29, 2006.
• Even the Pope has Rights: The Vatican and Copyright Privileges, by Philip F. Lawler. Ignatius Insight May 2006.
• Meekness and courage of the Pope in Poland: Benedict XVI in the land of Karol Wojtyla, by Marco Tosatti. 30 Giorni [30 Days] May 2006.
• The Story of Joseph Ratzinger: "The difficult years", by Gianni Valente (in collaboration with Pierluca Azzaro). 30 Giorni [30 Days] May 2006.
• Pope Benedict XVI on 'Church & State'. Against The Grain [blog] April 28, 2006. (Compilation and commentary on Benedict XVI's thought on the subject).
  
• Benedict XVI and Islam, by Samir Khalil Samir, SJ. AsiaNews.it April 26, 2006.
• Benedict XVI, One Year Later: What’s New, by Sandro Magister. www.Chiesa April 18, 2006.
• Pope Benedict XVI, Mozart and the Quest of Beauty, AD2000 Vol 19 No 3 (April 2006).
• "Tradition and freedom: the lectures of the young Joseph", by Gianni Valente. 30 Giorni [30 Days] March 2006, on "the first years of Professor Ratzinger’s teaching in Bonn and Münster, as remembered by his students".
• The Politician and the Pope, by Pranay Gupte. The New York Sun February 8, 2006.
• "On Reading the Pope": Part I, by Fr. James V. Schall, S.J. Ignatius Insight January 19, 2006.
  "On Reading the Pope": Part II - Ignatius Insight January 20, 2006.
• Freedom Without Roots: The predicament of Western liberalism and the teaching of Pope Benedict XVI. A discussion on the occasion of the publication in the U.S. of Without Roots, by Joseph Ratzinger and Marcello Pera.
  - Speech by Marcello Pera, President of the Italian Senate, co-author of Without Roots.
  - Speech by David Schindler - Dean of John Paul II Institute and Editor in Chief, Communio.
• From Ratzinger to Benedict. First Things 160 (February 2006): 24-29.
• Redeeming Culture: Pope Benedict on the Liturgy, by John Haass. Saint Austin Review Nov/Dec 2005.
• Pope Benedict XVI: The Mind of the Man, Fr. Joseph Fessio reflects on his teacher (interview with Sandy Lender). Saint Austin Review Nov/Dec. 2005.
• Benedict XVI and the ‘True Time’ of Vatican II, by Randy Boyagoda. Crisis November 8, 2005.
• The Monk under the Mitre, by Austen Ivereigh. Godspy.com. [Reprint from The Catholic Herald] Sept. 9, 2005.
• Benedict XVI and Catholic-Muslim Relations interview with Fr. Daniel Madigan, consultor for relations with Muslims of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. Zenit. Sept. 16, 2005.
• The Monk under the Mitre, by Austen Ivereigh. Godspy.com. [Reprint from The Catholic Herald] Sept. 9, 2005.
• Morality, Economics and the Market in the Thought of Benedict XVI, by Samuel Gregg. Economic Affairs, (2005-09-01) [.pdf format]
• Evaluation of Benedict XVI's Visit to Cologne Zenit interview with French Journalist Jean-Marie Guénois. August 22, 2005.
• 2 Tell of Their Lunch With the Pope Zenit. Interviews with Lubica Jovanovic, 19, and Johnny Bassous, 20, on their World Youth Day lunch with Benedict XVI. August 20, 2005.
• Benedict and World Youth Day: Becoming Adults in Christ, by Kishore Jayabalan. director of Acton Institute’s Rome office, which is officially known as Istituto Acton. August 17, 2005.
• On Benedict XVI's 100 Days, Interview with Marco Tosatti of La Stampa and author of the Italian The Dictionary of Pope Ratzinger: Guide to the Pontificate. July 27, 2005.
• Benedict XVI, Thomism, and Liberal Culture: Tracey Rowland on the Church's Response to Modernity [Interview with Zenit.org.]. July 24/25, 2005. Part I; Part II.
• After 100 Days, It's Clear That New Pope Is A Friend of the Jews, by Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor, Director of Interfaith Affairs of the Anti-Defamation League. July 15, 2005.
• The Pope and the Pussycats, by Sandy Robbins. MSNBC. July 13, 2005. [on Benedict's love for cats].
• Many Ratzinger critics warming up to soft-spoken Pope Benedict Catholic News Agency. July 6, 2005.
• No Prophet In His Own Land: Reflections on Benedict XVI, by Alice von Hildebrand. Crisis July 4, 2005.
• Father John Corapi on the Eucharist and Benedict XVI Zenit interview with EWTN preacher. July 3, 2005.
• What a Biographer of Joseph Ratzinger Is Expecting. Interview with Pablo Blanco, author of Joseph Ratzinger. Una biografia (Joseph Ratzinger: A Biography), published by Eunsa. June 27, 2005.
• Pope Benedict XVI and Liturgical Reform, by Dom Alcuin Reed. AD2000 Vol 18 No 5 (June 2005), p. 9.
• Eucharist in the Pontificate of Benedict XVI Interview with Scott Hahn on the New Pope's Potential Revival. Zenit. June 12, 2005.
• Not many sound bites: New pope's discourses defy simplistic headlines, by John Thavis. Catholic News Service, June 10, 2005.
