Pope Francis called on Sunday for international scientific cooperation to discover a vaccine for the coronavirus and said any successful vaccine should be made available around the world.

Francis, who has been delivering his Sunday address from the papal library instead of St. Peter’s Square because of the lockdown in Italy, thanked all those around the world who were providing essential services.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-did-not-go-through-any-surgery-south-korean-official-claims-296418">Also read:&nbsp;Kim Jong Un did not go through any surgery: South Korean official claims</a>

He encouraged international cooperation to deal with the crisis and combat the virus, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 people worldwide.

“In fact, it is important to unite scientific capabilities, in a transparent and impartial way to find vaccines and treatments,” he said.

Francis said it was also important to “guarantee universal access to essential technologies that allow each infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary medical treatment.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-enjoys-the-new-found-freedom-post-lockdown-296409">Also read:&nbsp;Spain enjoys the new-found freedom post-lockdown</a>

World leaders pledged in April to accelerate work on tests, drugs and vaccines against COVID-19 and to share them around the globe, but the United States did not take part in the launch of the World Health Organization (WHO) initiative.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said the WHO was slow to react to the outbreak and was being “China-centric”, and as a consequence has announced a suspension of funding. The WHO has defended its handling of the crisis.

A number of pharmaceutical companies around the world have developed tests to identify antibodies that develop after somebody has come into contact with the virus.

The Trump administration is planning to speed up development of a coronavirus vaccine with the goal of having 100 million doses ready by the end of 2020, according to a senior U.S. administration official.

Most experts have suggested clinical trials to guarantee a vaccine is safe and effective could take a minimum of 12 to 18 months.

On Sunday, the pope also backed a proposal by an inter-religious group known as the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity for an international day of prayer and fasting on May 14 to ask God to help humanity overcome the pandemic.

Pope Francis called on Sunday for international scientific cooperation to discover a vaccine for the coronavirus and said any successful vaccine should be made available around the world.

Pope Francis called on Sunday for international scientific cooperation to discover a vaccine for the coronavirus and said any successful vaccine should be made available around the world. Francis, who has been delivering his Sunday address from the papal library instead of St. Peter’s Square because of the lockdown in Italy, thanked all those around the world who were providing essential services. Also read: Kim Jong Un did not go through any surgery: South Korean official claims He encouraged international cooperation to deal with the crisis and combat the virus, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 people worldwide. “In fact, it is important to unite scientific capabilities, in a transparent and impartial way to find vaccines and treatments,” he said. Francis said it was also important to “guarantee universal access to essential technologies that allow each infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary medical treatment.” Also read: Spain enjoys the new-found freedom post-lockdown World leaders pledged in April to accelerate work on tests, drugs and vaccines against COVID-19 and to share them around the globe, but the United States did not take part in the launch of the World Health Organization (WHO) initiative. U.S. President Donald Trump has said the WHO was slow to react to the outbreak and was being “China-centric”, and as a consequence has announced a suspension of funding. The WHO has defended its handling of the crisis. A number of pharmaceutical companies around the world have developed tests to identify antibodies that develop after somebody has come into contact with the virus. The Trump administration is planning to speed up development of a coronavirus vaccine with the goal of having 100 million doses ready by the end of 2020, according to a senior U.S. administration official. Most experts have suggested clinical trials to guarantee a vaccine is safe and effective could take a minimum of 12 to 18 months. On Sunday, the pope also backed a proposal by an inter-religious group known as the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity for an international day of prayer and fasting on May 14 to ask God to help humanity overcome the pandemic.

Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide

The ceremony was live streamed by multiple outlets, including the Vatican's official news site and YouTube channel

Pope Francis holds Easter mass at empty Basilica

Pope Francis prayed for tens of thousands of coronavirus victims in an unprecedented livestream Easter Sunday message delivered from a hauntingly empty Vatican to a world under lockdown.

The 83-year-old pontiff spoke softly at a ceremony attended by just a handful of priests and a small choir that was spaced out across the expansive marble floor of Saint Peter's Basilica.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-over-21300-coronavirus-deaths-us-spends-easter-sunday-on-lockdown-292129" hreflang="en">With over 21,300 coronavirus deaths, US spends Easter Sunday on lockdown</a>

"For many, this is an Easter of solitude lived amid the sorrow and hardship that the pandemic is causing, from physical suffering to economic difficulties," Francis said.

The pandemic raging outside the Vatican's locked gates has killed more than 110,000 people and left billions confined to their homes.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/observing-good-friday-during-a-global-lockdown-291734" hreflang="en">Observing Good Friday during a global lockdown</a>

Most of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics were in forced confinement as the pope spoke, and few of the world's churches were open on Christianity's holiest day.

In his homily, the pope called for a global ceasefire and debt relief for the poorest countries.

His message was livestreamed for the first time, a bow to technology in the face of a new illness that has transformed society and altered the way religion is observed.

Around the globe, others followed his advice and found creative solutions.

Pope Francis prayed for tens of thousands of coronavirus victims in an unprecedented livestream Easter Sunday message delivered from a hauntingly empty Vatican to a world under lockdown.

Pope Francis prayed for tens of thousands of coronavirus victims in an unprecedented livestream Easter Sunday message delivered from a hauntingly empty Vatican to a world under lockdown. The 83-year-old pontiff spoke softly at a ceremony attended by just a handful of priests and a small choir that was spaced out across the expansive marble floor of Saint Peter's Basilica. Also read: With over 21,300 coronavirus deaths, US spends Easter Sunday on lockdown "For many, this is an Easter of solitude lived amid the sorrow and hardship that the pandemic is causing, from physical suffering to economic difficulties," Francis said. The pandemic raging outside the Vatican's locked gates has killed more than 110,000 people and left billions confined to their homes. Also see:Observing Good Friday during a global lockdown Most of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics were in forced confinement as the pope spoke, and few of the world's churches were open on Christianity's holiest day. In his homily, the pope called for a global ceasefire and debt relief for the poorest countries. His message was livestreamed for the first time, a bow to technology in the face of a new illness that has transformed society and altered the way religion is observed. Around the globe, others followed his advice and found creative solutions.

Pope marks 'Easter of solitude' in virus lockdown

Pope Francis urged people to "not yield to fear" and focused on a "message of hope" as he led an Easter eve Mass in an empty St. Peter's Basilica on Saturday (April 11) amid the coronavirus pandemic and called for an end to wars.

