I've seen many dig in their heels and becoming disenchanted with the church because of these kinds of denunciations from coreligionists. We have to find a better way to witness to our faith and our convictions.

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

We are called to serve the common good by engaging with political and other institutions, even in our pluralistic society. We bring to that effort Christ's command to love and the grace that helps us live that love.

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.

To the extent that we sow love where there is hate and light where there is darkness, each in his or her own walk in life, we can heal, enlighten, and unify.

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