• "Remarkable Gentleness, Combined With a Keen Intellectual Curiosity". Zenit interview with Fr. Richard J. Neuhaus. June 6, 2005.
• Pope Benedict's Theological Vision, by Joseph A. Komonchak. Commonweal June 3, 2005 / Volume CXXXII, Number 11.
• The Pope and the Timeliness of St. Benedict's Rule - Zenit interview With Father Notker Wolf, Abbot Primate of the Confederated Benedictines. May 31, 2005.
• "I Don't Think Benedict XVI's 'Program' Is to Combat Relativism" Interview With Journalist Andrea Tornielli of Il Giornale. May 22, 2005.
• Benedict XVI: A Co-Worker of the Truth, by Adrian Walker. GodSpy.com. May 16, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's Commitment to Faith and Reason in Universities Timothy O'Donnell on New Pope's Mission in Academia. Zenit. May 16, 2005.
• Benedict XVI As Known by Co-worker Zenit interview with Father Augustine Di Noia. May 15, 2005.
• Benedict XVI: An Intellectual Profile, by Jude P. Dougherty, dean emeritus of the School of Philosophy, the Catholic University of America. The Wanderer May 12, 2005.
• Theologians reflect on Pope Benedict XVI's theology, by Jerry Filteau. May 6, 2005.
• 'A Beautiful Personality': The Pontificate of Benedict XVI Begins Interview with Father Augustine Dinoia. National Catholic Register May 1-8, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's Quest for Unity: New Pope Reaches Out to Other Churches and Religions Zenit. April 30, 2005.
• Not a transitional pope: Benedict may surprise, by John Allen, Jr. National Catholic Reporter April 29, 2005.
• The "Reform of the Reform" Has Already Begun, by Sandro Magister. www.Chiesa. April 29, 2005.
• Worshipping at the Feet of the Lord: Benedict XVI and the Liturgy, by Anthony E. Clark, Ph.D. April 28, 2005.
• Benedict XVI, a Lover of Nature and Sports. Zenit interview With Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. April 25, 2005.
• Benedict XVI Prayed That Someone Else Be Elected. Zenit. April 25, 2005.
• Mary Ann Glendon: Expect Great Things From Benedict XVI. Interview With President of Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences. April 24, 2005.
• The Real Ratzinger: The Lover of Lovers, by Anthony & Marta Valle. Inside the Vatican April 24, 2005.
• Lorenzo Albacete on Pope Benedict XVI and the Future of the Church, interview with Charlie Rose. April 22, 2005.
• True Liberalism, by Rev. Robert Sirico. Acton Institute. April 21, 2005.
• Light in a New Dark Age: Pope Benedict XVI -- The Man and the Mission, by George Weigel. Wall Street Journal April 21, 2005.
• Reflections on Benedict XVI | An Interview with Fr. Joseph Fessio, SJ. Father Joseph Fessio's answers to a series of questions posed by IgnatiusInsight.com's Valerie Schmalz about Pope Benedict XVI. They were answered on April 21, 2005.
• "Benedict XVI A theologian succeeds a philosopher at the Vatican, by Kenneth L. Woodward. Wall Street Journal April 20, 2005.
• Benedict XVI and Freedom, by Alejandro Chaufen. Acton Institute. April 20, 2005.
• Benedict XVI's Primary Commitment: Christian Unity. Zenit. April 20, 2005.
• Vittorio Messori on the Myth and Reality of Joseph Ratzinger. Zenit. April 20, 2005.
• "A Very Humble, Personable Man" Archbishop Conti, and Others, on the New Pope. Zenit. April 19, 2005.

The Pontificate of Benedict XVI - As covered by Sandro Magister

Sandro Magister is a journalist and reporter for the weekly magazine “L’espresso,” for which he has written since 1974. He specializes in religious news, in particular on the Catholic Church and the Vatican.

2009

• 05-15-09: A Week in the Holy Land. Diary of a German Pilgrim Planting an olive tree with the president of Israel, the Holocaust memorial, the wall of separation, the Holy Sepulcher... The essential images of the voyage of Joseph Ratzinger. Recounted and interpreted by the pope himself.
• 05-14-09: In Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Where the Foundations of the Faith Can Be "Touched" Benedict XVI urges Christians not to leave the holy land. "There's room for everyone there," he says. For two peoples, and for two states in peace with one another. And for the three religions of Abraham, united in service of the human family.
• 05-12-09: The Pope in Israel. Day One, Two Surprises The world was ready to pounce on him, over the most explosive questions: anti-Semitism, the war. But Benedict XVI did it his own way. He took two words from the Bible. With the first, he explained the conditions for peace. With the second, he illuminated the mystery of the Holocaust.
• 05-06-09: The Pope's Toughest Job in the Holy Land: Winning over the Christians The Israelis invited him, the Muslims are in favor of his visit. But not his own faithful in the area: most of the opposition to his trip has come from them. The reasons for the rejection. And the unknowns.
• 04-17-09: The Event of Easter on which the Church Stands or Falls It is the resurrection of Jesus. "We will hear you on this matter some other time," the intellectuals of Athens said to Paul, leaving him by himself. But Benedict XVI is determined, and is reissuing the proclamation "urbi et orbi." He has done so twice in four days. And he has explained why.
• 04-14-09: Pope Ratzinger's manifesto: "In this way the transformation of the world can begin to take place" The Christian revolution is born in the liturgy, Benedict XVI says. And its "canon," its fundamental rule, is the great Eucharistic prayer. He explained this in his homily for Holy Thursday.
