Inside the Vatican — Pope Leo “Peace! In the Name of Christ”

Inside the Vatican – May/June 2026 Issue

SSPX Consecrations, Pope Leo XIV & the Legacy of Baroque Rome

The May–June issue of Inside the Vatican explores major questions facing the Catholic Church today, from ecclesial authority and papal leadership to the artistic and spiritual legacy of Rome. The Lead story examines the thorny and controversial issue of the SSPX’s planned episcopal consecrations, analyzing the canonical, theological, and ecclesial implications of these proposed illicit ordinations and what they could mean for relations between the Society of St. Pius X and the Vatican.

This issue also features a series of reflections from contributors assessing the first year of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate. These perspectives examine the Pope’s leadership style, priorities, and early impact on the life of the Church, offering readers insight into how his papacy is beginning to shape Catholic life worldwide.

Rome correspondent Anna Artymiak sits down with veteran Vatican journalist Phil Pullella for an in-depth interview reflecting on forty-two years of reporting from Rome and witnessing four papacies firsthand. Their conversation provides a rare perspective on the evolution of the modern papacy, Vatican culture, and the challenges facing the Church across decades of historic change.

Rounding out the issue, Lucy Gordan introduces readers to the magnificent artistic achievements and fascinating life of Italian Baroque sculptor Pietro Bernini, while also exploring the immense influence of his patron, Pope Urban VIII. This richly detailed feature highlights the relationship between art, faith, and papal patronage in shaping the cultural heritage of Rome.

This issue is essential reading for Catholics interested in Church governance, papal leadership, Vatican history, and the enduring beauty of sacred art.

Why Read Inside the Vatican?

• Independent Catholic journalism since 1993
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• Six issues per year, plus special supplements

As we celebrate 34 years of independent publication, this issue reminds readers why print still matters—because “Print is where free thought stays alive.”