Pope Francis will on Monday (March 13) complete 10 years as the leader of the Catholic Church. Although he has maintained the fundamentals of the faith, he has faced internal resistance after 10 years of change, as reported by the Associated Press.

Jorge Bergoglio, who had just been chosen, quickly sent an image of a different sort of pope when he first stepped on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica on March 13, 2013, dressed in simple white papal robes.

The jovial, outgoing Jesuit stood in stark contrast to his quiet, cerebral predecessor Benedict XVI, who astonished the world by stepping down as the first&nbsp;pope to resign since the Middle Ages.

Francis also had the plan to overhaul the Church's sluggish leadership, clear up its murky finances, and shift its emphasis externally.

"No more demonisation of homosexuality, debates on extramarital relations or the contraceptive pill... all that has been taken off the table," noted Italian Vaticanist Marco Politi.

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Instead, the 86-year-old pontiff has placed a focus on social justice, inter-religious dialogue, ecology, and refugee rights. He is seldom happier than when surrounded by his flock.

"The pope has engaged the Church on issues that are at the heart of Western democracies, such as the environment, education, law," added Roberto Regoli, professor at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

When he travelled to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo earlier this year, he was greeted by large crowds, which is evidence of his enduring popularity.

Catholics everywhere will also recall his leadership during the coronavirus outbreak, notably when, in March 2020, he stood by himself in St. Peter's Square during a storm and urged followers to overcome their concerns through faith.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Pope Francis will on Monday (March 13) complete 10 years as the leader of the Catholic Church. Although he has maintained the fundamentals of the faith, he has faced internal resistance after 10 years of change, as reported by the Associated Press.

Pope Francis will on Monday (March 13) complete 10 years as the leader of the Catholic Church. Although he has maintained the fundamentals of the faith, he has faced internal resistance after 10 years of change, as reported by the Associated Press. Jorge Bergoglio, who had just been chosen, quickly sent an image of a different sort of pope when he first stepped on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica on March 13, 2013, dressed in simple white papal robes. The jovial, outgoing Jesuit stood in stark contrast to his quiet, cerebral predecessor Benedict XVI, who astonished the world by stepping down as the first pope to resign since the Middle Ages. Francis also had the plan to overhaul the Church's sluggish leadership, clear up its murky finances, and shift its emphasis externally. "No more demonisation of homosexuality, debates on extramarital relations or the contraceptive pill... all that has been taken off the table," noted Italian Vaticanist Marco Politi. ALSO READ | Former Pope John Paul II covered up cases of paedophilia in church: Report Instead, the 86-year-old pontiff has placed a focus on social justice, inter-religious dialogue, ecology, and refugee rights. He is seldom happier than when surrounded by his flock. "The pope has engaged the Church on issues that are at the heart of Western democracies, such as the environment, education, law," added Roberto Regoli, professor at the Pontifical Gregorian University. When he travelled to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo earlier this year, he was greeted by large crowds, which is evidence of his enduring popularity. Catholics everywhere will also recall his leadership during the coronavirus outbreak, notably when, in March 2020, he stood by himself in St. Peter's Square during a storm and urged followers to overcome their concerns through faith. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pope Francis to complete 10 years as head of Catholic Church

The motto for the Pope’s trip to Africa was "all reconciled in christ," which many understood in the context of the political situation in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Pope’s messages during his visit were expected to change the reality in which local people live, and according to some experts, they did and just before the pontiff departed for Rome. An unusual development occurred in the Horn of Africa nation of Ethiopia, where the prime minister convened a meeting with the Tigray forces. So did the premier take a cue from his holiness and tried his luck at fostering peace and harmony?

World of Africa: Peace campaigns reverberate in Africa

Strongly condemning the persecution of LGBTQ communities, Pope Francis has said that those discriminating against people with same-sex orientation are sinners and termed the law criminalising it as “injustice”.

Francis made these remarks in response to a question aboard the plane returning from a two-country trip to Africa. Two other Christian leaders who were on the plane -- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland Iain Greenshields-- also backed Francis, reports Reuters news agency.

“The criminalisation of homosexuality is a problem that cannot be ignored,” Francis said as he cited unnamed statistics according to which 50 countries criminalise LGBT people “in one way or another” and about 10 others have laws including the death penalty for them.

As many as 66 UN member states have laws criminalising same-sex sexual relations, according to data from ILGA World – the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association.

While in countries where same-sex relations are illegal, punishments are meted out to those found guilty, including a possible death penalty.

“This is not right. Persons with homosexual tendencies are children of God. God loves them. God accompanies them … condemning a person like this is a sin. Criminalising people with homosexual tendencies is an injustice,” Francis was quoted as saying.

Citing the Catholic Church’s catechism, or book of teachings, Francis said that same-sex attraction is not a sin but homosexual acts are. It also says that LGBT people should not be marginalised.

Two other Christian leaders on the plane returning from Sudan, who participated in the pope’s news conference, praised the pope’s comments.

“I entirely agree with every word he said there,” Welby said, noting that the Anglican communion was itself divided over gay rights and that two resolutions against criminalisation of LGBT people “have not really changed many people’s minds”.

Welby added: “I shall certainly quote the Holy Father. He said it so beautifully and accurately”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Strongly condemning the persecution of LGBTQ communities, Pope Francis has said that those discriminating against people with same-sex orientation are sinners and termed the law criminalising it as “injustice”.

Strongly condemning the persecution of LGBTQ communities, Pope Francis has said that those discriminating against people with same-sex orientation are sinners and termed the law criminalising it as “injustice”. Francis made these remarks in response to a question aboard the plane returning from a two-country trip to Africa. Two other Christian leaders who were on the plane -- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland Iain Greenshields-- also backed Francis, reports Reuters news agency. “The criminalisation of homosexuality is a problem that cannot be ignored,” Francis said as he cited unnamed statistics according to which 50 countries criminalise LGBT people “in one way or another” and about 10 others have laws including the death penalty for them. As many as 66 UN member states have laws criminalising same-sex sexual relations, according to data from ILGA World – the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association. While in countries where same-sex relations are illegal, punishments are meted out to those found guilty, including a possible death penalty. “This is not right. Persons with homosexual tendencies are children of God. God loves them. God accompanies them … condemning a person like this is a sin. Criminalising people with homosexual tendencies is an injustice,” Francis was quoted as saying. Citing the Catholic Church’s catechism, or book of teachings, Francis said that same-sex attraction is not a sin but homosexual acts are. It also says that LGBT people should not be marginalised. Two other Christian leaders on the plane returning from Sudan, who participated in the pope’s news conference, praised the pope’s comments. “I entirely agree with every word he said there,” Welby said, noting that the Anglican communion was itself divided over gay rights and that two resolutions against criminalisation of LGBT people “have not really changed many people’s minds”. Welby added: “I shall certainly quote the Holy Father. He said it so beautifully and accurately”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Laws criminalising LGBTQ are a sin, says Pope Francis

Pope Francis accused some of his critics on Sunday (February 5) of taking advantage of retired Pope Benedict XVI’s death to score ideological points in the latest salvo in the partisan divide of the Catholic Church.