• 04-09-09: A Handbook for Holy Week An introduction to each moment of the sacred Triduum, given personally by Joseph Ratzinger, pope and theologian. The catechesis he addressed to the faithful at the general audience on Wednesday, April 8, 2009.
• 03-27-09: The Secret of Benedict XVI's Popularity. In Spite of Everything Despite being rocked by criticism, this pope continues to enjoy the trust of the masses. His trip to Africa and a survey in Italy prove this. The reason is that he speaks of God to a humanity in search of direction.
• 03-16-09: The Pope Speaks His Mind. A Cardinal Explains Him In the letter in which he defended lifting the excommunication from the Lefebvrists, Benedict XVI has confirmed the indispensable aims of his pontificate. Cardinal Ruini has analyzed these one by one.
• 03-12-09: "If you bite and devour one another, take heed that you are not consumed by one another" The complete text of the letter written by pope Joseph Ratzinger to the Catholic bishops, in reply to the "avalanche of protests" against his decision to lift the excommunication from the Lefebvrists.
• 02-04-09: Double Disaster at the Vatican: Of Governance, and of Communication This is the upshot of the lifting of the excommunication for four Lefebvrist bishops. The isolation of Pope Benedict, the ineptitude of the curia, and the misfires of the secretariat of state.
• 01-28-09: No More Excommunication for the Lefebvrists. But Peace Is Still Far Off The causes of conflict are even increasing, including with the children of Israel. Benedict XVI is multiplying his gestures of openness, but is receiving nothing in exchange.
• 01-26-09: The Pope on YouTube. The Latest News from the Digital Galaxy The Vatican has launched its own official channel on the largest internet video community in the world.
• 01-16-09: Jews and the Catholic Church. The Rabbis of Italy Don't Like This Pope They don't appreciate the new prayer for Good Friday, or the path of dialogue opened by Benedict XVI in the book "Jesus of Nazareth." And they are distancing themselves from the day for Judaism announced by the bishops. But not all of them think that way.
• 01-04-09: Faith By Numbers. When Ratzinger Puts on Galileo's Robes From the star of the Magi to the "intelligent structure" that governs the universe: the pope's reply to the scientists who reject God.

2008

• 12-24-08: "Veni Creator Spiritus." For an Ecology of Man And of man created male and female. In his pre-Christmas address to the Roman curia, Benedict XVI contests the ideology of "gender." And he strikes a blow in defense of the most contested of the encyclicals, "Humanae Vitae".
• 12-11-08: And It Was Night. The Real Story of Original Sin It is one of the most overlooked and rejected dogmas. But for Benedict XVI, it is "overwhelmingly obvious." He has talked about it three times in eight days. Without it, he says, Christian redemption "would lose its foundation".
• 11-05-08: Homilies. The Liturgical Year Narrated by Joseph Ratzinger, Pope This is the title of a book that, for the first time ever, collects Benedict XVI''s preaching at Masses and vespers, over the course of the year. It's required reading for understanding this pontificate. Here's the preface.
• 10-29-08: In the "Opera Omnia" of Ratzinger the Theologian, the Overture Is All about the Liturgy And Benedict XVI explains why, in the preface to the volume that he wanted to have published first. He recalls that this is how Vatican Council II began, too. By giving God first place.
• 10-19-08: "Interpretations are proposed that deny the real presence of God in history" The complete transcript of the popes address to the synod of bishops on "The Word of God in the life and mission of the Church," on the morning of Tuesday, October 14, 2008.
• 10-17-08: The Synod Wants Better Homilies. With the Pope as the Model The synod fathers are proposing a "manual" to elevate the quality of preaching. But the living example is Benedict XVI. Here is the unscripted meditation with which he opened the working sessions.
• 10-01-08: Benedict XVI Has a Father, Romano Guardini He was the guide of the young Ratzinger, who has not ceased to draw inspiration from his thought. Forty years after the death of the great Italian-German intellectual, an analysis of his influence on the current pope.
• 09-19-08: The Surprising Geopolitics of Joseph Ratzinger, Pope After three years in the pontificate, and defying the expectations of most, the refined theologian has left his mark on international politics as well. In the West, with Islam, with China. The journal of the Aspen Institute in Italy explains how, and why.
• 09-16-08: From Paris and Lourdes, the Lesson of the "Liturgist" Pope On his trip to France, Benedict XVI did not only defend the ancient rite of the Mass. He also explained and demonstrated repeatedly what he believes to be the authentic meaning of the Catholic liturgy of today and always.
• 09-12-08: > "To seek God and to let oneself be found by Him" Exactly two years after Regensburg, another grand discourse from Pope Joseph Ratzinger to the intellectual world. In Paris, at the Collège des Bernardins, September 12, 2008.
• 09-03-08: Ratzinger the Professor, as Recounted by His Former Students A book has been released on Benedict XVI's years in the university. At the very same time when he was holding a seminar at Castel Gandolfo with his former theology students, to better prepare for the second and concluding volume of his "Jesus of Nazareth".
• 08-11-08: The Pope Theologian Says: The Proof of God Is Beauty The beauty of art and of music. The wonders of sanctity. The splendor of creation. This is how Benedict XVI defends the truth of Christianity, in a question-and-answer session with the priests of Brixen.
