Pope Benedict XVI

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Publications

reportApr 30, 2025

Most U.S. Catholics Say They Want the Church To Be ‘More Inclusive’

Majorities want the church to allow use of birth control and IVF, and to permit priests to bless same-sex couples. But views differ by Mass attendance.
short readsJun 9, 2015

A look at popes and their encyclicals

Popes have written encyclicals on an array of topics, ranging from the nature of work to the virginity of Jesus’ mother, Mary.
short readsDec 12, 2012

Large Majorities of Catholics Satisfied with Pope, Church Leaders

About three-quarters of U.S. Catholics say they are satisfied with the leadership of the Pope.
reportApr 7, 2010

Broad Criticism of Pope Benedict’s Handling of Sex Abuse Scandal

Overview Amid new revelations of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI’s job ratings for handling the scandal have plummeted. Only about one-in-ten (12%) say the pope has done an excellent (3%) or good job (9%) in addressing the sex abuse scandal; 71% say he has done a poor (44%) or only fair […]
short readsMay 14, 2008

Clergy Sex Scandal Tops Media Coverage of Pope’s Visit

More than a third (37%) of papal coverage focused on the sex abuse scandal.
short readsNov 12, 2007

Rating Pope Benedict’s Performance

That’s the percentage of the U.S. public that thinks that Pope Benedict XVI is doing an excellent or good job at promoting good relations with other major religions; this compares with 46% who say he is doing only a fair or poor job.