During an airborne news conference returning from South Sudan, Francis was asked about the&nbsp;criticism that accelerated&nbsp;after the December&nbsp;31 death of Benedict, who lived in the Vatican as an emeritus pope alongside Francis for the first 10 years of his pontificate.

In the days and weeks after his death, Benedict’s longtime secretary and some conservative cardinals came out with books, interviews, and memos criticizing Francis’ papacy. The commentary had the effect of pitting the recently departed former pope, who remained a point of reference for conservatives and traditionalists, against the current pope.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/laws-criminalising-lgbt-people-are-sin-pope-francis-559004">Laws criminalising LGBT people are 'sin': Pope Francis</a>

Francis insisted that rumours of differences with Benedict, or that Benedict was bitter about some decisions he had taken, were false and that the two consulted frequently and were in agreement.

“I think Benedict’s death was instrumentalized,” Francis said. “People wanted to score points for their own side. And the people who instrumentalize such a good person, so close to God, I would almost say ... those people don’t have ethics, they are people who belong to a party, not to the church.”

To drive home the point that Benedict was above such partisanship, Francis recalled how the emeritus pope handled a complaint that he had received against Francis over his support for legal protections for same-sex partnerships.

When he was archbishop of Buenos Aires, then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio supported Argentine legislation that would allow people in stable relationships, including same-sex unions, to enjoy inheritance and other rights. He backed such legislation as an alternative to Argentine proposals to legalize gay marriage, which the Catholic Church opposes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-talks-of-hundreds-of-pieces-of-war-crime-evidence-in-ukraine-558980">Germany talks of ‘hundreds’ of pieces of war crime evidence in Ukraine</a>

Bergoglio’s position was known at the time but he articulated it publicly during a 2019 interview with Mexican broadcaster Televisa.

Francis revealed Sunday that someone who fancied himself “a great theologian” had filed a complaint with Benedict about Francis’ position but that the emeritus pope “didn’t get scared.”

“He called four top-notch cardinal theologians and said, ‘Explain this to me.’”

“They explained it to him, and that’s how the story ended,” Francis said. “It’s an anecdote to show how Pope Benedict moved when there was a complaint.”

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Pope Francis accused some of his critics on Sunday (February 5) of taking advantage of retired Pope Benedict XVI’s death to score ideological points in the latest salvo in the partisan divide of the Catholic Church.

Pope Francis accused some of his critics on Sunday (February 5) of taking advantage of retired Pope Benedict XVI’s death to score ideological points in the latest salvo in the partisan divide of the Catholic Church. During an airborne news conference returning from South Sudan, Francis was asked about the criticism that accelerated after the December 31 death of Benedict, who lived in the Vatican as an emeritus pope alongside Francis for the first 10 years of his pontificate. In the days and weeks after his death, Benedict’s longtime secretary and some conservative cardinals came out with books, interviews, and memos criticizing Francis’ papacy. The commentary had the effect of pitting the recently departed former pope, who remained a point of reference for conservatives and traditionalists, against the current pope. Also read | Laws criminalising LGBT people are 'sin': Pope Francis Francis insisted that rumours of differences with Benedict, or that Benedict was bitter about some decisions he had taken, were false and that the two consulted frequently and were in agreement. “I think Benedict’s death was instrumentalized,” Francis said. “People wanted to score points for their own side. And the people who instrumentalize such a good person, so close to God, I would almost say ... those people don’t have ethics, they are people who belong to a party, not to the church.” To drive home the point that Benedict was above such partisanship, Francis recalled how the emeritus pope handled a complaint that he had received against Francis over his support for legal protections for same-sex partnerships. When he was archbishop of Buenos Aires, then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio supported Argentine legislation that would allow people in stable relationships, including same-sex unions, to enjoy inheritance and other rights. He backed such legislation as an alternative to Argentine proposals to legalize gay marriage, which the Catholic Church opposes. Also read | Germany talks of ‘hundreds’ of pieces of war crime evidence in Ukraine Bergoglio’s position was known at the time but he articulated it publicly during a 2019 interview with Mexican broadcaster Televisa. Francis revealed Sunday that someone who fancied himself “a great theologian” had filed a complaint with Benedict about Francis’ position but that the emeritus pope “didn’t get scared.” “He called four top-notch cardinal theologians and said, ‘Explain this to me.’” “They explained it to him, and that’s how the story ended,” Francis said. “It’s an anecdote to show how Pope Benedict moved when there was a complaint.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pope accuses critics of exploiting Pope Benedict XVI’s death

Pope Francis on Sunday (February 5) said unequivocally that laws criminalising LGBT people were a 'sin' and an 'injustice'. The Pope said that God loves and accompanies people with same-sex attraction. Pope Francis made the remark when he was aboard the plane returning from a two-country trip to Africa.

"The criminalisation of homosexuality is a problem that cannot be ignored," said Francis, who then cited unnamed statistics according to which 50 countries criminalise LGBT people "in one way or another" and about 10 others have laws including the death penalty for them.

Sixty-six UN member states continue to criminalise consensual same-sex sexual relations, according to data from ILGA World – the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association. In several countries where same-sex relations are illegal, punishments can include a possible death penalty.

"This is not right. Persons with homosexual tendencies are children of God. God loves them. God accompanies them ... condemning a person like this is a sin. Criminalising people with homosexual tendencies is an injustice," Francis said.

Pope Francis noted that Catechism, or book of teachings, says &nbsp;same-sex attraction is not a sin but homosexual acts are. It also says that LGBT people should not be marginalised.

Francis mentioned his now-famous phase from soon after he became pope in 2013 that he could not judge people with same-sex tendencies who are seeking God. He also noted that while visiting Ireland in 2018 he said that parents could not disown their LGBT children, but had to keep them in a loving family.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis on Sunday (February 5) said unequivocally that laws criminalising LGBT people were a 'sin' and an 'injustice'. The Pope said that God loves and accompanies people with same-sex attraction.

