Over the next few days in Vatican City, Pope Francis will meet with bishops from around the world to address ongoing clergy sexual abuse scandals, including those accused in Pennsylvania.
Susan Bigelow Reynolds, assistant professor of Catholic studies at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, explores how a culture of clericalism and secrecy is affecting sex scandals in the Catholic Church. She says Pope Francis’ calls to moderate expectations are not about a lack of urgency, but a recognition that there are many bishops who disagree about how to handle the situation.
Elsewhere in the program:
Designs for a $1 billion, modern, streamlined terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport were unveiled on Wednesday. It will be built adjacent to the current airside facility, between concourses C and D, and is set to open in 2023. Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis and architect Luis Vidal talk about the design process and discuss their plan to improve the passenger experience. “One of the features that we’re most excited about is just the ability to capture what I think is essentially a Pittsburgh experience in terms of ability to be influenced by the space,” says Cassotis. “It’s an investment in our future.”
Oil and gas waste is high in salt and radioactive material. The wastewater from these processes can be used to make a de-icer that works well in extreme cold. Now lawmakers in Ohio are considering re-introducing a bill that would loosen regulations on using this de-icer. The Allegheny Front’s Julie Grant reports on what this law could mean for the citizens and environment of Ohio.
In 1960, a Hill District native Mildred Allen founded the Triboro Softball League. Dozens of teams from all over the city joined the league. 90.5 WESA’s Katie Blackley reports although the league disbanded in 1976, its civil rights legacy remains an important part of Pittsburgh history.
And PublicSource is launching “Developing Pittsburgh,” a new reporting venture dedicating to covering urban development and the importance of design and planning for the health of Pittsburgh. Assistant editor Jeffrey Benzing and beat reporter Tom Lisi join The Confluence's Kiley Koscinski to discuss their plans.
The Confluence, where the news comes together, is 90.5 WESA’s daily news program. Tune in weekdays at 9 a.m. to hear newsmakers and innovators join veteran journalist Kevin Gavin, taking an in-depth look at stories important to the Pittsburgh region. Find more episodes of The Confluence here or wherever you get your podcasts.
