But rather than trying to understand and rise above them, as leaders should, the [presedential] campaigns have often simply channeled these negative emotions. This has made the substance and tone of much of the discussion not only unpleasant and uninspiring, but the acrimony and divisiveness are not healthy for our democracy.

I live near Amish communities in northern Indiana and I have the greatest respect for such faithful people. They attempt to live their faith more fully by separating themselves, as far as possible, from the wider culture and its influences. That has never been the teaching of the Catholic faith.

I'm reluctant to draw many conclusions from private correspondence leaked without permission.

[Pope Francis] has reminded us that the way we live our lives is the most important expression of our Catholic identity.

I've never met anyone who has changed his mind or deepened his faith because he has been confronted with such angry condemnations.

We have perhaps all said things in unguarded moments that we would not want printed in newspapers.

[Pope Francis] has done this not through angry speeches, but through the powerful symbols and examples of embracing a badly deformed man, welcoming refugees to the Vatican, strolling through a shanty town in Rome, visiting a home for the elderly, washing the feet of prisoners on Holy Thursday, and going to a hospital for newborns.