Pope Francis on Sunday (February 5) said unequivocally that laws criminalising LGBT people were a 'sin' and an 'injustice'. The Pope said that God loves and accompanies people with same-sex attraction. Pope Francis made the remark when he was aboard the plane returning from a two-country trip to Africa. "The criminalisation of homosexuality is a problem that cannot be ignored," said Francis, who then cited unnamed statistics according to which 50 countries criminalise LGBT people "in one way or another" and about 10 others have laws including the death penalty for them. Sixty-six UN member states continue to criminalise consensual same-sex sexual relations, according to data from ILGA World – the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association. In several countries where same-sex relations are illegal, punishments can include a possible death penalty. "This is not right. Persons with homosexual tendencies are children of God. God loves them. God accompanies them ... condemning a person like this is a sin. Criminalising people with homosexual tendencies is an injustice," Francis said. Pope Francis noted that Catechism, or book of teachings, says same-sex attraction is not a sin but homosexual acts are. It also says that LGBT people should not be marginalised. Francis mentioned his now-famous phase from soon after he became pope in 2013 that he could not judge people with same-sex tendencies who are seeking God. He also noted that while visiting Ireland in 2018 he said that parents could not disown their LGBT children, but had to keep them in a loving family. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Laws criminalising LGBT people are 'sin': Pope Francis

On the second day of his visit to south Sudan Pope Francis met children who have been displaced by a decade-long civil war. The meeting took place in a prefabricated structure in the capital Juba. He was accompanied by archbishop of canterbury Justin Welby and church of Scotland moderator Iain Greenshields. They heard about the hardships which these children face. The Pontiff assured them that they would build a better future for the world's newest country by replacing ethnic hatred with forgiveness. The Pope also urged everyone to protect and respect women after a resident U.N. humanitarian coordinator highlighted gender based issues being faced by the women.

Pope Francis South Sudan's Tour

Pope Francis wrapped up a peace mission to South Sudan urging an end to the blind fury of violence. Pope Francis made peace and reconciliation the theme of his three-day trip to the world's newest nation before flying back to Rome.

Pope Francis wraps up South Sudan peace mission, says 'no more bloodshed, conflicts'

Pope Francis on Saturday met children of South Sudan who have been displaced by conflict in the region. The pope told children that they would build a better future for South Sudan by replacing ethnic hatred with forgiveness. The pope was visiting South Sudan with Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Church of Scotland Moderator Iain Greenshields, in what was cited as&nbsp;an unprecedented joint "pilgrimage of peace".

There are 2.2 million internally displaced people in South Sudan, out of a total population of about 11.6 million. Another 2.3 million have fled the country as refugees, according to the United Nations. Extreme poverty and hunger are prevalent across the country. About two-thirds of the country's&nbsp;population need humanitarian assistance as a result of conflict as well as three years of catastrophic floods.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-in-africa-pope-francis-meets-survivors-of-violence-in-dr-congo-558270">Pope Francis in Africa: Pope Francis meets survivors of violence in DR Congo</a>

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The three religious leaders&nbsp;led about 50,000 people in an open-air ecumenical prayer vigil at dusk at a mausoleum for South Sudan's liberation hero John Garang.

John Garang died in a helicopter crash in 2005 six years before the country gained independence in 2011.&nbsp;

At a meeting in the capital Juba earlier, the Christian leaders listened to testimonies from displaced children including Johnson Juma Alex, 14, who has been living in a camp since 2014 after fleeing his hometown because of fighting.

ALSO SEE |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-to-meet-victims-of-civil-war-in-africas-south-sudan-558822">Pope Francis to meet victims of Civil War in Africa's South Sudan</a>

"Life in the camp is not good because the area is small and crowded," he told them.

"There is not enough space to play football. Many children do not go to school because there are not enough teachers and schools for all of us," he said. After he spoke, the pope, the archbishop and the moderator warmly shook his hand.

<h2>'A field to play football'</h2>

"The future cannot lie in refugee camps," the pope told the children after hearing their stories at the event. "As you said, Johnson, there is a need for all children like yourself to have the opportunity to go to school, and to have a field to play football!"

Francis said hope for South Sudan's future rests in children from different ethnic groups, who must let go of their past to begin afresh.&nbsp;

"Although conflict, violence and hatred have replaced good memories on the first pages of the life of this republic, you must be the ones to rewrite its history as a history of peace!" he said.

"You bear the burden of a painful past, yet you never stop dreaming of a better future. In our meeting today, we would like to give wings to your hope," he said.

On Sunday morning, the three Christian leaders will return to the mausoleum to celebrate Mass, their last major event in South Sudan before leaving the country.

South Sudan broke away from Sudan in 2011 but plunged into civil war in 2013 with ethnic groups turning on each other. Despite a 2018 peace deal between the two main antagonists, episodes&nbsp;of inter-ethnic fighting have continued to kill and displace large numbers of civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis on Saturday met children of South Sudan who have been displaced by conflict in the region. The pope told children that they would build a better future for South Sudan by replacing ethnic hatred with forgiveness.

Pope Francis on Saturday met children of South Sudan who have been displaced by conflict in the region. The pope told children that they would build a better future for South Sudan by replacing ethnic hatred with forgiveness. The pope was visiting South Sudan with Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and Church of Scotland Moderator Iain Greenshields, in what was cited as an unprecedented joint "pilgrimage of peace". There are 2.2 million internally displaced people in South Sudan, out of a total population of about 11.6 million. Another 2.3 million have fled the country as refugees, according to the United Nations. Extreme poverty and hunger are prevalent across the country. About two-thirds of the country's population need humanitarian assistance as a result of conflict as well as three years of catastrophic floods. ALSO WATCH | Pope Francis in Africa: Pope Francis meets survivors of violence in DR Congo × The three religious leaders led about 50,000 people in an open-air ecumenical prayer vigil at dusk at a mausoleum for South Sudan's liberation hero John Garang. John Garang died in a helicopter crash in 2005 six years before the country gained independence in 2011. At a meeting in the capital Juba earlier, the Christian leaders listened to testimonies from displaced children including Johnson Juma Alex, 14, who has been living in a camp since 2014 after fleeing his hometown because of fighting. ALSO SEE | Pope Francis to meet victims of Civil War in Africa's South Sudan "Life in the camp is not good because the area is small and crowded," he told them. "There is not enough space to play football. Many children do not go to school because there are not enough teachers and schools for all of us," he said. After he spoke, the pope, the archbishop and the moderator warmly shook his hand. 'A field to play football' "The future cannot lie in refugee camps," the pope told the children after hearing their stories at the event. "As you said, Johnson, there is a need for all children like yourself to have the opportunity to go to school, and to have a field to play football!" Francis said hope for South Sudan's future rests in children from different ethnic groups, who must let go of their past to begin afresh. "Although conflict, violence and hatred have replaced good memories on the first pages of the life of this republic, you must be the ones to rewrite its history as a history of peace!" he said. "You bear the burden of a painful past, yet you never stop dreaming of a better future. In our meeting today, we would like to give wings to your hope," he said. On Sunday morning, the three Christian leaders will return to the mausoleum to celebrate Mass, their last major event in South Sudan before leaving the country. South Sudan broke away from Sudan in 2011 but plunged into civil war in 2013 with ethnic groups turning on each other. Despite a 2018 peace deal between the two main antagonists, episodes of inter-ethnic fighting have continued to kill and displace large numbers of civilians. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pope in Africa: 'Future of South Sudan cannot lie in refugee camps'

Pope Francis who is currently on a visit to South Sudan will meet the victims of the Civil War and pay homage to a local liberation hero. This comes a day after he appealed to its leaders to turn their backs on the violence, ethnic hatred and corruption ravaged African nation.

