Vatican Pope Francis condemns persecution of minorities in Christmas Day address Tens of thousands of people turned out to hear the Pope’s Christmas Day message in St Peter’s Square in the Vatican. Pope Francis spoke about Ebola 25/12/2014
Vatican Pope says world needs more tenderness and empathy In his Christmas Eve Mass at St Peters Basilica in Rome, the pontiff said the world needs tenderness in times of conflict. 25/12/2014
Vatican Pope hits out at Cardinals' 'lust for power' In his Christmas greeting to those who run the Holy See, Pope Francis said they were "hypocritical" and had "forgotten the Lord". 24/12/2014
Vatican Pope Francis turns 78 with tango and tea in St Peter's Square Pope Francis’ weekly address had a festive atmosphere as thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square to celebrate his 78th birthday. The celebrations 17/12/2014
Italy Nobel Peace Prize winner criticises Pope's refusal to meet the Dalai Lama in Rome The Pope's refusal to hold a meeting with the Dalai Lama for fear of upsetting China is heavily criticised by a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate 12/12/2014
Vatican Dalai Lama and Pope will not meet during Tibetan spiritual leader's visit to Rome The Dalai Lama has confirmed reports that he will not be meeting Pope Francis during a visit to Rome. The Tibetan spiritual leader living in exile 11/12/2014
Iraq Pope sends message of support to Christians and other minority groups in Iraq and Syria 07/12/2014
Iraq Pope delivers message in support of Christian and Yazidi refugees Pope Francis has delivered a video message in support of tens of thousands of minority Yazidi and Christian refugees who fled ISIL militants in 06/12/2014