• 07-22-08: From the "New World" Symphony of Benedict XVI. An Anthology In Sydney, at World Youth Day, Joseph Ratzinger preaches a "new age" of the Spirit to renew the face of the earth. Three years ago, to the young people gathered in Germany, he had proposed a "revolution." The historic hope of the pope theologian.
• 07-02-08: Pauline Year: The Ecumenical Dream of Pope Benedict Together with the patriarch of Constantinople, the successor of Peter has proclaimed a special jubilee year dedicated to another great apostle, Paul. The stated objective: "to create the unity of the 'catholica', of the Church formed from Jews and pagans, of the Church of all peoples".
• 06-28-08: "The Pope Does Not Put On Prada, But Christ" So writes "L'Osservatore Romano," and explains why. Papal master of ceremonies Guido Marini replies to the objections against the latest decisions by Benedict XVI in liturgical matters, from the motu proprio to the placement of the cross at the center of the altar.
• 04-21-08: The Pope's Sixth Day in the U.S. – The Prayer at Ground Zero, and the Last Homily "in this land of freedom" Benedict XVI prays for the conversion of the terrorists. And to American Catholics, he explains that true freedom is founded upon Christ, who is "the way, the truth, and the life." For the pope theologian, a success beyond expectations.
• 04-20-08: The Pope's Fifth Day in the U.S. – The Homily in the Heart of Manhattan, and the Meeting with Young People A "new Pentecost of the Church in America": this is the dream of Benedict XVI. To explain it, he takes his inspiration from the "pure Gothic style" of the church in which he is saying Mass. And he gives an assignment to young people: to follow the example of the saints.
• 04-20-08: The Pope's Fourth Day in the U.S. – Benedict XVI Explains Why Christians Are So Divided Because they conform themselves to the world. And instead of teaching the objective truth of the faith, they urge everyone to choose the community that best meets his tastes. The Pope's shocking discourse to representatives of ecumenism.
• 04-19-08: The Pope's Fourth Day in the U.S. – Benedict XVI Explains Why Christians Are So Divided Because they conform themselves to the world. And instead of teaching the objective truth of the faith, they urge everyone to choose the community that best meets his tastes. The Pope's shocking discourse to representatives of ecumenism
• 04-18-08: The Pope to U.N.: "The human person is the high-point of God's creative design for the world and for history" Address to the General Assembly of the United Nations Organization, New York, April 18, 2008.
• 04-18-08: The Pope's Third Day in the U.S. – With Catholic Educators, Other Religions, Jews In regard to interreligious dialogue, Benedict XVI says that the main objective is not peace, but "to discover the truth." Which is Jesus, who said that "salvation is from the Jews." In an unannounced addition to the itinerary, a meeting with some of the victims of sexual abuse.
• 04-17-08: The The Pope's Second Day in the U.S. – Benedict XVI Lays Down the Guidelines for the Bishops The complete text of his address to the bishops of the United States, and through them, to those of the whole world. With the transcription of the ensuing question-and-answer.
• 04-16-08: The Pope's First Day in the U.S. – Against Sexual Abuse, and for America as a "Model of Positive Secularism" Benedict XVI explains what should be done so that the "scandal" does not happen again. And he praises the relationship between religion and politics in the United States, as a lesson for Europe.
• 04-08-08: Between the Church and Jews, an Intermittent Dialogue Benedict XVI will receive a friendly welcome at the Park East synagogue of New York. But in Rome, the head rabbi has decided on "a pause for reflection" on relations with Catholic authorities. In an interview, he explains why.
• 04-04-08: The America of Benedict XVI, a Model for Catholic Europe The agenda of the papal voyage to the United States. And a major study by the Pew Forum. On the nation in which the religions are the most changeable in the world, losing or gaining faithful each day.
• 03-25-08: Holy Week: The Hidden Homilies of Pope Benedict Hidden, except for those who were able to listen to them in person: a few thousand out of 1.2 billion Catholics in the world. Here are the complete texts. Required reading for understanding this pontificate.
• 03-11-08: Exclusive: The Words that Benedict XVI Adds Spontaneously, When He Preaches to the Faithful Textual analyses of five of his most recent Wednesday catechesis, on Saint Augustine. The words that the pope added spontaneously, beyond the written text, are underlined. They're on the themes closest to his heart.
• 03-07-08: A Bishop and a Rabbi Defend the Prayer for the Salvation of the Jews The bishop is Gianfranco Ravasi. The rabbi is Jacob Neusner. The prayer is the one for Good Friday in the ancient rite. This is why Benedict XVI wanted to change the text.
• 02-23-08: Religious Superiors Report to the Pope. Between Decline and Rebirth Benedict XVI wants a life of greater austerity and fidelity to the Gospel from them. In particular, he wants more obedience from the Jesuits. The surprising blossoming of a new community: the Institute of the Incarnate Word.
• 02-11-08: Benedict XVI Invokes the Judgment of God on this World. For Love of Justice In a question and answer session with the priests of Rome, the pope revives one of the main themes of his encyclical on hope. In direct opposition to the modern utopias. And he brings back into question the Masses celebrated with large crowds.
• 01-28-08: The Roman Curia Wakes Up and Strikes Three Blows Thanks to a few carefully chosen changes in the Vatican offices, Benedict XVI is getting what he wants. The proof is in three recent decisions by officials for the clergy, the causes of saints, and the liturgy.