Pope Francis to meet victims of Civil War in Africa's South Sudan

Pope Francis is on an African tour to call for peace in conflicted nations. He has been a firm promoter of non-violence and has openly criticised current global economic disparity. These beliefs resonate with those of Mahatma Gandhi. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Pope's ideologies similar to Mahatma Gandhi's?

Pope Francis is in the last leg of his visit to Africa and is currently visiting South Sudan, which has been ravaged by poverty and civil war since the past five years. The Pope urged the top leaders to end bloodshed, and change the course of history for the embattled and impoverished country.

Pontiff visits war-ravaged South Sudan

Young people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have been challenged by Pope Francis to create a new future free from the racial animosity, corruption, and mistrust that have fueled so many terrible conflicts in Africa. The pope said this while addressing more than 65,000 youths at Martyrs Stadium in Kinshasa, the country's capital.

Pope in Africa: Pope Francis speaks to over 65,000 young people in DR Congo

On Wednesday, Pope Francis heard horrifying testimonies from conflict victims in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, including those who had experienced rape, amputation, forced cannibalism, and sexual enslavement. He denounced the atrocities as war crimes.

Pope in Africa: Pope Francis hears horrifying accounts of violence in DR Congo

Pope Francis has met with survivors of atrocities in Democratic Republic of Congo. It was appointment encounter at the Vatican's embassy in the capital. Pope Francis heard firsct-hand testimonies of the brutalities that some of them have endured including rape, amputation.

Pope Francis in Africa: Pope Francis meets survivors of violence in DR Congo

Over a million worshippers turned out for a papal mass in DR Congo's capital Wednesday, organisers said, on the second day of&nbsp;Pope&nbsp;Francis's visit to the conflict-torn country.&nbsp;

Many of the faithful in Kinshasa, a deeply observant megacity of some 15 million people, began to arrive at Ndolo airport on Tuesday night to assure themselves of a spot.&nbsp;

Francis entered the airport grounds aboard his popemobile and was greeted by singing and dancing crowds before the mass began at around 9:30 am (0830 GMT).&nbsp;

Organisers said that over one million people were on the airport tarmac.&nbsp;

Adrien Louka, 55,&nbsp;told AFP he had arrived before dawn. &nbsp;

"As our country has many problems, it is reconciliation that we are looking for and the&nbsp;Pope&nbsp;will give a message so that the countries around us leave us in peace," he added.

The attendees included Kinshasa residents as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo's president, Felix Tshisekedi, and leading opposition politicians.

Francis wished the crowd peace in Lingala, one of the DRC's four national languages and the everyday language of Kinshasa.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Pope&nbsp;delivered the rest of his homily in Italian -- which was translated into the DRC's official language French -- in which he urged the faithful "not to give in to divisions."

The 86-year-old pontiff had arrived in the DRC on Tuesday, on the first leg of a six-day trip to Africa that will also include troubled South Sudan.

Huge crowds had also thronged the streets for a glimpse of the popemobile as Francis drove past.&nbsp;

&nbsp;'Massively plundered'

A former Belgian colony the size of continental western Europe, the DRC is Africa's most Catholic country.&nbsp;

About 40 percent of the population of some 100 million people follows the church of Rome, according to estimates.&nbsp;

Another 35 percent of the population is Protestant of various denominations, nine percent is Muslim and 10 percent Kimbanguist --&nbsp;a Christian movement born in the Belgian Congo.&nbsp;

Official Vatican statistics put the proportion of Catholics in the DRC at 49 percent of the population.

During a speech to politicians and dignitaries in Kinshasa's presidential palace on Tuesday, Francis denounced the "economic colonialism" he suggested had wreaked lasting damage in the DRC.

"This country, massively plundered, has not benefited adequately from its immense resources," he said, to applause.

Despite abundant mineral reserves, the DRC is one of the poorest countries in the world. About two-thirds of Congolese people live on less than $2.15 a day, according to the World Bank.&nbsp;

Meeting conflict victims

Francis is also due to meet victims of the conflict in eastern Congo in Kinshasa on Wednesday following the mega-mass.&nbsp;

After that, he will talk to representatives from charitable organisations.

The DRC's east has long been plagued by dozens of armed groups. Since late 2021, M23 rebels have also captured swathes of territory in North Kivu province, coming close to its capital Goma.&nbsp;

The trip to DRC and South Sudan had originally been planned for July 2022, but it was postponed due to the pontiff's knee pain that has forced him in recent months to use a wheelchair.&nbsp;

Security concerns were also said to play a role in delaying the trip, and a stop in Goma -- a city of over a million people on the border with Rwanda -- is no longer on the itinerary.

"I would have liked to go to Goma too, but with the war, you can't go there," Francis told reporters on the plane from Rome.

The Argentine pontiff, in his speech in Kinshasa on Tuesday, urged the need to address the conflict and said he supported regional peace efforts.&nbsp;

Francis also underlined the need for investment in education, and free-and-fair elections, among other issues.&nbsp;

On Friday, the Pope&nbsp;travels to South Sudan's capital Juba.

This visit is Francis's 40th foreign trip since being elected in 2013.&nbsp;

Over a million worshippers turned out for a papal mass in DR Congo's capital Wednesday, organisers said, on the second day of Pope Francis's visit to the conflict-torn country.

