Pope Francis

"The widely popular and deeply loved Pope Francis also has his critics. This volume offers background, analysis, and appreciation of the depth, vision, integrity, and relevance of this leader, who continually displays his profound knowledge of and steadfast commitment to Catholic tradition as he engages the urgently pressing issues of our times." --Dennis Doyle, professor of religious studies, University of Dayton, and author of The Catholic Church in a Changing World

In April 2018, noted scholars from around the world gathered at Villanova University for an unprecedented historical and theological analysis of Francis’ papacy, focusing on such topics as his interpretation of Vatican II and his concern for social justice and global ecological crises.

Among the sixteen eminent contributors whose addresses are included in this volume are Joseph W. Cardinal Tobin, Óscar Cardinal Rodríguez Maradiaga, Antonio Spadaro, SJ, Austen Ivereigh, Margaret S. Archer, and Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, SJ.

Barbara E. Wall is vice president for mission and ministry and associate professor of philosophy at Villanova University. She founded and edits the Journal for Catholic Social Thought and is author of Love and Death in the Philosophy of Gabriel Marcel and co-editor (with Kevin Hart) of The Experience of God: A Postmodern Response.

Massimo Faggioli is professor of theology and religious studies at Villanova University and a contributing writer to Commonweal magazine. He was on the faculty at the University of St. Thomas from 2009–2016, where he was the founding director of the Institute for Catholicism and Citizenship. His recent publications include Pope Francis: Tradition in Transition and The Rising Laity: Ecclesial Movements since Vatican II.