Pope Francis' message of hope for humanity on Easter

Pope Francis marked a surreal Palm Sunday in an empty St. Peter's Basilica, urging people living through the coronavirus pandemic not to be so concerned with what they lack but how they can ease the suffering of others.

The service, kicking off Holy Week events leading to Easter, usually attracts tens of thousands of people to a St. Peter's Square bedecked with olive and palm trees. The service normally includes a long procession of cardinals, priests and faithful carrying palm fronds.

This time, it was held from a secondary altar behind the main one Francis normally uses and attended by only about two dozen people, including a few aides, nuns and a scaled-down choir, all practicing social distancing.

The symbolic procession was only several metres long and a few potted olive trees were brought in.

The Mass was broadcast on television and over the internet to many millions. Churches in countries around the world were holding similar, virtual services this week because of restrictions on gatherings.

Cutting a solitary figure, Francis listened as three priests read the gospel account of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and being hailed as the messiah.

Holy Week marks the period when Christians commemorate events surrounding the key tenets of their faith - that Jesus was betrayed, crucified and rose from the dead.

In his sermon, Francis urged his listeners to turn to God "in the tragedy of a pandemic, in the face of the many false securities that have now crumbled, in the face of so many hopes betrayed, in the sense of abandonment that weighs upon our hearts".

The pandemic could help transform fear into service, he said.

The Vatican has been in its own lockdown, mostly mirroring that in Italy, where more than 15,500 people have died since the outbreak of the new coronavirus epidemic in northern Italy on Feb. 21.

There are nearly 125,000 cases of the virus in Italy and seven in the Vatican. The pope and his closest aides have tested negative.

"The tragedy we are experiencing summons us to take seriously the things that are serious, and not to be caught up in those that matter less; to rediscover that life is of no use if not used to serve others. For life is measured by love," Francis said on Sunday.

"May we reach out to those who are suffering and those most in need. May we not be concerned about what we lack, but what good we can do for others," he said.

All of the pope's Holy Week services, which normally draw tens of thousands of pilgrims and tourists to Rome, will take place in the empty basilica in a scaled-down version.

The Good Friday Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) procession, which normally takes place around Rome's Colosseum, will instead be held in the relatively small atrium of the basilica.

&nbsp;

Pope Francis marked a surreal Palm Sunday in an empty St. Peter's Basilica, urging people living through the coronavirus pandemic not to be so concerned with what they lack but how they can ease the suffering of others.

Pope Francis marked a surreal Palm Sunday in an empty St. Peter's Basilica, urging people living through the coronavirus pandemic not to be so concerned with what they lack but how they can ease the suffering of others. The service, kicking off Holy Week events leading to Easter, usually attracts tens of thousands of people to a St. Peter's Square bedecked with olive and palm trees. The service normally includes a long procession of cardinals, priests and faithful carrying palm fronds. This time, it was held from a secondary altar behind the main one Francis normally uses and attended by only about two dozen people, including a few aides, nuns and a scaled-down choir, all practicing social distancing. The symbolic procession was only several metres long and a few potted olive trees were brought in. The Mass was broadcast on television and over the internet to many millions. Churches in countries around the world were holding similar, virtual services this week because of restrictions on gatherings. Cutting a solitary figure, Francis listened as three priests read the gospel account of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and being hailed as the messiah. Holy Week marks the period when Christians commemorate events surrounding the key tenets of their faith - that Jesus was betrayed, crucified and rose from the dead. In his sermon, Francis urged his listeners to turn to God "in the tragedy of a pandemic, in the face of the many false securities that have now crumbled, in the face of so many hopes betrayed, in the sense of abandonment that weighs upon our hearts". The pandemic could help transform fear into service, he said. The Vatican has been in its own lockdown, mostly mirroring that in Italy, where more than 15,500 people have died since the outbreak of the new coronavirus epidemic in northern Italy on Feb. 21. There are nearly 125,000 cases of the virus in Italy and seven in the Vatican. The pope and his closest aides have tested negative. "The tragedy we are experiencing summons us to take seriously the things that are serious, and not to be caught up in those that matter less; to rediscover that life is of no use if not used to serve others. For life is measured by love," Francis said on Sunday. "May we reach out to those who are suffering and those most in need. May we not be concerned about what we lack, but what good we can do for others," he said. All of the pope's Holy Week services, which normally draw tens of thousands of pilgrims and tourists to Rome, will take place in the empty basilica in a scaled-down version. The Good Friday Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) procession, which normally takes place around Rome's Colosseum, will instead be held in the relatively small atrium of the basilica.

Pope opens Holy Week amid pandemic; says now is the time to serve

Pope Francis on Wednesday (March 18) encouraged the faithful to pray especially for medical teams treating coronavirus patients.

Pope Francis asks for spiritual protection for families and medical staff treating coronavirus victims

Pope Francis on Sunday ventured into a deserted street of Rome to pray in two shrines for the end of coronavirus pandemic even as the Vatican said that Easter services will held without the public for the first time, reported news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Francis stepped out of&nbsp;Vatican unannounced to pray at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.

The Pope&nbsp;then walked along one of Rome's main streets to visit St. Marcello church to pray before a crucifix that was used in a procession when the plague hit Rome in 1522, the report added.

A Vatican statement said he prayed for an end to the pandemic and also for the sick, their families and health providers and workers keeping pharmacies and food stories open amid a national lockdown.

A Vatican picture showed the pope and a small security detail walking on an empty Via del Corso, which is usually packed with shoppers and people taking strolls on Sunday.

The Vatican said earlier that his Holy Weeks and Easter services next month will be held without public participation, a step believed to be unprecedented in modern times.

It was not clear how the massive events will be scaled down but sources said officials were studying ways to hold them in indoor locations, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, with small representative groups attending.

The Holy Week services, which begin on Palm Sunday, leading to&nbsp;Easter, the most important day of the Roman Catholic liturgical calendar for the world's 1.3 billion members.

Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus' entry to Jerusalem, usually takes place in St. Peter's Square, which traditionally is decorated with olive trees while those in the crowd hold up palm branches.

Another Holy Week event, the Way of the Cross procession on Good Friday, takes place around Rome's ancient Colosseum.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pope Francis on Sunday ventured into a deserted street of Rome to pray in two shrines for the end of coronavirus pandemic even as the Vatican said that Easter services will held without the public for the first time, reported news agency Reuters.