Over a million worshippers turned out for a papal mass in DR Congo's capital Wednesday, organisers said, on the second day of Pope Francis's visit to the conflict-torn country. Many of the faithful in Kinshasa, a deeply observant megacity of some 15 million people, began to arrive at Ndolo airport on Tuesday night to assure themselves of a spot. Francis entered the airport grounds aboard his popemobile and was greeted by singing and dancing crowds before the mass began at around 9:30 am (0830 GMT). Organisers said that over one million people were on the airport tarmac. Adrien Louka, 55, told AFP he had arrived before dawn. "As our country has many problems, it is reconciliation that we are looking for and the Pope will give a message so that the countries around us leave us in peace," he added. The attendees included Kinshasa residents as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo's president, Felix Tshisekedi, and leading opposition politicians. Francis wished the crowd peace in Lingala, one of the DRC's four national languages and the everyday language of Kinshasa. The Pope delivered the rest of his homily in Italian -- which was translated into the DRC's official language French -- in which he urged the faithful "not to give in to divisions." The 86-year-old pontiff had arrived in the DRC on Tuesday, on the first leg of a six-day trip to Africa that will also include troubled South Sudan. Huge crowds had also thronged the streets for a glimpse of the popemobile as Francis drove past. 'Massively plundered' A former Belgian colony the size of continental western Europe, the DRC is Africa's most Catholic country. About 40 percent of the population of some 100 million people follows the church of Rome, according to estimates. Another 35 percent of the population is Protestant of various denominations, nine percent is Muslim and 10 percent Kimbanguist -- a Christian movement born in the Belgian Congo. Official Vatican statistics put the proportion of Catholics in the DRC at 49 percent of the population. During a speech to politicians and dignitaries in Kinshasa's presidential palace on Tuesday, Francis denounced the "economic colonialism" he suggested had wreaked lasting damage in the DRC. "This country, massively plundered, has not benefited adequately from its immense resources," he said, to applause. Despite abundant mineral reserves, the DRC is one of the poorest countries in the world. About two-thirds of Congolese people live on less than $2.15 a day, according to the World Bank. Meeting conflict victims Francis is also due to meet victims of the conflict in eastern Congo in Kinshasa on Wednesday following the mega-mass. After that, he will talk to representatives from charitable organisations. The DRC's east has long been plagued by dozens of armed groups. Since late 2021, M23 rebels have also captured swathes of territory in North Kivu province, coming close to its capital Goma. The trip to DRC and South Sudan had originally been planned for July 2022, but it was postponed due to the pontiff's knee pain that has forced him in recent months to use a wheelchair. Security concerns were also said to play a role in delaying the trip, and a stop in Goma -- a city of over a million people on the border with Rwanda -- is no longer on the itinerary. "I would have liked to go to Goma too, but with the war, you can't go there," Francis told reporters on the plane from Rome. The Argentine pontiff, in his speech in Kinshasa on Tuesday, urged the need to address the conflict and said he supported regional peace efforts. Francis also underlined the need for investment in education, and free-and-fair elections, among other issues. On Friday, the Pope travels to South Sudan's capital Juba. This visit is Francis's 40th foreign trip since being elected in 2013.

One million faithful attend Pope's mass in DR Congo capital

Pope francis denounced the economic colonialism that he said plundered the resources of the democratic republic of the Congo. He condemned the terrible forms of exploitation of the nation where vast mineral wealth fuelled greed, war, displacement and hunger. Taking a strong stand on his visit to the African nation, he criticised the rich nations telling them to keep their hands off the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Africa.

Pope: Hands off Africa!

Pope Francis denounced the "poison of greed" driving conflicts in Africa as he began a visit to Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday, saying the rich world had to realise that people were more precious than the minerals in the earth beneath them. The pope criticised rich countries for ignoring the tragedies unfolding in Africa. Prof. Ibbo Mandaza, Political Analyst From Zimbabwe Talks To Wion's Eric Njoka and tells him that even though the statement by the Pontiff is strong and commendable, the buck stops with Africans to change course and find their own workable solutions, that do not require approval from the west.

Pope: Reject Africa's Economic Colonialism

The 86-year-old pope's trip to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from January 31 to February 5 visits nations where the majority of the population is Catholic and where the Church plays a significant role in advancing democracy and the health and educational systems.

Pope Francis to visit DR Congo, South Sudan; on his fifth visit to Africa

Pope Francis has criticised anti-homosexuality campaigns and called them unjust. He has also criticised Catholic Bishops supporting laws that criminalises homosexuality and discriminated against the LGBTQ. "We are all children of god and god loves us as we are," he said.

Pope Francis criticises anti-homosexuality, says 'being homosexual is not crime'

Pope Francis said that being homosexual is not a crime as he criticised the laws that criminalise homosexuality as unjust. In an interview with the news agency Associated Press on Tuesday (January 24), Pope Francis said that God loves all his children and called on Catholic Bishops who support such laws to welcome LGBTQ people into churches. He acknowledged that Catholic Bishops in some parts of the world support laws that criminalise homosexuality or discriminate against the LGBTQ community. However, he attributed such an attitude to cultural backgrounds.&nbsp;

"These bishops have to have a process of conversion," Pope Francis told the Associated Press, adding they should apply "tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us." As per the Human Dignity Trust, some 67 countries or jurisdictions criminalise consensual same-sexual activity. Meanwhile, experts pointed out that even where such laws were not enforced, they contributed to harassment, stigmatisation and violence against LGBTQ people.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cardinal-pellss-anonymous-memo-called-pope-franciss-papacy-a-catastrophe-552153">Cardinal Pell's 'anonymous' memo called Pope Francis's papacy a 'catastrophe'</a>

The United Nations (UN) has repeatedly called for an end to laws that criminalise homosexuality, by saying such laws violated the right to privacy and freedom from discrimination and were a breach of countries' obligations under international law to protect the human rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

On Tuesday, Pope Francis declared such laws unjust and told the news agency that the Catholic Church can and should put an end to them. “We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are, and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity,” he said.&nbsp;

The Pope also said that regarding homosexuality, there needed to be a distinction between a crime and a sin. "Being homosexual is not a crime. It’s not a crime. Yes, but it’s a sin. Fine, but first let’s distinguish between a sin and a crime. It’s also a sin to lack charity with one another," he said.&nbsp;

In 2019, Francis was expected to issue a statement opposing the criminalisation of homosexuality during a meeting with human rights groups. However, the meeting did not happen and the groups instead met with Vatican No. 2 who reaffirmed the dignity of every human person and against every form of violence.&nbsp;

Francis has gone on to minister repeatedly and publicly to the gay and trans community. As archbishop of Buenos Aires, he favoured granting legal protections to same-sex couples as an alternative to endorsing gay marriage, which the Catholic doctrine forbids. However, he was criticised by the Catholic LGBTQ community for a 2021 decree from the Vatican’s doctrine office that the church cannot bless same-sex unions because God could not bless sin.&nbsp;

On sex abuse cases, Pope says, 'Church still has a long way to deal with problem'

During the interview with the Associated Press on Tuesday, Pope Francis also shed light on the Catholic Church's handling of sex abuse allegations, including those against Nobel Prize laureate Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo. Francis suggested that Bishop Belo was indeed allowed to retire early rather than face prosecution or punishment.

De Groene Amsterdammer, a Dutch magazine, reported in September last year that two people had accused Belo of sexually abusing them when they were boys in the 1990s. The magazine added that others had not come forward. After the news came out, the Vatican acknowledged that it had secretly sanctioned Belo in 2020, after Rome came to know about the allegations a year earlier, restricting his movements and ministry and prohibiting him from having contact with minors or visiting East Timor.

