This week on the “Inside the Vatican” podcast, America’s Rome correspondent, Gerard O’Connell, gives an exclusive look inside the Vatican museums, which will reopen with new social distancing measures in place on Monday, June 1.

Then, Gerry and producer Colleen Dulle discuss the death of the former superior general of the Jesuits, Adolfo Nicolás. Father Nicolás led the Jesuits from 2008 to 2016 and was responsible in large part for implementing the justice-oriented vision laid out by the Jesuits’ 34th General Congregation. Colleen and Gerry examine Father Nicolás’ legacy and his friendship with Pope Francis.

Up next, the Vatican spoke out against a U.S.-backed proposal for Israel to annex up to 30 percent of the West Bank. On the show, Gerry explains what the Holy See, which recognizes Palestinian statehood and has diplomatic relations with both it and Israel, aims to accomplish with its recent statement.

Finally, Colleen and Gerry give a few updates on Pope Francis’ recent message to Chinese Catholics, his announcement of a year of prayer and study of Laudato Si’, and plans for the pope’s Pentecost Mass.

 

Links from the show:

Former Jesuit superior general Adolfo Nicolás has died in Tokyo

Watch Adolfo Nicolás’ funeral on YouTube

Arturo Sosa remembers his predecessor, Adolfo Nicolás

Watch: Remembering Fr. Adolfo Nicolás, S.J.: A Conversation with Fr. James Grummer, S.J.

The Vatican objects to Israeli plan to annex Palestinian territory

Pope Francis announces year of reflection on “Laudato Si’” and prays for Catholics in China

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