Pope Francis on Sunday ventured into a deserted street of Rome to pray in two shrines for the end of coronavirus pandemic even as the Vatican said that Easter services will held without the public for the first time, reported news agency Reuters. Francis stepped out of Vatican unannounced to pray at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. The Pope then walked along one of Rome's main streets to visit St. Marcello church to pray before a crucifix that was used in a procession when the plague hit Rome in 1522, the report added. A Vatican statement said he prayed for an end to the pandemic and also for the sick, their families and health providers and workers keeping pharmacies and food stories open amid a national lockdown. A Vatican picture showed the pope and a small security detail walking on an empty Via del Corso, which is usually packed with shoppers and people taking strolls on Sunday. The Vatican said earlier that his Holy Weeks and Easter services next month will be held without public participation, a step believed to be unprecedented in modern times. It was not clear how the massive events will be scaled down but sources said officials were studying ways to hold them in indoor locations, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, with small representative groups attending. The Holy Week services, which begin on Palm Sunday, leading to Easter, the most important day of the Roman Catholic liturgical calendar for the world's 1.3 billion members. Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus' entry to Jerusalem, usually takes place in St. Peter's Square, which traditionally is decorated with olive trees while those in the crowd hold up palm branches. Another Holy Week event, the Way of the Cross procession on Good Friday, takes place around Rome's ancient Colosseum. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pope Francis ventures into deserted Rome street to pray for end of coronavirus 

Saying he felt "caged," Pope Francis delivered his Sunday blessing over the internet from inside the Vatican on Sunday instead of from a window to stop crowds gathering during Italy's coronavirus outbreak.

He did, however, go to the window and wave silently to a mere several hundred people in the huge square, which often draws tens of thousands. Most kept a safe distance from each other as they watched the pope deliver the address on four mega-screens.

"It's a bit strange this Angelus prayer today with the pope caged in the library, but I see you and I am close to you," he said.

It was the first time that Francis had skipped giving the blessing and reading an address from the window since his election in 2013, apart from times he was travelling outside Rome.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-accepts-resignation-of-cardinal-barbarin-over-sex-abuse-case-284809">&nbsp;Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case</a>

Francis appeared to have recovered from a cold that forced him to skip a Lenten retreat with senior Vatican officials near Rome last week.

"I am close in prayer to people who are suffering because of the current coronavirus epidemic as well as to all those who are taking care of them," he said, speaking while standing in the frescoed room which is used mostly for private audiences.

He encouraged the faithful "to live this difficult moment with the strength of faith, the certainty of hope and the fervour of charity". The window was then opened and he waved briefly and silently.

Some pilgrims had come a long way hoping to get the blessing directly.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tourism-industry-across-the-world-takes-a-hit-as-covid-19-spreads-more-widely-284923">Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely &nbsp;</a>

"I am bitterly disappointed," said Pamela Kennedy, 66, of Yukon, Oklahoma, who was in the square with her husband, Bill.

"We started planning this trip a couple of years ago to mark our 20th wedding anniversary and the 20th anniversary of my becoming Catholic," she told Reuters.

Italy has imposed a virtual lockdown across a swathe of its wealthy north, including the financial capital Milan, in its latest attempt to contain a growing outbreak of coronavirus. The government has also imposed other restrictions throughout the country, such as the closing of museums.

A Vatican source said the Vatican museums, which get six million visitors a year, would be closed as of Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-reports-its-first-coronavirus-case-284754">Vatican reports its first coronavirus case</a>

During his address, Francis also appealed for an end to the conflict in northwest Syria, where nearly a million people have been displaced in a three-month Russian-backed offensive by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces.

"We should not take our eyes off this humanitarian crisis," Francis said.

Saying he felt "caged," Pope Francis delivered his Sunday blessing over the internet from inside the Vatican on Sunday instead of from a window to stop crowds gathering during Italy's coronavirus outbreak.

Saying he felt "caged," Pope Francis delivered his Sunday blessing over the internet from inside the Vatican on Sunday instead of from a window to stop crowds gathering during Italy's coronavirus outbreak. He did, however, go to the window and wave silently to a mere several hundred people in the huge square, which often draws tens of thousands. Most kept a safe distance from each other as they watched the pope deliver the address on four mega-screens. "It's a bit strange this Angelus prayer today with the pope caged in the library, but I see you and I am close to you," he said. It was the first time that Francis had skipped giving the blessing and reading an address from the window since his election in 2013, apart from times he was travelling outside Rome. Also read: Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case Francis appeared to have recovered from a cold that forced him to skip a Lenten retreat with senior Vatican officials near Rome last week. "I am close in prayer to people who are suffering because of the current coronavirus epidemic as well as to all those who are taking care of them," he said, speaking while standing in the frescoed room which is used mostly for private audiences. He encouraged the faithful "to live this difficult moment with the strength of faith, the certainty of hope and the fervour of charity". The window was then opened and he waved briefly and silently. Some pilgrims had come a long way hoping to get the blessing directly. Also see: Tourism industry across the world takes a hit as COVID-19 spreads more widely "I am bitterly disappointed," said Pamela Kennedy, 66, of Yukon, Oklahoma, who was in the square with her husband, Bill. "We started planning this trip a couple of years ago to mark our 20th wedding anniversary and the 20th anniversary of my becoming Catholic," she told Reuters. Italy has imposed a virtual lockdown across a swathe of its wealthy north, including the financial capital Milan, in its latest attempt to contain a growing outbreak of coronavirus. The government has also imposed other restrictions throughout the country, such as the closing of museums. A Vatican source said the Vatican museums, which get six million visitors a year, would be closed as of Monday. Also read: Vatican reports its first coronavirus case During his address, Francis also appealed for an end to the conflict in northwest Syria, where nearly a million people have been displaced in a three-month Russian-backed offensive by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces. "We should not take our eyes off this humanitarian crisis," Francis said.

Feeling 'caged' by coronavirus alarm, Pope delivers Sunday address over internet

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of French cardinal Philippe Barbarin for failing to report an alleged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-priest-sentenced-to-six-years-in-prison-for-child-sex-abuse-in-us-206657">paedophile </a>priest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-abolishes-pontifical-secrecy-for-sex-abuse-investigations-268726">Also Read:&nbsp;Pope abolishes 'pontifical secrecy' for sex abuse investigations</a>

Archbishop of Lyon Philippe Barbarin, 69, was accused by victims of ignoring child abuse cases. Although he was convicted last year by a Lyon court for not reporting a priest for alleged abuse of boys in the 80s and 90s, a French appeals court had overruled it. Cardinal Philippe Barbarin was given a six-month suspended jail sentence before it was overturned by the court.