However, the Vatican did not provide any details on whether Belo’s superiors knew earlier about any claims against him. On Tuesday, Pope Francis said "This is a very old thing where this awareness of today did not exist. And when it came out (in September) about the bishop of East Timor, I said, ‘Yes, let it go in the open.’ ... I’m not going to cover it up. But these were decisions made 25 years ago when there wasn’t this awareness.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis said that being homosexual is not a crime as he criticised the laws that criminalise homosexuality as unjust. In an interview with the news agency Associated Press on Tuesday (January 24), Pope Francis said that God loves all his children and called on Catholic Bishops who support such laws to welcome LGBTQ people into churches.

Pope Francis said that being homosexual is not a crime as he criticised the laws that criminalise homosexuality as unjust. In an interview with the news agency Associated Press on Tuesday (January 24), Pope Francis said that God loves all his children and called on Catholic Bishops who support such laws to welcome LGBTQ people into churches. He acknowledged that Catholic Bishops in some parts of the world support laws that criminalise homosexuality or discriminate against the LGBTQ community. However, he attributed such an attitude to cultural backgrounds. "These bishops have to have a process of conversion," Pope Francis told the Associated Press, adding they should apply "tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us." As per the Human Dignity Trust, some 67 countries or jurisdictions criminalise consensual same-sexual activity. Meanwhile, experts pointed out that even where such laws were not enforced, they contributed to harassment, stigmatisation and violence against LGBTQ people. ALSO READ | Cardinal Pell's 'anonymous' memo called Pope Francis's papacy a 'catastrophe' The United Nations (UN) has repeatedly called for an end to laws that criminalise homosexuality, by saying such laws violated the right to privacy and freedom from discrimination and were a breach of countries' obligations under international law to protect the human rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. On Tuesday, Pope Francis declared such laws unjust and told the news agency that the Catholic Church can and should put an end to them. “We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are, and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity,” he said. The Pope also said that regarding homosexuality, there needed to be a distinction between a crime and a sin. "Being homosexual is not a crime. It’s not a crime. Yes, but it’s a sin. Fine, but first let’s distinguish between a sin and a crime. It’s also a sin to lack charity with one another," he said. In 2019, Francis was expected to issue a statement opposing the criminalisation of homosexuality during a meeting with human rights groups. However, the meeting did not happen and the groups instead met with Vatican No. 2 who reaffirmed the dignity of every human person and against every form of violence. Francis has gone on to minister repeatedly and publicly to the gay and trans community. As archbishop of Buenos Aires, he favoured granting legal protections to same-sex couples as an alternative to endorsing gay marriage, which the Catholic doctrine forbids. However, he was criticised by the Catholic LGBTQ community for a 2021 decree from the Vatican’s doctrine office that the church cannot bless same-sex unions because God could not bless sin. On sex abuse cases, Pope says, 'Church still has a long way to deal with problem' During the interview with the Associated Press on Tuesday, Pope Francis also shed light on the Catholic Church's handling of sex abuse allegations, including those against Nobel Prize laureate Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo. Francis suggested that Bishop Belo was indeed allowed to retire early rather than face prosecution or punishment. De Groene Amsterdammer, a Dutch magazine, reported in September last year that two people had accused Belo of sexually abusing them when they were boys in the 1990s. The magazine added that others had not come forward. After the news came out, the Vatican acknowledged that it had secretly sanctioned Belo in 2020, after Rome came to know about the allegations a year earlier, restricting his movements and ministry and prohibiting him from having contact with minors or visiting East Timor. However, the Vatican did not provide any details on whether Belo’s superiors knew earlier about any claims against him. On Tuesday, Pope Francis said "This is a very old thing where this awareness of today did not exist. And when it came out (in September) about the bishop of East Timor, I said, ‘Yes, let it go in the open.’ ... I’m not going to cover it up. But these were decisions made 25 years ago when there wasn’t this awareness.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Being homosexual is not a crime: Pope Francis criticises laws that criminalise homosexuality

Pope Francis has been famous for his liberal-leaning papacy. He recently met Pope Benedict XIV's conservative ally, Archbishop Georg Gänswein. Is the Pope facing a rebellion for his liberal methods? Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Is there a rebellion against Pope Francis

Pope Francis presided over the funeral of his predecessor. This was the first time in modern history that a pope buried another. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Pope Benedict XVI laid to rest

Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-xvi-passes-away-at-95-in-vatican-city-548306">former Pope Benedict XVI </a>on Thursday (January 5), led by his successor Pope Francis. Benedict, who in 2013 became the first pontiff in 600 years to resign, died last Saturday (December 31, 2022) at the age of 95 due to sickness.&nbsp;Benedict's coffin was buried on Thursday evening.&nbsp;Apart from the public, his funeral was also attended by red-clad cardinals and dignitaries from around the world, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italy's&nbsp;Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-hails-beloved-benedict-xvi-in-new-years-day-address-548505">Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address</a>

This is the first time that the funeral proceedings of a former pontiff were led by a sitting Pope, Francis.&nbsp;

Pope Francis arrived at the St Peter's Basilica seated in a wheelchair. The pontiff, troubled by a bad knee, sat looking down at Benedict's coffin, news agency Reuters reported. In his homily read, Pope Francis used over a dozen biblical references and&nbsp;Church writings where he appeared to compare Benedict to Jesus before the casket was sealed and entombed in the basilica grotto.&nbsp; 
 
Heads of state and royalty, clergy from around the world and thousands of regular people flocked to the subdued ceremony, despite Benedict’s request for simplicity and official efforts to keep the first funeral for a pope emeritus in modern times low-key.&nbsp;

The mourners from the public also included many Germans, paying tributes to Benedict&nbsp;who was Germany's first pope in 1,000 years.&nbsp;

"We owe him so much. We want to show that we stand behind him," Benedikt Rothweiler, a resident of Germany's Aachen, told AFP on Thursday. "We actually know too little about Benedict. He always accepted everything the way God wants it. This is a good example for us humans," Rothweiler added.&nbsp;

Benedict's eight years as Pope (from 2005-2013)&nbsp;were marked by crises, from in-fighting within the Vatican to the global scandal of clerical sex abuse and its cover-up. While many people have praised Benedict since he died on December 31 last year, some, including victims of clergy sexual abuse, criticised and accused him of seeking to protect the Church at all costs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of former Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday (January 5), led by his successor Pope Francis. Benedict, who in 2013 became the first pontiff in 600 years to resign, died last Saturday (December 31, 2022) at the age of 95 due to sickness.

Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of former Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday (January 5), led by his successor Pope Francis. Benedict, who in 2013 became the first pontiff in 600 years to resign, died last Saturday (December 31, 2022) at the age of 95 due to sickness. Benedict's coffin was buried on Thursday evening. Apart from the public, his funeral was also attended by red-clad cardinals and dignitaries from around the world, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. ALSO READ | Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address This is the first time that the funeral proceedings of a former pontiff were led by a sitting Pope, Francis. Pope Francis arrived at the St Peter's Basilica seated in a wheelchair. The pontiff, troubled by a bad knee, sat looking down at Benedict's coffin, news agency Reuters reported. In his homily read, Pope Francis used over a dozen biblical references and Church writings where he appeared to compare Benedict to Jesus before the casket was sealed and entombed in the basilica grotto. Heads of state and royalty, clergy from around the world and thousands of regular people flocked to the subdued ceremony, despite Benedict’s request for simplicity and official efforts to keep the first funeral for a pope emeritus in modern times low-key. The mourners from the public also included many Germans, paying tributes to Benedict who was Germany's first pope in 1,000 years. "We owe him so much. We want to show that we stand behind him," Benedikt Rothweiler, a resident of Germany's Aachen, told AFP on Thursday. "We actually know too little about Benedict. He always accepted everything the way God wants it. This is a good example for us humans," Rothweiler added. Benedict's eight years as Pope (from 2005-2013) were marked by crises, from in-fighting within the Vatican to the global scandal of clerical sex abuse and its cover-up. While many people have praised Benedict since he died on December 31 last year, some, including victims of clergy sexual abuse, criticised and accused him of seeking to protect the Church at all costs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former Pope Benedict XVI laid to rest in solemn burial at Vatican, Pope Francis leads mass

The funeral service of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is being held in Vatican city. Thousands flock Vatican are attending the ceremony which is being presided over by Pope Francis. Watch to know more.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's funeral ceremony begins in the Vatican city

The funeral service of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is being held in Vatican city. Thousands flock Vatican are attending the ceremony which is being presided over by Pope Francis.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI to be laid to rest in Vatican city

The death of Pope Benedict has cleared the way for Pope Francis to retire instead of serving for life; if he chooses to do so. Pope Benedict became the first pontiff in 600 years to step down from duty in the year 2013.

Benedict's death clears the way for Pope Francis to retire

The former pope, Benedict XVI’s body will lie in state for three days at St Peter's Basilica before his funeral, on Thursday, as per AFP. Catholics from across the world, on Monday, will be able to pay tribute to the German theologian who passed away on December 31 at the age of 95 and led the church for eight years before stepping down in 2013.&nbsp;

The former pope’s body was transferred to the basilica&nbsp;where at least tens of thousands of&nbsp;people are expected to gather&nbsp;to pay their respects. According to media reports,&nbsp;a queue was already forming at the edge of St Peter's Square, on Monday morning where he will be on display&nbsp;for three days in an open casket&nbsp;until 7:00 pm (local time) each evening.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-hails-beloved-benedict-xvi-in-new-years-day-address-548505">Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address</a>

The funeral will be led by his successor Pope Francis on December 5 in St Peter’s Square before his mortal remains are laid to rest in the tombs beneath St Peter's Basilica.&nbsp;

Benedict who was the first pope in nearly 600 years to step down, passed away, at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery inside the Vatican gardens which has been his home since his resignation, which had created a unique situation of having two “men in white” in the Vatican. The funeral on Thursday will be “solemn but simple” as the Vatican had said previously.&nbsp;

Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor “beloved” Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and thanked “God for the gift of this faithful servant of the Gospel and of the Church”.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vatican-former-pope-benedict-xvi-dies-at-95-tributes-pour-in-548404">Vatican: Former Pope Benedict XVI dies at 95, tributes pour in</a>

The last papal funeral of John Paul II, held in 2005 drew millions of people and heads of state from across the world. However, Benedict has been a figure who has alienated many Catholics with his staunch defence of traditional values.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The former pope, Benedict XVI’s body will lie in state for three days at St Peter's Basilica before his funeral, on Thursday, as per AFP. Catholics from across the world, on Monday, will be able to pay tribute to the German theologian who passed away on December 31 at the age of 95 and led the church for eight years before stepping down in 2013.

The former pope, Benedict XVI’s body will lie in state for three days at St Peter's Basilica before his funeral, on Thursday, as per AFP. Catholics from across the world, on Monday, will be able to pay tribute to the German theologian who passed away on December 31 at the age of 95 and led the church for eight years before stepping down in 2013. The former pope’s body was transferred to the basilica where at least tens of thousands of people are expected to gather to pay their respects. According to media reports, a queue was already forming at the edge of St Peter's Square, on Monday morning where he will be on display for three days in an open casket until 7:00 pm (local time) each evening. ALSO READ | Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address The funeral will be led by his successor Pope Francis on December 5 in St Peter’s Square before his mortal remains are laid to rest in the tombs beneath St Peter's Basilica. Benedict who was the first pope in nearly 600 years to step down, passed away, at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery inside the Vatican gardens which has been his home since his resignation, which had created a unique situation of having two “men in white” in the Vatican. The funeral on Thursday will be “solemn but simple” as the Vatican had said previously. Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor “beloved” Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and thanked “God for the gift of this faithful servant of the Gospel and of the Church”. ALSO WATCH | Vatican: Former Pope Benedict XVI dies at 95, tributes pour in The last papal funeral of John Paul II, held in 2005 drew millions of people and heads of state from across the world. However, Benedict has been a figure who has alienated many Catholics with his staunch defence of traditional values. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former Pope Benedict's lying in state at Vatican begins ahead of funeral on Thursday

Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor "beloved" Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a day after the latter died aged 95.&nbsp;"Today we entrust the beloved pope emeritus Benedict XVI to the most holy mother (the Virgin Mary), to accompany him in his passage from this world to God," said Francis.&nbsp;

The pope presided over a Mass held in St Peter's Basilica as preparations continued for public viewing of Benedict's mortal remains in the same church for three days starting Monday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-xvi-passes-away-at-95-in-vatican-city-548306">Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican City</a>

As per the wishes of Benedict, the authorities will hold his funeral in a solemn, sober and simple manner on Thursday. This will be the first time in a long period that a sitting pope will head his predecessor's funeral.&nbsp;

As January 1 marks the feast of Mary, the Mother of God, Pope Francis prayed that Pope Emeritus Benedict be accompanied by Madonna "on his passage from this world to God".&nbsp;

He further appealed for the establishment of peace in war-ravaged countries like Ukraine and Russia.

"Let us pray to our Mother in a special way for her sons and daughters who are suffering and no longer have the strength to pray, and for our many brothers and sisters throughout the world who are victims of war, passing these holidays in darkness and cold, in poverty and fear, immersed in violence and indifference," the Pope said.&nbsp;

WATCH | Pope Benedict XVI: The first pontiff in some 600 years to resign

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He appealed to the faithful to work towards establishing peace and not "waste time glued to a keyboard in front of a computer screen" but to "dirty our hands and to do some good".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor "beloved" Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a day after the latter died aged 95.

