Joanne M. Pierce
Joanne M. Pierce is an author at Religion News Service.
All Stories by Joanne M. Pierce
Pope Francis has appointed 21 new cardinals – an expert on medieval Christianity explains what it means for the future of the Catholic Church
By Joanne M. Pierce — October 2, 2023
(The Conversation) — The College of Cardinals is an important part of the church’s governance structure. Its members elect the next pope and help develop future policies for the church.
Can chatbots write inspirational and wise sermons?
By Joanne M. Pierce — July 6, 2023
(The Conversation) — Not quite, writes an expert on Christian worship. Chatbots do not have human experience of love – and, above all, they lack a soul.
Holy Week starts off with lots of palms – but Palm Sunday’s donkey is just as important to the story
By Joanne M. Pierce — April 5, 2023
(The Conversation) — Donkeys and palm leaves are both associated with Christianity’s Palm Sunday – but their symbolism couldn’t be more different.
Catholic conflicts on marriage continue, even decades after Vatican II
By Joanne M. Pierce — December 6, 2022
(The Conversation) — Catholics disagree over how to adapt the church’s doctrine and practices, especially marriage, to different cultures.
Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the throne at a time of deep religious divisions and worked to bring tolerance
By Joanne M. Pierce — September 26, 2022
(The Conversation) — Queen Elizabeth II encouraged tolerance in a multifaith United Kingdom. To appreciate the significance of her efforts, it is important to understand the country’s complicated religious history.
Pope Francis’ visit to Malta highlights the role of St. George Preca, an advocate for teaching the gospel
By Joanne M. Pierce — May 5, 2022
(The Conversation) — Malta’s St. George Preca was canonized in 2007. Pope Francis’ visit to Malta renewed attention on Preca’s life and work and how it could provide guidance for the welfare of refugees.
Why are some Roman Catholic saints called doctors of the church?
By Joanne M. Pierce — February 9, 2022
(The Conversation) — Saints are recognized for exceptional virtue and faith. But some also are commemorated for their scholarship.
Caring for the environment has a long Catholic lineage – hundreds of years before Pope Francis
By Joanne M. Pierce — October 8, 2021
(The Conversation) — Environmentalism may seem like a new mindset, especially in the Church. But care for creation has been woven into Catholicism for centuries.
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