The judge had ruled that Barbarin should have reported it but spared him as the incident had taken place a long time ago. After the verdict, Barbarin announced he would offer his resignation to the Pope. The Pope had earlier refused Barbarin's resignation after his conviction, pending the outcome of the appeal.

Bernard Preynat who Barbarin allegedly protected has been defrocked and awaiting ruling on March 16 in a sex abuse trial.

In fact, Barbarin was convicted on two occasions. First in 2010 after a priest admitted abuse to him and then again four years later when a victim Alexandre Hezez told Barbarin about it but he failed to act.

Barbarin had become &nbsp;archbishop of Lyon in 2002.

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of French cardinal Philippe Barbarin for failing to report an alleged paedophile priest. Also Read: Pope abolishes 'pontifical secrecy' for sex abuse investigations Archbishop of Lyon Philippe Barbarin, 69, was accused by victims of ignoring child abuse cases.

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of French cardinal Philippe Barbarin for failing to report an alleged paedophile priest. Also Read: Pope abolishes 'pontifical secrecy' for sex abuse investigations Archbishop of Lyon Philippe Barbarin, 69, was accused by victims of ignoring child abuse cases. Although he was convicted last year by a Lyon court for not reporting a priest for alleged abuse of boys in the 80s and 90s, a French appeals court had overruled it. Cardinal Philippe Barbarin was given a six-month suspended jail sentence before it was overturned by the court. The judge had ruled that Barbarin should have reported it but spared him as the incident had taken place a long time ago. After the verdict, Barbarin announced he would offer his resignation to the Pope. The Pope had earlier refused Barbarin's resignation after his conviction, pending the outcome of the appeal. Bernard Preynat who Barbarin allegedly protected has been defrocked and awaiting ruling on March 16 in a sex abuse trial. In fact, Barbarin was convicted on two occasions. First in 2010 after a priest admitted abuse to him and then again four years later when a victim Alexandre Hezez told Barbarin about it but he failed to act. Barbarin had become archbishop of Lyon in 2002.

Pope Francis accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin over sex abuse case

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of French Cardinal Philippe Barbarin who had been caught up in a sex abuse case, the archbishop of Reims said in a statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-tests-negative-for-coronavirus-italy-report-says-283918">Pope tests negative for coronavirus, Italy report says</a>

A French appeals court overturned in January an earlier ruling against Barbarin, in which he was convicted last year of failing to report sexual abuse charges.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-cancels-planned-retreat-due-to-cold-283603">Pope Francis cancels planned retreat due to 'cold'</a>

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of French Cardinal Philippe Barbarin who had been caught up in a sex abuse case, the archbishop of Reims said in a statement.

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of French Cardinal Philippe Barbarin who had been caught up in a sex abuse case, the archbishop of Reims said in a statement. Also read: Pope tests negative for coronavirus, Italy report says A French appeals court overturned in January an earlier ruling against Barbarin, in which he was convicted last year of failing to report sexual abuse charges. Also see: Pope Francis cancels planned retreat due to 'cold'

Pope accepts resignation of cardinal Barbarin amid sex abuse case

Pope Francis said Sunday he would not be taking part in a planned six-day spiritual retreat south of Rome after coming down with a "cold".

The 83-year-old pontiff suffered two coughing spells that forced him to turn away from the crowd and cover his mouth with his fist on a windy and cloudy day on Saint Peter's Square.

"Unfortunately, a cold forced me not to take part this year," he said after reciting the traditional Angelus Prayer and addressing the unfolding migrant crisis on Turkey's border with Greece.

The annual retreat will still start Sunday but only include members of the Roman Curia administration team of the Holy See.

The pope will be staying home while the rest of Italy battles Europe's worst outbreak of the novel coronavirus that has spread from China to every continent except for Antarctica.

The number of cases in Italy surpassed 1,000 on Saturday and the toll continues to mount.

There have been 29 confirmed deaths and 105 people were receiving intensive care treatment in hospital -- all of them in three adjacent northern regions near Milan.

The Vatican quickly shot down speculation that the pope himself had come down with COVID-19.

"There is no evidence to suggest a diagnosis of anything other than a slight ailment," a Vatican spokesman told AFP Sunday.

The pope himself looked relatively strong on Sunday despite the coughing fits.

He smiled a few times and addressed a range of theological issues before turning his attention to the plight of thousands of migrants from Turkey who have been blocked at the rugged frontier with Greece.&nbsp;

"I am a little saddened by the news coming from many displaced people, so many men, women and children chased because of war," Francis said.

The pontiff asked the faithful to share a prayer for "so many migrants who seek refuge in the world -- and help".

Italy shuts down

Concerns about the pope's health have been mounting for days in a country where mass closures of public institutions and businesses due to the coronavirus are affecting the lives of millions.

He first looked like he might be sick on Wednesday and lightened his workload for the rest of the week.

The Vatican used the "mild ailment" term for the first time on Thursday to explain why the pope was spending his day around his Saint Martha's guest house in the Vatican.

But he still continued celebrating the morning mass and receiving visitors even as football matches were being cancelled and businesses were telling their employees to work from home.

He met with the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church head Sviatoslav Shevchuk on Saturday and spent almost 15 minutes speaking on Sunday from his Vatican window.

The Argentine-born pontiff has enjoyed a life of good health despite losing part of a lung as a young man and suffered from sciatica -- a nerve condition that causes pain in his hip.

Yet he rarely cancels appointments and normally takes extra time to mingle with supporters and the faithful.

Pope Francis said Sunday he would not be taking part in a planned six-day spiritual retreat south of Rome after coming down with a "cold". The 83-year-old pontiff suffered two coughing spells that forced him to turn away from the crowd and cover his mouth with his fist on a windy and cloudy day on Saint Peter's Square.