• 01-17-08: The University of Rome Closes its Doors to the Pope. Here's the Lesson They Didn't Want to Hear A group of teachers and students forced Benedict XVI to cancel his visit to "La Sapienza." But the professor pope did not give up: he made public, a day early, the address that he had written for the occasion. It is the follow-up to the formidable lecture in Regensburg, on the ultimate questions of faith and reason.
• 01-08-08: The Church's Diplomacy Has a Fixed Star: That of the Magi In the new year address to the diplomatic corps, Benedict XVI took stock of the Vatican's politics in the world. But to the faithful, at the Mass of the Epiphany, he said much more. He preached his theology of history.
• 01-02-08: The Cardinal Writes, the Prince Responds. The Factors that Divide the Pope from the Muslims The contrast is not only one of faith. It also concerns the achievements of the Enlightenment: from religious freedom to equality between men and women. The Catholic Church has made these its own, but Islam has not. Will they be able to discuss this, when Benedict XVI and the Muslims of the letter of the 138 meet together?

2007

• 12-25-07: Holy Midnight in Roma: "Heaven and Earth meet. The humility of God is Heaven..." The homily of the pope in the midnight Mass of the solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord, Vatican Basilica, December 25, 2007.
• 12-24-07: Surprise: The Pope Takes the Curia to Brazil In his pre-Christmas address to the Roman curia, Benedict XVI reiterated the purposes of his trip to the largest country in Latin America: to bring the Church back to a stance of mission and to proclaim Jesus to all the peoples of the earth. Including the Muslims.
• 12-14-07: "Jesus of Nazareth" Gets a Special Reviewer: The Vicar of the Man Who Wrote It Here is how cardinal Camillo Ruini explained to the priests of Rome the book by Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI. Including its political applications, which are never sacred and definitive, but always must be "re-elaborated, reformulated, and corrected".
• 12-11-07: Confirmed: The Council Was an "Historic Transition." The School of Bologna Annexes the Pope In a daring move, the promoters of the "discontinuity" of Vatican II with respect to the Church of the past claim that Benedict XVI is on their side. Ruggieri, Komonchak, and others explain this in their magazine. But is this truly the case?
• 11-30-07: "In hope we were saved", Pope Benedict's Second Encyclical Science, reason, and progress fulfill many expectations, but they do not give "eternal life." Pope Joseph Ratzinger brings Christians and the world back before the judgment of God. And he proposes as examples two of the most humble and unknown saints.
• 11-26-07: Why Benedict XVI Is So Cautious with the Letter of the 138 Muslims Because the kind of dialogue he wants is completely different. The pope is asking Islam to make the same journey that the Catholic Church made under pressure from the Enlightenment. Love of God and neighbor must be realized in the full acceptance of religious freedom.
• 10-18-07: A New Musical Season Opens at the Vatican – And Here's the Program Pope Ratzinger seems to be stepping up the tempo. The curia will have a new office with authority in the field of sacred music. And the choir of the Sistine Chapel is getting a new director.
• 10-12-07: One Year after Regensburg, 138 Muslims Write a New Letter to the Pope They are proposing as common ground between Muslims and Christians the two "greatest commandments" of love for God and neighbor. These are in both the Qur'an and the Gospels. How will the Church of Rome react?
• 10-08-07: The Secret Angelus Messages of Pope Benedict They're secret in the sense that the media ignore them for what they mainly are: the explanation of the Gospel of that day's Mass. Apart from those present, almost no one knows this. Here is a sample of them: the last seven "little homilies" from the pope on Sundays at noon.
• 8-07-07: Conclave: Tradition Makes a Comeback Benedict XVI has restored the ancient rule of the two-thirds majority vote, which John Paul II had breached for the first time in centuries. The progressives are applauding. And a great canonist, Ladislas Örsy, explains why.
• 7-27-07: All Against All: The Postconciliar Period Recounted by Ratzinger, Theologian and Pope The period following Vatican II reminds Benedict XVI of the "total chaos" after the Council of Nicaea, the first in history. But from that stormy Council emerged the "Credo." And today? Here is the pope's response to the priests of Belluno, Feltre, and Treviso.
• 7-16-07: Liturgy and Ecumenism: How to Apply Vatican Council II For Benedict XVI, there must not be rupture between the Church's past and present, but rather continuity. He has given proof of this with his latest decisions - receiving less criticism than foreseen, and much more agreement.
• 7-07-07: Benedict XVI Liberalizes the Ancient Rite of the Mass - And Explains Why This is how the Mass was celebrated before, during, and after Vatican Council II, until 1970. If the passage to the new rite has created divisions and ruptures among the faithful, the fault is partly that of the Church: a fault which the pope now means to remedy.
• 7-03-07: Franz Michel Willam, the Theologian the Pope Has Rescued from Oblivion Author in 1932 of a famous life of Christ, he had been forgotten by everyone. Benedict XVI cites him in "Jesus of Nazareth," and an Austrian scholar explains why.
• 6-28-07: Roman Curia: The Reform That Isn't There Appointments made at a snail's pace. Documents that are useless or continually delayed. Offices drifting aimlessly. Why the renewal of the Vatican bureaucracy is not a priority for Benedict XVI.
• 6-20-07: Why Saint Francis "Is a True Master" for Today's Christians And why Saint Augustine is, too. From Assisi and from Pavia, the destinations of his two latest trips within Italy, Benedict XVI proposes the two great converts as models. And he criticizes their modern "mutilations".