Pope Francis, in his address delivered in a New Year's Day service on Sunday at the Vatican, remembered his predecessor "beloved" Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a day after the latter died aged 95. "Today we entrust the beloved pope emeritus Benedict XVI to the most holy mother (the Virgin Mary), to accompany him in his passage from this world to God," said Francis. The pope presided over a Mass held in St Peter's Basilica as preparations continued for public viewing of Benedict's mortal remains in the same church for three days starting Monday. ALSO READ| Former Pope Benedict XVI passes away at 95 in Vatican City As per the wishes of Benedict, the authorities will hold his funeral in a solemn, sober and simple manner on Thursday. This will be the first time in a long period that a sitting pope will head his predecessor's funeral. As January 1 marks the feast of Mary, the Mother of God, Pope Francis prayed that Pope Emeritus Benedict be accompanied by Madonna "on his passage from this world to God". He further appealed for the establishment of peace in war-ravaged countries like Ukraine and Russia. "Let us pray to our Mother in a special way for her sons and daughters who are suffering and no longer have the strength to pray, and for our many brothers and sisters throughout the world who are victims of war, passing these holidays in darkness and cold, in poverty and fear, immersed in violence and indifference," the Pope said. WATCH | Pope Benedict XVI: The first pontiff in some 600 years to resign He appealed to the faithful to work towards establishing peace and not "waste time glued to a keyboard in front of a computer screen" but to "dirty our hands and to do some good". (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address

Pope Francis is due to address the Catholic faithful on Sunday (January 1) at the Vatican, just a day after the death of his predecessor Pope Benedict at the age of 95.

On Saturday, Pope Francis led tributes to the "kind" and "noble" emeritus pope, who died almost a decade after becoming the first head of the Catholic church in six centuries to step down.

On Sunday, Pope Francis is due to preside over a service marking the World Day of Peace at St Peter's Basilica, before addressing the faithful in St Peter's Square for the Angelus prayer at 1100 GMT.

The funeral of Pope Benedict will take place on Thursday morning. Pope Francis will preside over the solemn ceremony.

His body will lie in state for three days before that, allowing the faithful to pay their respects to a pontiff who divided Catholics with his staunch defence of traditional values.

Benedict's funeral will be "solemn but simple", the Vatican said, after which he will be buried in the papal tombs under St Peter's Basilica.

Tributes poured in from around the world on Saturday to a brilliant theologian who nevertheless struggled to impose his authority on the church as it battled a string of crises, including over clerical sex abuse.

US President Joe Biden, a devout Catholic, praised his "devotion to the Church", while Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed him as a "defender of traditional Christian values".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis is due to address the Catholic faithful on Sunday (January 1) at the Vatican, just a day after the death of his predecessor Pope Benedict at the age of 95.

Pope Francis is due to address the Catholic faithful on Sunday (January 1) at the Vatican, just a day after the death of his predecessor Pope Benedict at the age of 95. On Saturday, Pope Francis led tributes to the "kind" and "noble" emeritus pope, who died almost a decade after becoming the first head of the Catholic church in six centuries to step down. On Sunday, Pope Francis is due to preside over a service marking the World Day of Peace at St Peter's Basilica, before addressing the faithful in St Peter's Square for the Angelus prayer at 1100 GMT. The funeral of Pope Benedict will take place on Thursday morning. Pope Francis will preside over the solemn ceremony. His body will lie in state for three days before that, allowing the faithful to pay their respects to a pontiff who divided Catholics with his staunch defence of traditional values. Benedict's funeral will be "solemn but simple", the Vatican said, after which he will be buried in the papal tombs under St Peter's Basilica. Tributes poured in from around the world on Saturday to a brilliant theologian who nevertheless struggled to impose his authority on the church as it battled a string of crises, including over clerical sex abuse. US President Joe Biden, a devout Catholic, praised his "devotion to the Church", while Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed him as a "defender of traditional Christian values". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pope Francis to address faithful after former pope's death

The Italian media reported on Thursday that former pope Benedict XVI continues to suffer from serious health issues but his condition was currently stable. Pope Francis informed the public that Benedict was “very ill” and requested everyone to pray for him during his address on Wednesday.

The Vatican also confirmed the news regarding his health and said that it was mainly due to "due to advancing age". AFP further reported that the deterioration started around three days ago.

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"It is his vital functions that are failing, including his heart," the source said, adding that no hospitalisation was planned, as he has the "necessary medical equipment" at home.

The ANSA news agency also quoted an unnamed source while providing update on his health.

"His situation has not changed from yesterday," the source said on Thursday.

Benedict succeeded John Paul II as the highest member in the Catholic Church in April 2005. However, in 2013, he became the first pope in almost six centuries to resign from his position due to health issues. He was living in a convent inside Vatican City for the last decade.

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Benedict’s tenure as the pope was filled with controversies surrounding sexual abuse allegations against the clergy. He apologised to the victims of the cases and even visited a number of them.

"I have had great responsibilities in the Catholic Church. All the greater is my pain for the abuses and the errors that occurred in those different places during the time of my mandate," he wrote.

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The Italian media reported on Thursday that former pope Benedict XVI continues to suffer from serious health issues but his condition was currently stable. Pope Francis informed the public that Benedict was “very ill” and requested everyone to pray for him during his address on Wednesday.

The Italian media reported on Thursday that former pope Benedict XVI continues to suffer from serious health issues but his condition was currently stable. Pope Francis informed the public that Benedict was “very ill” and requested everyone to pray for him during his address on Wednesday. The Vatican also confirmed the news regarding his health and said that it was mainly due to "due to advancing age". AFP further reported that the deterioration started around three days ago. Also read | Around 40 per cent of Kyiv population left without power after Russian strikes "It is his vital functions that are failing, including his heart," the source said, adding that no hospitalisation was planned, as he has the "necessary medical equipment" at home. The ANSA news agency also quoted an unnamed source while providing update on his health. "His situation has not changed from yesterday," the source said on Thursday. Benedict succeeded John Paul II as the highest member in the Catholic Church in April 2005. However, in 2013, he became the first pope in almost six centuries to resign from his position due to health issues. He was living in a convent inside Vatican City for the last decade. Also read | Deadly Cambodia casino fire leaves 19 dead as people jump to escape the blaze Benedict’s tenure as the pope was filled with controversies surrounding sexual abuse allegations against the clergy. He apologised to the victims of the cases and even visited a number of them. "I have had great responsibilities in the Catholic Church. All the greater is my pain for the abuses and the errors that occurred in those different places during the time of my mandate," he wrote.

Former pope Benedict XVI's health condition 'serious but stable', says media

Prayers are flowing in from across the world for the former head of the Roman Catholic Church, a day after Pope Francis announced that Pope Benedict XVI is very sick. Pope Francis asks for prayers for Ex-Pope Benedict XVI's health at the end of his general audience.

Pope Francis asks for prayers for Ex-Pope Benedict XVI's health

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