Pope Francis said Sunday he would not be taking part in a planned six-day spiritual retreat south of Rome after coming down with a "cold". The 83-year-old pontiff suffered two coughing spells that forced him to turn away from the crowd and cover his mouth with his fist on a windy and cloudy day on Saint Peter's Square. "Unfortunately, a cold forced me not to take part this year," he said after reciting the traditional Angelus Prayer and addressing the unfolding migrant crisis on Turkey's border with Greece. The annual retreat will still start Sunday but only include members of the Roman Curia administration team of the Holy See. The pope will be staying home while the rest of Italy battles Europe's worst outbreak of the novel coronavirus that has spread from China to every continent except for Antarctica. The number of cases in Italy surpassed 1,000 on Saturday and the toll continues to mount. There have been 29 confirmed deaths and 105 people were receiving intensive care treatment in hospital -- all of them in three adjacent northern regions near Milan. The Vatican quickly shot down speculation that the pope himself had come down with COVID-19. "There is no evidence to suggest a diagnosis of anything other than a slight ailment," a Vatican spokesman told AFP Sunday. The pope himself looked relatively strong on Sunday despite the coughing fits. He smiled a few times and addressed a range of theological issues before turning his attention to the plight of thousands of migrants from Turkey who have been blocked at the rugged frontier with Greece. "I am a little saddened by the news coming from many displaced people, so many men, women and children chased because of war," Francis said. The pontiff asked the faithful to share a prayer for "so many migrants who seek refuge in the world -- and help". Italy shuts down Concerns about the pope's health have been mounting for days in a country where mass closures of public institutions and businesses due to the coronavirus are affecting the lives of millions. He first looked like he might be sick on Wednesday and lightened his workload for the rest of the week. The Vatican used the "mild ailment" term for the first time on Thursday to explain why the pope was spending his day around his Saint Martha's guest house in the Vatican. But he still continued celebrating the morning mass and receiving visitors even as football matches were being cancelled and businesses were telling their employees to work from home. He met with the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church head Sviatoslav Shevchuk on Saturday and spent almost 15 minutes speaking on Sunday from his Vatican window. The Argentine-born pontiff has enjoyed a life of good health despite losing part of a lung as a young man and suffered from sciatica -- a nerve condition that causes pain in his hip. Yet he rarely cancels appointments and normally takes extra time to mingle with supporters and the faithful.

Pope Francis cancels planned retreat due to 'cold'

During his Ash Wednesday address in St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis suggested giving up online trolling. This report tells you more.

Gravitas: Pope Francis wants followers to give up trolling for lent

Pope Francis, current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church has encouraged his followers to give up trolling for Lent in his Ash Wednesday speech, news agencies reported.

Essentially, the religious leader, in his speech, told every follower to do anything besides be perpetually being online.&nbsp;

Pope Francis called on Catholics to “give up useless words, gossip, rumours, tittle-tattle and speak to God on a first name basis” in remarks on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, the 40-day repentance period in which Catholics traditionally put aside something pleasurable.

"We live in an atmosphere polluted by too much verbal violence, too many offensive and harmful words, which are amplified by the internet," he said. "Today, people insult each other as if they were saying 'Good Day.'

Lent is a solemn religious observance in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends approximately six weeks later, before Easter Sunday.

Pope Francis, current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church has encouraged his followers to give up trolling for Lent in his Ash Wednesday speech, news agencies reported.

Pope Francis, current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church has encouraged his followers to give up trolling for Lent in his Ash Wednesday speech, news agencies reported. Essentially, the religious leader, in his speech, told every follower to do anything besides be perpetually being online. Pope Francis called on Catholics to “give up useless words, gossip, rumours, tittle-tattle and speak to God on a first name basis” in remarks on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, the 40-day repentance period in which Catholics traditionally put aside something pleasurable. "We live in an atmosphere polluted by too much verbal violence, too many offensive and harmful words, which are amplified by the internet," he said. "Today, people insult each other as if they were saying 'Good Day.' Lent is a solemn religious observance in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends approximately six weeks later, before Easter Sunday.

Give up social media trolling for Lent, Pope Francis urges followers

Pope Francis on Sunday warned against "inequitable solutions" to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, saying they would only be a prelude to new crises, in an apparent reference to US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace proposal.

Pope Francis on Sunday warned against "inequitable solutions" to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, saying they would only be a prelude to new crises, in an apparent reference to US President Donald Trump's Middle East peace proposal. Francis made his comments in the southern Italian port city of Bari, where he travelled to conclude a meeting of bishops from all countries in the Mediterranean basin. "The Mediterranean region is currently threatened by outbreaks of instability and conflict, both in the Middle East and different countries of North Africa, as well as between various ethnic, religious or confessional groups," Francis said. "Nor can we overlook the still unresolved conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, with the danger of inequitable solutions and, hence, a prelude to new crises," he said. The participants included Archbishop Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the head of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, whose jurisdiction includes Israel, the Palestinian territories and Jordan. It was believed to be the first time the pope, who has often defended both Palestinian rights and Israel's need for security, has spoken in public about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since Trump announced the plan on Jan. 28. The plan would recognise Israel's authority over West Bank Jewish settlements and require Palestinians meet a series of conditions for a state, with its capital in a West Bank village east of Jerusalem. Although Trump's stated aim was to end decades of conflict, his plan favoured Israel, underlined by the Palestinians' absence from his White House announcement with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his side. The Palestinians and Arab League foreign ministers have rejected the plan and the Palestinian Authority has cut all ties with the United States and Israel. Palestinians, with broad international backing, want East Jerusalem as the capital of a future independent state, while Israel views the whole city its "united and eternal" capital. The pope expressed concern in 2018 when the United States announced the moving of its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, saying the city's "status quo" should be respected. Francis has called for all to honour U.N. resolutions on the city. "There is no reasonable alternative to peace, because every attempt at exploitation or supremacy demeans both its author and its target. It shows a myopic grasp of reality, since it can offer no future to either of the two," Francis said, speaking in general about the Middle East. Francis again warned against populist politicians who he said used "demagogic terms" such as "invasion" when talking of migration. "To be sure, acceptance and a dignified integration are stages in a process that is not easy. Yet it is unthinkable that we can address the problem by putting up walls," he said.

Pope appears to give thumbs down to Trump's Mideast peace plan

Head of the Catholic Church Pope Francis suffered the ire of President Jair Bolsonaro after he pleaded for the protection of the Amazon rainforest. "Pope Francis said yesterday the Amazon is his, the world’s, everyone’s,” said Bolsonaro.