• 6-11-07: A Rabbi Debates with the Pope. And What Divides Them Is Still Jesus The rabbi is Jacob Neusner, to whom Benedict XVI dedicates many pages of his latest book. In the judgment of both, the disputes between Judaism and Christianity should not conceal, but rather bring to light their respective claims to truth
• 5-15-07: From Brazil Resounds a Word Sharper than a Sword A word that is a person: Jesus. The same person to whom Benedict XVI has dedicated the book of a lifetime. For the pope, the future of the Church in Latin American and in the world is bound up with obedience to Him. And he felt the need to remind the bishops.
• 5-04-07: The Fathers of the Church in Installments, Every Wednesday from the Vatican It is the new series of weekly catecheses from Benedict XVI, dedicated to the great personalities of the ancient Church.
• 4-26-07: Benedict XVI's First Visit to Latin America Many are waiting for the pope finally to speak to the five hundred million Catholics on the continent, who until now have felt that he has ignored them. In Aparecida, the possible beginning of the pontificate's second phase.
• 4-16-07: And He Appeared in Their Midst: “Jesus of Nazareth” at the Bookstore The book most beloved of its author has been released in various languages. Joseph Ratzinger has worked on it for many years, and he's now preparing its sequel. It's also a fundamental text for understanding this pontificate.
• 4-11-07: Easter in Rome: The Secret Homilies of the Successor of Peter They're secret, except for those who were able to listen to them in person, while Benedict XVI was pronouncing them. In the "urbi et orbi" message, too, the pope presented much more than a list of countries at war.
• 3-28-07: An “Apostate” from Itself: The Lost Europe of Pope Benedict Even before its separation from God, Joseph Ratzinger sees the old continent withdrawing from itself, from “its very identity.” Fifty years after the Treaty of Rome, the most critical assessment is that of the pope.
• 3-14-07: “Sacramentum Caritatis”: Everyone to Mass on Sunday A Christian cannot live without the Eucharist, Benedict XVI writes.
• 2-20-07: Lent 2007: The Love Letter Written by Pope Benedict Why is he so strenuous in his defense of the family as founded upon marriage between a man and a woman? He explains why in his message in preparation for Easter.
• 1-15-07: The Next Battle For and Against Jesus Will Be Fought by the Book And the new book announced and released by Joseph Ratzinger will be the best-seller of the year. Here is the complete preface, in five languages.
• 1-11-07: The Wielgus Case: The Reasons for His Resignation He was the new archbishop of Warsaw, and Benedict XVI had supported him almost until the last moment. But then he ordered him to resign. There are many who have disappointed the pope - and some even in the Vatican.
• 1-05-07: Exercises in Disinformation: The Pope According to the Leading Newspapers Here is how the major international media have deformed Benedict XVI’s position on the entry of Turkey into the European Union.

2006

• 12-12-06: “Habemus Papam.” Twenty Months Later, a Portrait Benedict XVI doesn’t seek applause, he doesn’t harangue the crowds, but he’s still extremely popular. He himself has explained his secret: it is “obedience to the truth, not to the dictatorship of popular opinion”.
• 12-06-06: After the Visit to Turkey, the Travel Diary of His Holiness Here is how Benedict XVI recounted to the faithful his four days in Ankara, Ephesus, and Istanbul.
• 12-01-06: Peter Visits Andrew – And Prays at the Blue Mosque For Benedict XVI, reconciliation between the Church of Rome and the Eastern Churches is part and parcel of the Church’s proclamation to non-Christians. The symbol of the Hagia Sophia.
• 11-28-06: In Turkey, Benedict XVI Becomes a Defender of Freedom And he appeals that “the religions utterly refuse to sanction recourse to violence.” As an example of the “particular charity” between Muslims and Christians, he cites an Arab prince of the eleventh century, one esteemed by Pope Gregory VII.
• 11-26-06: This Is the Vatican. Communications Have Been Interrupted Benedict XVI speaks to the world. But his words reach the general public with great difficulty – and sometimes not at all. Here’s what isn’t working in the communication system that should assist the pope .
• 11-16-06: Either Peace or Life – Benedict XVI Debunks a False Dilemma Speaking to the Swiss bishops, the pope replies to the main objection directed against the Church’s hierarchy by the progressive Catholics.
• 11-13-06: The Mass of Saint Pius V: The French Bishops Raise a Shout with the Pope They want to maintain the right of veto against the use of the Tridentine missal. But Benedict XVI is set to liberalize it. Arinze’s harangue against the postconciliar liturgical abuses.
• 10-26-06: After Verona: How to “Restore Full Citizenship to the Christian Faith” Pope Ratzinger and his vicar, Ruini, see in Italy “a rather favorable terrain” for the public rebirth of Christianity in Europe and the world, too. But many do not accept their view. And the archbishop of Milan, Tettamanzi, has placed himself at the head of the opposition.
• 10-11-06: “A brusqueness that we find unacceptable...” All the modifications introduced by Benedict XVI into the definitive version of his September 12, 2006 lecture at the University of Regensburg.
• 9-22-06: Why Benedict XVI Did not Want to Fall Silent or Backpedal If in Regensburg the pope cited the dialogue between the emperor of Byzantium and his Muslim adversary, he did so with deliberation. His thesis is that – then as now – religion must wed itself, not with violence, but with reason. An analysis by Pietro De Marco and a commentary by Lucetta Scaraffia.
