Bemused Or Irritated? Pope Reacts To Gift Of 'Communist Crucifix'
Francis received an unusual gift from Bolivian President Evo Morales — a crucifix in the shape of a hammer and sickle.
Pope Francis
Pope Kicks Off Three-Nation Tour In Ecuador
Francis, the first pontiff from Latin America, was greeted by hundreds of thousands in Quito. He is scheduled to visit Bolivia and Paraguay next.
Pope In U.S. Visit Will Meet With Poor, President, Politicians
The Vatican announced that Pope Francis will visit Cuba and the U.S. Sept. 19-28. He will become the first pope to address Congress.
Pope: Sometimes Marital Separation 'Morally Necessary'
Francis, speaking during his weekly general audience, said couples splitting may be needed to protect "the weaker spouse" and children.
Will Pope's Much-Anticipated Encyclical Be A Clarion Call On Climate Change?
On Thursday, the Vatican releases Pope Francis' document on the environment and poverty. He has said he believes global warming is a moral, and man-made, issue — angering climate change skeptics.
Pope Francis: Climate Change A 'Principal Challenge' For Humanity
In a major encyclical, the pontiff calls on humanity to acknowledge a "sense of responsibility" for the Earth and said it was time to stop "masking problems."
Pope Encourages Putin To Engage In 'Sincere' Peace Efforts In Ukraine
Pope Francis called on Russian President Putin to make "sincere" efforts to bring peace to Ukraine, where Russian-backed separatists are battling government troops.
Vatican Establishes Tribunal To Investigate Bishops In Abuse Cases
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.
Palestinian Nuns Among Latest Saints Declared By Pope Francis
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.
Raul Castro Says Pope Inspiring Him To Return To Church
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."