Head of the Catholic Church Pope Francis suffered the ire of President Jair Bolsonaro after he pleaded for the protection of the Amazon rainforest. "Pope Francis said yesterday the Amazon is his, the world’s, everyone’s,” said Bolsonaro. “Well, the pope may be Argentinian, but God is Brazilian," he added. I dream of an Amazon region that fights for the rights of the poor, the original peoples and the least of our brothers and sisters, where their voices can be heard and their dignity advanced. #QueridaAmazonia — Pope Francis (@Pontifex) February 12, 2020 × Bolsonaro described Greenpeace as "rubbish" during a chat with reporters. The Lord, who is the first to care for us, teaches us to care for our brothers and sisters and the environment which he daily gives us. This is the first ecology that that we need. #QueridaAmazonia https://t.co/LvZxR36SoQ — Pope Francis (@Pontifex) February 12, 2020 × Pope Francis tweeted about the condition of the Amazon rainforest. Citing messages of equality, harmony and unity in the face of adversity, he said: "The Amazonian peoples have a right to hear the Gospel: the proclamation of God who infinitely loves every man and woman, and has revealed this love fully in Jesus Christ" The Amazonian peoples have a right to hear the Gospel: the proclamation of God who infinitely loves every man and woman, and has revealed this love fully in Jesus Christ, crucified for us and risen in our lives. #QueridaAmazonia — Pope Francis (@Pontifex) February 12, 2020 × "All Australia caught fire and nobody’s talking about Australia. Where is the zealotry for Australia?" Bolsanoro said while taking a jibe at the moment. Also Read: Brazil Amazon deforestation soars to 11-year high in 2019 Environmentalists and the international community have repeatedly condemned Bolsonaro and his policies on the world's largest rainforest ever since he took office in January last year. Also See: Deforestation in the Amazon soars to record numbers in 11 years Greenpeace was also in Bolsanro's crosshairs. "What is this crap called Greenpeace? Nothing but rubbish," the Brazilian president said.

Bolsonaro lashes out at Pope, Greenpeace over Amazon

In a significant decision, Pope Francis has dismissed the proposal to allow married priests in the Amazon region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-voices-outrage-over-amazon-basin-exploitation-280326">Pope voices 'outrage' over Amazon basin exploitation</a>

The proposal to allow married priests was put forward by Latin American bishops last year to address the shortage of Catholic priests in the Amazon region.

The bishops backed the measure last year, but the decision needed the Pope's approval for implementation.&nbsp;Last year, Pope Francis had called for "bold proposals" to meet the spiritual needs of Catholics in the Amazon.

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But in the new papal document released today, Pope Francis has ignored the boldest proposal "allowing married priests".

Pope's highly anticipated document on the Amazon region, Querida Amazonia which means beloved Amazon is finally out and it focuses mostly on cultural and environmental issues.

The lack of an opening for married priests, or women deacons, is expected to disappoint the Pope's liberal supporters, particularly in the American and European continent.

Instead of structural reforms, the amazon document is filled with flowery language, including the Pope's prose poem of his "dreams" for the Amazon.

Catholic priests are required to abide by the rule of celibacy upon ordination. Celibacy is seen as the devotion of one's life to God. 
Another rejected bold proposal from the synod participants was allowing women to be ordained as deacons.

This, too, would have been a revolutionary change for the Catholic church.&nbsp;Deacons are considered part of ordained ministry, much like priests.

If the Pope had allowed women to be ordained deacons, it would be one step closer to ordaining them as priests.

Instead, Francis has called this suggestion "narrow" and one that would "clericalise" women by trying to give them the same function as men instead of recognizing their specific female gifts.

In a significant decision, Pope Francis has dismissed the proposal to allow married priests in the Amazon region. Also read: Pope voices 'outrage' over Amazon basin exploitation The proposal to allow married priests was put forward by Latin American bishops last year to address the shortage of Catholic priests in the Amazon region.

In a significant decision, Pope Francis has dismissed the proposal to allow married priests in the Amazon region. Also read: Pope voices 'outrage' over Amazon basin exploitation The proposal to allow married priests was put forward by Latin American bishops last year to address the shortage of Catholic priests in the Amazon region. The bishops backed the measure last year, but the decision needed the Pope's approval for implementation. Last year, Pope Francis had called for "bold proposals" to meet the spiritual needs of Catholics in the Amazon. × But in the new papal document released today, Pope Francis has ignored the boldest proposal "allowing married priests". Pope's highly anticipated document on the Amazon region, Querida Amazonia which means beloved Amazon is finally out and it focuses mostly on cultural and environmental issues. The lack of an opening for married priests, or women deacons, is expected to disappoint the Pope's liberal supporters, particularly in the American and European continent. Instead of structural reforms, the amazon document is filled with flowery language, including the Pope's prose poem of his "dreams" for the Amazon. Catholic priests are required to abide by the rule of celibacy upon ordination. Celibacy is seen as the devotion of one's life to God. Another rejected bold proposal from the synod participants was allowing women to be ordained as deacons. This, too, would have been a revolutionary change for the Catholic church. Deacons are considered part of ordained ministry, much like priests. If the Pope had allowed women to be ordained deacons, it would be one step closer to ordaining them as priests. Instead, Francis has called this suggestion "narrow" and one that would "clericalise" women by trying to give them the same function as men instead of recognizing their specific female gifts.

Pope Francis refuses to allow married priests in Amazon

Pope Francis, in one of the most significant decisions of his papacy, on February 12 dismissed a proposal to allow some married men to be ordained in the Amazon region to ease an acute scarcity of priests. The recommendation, put forward by Latin American bishops last year, had alarmed conservatives in the deeply polarised 1.3 billion-member Roman Catholic Church, who feared it could lead to a change in the centuries-old commitment to celibacy among priests.

Fineprint: Pope dismisses proposal to ordain married men as priests in Amazon

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-senseless-to-condemn-every-immigrant-as-threat-192833">Pope Francis</a> on Wednesday pleaded for social justice and environmental respect for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deforestation-in-the-amazon-soars-to-record-numbers-in-11-years-263128">Amazon </a>basin, but failed to recommend the controversial idea of married priests.