• 9-18-06: Islam’s Unreasonable War Against Benedict XVI In Regensburg, the pope offered as terrain for dialogue between Christians and Muslims 
“acting according to reason.” But the Islamic world has attacked him, distorting his thought, confirming by this that the rejection of reason brings intolerance and violence along with it. The uncertainties about the trip to Turkey.
• 9-14-06: Munich, Altötting, Regensburg: Diary of a Pilgrimage of Faith An anthology of the homilies and speeches delivered by Benedict XVI during his trip to Bavaria.
• 9-11-06: Benedict XVI Has Become a Franciscan A true Franciscan. Against all the environmentalist, pacifist, and syncretistic distortions. Rebuilding the Church was the task Jesus assigned to the saint of Assisi. The pope has made him his own, and is re-proposing him as a model for today.
• 9-05-06: The Pope Rewrites the Handbook of the Good Pastor A spontaneous question-and-answer session with Benedict XVI and the priests of the diocese of Albano. On how to celebrate Mass well, and many other matters. “People know whether we’re putting on a show or are in conversation with God”.
• 8-02-06: Professor Ratzinger Goes back to School. After Islam Last Year, Darwin Topic This Year Evolution will be the focus of the upcoming seminar between the pope and his former students in Castel Gandolfo. Meanwhile, Jesuit scholar Christian W. Troll has updated his analysis of progressive Muslim thinkers.
• 7-26-06: At the Summit on the Middle East, Benedict XVI Preaches the Cross of Jesus Less politics – as little as possible – and more Christian faith: this is the new approach the pope wants for the Church.
• 7-14-06: Ratzinger’s New Team Trains in the Holy Office Dias, Bertone, Lajolo, Lombardi... Appointment by appointment, Benedict XVI is changing the face of the Church’s central governance. At the center is the pope himself, and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
• 7-03-06: Synod on the Eucharist: The Pope Has the Last Word Benedict XVI is writing the concluding document, which will be published this summer. Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith gives this preview: “A correction is necessary. The liturgy must be won back, in the spirit of the Council”.
• 6-16-06: Orthodoxy and Islam: Benedict XVI Prepares for His Trip to Turkey He has dedicated an entire catechesis to Saint Andrew, the apostle of Rome’s “sister” Church of Constantinople, and has expressed his hope for the teaching of the Islamic religion in European schools, under precise conditions. From Muslim thinker Khaled Fouad Allam comes a proposal in agreement with the pope.
• 6-07-06: Lajolo and Kasper, Two New Additions to Team Ratzinger They occupy key positions in the curia, having been appointed by John Paul II. But they fully support the new course charted by pope Ratzinger. Here is what has changed with them in the areas of ecumenism and relations with Islam.
• 5-29-06: The Pope at Auschwitz: “They wanted to kill God” “By destroying Israel, they ultimately wanted to tear up the taproot of the Christian faith.” A startling interpretation of the Holocaust in the words of the German pope.
• 5-08-06: The Pope Is Asking China for Freedom, Not Forgiveness The Chinese authorities have begin ordaining illegitimate bishops again. But this time the Vatican is responding firmly. It is the new course inaugurated by Benedict XVI.
• 5-04-06: When Civilizations Meet: How Joseph Ratzinger Sees Islam The author of this essay, Samir Khalil Samir, is an Egyptian Jesuit who is very familiar with both the pope and the Muslim religion. It was written for and published by “Asia News.” Here it is in its entirety.
• 4-18-06: Benedict XVI, One Year Later: What’s New One of the innovations introduced by pope Joseph Ratzinger is special: listening to questions in public and replying to all of them, off the cuff. He has done this with young people, priests, children.
• 3-16-06: “Credo Apostolicam Ecclesiam”: Wednesdays in Saint Peter’s Square Benedict XVI has inaugurated a new cycle of catechesis. He has chosen as the theme the “unbreakable” bond between Christ and the Church. And in his first lesson, he made an appeal for the conversion of the Jews.
• 3-07-06: Benedict XVI, Live. Fifteen Questions, and As Many Responses A spontaneous dialogue between the pope and the priests of his diocese of Rome. On the Bible and the Qur’an, on Pius XII, on women in the Church, on Africa, on ecumenism, on the interpretation of the Council.
• 2-23-06: What Does the Pope-Theologian Teach? First of All, the Truth The first ten months of Benedict XVI, a “doctor of the Church.” The naming of new cardinals. The inefficiency of the curia. Large crowds and audiences, but few collaborators .
• 1-26-06: Castel Gandolfo Revisited: The Jesuits Come to the Pope’s Defense Fr. Fessio agrees with his fellow Jesuits Troll and Samir. And he testifies together with them that, for Benedict XVI, Islam is capable of reform and can be harmonized with modernity. But at a steep price.
• 1-25-06: “Deus Caritas Est”: The Encyclical As Explained by its Author The preface for the first encyclical of Benedict XVI’s pontificate. “Today the word ‘love’ is so tarnished, so spoiled and so abused. We must take it up again, purify it and give back to it its original splendor...”
• 1-19-06: Vatican Storylines: Those Who Are Resisting Benedict XVI The disobedience of the Neocatechumenals. The black legends of the conclave. The translation boycott. Three different ways of opposing the new pope.
