Martina Bär is professor of fundamental theology at the University of Graz (Austria).
Pope Francis, who passed away on 21 April 2025, made notable strides in addressing women and discrimination within the Catholic Church, though his efforts were often characterized by a balance between progressive appointments and adherence to traditional doctrine.
Montserrat Gas-Aixendri is a full professor of law and religion at Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (Barcelona, Spain).
From his election in 2013, Pope Francis ushered in one of the most transformative periods in the Catholic Church’s recent history. His pontificate, characterized by prophetic gestures and bold decisions, was accompanied by an intense wave of legislative activity. Deep reforms—both structural and pastoral—shaped these years, projecting an image of a Church that was more proximate, synodal, and committed to transparency and justice.
Valerie Joy Canaya Agustin is a student fellow with the Religious Freedom and Human Dignity Initiative at Brigham Young University–Hawaii. The following post comprises her reflections on the 2nd Annual Religious Freedom and Human Dignity Conference, “Oceanian Perspectives on Human Dignity,” held at BYU–Hawaii, in Laie, Oahu, Hawaii, 23–25 April 2024.
In an increasingly complex world with information flowing across boundaries, the Oceanian Perspective on Human Dignity conference presented diverse viewpoints and deep reflection, highlighting the cultural and societal influences shaping our perception of human dignity. Scholars and leaders from the Pacific region offered priceless perspectives, enriching discourse and sparking greater empathy and comprehension.