In a highly anticipated text, Francis exhorted the faithful to "feel outrage" over exploitation of the indigenous and destruction of land devastated by illegal mining and deforestation.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deforestation-in-the-amazon-soars-to-record-numbers-in-11-years-263128">Deforestation in the Amazon soars to record numbers in 11 years</a>

Notably absent in his text, however, was mention of priestly marriage, a controversial suggestion made by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deforestation-in-the-amazon-soars-to-record-numbers-in-11-years-263128">Amazon </a>bishops during a three-week synod on the region last October as a way to increase the number of priests who could perform Mass in remote areas.&nbsp;Instead, the first Jesuit pope argued for women and missionaries to take larger, more important roles in the region and advocated for better training for priests to better interact with Amazonian cultures.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-breaks-silence-on-celibacy-debate-after-synod-274001">Former Pope Benedict breaks silence on celibacy debate after synod</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-senseless-to-condemn-every-immigrant-as-threat-192833">Francis </a>has weighed in before on the hotly debated question of whether to allow married "men of proven virtue" to join the priesthood in remote locations, a suggestion that has aroused fierce opposition from traditionalists within the church.

In January 2019 Francis said he did not believe that optional celibacy should be allowed, while conceding "some possibilities for far flung places," a statement that opened the door to speculation that he might make an exception for the Amazon.&nbsp;

Pope Francis on Wednesday pleaded for social justice and environmental respect for the Amazon basin, but failed to recommend the controversial idea of married priests.

Pope Francis on Wednesday pleaded for social justice and environmental respect for the Amazon basin, but failed to recommend the controversial idea of married priests. In a highly anticipated text, Francis exhorted the faithful to "feel outrage" over exploitation of the indigenous and destruction of land devastated by illegal mining and deforestation. Also see: Deforestation in the Amazon soars to record numbers in 11 years Notably absent in his text, however, was mention of priestly marriage, a controversial suggestion made by Amazon bishops during a three-week synod on the region last October as a way to increase the number of priests who could perform Mass in remote areas. Instead, the first Jesuit pope argued for women and missionaries to take larger, more important roles in the region and advocated for better training for priests to better interact with Amazonian cultures. Also read: Former Pope Benedict breaks silence on celibacy debate after synod Francis has weighed in before on the hotly debated question of whether to allow married "men of proven virtue" to join the priesthood in remote locations, a suggestion that has aroused fierce opposition from traditionalists within the church. In January 2019 Francis said he did not believe that optional celibacy should be allowed, while conceding "some possibilities for far flung places," a statement that opened the door to speculation that he might make an exception for the Amazon.

Pope voices 'outrage' over Amazon basin exploitation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-backs-iraqi-call-for-its-sovereignty-to-be-respected-276541">Pope Francis</a> will make an official trip to Malta on May 31, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-backs-iraqi-call-for-its-sovereignty-to-be-respected-276541">Vatican </a>said Monday, bringing the pontiff to one of the top disembarkation spots for migrants fleeing Libya.

The visit, to both the main island of Malta and the archipelago's island of Gozo, is the pontiff's first announced journey for 2020.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">Pope </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-backs-iraqi-call-for-its-sovereignty-to-be-respected-276541">backs Iraqi call for its sovereignty to be respected</a>

Malta is on the front line of migration into Europe, situated 95 kilometres&nbsp;south of Sicily and due north of Libya's capital of Tripoli.

That makes it a central port of entry into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">Europe </a>for the increasing numbers of migrants attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing, fleeing the renewed fighting in Libya.&nbsp;

Francis has often spoken up for migrants and has called on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">European Union</a> to be more welcoming of those fleeing chaos in their home countries.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-appoints-new-envoy-to-france-after-abuse-claims-273638">Pope appoints new envoy to France after abuse claims</a>

The Argentine pontiff will meet Malta's new prime minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malta-robert-abela-set-to-become-new-pm-as-joseph-muscat-steps-down-273792">Robert Abela</a>, who took office in January promising to strengthen the rule of law there.

Malta has been gripped by a widespread allegations of corruption, another global problem regularly addressed in the pope's declarations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malta-robert-abela-set-to-become-new-pm-as-joseph-muscat-steps-down-273792">Malta: Robert Abela set to become new PM as Joseph Muscat steps down</a>

Malta's previous prime minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malta-robert-abela-set-to-become-new-pm-as-joseph-muscat-steps-down-273792">Joseph Muscat</a>, stepped down as the investigation into the 2017 murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in 2017 implicated some of his closest collaborators.&nbsp;

According to Catholic tradition, St. Paul was shipwrecked in the Maltese archipelago on his way to his trial in Rome in the year 60 AD.&nbsp;

While no other papal trips have yet been announced for this year, he has been formally invited to visit Iraq, Cyprus, Indonesia and Montenegro.

He has also expressed an interest in visiting South Sudan, where he has personally interceded in efforts to end the civil war there.

Pope Francis will make an official trip to Malta on May 31, the Vatican said Monday, bringing the pontiff to one of the top disembarkation spots for migrants fleeing Libya.

Pope Francis will make an official trip to Malta on May 31, the Vatican said Monday, bringing the pontiff to one of the top disembarkation spots for migrants fleeing Libya. The visit, to both the main island of Malta and the archipelago's island of Gozo, is the pontiff's first announced journey for 2020. Also read: Pope backs Iraqi call for its sovereignty to be respected Malta is on the front line of migration into Europe, situated 95 kilometres south of Sicily and due north of Libya's capital of Tripoli. That makes it a central port of entry into Europe for the increasing numbers of migrants attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing, fleeing the renewed fighting in Libya. Francis has often spoken up for migrants and has called on the European Union to be more welcoming of those fleeing chaos in their home countries. Also read: Pope appoints new envoy to France after abuse claims The Argentine pontiff will meet Malta's new prime minister, Robert Abela, who took office in January promising to strengthen the rule of law there. Malta has been gripped by a widespread allegations of corruption, another global problem regularly addressed in the pope's declarations. Also read: Malta: Robert Abela set to become new PM as Joseph Muscat steps down Malta's previous prime minister, Joseph Muscat, stepped down as the investigation into the 2017 murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in 2017 implicated some of his closest collaborators. According to Catholic tradition, St. Paul was shipwrecked in the Maltese archipelago on his way to his trial in Rome in the year 60 AD. While no other papal trips have yet been announced for this year, he has been formally invited to visit Iraq, Cyprus, Indonesia and Montenegro. He has also expressed an interest in visiting South Sudan, where he has personally interceded in efforts to end the civil war there.

