Commonweal

Commonweal is the oldest independent lay Catholic journal of opinion in the United States. It has been called by one prominent U.S. church historian "the American Catholic laity's most ambitious undertaking, and still the most successful one." At a time when many are seeking models for how the laity can claim its rightful place within the institutional church, and for how faith can illuminate and influence the secular world, Commonweal's mission seems more critical than ever.

Founded in 1924, Commonweal reflected a growing sense of self-confidence among American Catholics as they emerged from immigrant status to become members of the American mainstream. Free of any ecclesiastical control or agenda, Commonweal still strives to be a truly independent voice, faithful to the great Catholic tradition but always questioning the unexamined assumptions of church and society alike. Its readership includes many of the church's most influential leaders, both inside and outside the hierarchy, as well as political figures, academics, and educated laypeople who are as passionate about their faith as they are committed to critical thinking and analysis.

Commonweal's contributors include many of the Catholic world's most prominent thinkers and engaging writers, and its editorials offer timely views on the church, politics and culture that can surprise and frustrate both liberals and conservatives. Its book, film, and other reviews often identify voices unnoticed or underrated by the mainstream secular or religious media. The magazine is published 22 times a year, including special annual issues on theology, ecumenism, books and fiction.

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