The Synod of Bishops on synodality does not aim only at bridging the gap between factions within the Catholic Church, but it also must grapple with the immense diversity of its 1.3 billion members spanning across cultures and countries, a spiritual adviser to the synod said.

The second meeting of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops begins Oct. 2 at the Vatican.

A former Vatican doctrinal chief cast sharp criticism on the Synod on Synodality days ahead of the synod’s second and final session starting Oct. 2.

The Vatican dicastery charged with overseeing and assisting religious orders confirmed that it plans to conduct an apostolic visitation of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter, which was founded in 1988 by traditionalist priests wanting to maintain the old liturgical rites while remaining in full communion with the pope.

How are Catholics to navigate the murky waters of genetic manipulation? Some of its potential uses are laudable, while others such as “designer babies,” have harrowing consequences.

Every Christian, whether a layperson or member of the clergy, has a vital role to play in advancing the mission of the church through collaboration, Pope Francis said.

With increased smartphone use — an estimated 69 percent of the global population, who also consume social media on their devices — come questions of authentic versus artificial community.

The head of Ukrainian Catholics in the U.S. told OSV News he personally thanked Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for speaking “with a heart” and being “a source of encouragement” worldwide.

It felt as if the whole country mourned and wept as family, friends and 3,000 other people packed the St. Louis Cathedral in Versailles Sept. 27 to say goodbye to 19-year-old student Philippine de Carlan, who was found murdered in Bois de Boulogne, or the Boulogne Forest, in Paris Sept. 21.

Synod members must imitate Jesus’ patience and acceptance toward others as they prepare to exchange contrasting visions for the future of the Catholic Church, an archbishop and synod member said.