Restorative justice should be advocated as a key element in criminal justice reform, according to participants at an April 25 conference in Washington sponsored by the Catholic Mobilizing Network.

Pope Francis' planned meeting with abuse survivors from Chile could mark a turning point in how the Catholic Church deals not just with prevention, but especially with how it responds to accusations.

NCR Today: Seminary formation requires critical change. Seminarians need the opportunity to think and explore ideas and trends in the world and apply themselves to determining how the church can wisely engage with the outside world.

The example of selfless love and humble service set forth by Jesus at the Last Supper is the foundation of the Catholic Church's mission in the world, Pope Francis said.

The bishops' conference of Nicaragua has accepted an invitation to mediate talks aimed at calming the Central American country, which has been roiled by protests.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom cited more than two dozen countries as main contributors to an "ongoing downward trend" in religious liberty worldwide.

Michael Sean Winters rounds up political news and commentary: Conspiracy theories surround Pope Francis; A podcast with Cardinal Joseph Tobin on immigration; Starbucks to confront racism

The Field Hospital: "People are still craving a community, a hub, a place to call home, a place to nest. That is still alive and well and that place can still be a church."

Attorneys, religious leaders and advocates report increasing obstacles in the process of applying for protection, obstacles some say are intentionally created by the Trump administration to stifle asylum. 

Francis, the comic strip: It seems Francis himself has recognized the humor inherent in being pope. "Francis," the comic strip, picks up on that cue.