The United States Catholic bishops this week elected Bishop William Skylstad of Spokane as president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The election became competitive after Skylstad announced plans to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for his Washington state diocese.

Islamic community leaders are lining up to meet with Cardinal Pell on his return to Australia. There has been widespread consternation over His Eminence's reported remarks at the Acton Institute last month.

Catholic parishes need better internal communications if they are to be an effective sign of Christ's presence in the world, according to the General Secretary of the Australian Bishops' Conference, Fr Brian Lucas.

Female lay leadership is of enormous importance, according to the Commission for Aust. Catholic Women, who will host a conference of women in significant positions in the Church, sponsored by the Diocese of Cairns.