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August 1978: The Summer that Changed the History of Conclaves

With temperatures high up in the thermometer, August in Rome can be very unpleasant. And 35 years ago, cardinals had to endure one of the most intense summers the Church has gone through in recent memory. They had not one, but two conclaves, about a month apart. The first elected John Paul I, while the second chose John Paul II. Casa Santa Marta did not yet exist, and so the cardinals experience some unique struggles.

Successors: A Papal Transition

Here's a look at a dramatic change in the Catholic Church, beginning with Pope Benedict XVI's stunning resignation announcement and the twists and turns that resulted in the election of Pope Francis, whose personality has already shaped the office of the papacy.

A Look at the History of the Conclave

It all happens here in the Sistine Chapel. Surrounded by the priceless art of Michelangelo, cardinals come together to elect a Pope. But it wasn't always like this. Centuries ago, the voting process was quite different. In fact, it was a different group all together, that elected the Pope.

The Precedent for Papal Resignation

An expert in medieval history spoke to Catholic News Service about the pope who set the precedent for papal resignation.

How Many Other Popes Have Resigned?

In the 2,000-year-old history of the Church, only three other Popes besides Benedict XVI have voluntarily resigned their positions: Saint Clement I in the First Century, Celestine V in 1294, and Gregory XII in 1415. Watch this video to learn more!

Vatican II - The Greatest Meeting of All Time: A Commentary by Fr. Barron

On 11 October 2012 we celebrated the 50th anniversary of Vatican II. In this video, Fr. Robert Barron reflects on the significance of Vatican II, an event which has been described as "the greatest meeting of all time". What is the mark of the Church from that moment? What did we learn? Listen to this commentary for more...

Documentary on Fr. Jerzy Popieluszko: A Martyr who Fought Against Communism

During the 1970's when the communist regime was in full swing in Poland, a priest decided to speak out for freedom, democracy and human rights. He became a sort of spiritual director for many workers and eventually became one of the leaders of a workers union called 'Solidarity.' He was so outspoken that his homilies were even transmitted on a radio station that opposed the communist regime. His name was Jerzy Popieluszko.

The Triumph of Christianity and What it Means Roughly 2,000 Years Later

October 28th marks a special anniversary. It was on that day, 1,700 years ago that Emperor Constantine won the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. That victory, opened a new chapter for Christianity, since the night before, it's said that Constantine had a vision. Watch this video for more!

Raoul Wallenberg: He Saved Thousands of Jews, But His Fate Remains Unknown

This man says he owes his life to a man named Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish diplomat who saved thousands of Jews in Budapest during World War II. Wallenberg was arrested by the Russian army and was never heard from again. For years now, his family and those he helped save, have desperately seeked answers.

Vatican to Release Documentary with Unseen Footage from Vatican II

This October marks the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council. But few people truly understand the impact this council had on the Catholic Church. So to get the message out, the Pontifical Council for Social Communications will launch an HD documentary on October 11th. It will include never before seen images, interviews and expert analysis.