Pope Francis

Pope Francis called on Russian President Putin to make "sincere" efforts to bring peace to Ukraine, where Russian-backed separatists are battling government troops.

Pope Francis sets up a tribunal to hear cases against senior clergy accused of not protecting children who were abused by priests. A victims' group says the Vatican isn't going far enough.

Two nuns from 19th-century Palestine were among four sisters who were canonized by the pontiff in a ceremony at St. Peter's Square at the Vatican.

The Cuban leader, who went to Jesuit schools as a child, says he might "resume praying and turn to the Church again" if Francis "continues in this vein."

The choice of Serra, whom the church sees as an evangelist, has drawn criticism over his role in the California mission system of the 18th century.

NPR's Sylvia Poggioli reports that Francis' remarks, at his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square, are some of his most forceful statements yet in favor of women.

The Holy See is in talks for Francis to make a trip to the island nation in September. The pontiff helped forge a breakthrough in relations between Havana and Washington.

Francis, marking the 100th anniversary of the mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks during World War I, described the deaths as a "genocide," causing Turkey to recall its Vatican ambassador.

Francis, in his annual Urbi et Orbi message, decried the bloodshed in Africa and the Middle East. He also expressed hope for the framework deal on Iran's nuclear program.

Pope Francis' doctors are telling him to lay off pasta and get more exercise. But Francis, who reportedly eats a plate of spaghetti every day, has not taken well to the suggestions.