(RNS) — From the end of the 20th century until his death, Allen was essential reading for anyone who cared about the inner workings of the Vatican.

COMMENTARY: Perhaps the most valuable trait John will be remembered for was his willingness to put into practice what popes ...

John Allen Jr., the prolific author and longtime Vatican reporter hailed for his insightful coverage of the Holy See across multiple pontificates, died Jan. 22 at 61 years old.

He seemed to know everyone at the Holy See, and it showed in his reporting for the National Catholic Reporter and his website ...