Pope Leo XIV picked one of the most common names in history for a pope. But it is a name with great resonance in modern church history, and one whose selection suggests quite a bit about what the reign of the new pontiff might be like.

'America' is covering its 10th papal conclave this week—and while the technology has changed, the content remains much the same.

The papal conclave will take place as usual in the hallowed space of the Sistine Chapel. What is the history of this famous church and its artistic treasures?

Mario Vargas Llosa's long literary life established him as a monumental figure in Spanish-language literature and Latin American history.

Pope Francis was a great lover of literature: He peppered his homilies, talks and even encyclicals with literary references from Dostoyevsky, Proust, Hopkins, Dante and more, and he also encouraged his flock to read broadly and often.

F. Scott Fitzgerald was not a favorite of America's editors for many years, but they all read 'Gatsby.' Everyone reads 'Gatsby.'

What happened at Nicaea in A.D. 325? And why is that still so important for Christian churches today?

In a long life as a priest, teacher and scholar, Ladislas Orsy, S.J., left an impressive legacy at his death last week at the age of 103.

A Reflection for Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent, by James T. Keane

Sports hasn't always been the most popular topic among America's editors and contributors—unless it was the Grand Old Game, baseball.