We were established by the pope in 1910. Here’s how this special status affects our mission today
What a new pope means to us as a papal society
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Updates on Wednesday, May 7
Black smoke signals that a new pope has not yet been elected
Reflecting on Pope Francis from St. Peter’s Square
Father Wall reflected upon his experiences meeting Pope Francis, especially his joyful first encounter in which they shared a big laugh.
Cardinals process into the Sistine Chapel
From atop the Colonnades of St. Peter’s Basilica, Father Wall watched as the cardinals processed into the Sistine Chapel.
Interview on NBC 5 Chicago
Father Jack Wall spoke with several reporters covering the conclave, including Mary Ann Ahern from NBC 5 Chicago, pictured below. The journalists are deeply moved by the pilgrims, the faith, and the excitement of this moment.
Chicagoans can watch Father Wall’s interview with NBC 5 at 4 and 6 p.m. CT on May 7. Or, watch from their website here.
Interview on WGN News
Father Jack Wall was live on WGN News Chicago! Watch below:
A reflection from Casa Santa Marta
Father Jack Wall reports from Casa Santa Marta, where the cardinals will be staying during the conclave:
Cardinals depart for the conclave
Our chancellor, Cardinal Blase Cupich, departed for the conclave with several other American cardinals. They were celebrated by students at the North American Pontifical College in Rome, where Catholic Extension Society has supported the education and advanced degrees of many priests serving in poor communities. Video from the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Updates on Tuesday, May 6
A prayerful reflection on the eve of the conclave
Father Jack Wall reflects on this sacred moment from St. Peter’s Basilica. Join us in praying for the cardinals as they seek a shepherd to lead us into the next chapter of the Church’s life and mission.
Arrival in Rome
Team Extension has arrived in Rome! We brought all five Extension magazine issues that featured Pope Francis on the cover to commemorate his transformative pontificate. We look forward to welcoming the new pope, who will appear on this balcony, in just a few days.
About Father Jack Wall
As the world turns its attention to Rome for the election of our next pope, we are providing exclusive updates from inside Rome during the conclave.
As a papal society, Catholic Extension Society is inviting you to experience the conclave in a unique way.
For 120 years, Catholic Extension Society’s president has been appointed by the Holy See. In 2007, the Holy See named Father Jack Wall as president. He has been re-appointed four times.
He is in Rome during the conclave, providing daily, firsthand reflections. His insights will provide an up-close view into the Church and about how these events will profoundly impact Catholic life in America.
Sign up to receive updates in your inbox here.
Our connection to the conclave and new pope
Our connection to Pope Francis
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Remembering our many special moments with the Holy Father’s consequential pontificateThe joyful pope: How Pope Francis changed us, and our world, for the betterRead More
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The late pope reshaped the American Catholic hierarchy by naming two-thirds of U.S. bishops‘The Francis Effect’ remains in the US Church as his successor is electedRead More
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Tributes from Catholic leaders serving the poorest communities of AmericaWhat did Pope Francis mean to you?Read More
About Catholic Extension Society
Founded in 1905, Catholic Extension Society works in solidarity with people to build up vibrant and transformative Catholic faith communities among the poor in the poorest regions of America.
In 1910, Pope St. Pius X approved pontifical status for Catholic Extension Society, creating a lasting connection between Rome and Catholic Extension Society.
Catholic Extension Society has built or repaired 13,500 churches, supports the education of future priests, Catholic sisters and lay leaders, and supports critical Catholic ministries among the poor. Presently, Catholic Extension Society supports 15 million Catholics in 87 diverse dioceses, spanning from Alaska to Puerto Rico.
Read our stories below to learn more about our history as a papal society, our relationships with popes throughout history, and how we have shaped the Church in America.