• 1-13-06: Iran and China Also Fall under the Pope’s Judgment Benedict XVI did not cite them by name in his address to the diplomatic corps. But he clearly stated how he judges them: by the yardstick of truth and freedom. An interview with the bishop of Hong Kong.
• 1-10-06: Finally, the Truth. What the Pope Said to the Diplomatic Corps In his first address to the ambassadors to the Holy See, Benedict XVI recalled where true peace comes from: “To all those responsible of Nations I wish to state: if you do not fear truth, you need not fear freedom!”.

2005

• 12-27-05: Liturgy: Benedict XVI Brings the Neocatechumenals Back to the Right Way The confidential document in which the pope cracks down on abuses in how the Neocatechumenal Way celebrates the Mass.
• 12-23-05: Pope Ratzinger Certifies the Council – The Real One In his pre-Christmas address to the Roman curia, Benedict XVI demolishes the myth of Vatican II as a rupture and new beginning. He gives another name “reform,” to the proper interpretation of the Council. And he explains why.
• 12-14-05: “In Truth, Peace” – The First Lesson of Benedict XVI on Peace, War, and Terrorism The complete text of pope Joseph Ratzinger’s message for the 2006 World Day of Peace, to be celebrated January 1.
• 12-05-05: Benedict XVI Is to Reinterpret the Second Vatican Council. This Is the Preface Forty years after the event, the president of the Pontifical Committee for Historic Sciences, Walter Brandmüller, clears up some historical issues. On December 8th, the Pope will give his assessment.
• 10-25-05: The Synod on the Eucharist, Penultimate Act: The Final Propositions Benedict XVI will decide on the basis of these proposals. But he has already shown the world the main outlines of his approach – and the model is the Masses he has celebrated.
• 10-20-05: Ratzinger’s Revolution Passes with Flying Colors Six months after his election as pope, the first popular survey reveals that Benedict XVI is both pleasing and convincing the people. He has doubled the numbers of those attending his audiences. One image of him is striking: that of the silent devotee before the Eucharist.
• 10-07-05: The Vatican Codes: This Is How I Rewrite My Conclave New “revelations” on the conclave that elected Benedict XVI. All aimed against him. The strange legends built upon cardinals Martini and Bergoglio
• 10-03-05: The First Synod after the Conclave Gets Underway. The Pope Is Being Tested The élite of the Catholic hierarchy worldwide are meeting again in Rome, half a year after the election of Benedict XVI. And they’re evaluating his first steps, beginning with his cleaning house within the Church.
• 9-01-05: Benedict XVI, Recorded Live: His Ecumenism? It’s Right Here The complete transcript of pope Joseph Ratzinger’s address to non-Catholic Christians, delivered in Luther’s homeland. With the addition of all of his off-the-cuff remarks.
• 8-26-05: Felix Colonia: More on the Epiphany of the Catechist Pope "Beneath the sign of the Magi and the star, Benedict XVI offered to the crowds the nucleus of the faith: the icon with the Mother and Child, the cross, the Eucharistic bread…"
• 8-25-05: After Cologne: The Remarkable Lesson of Professor Ratzinger For Catholics, Christians, Jews, Muslims. A survey of the first trip outside of Italy for the new pope – who, the more demanding he is, conquers minds and hearts all the more.
• 7-29-05: The Pope Opens Up to the Priests of a Small Mountain Diocese Benedict XVI's surprising question and answer session with the priests of Aosta. On the West‘s weariness of God, Christianity in Africa, parishes without priests, communion for divorced and remarried persons.
• 7-15-05: The First Three Months of Benedict XVI: New Pope, New Style The intelligentsia have turned their backs on him, but the common faithful haven't – they have a greater appreciation for him than was foreseen. Initial signs of a different pontificate.
• 6-10-05: Papal Masses on TV: Benedict XVI Wants a New Director Joseph Ratzinger has always had serious reservations about Piero Marini, choreographer of John Paul II's masses. “La Civiltà Cattolica” explains how to coordinate the pontifical liturgies with the medium of television.
• 5-30-05: Minority Church, Church of the Masses: The Two Strategies of R. & R., Inc. How Ratzinger and Ruini agree and disagree on the future of the Church. A creative minority, or a civil religion? An analysis by Silvio Ferrari.
• 5-13-05: Benedict XVI Assumes Office, and Immediately Preaches in Defense of Life During his first homily in the cathedral of Rome, Ratzinger reemphasizes "the inviolability of human life from the time of conception." A prophetic text by Romano Guardini, the present pope's teacher of theology and philosophy.
• 5-02-05: What Really Happened at the Conclave Benedict XVI's account: the guillotine, the dizziness… The microculture typical of the conclave. How the frescoes in the Sistine Chapel affected the cardinals. The sign of Jonah.
• 4-28-05: The "Reform of the Reform" Has Already Begun His first act was the inauguration mass of his pontificate. Benedict XVI is a pope of the great tradition of the liturgy, with the eucharist at the center. It is a tradition of liturgical texts, rituals, and music – and symbolic places.
• 4-20-05: Benedict XVI: The Pope and His Agenda Joseph Ratzinger reproposed it in his last homily before the conclave: “being adults in the faith,” and not “children in a state of guardianship, tossed about by the waves and carried here and there by every wind of doctrine.” Entry by entry, the open questions of his pontificate.