Pope Francis to visit Malta in May

Former Pope Benedict, in a new book written with a conservative cardinal, defends priestly celibacy in the Catholic Church in what appears to be a strategically timed appeal to Pope Francis to not change the rules.

Benedict wrote the book, "From the Depths of Our Hearts," with Cardinal Robert Sarah, 74, a Guinean prelate who heads the Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-lifts-pontifical-secrecy-in-child-sex-abuse-cases-vatican-268762">Pope Francis lifts pontifical secrecy in child sex abuse cases: Vatican</a>

Excerpts were published on Sunday on the website of the French newspaper Le Figaro. The Vatican had no immediate comment on the book, which is due to be published on Monday.

In October, the final document of an assembly of Roman Catholic bishops, or synod, from the Amazon proposed that married men in the remote area be allowed to be ordained priests, which could lead to a landmark change in the Church’s centuries-old discipline of celibacy.

Pope Francis will consider it, along with many other proposals on issues that emerged during the synod, including the environment and the role of women, in a document of his own, known as an Apostolic Exhortation. It is expected to be issued in the next few months.

In 2013, when he became the first pope in 700 years to resign, Benedict, who lives in the Vatican and is now 92 and in failing health, vowed to remain "hidden from the world".

But he has given interviews, written articles and contributed to books, in effect breaking that pledge and cheering conservatives, some of whom do not recognise Francis' legitimacy.

Massimo Faggioli, a theologian at Villanova University in the United States, called it "a serious breach" by the former pope, who vowed "unconditional reverence and obedience" to his successor.

In his part of the book, Benedict says celibacy, which became a stable tradition in the Church only about 1,000 years ago, carries "great significance" because it allows a priest to concentrate on his vocation. He says "it doesn't seem possible to realise both vocations (priesthood and 
marriage) simultaneously."

In a joint introduction, both men say they could not remain silent about the October synod, which at times led to clashes between progressive and conservative Catholic media outlets, underscoring the polarisation in the 1.3 billion-member Church.

The proposal calls for older married men who are already deacons in the Church, have a stable family relationship and are proven leaders in their communities to be ordained as priests after adequate formation.

This solution to the shortage of priests, backed by many South American bishops, would allow Catholics in isolated areas to attend Mass and receive the sacraments more regularly.

For his part, Sarah says making exceptions to the celibacy rule would be "a lie" that would set a dangerous precedent.

Former Pope Benedict, in a new book written with a conservative cardinal, defends priestly celibacy in the Catholic Church in what appears to be a strategically timed appeal to Pope Francis to not change the rules.

Former Pope Benedict, in a new book written with a conservative cardinal, defends priestly celibacy in the Catholic Church in what appears to be a strategically timed appeal to Pope Francis to not change the rules. Benedict wrote the book, "From the Depths of Our Hearts," with Cardinal Robert Sarah, 74, a Guinean prelate who heads the Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. Also read: Pope Francis lifts pontifical secrecy in child sex abuse cases: Vatican Excerpts were published on Sunday on the website of the French newspaper Le Figaro. The Vatican had no immediate comment on the book, which is due to be published on Monday. In October, the final document of an assembly of Roman Catholic bishops, or synod, from the Amazon proposed that married men in the remote area be allowed to be ordained priests, which could lead to a landmark change in the Church’s centuries-old discipline of celibacy. Pope Francis will consider it, along with many other proposals on issues that emerged during the synod, including the environment and the role of women, in a document of his own, known as an Apostolic Exhortation. It is expected to be issued in the next few months. In 2013, when he became the first pope in 700 years to resign, Benedict, who lives in the Vatican and is now 92 and in failing health, vowed to remain "hidden from the world". But he has given interviews, written articles and contributed to books, in effect breaking that pledge and cheering conservatives, some of whom do not recognise Francis' legitimacy. Massimo Faggioli, a theologian at Villanova University in the United States, called it "a serious breach" by the former pope, who vowed "unconditional reverence and obedience" to his successor. In his part of the book, Benedict says celibacy, which became a stable tradition in the Church only about 1,000 years ago, carries "great significance" because it allows a priest to concentrate on his vocation. He says "it doesn't seem possible to realise both vocations (priesthood and marriage) simultaneously." In a joint introduction, both men say they could not remain silent about the October synod, which at times led to clashes between progressive and conservative Catholic media outlets, underscoring the polarisation in the 1.3 billion-member Church. The proposal calls for older married men who are already deacons in the Church, have a stable family relationship and are proven leaders in their communities to be ordained as priests after adequate formation. This solution to the shortage of priests, backed by many South American bishops, would allow Catholics in isolated areas to attend Mass and receive the sacraments more regularly. For his part, Sarah says making exceptions to the celibacy rule would be "a lie" that would set a dangerous precedent.

Former Pope Benedict breaks silence on celibacy debate after synod

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-bite-says-pope-francis-after-agreeing-to-kiss-a-nun-273192">Pope Francis</a> appointed a new ambassador to France on Saturday, following the resignation of an archbishop who has been questioned by police on sexual assault claims.

The new envoy is Italian Archbishop Celestino Migliore, 67, who had been serving as the Holy See's ambassador to Russia, the Vatican said.

Migliore takes up the post left empty by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-scandals-pope-orders-his-diplomats-to-toe-the-line-226905">Luigi Ventura</a>, who resigned in December after reaching the age limit for his post.

He had been stripped of his diplomatic immunity in July in an unprecedented move by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-top-anti-money-laundering-official-leaves-post-263002">Vatican</a>, which is struggling with a wave of allegations of sexual abuse by clerics.

Ventura was interviewed by French investigators in April and in May met with his accusers, a traditional practice in French police inquiries.

He denied the accusations.

A source close to the inquiry told AFP last month that the French probe into the claims remains open.

Ventura faces complaints filed by four men, three for alleged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/priests-bishops-sexually-abused-nuns-pope-francis-admits-publicly-195459">sexual assault</a>, including that he repeatedly groped the backside of a junior municipal official at the Paris town hall at a ceremony in January.

Two other people have since come forward to report related incidents involving "similar gestures, hands-on buttocks or thighs" that allegedly took place last year.&nbsp;

There was also a complaint filed in Ottawa by a man who made similar allegations about an incident in 2008 while Ventura was serving in Canada.

Pope Francis appointed a new ambassador to France on Saturday, following the resignation of an archbishop who has been questioned by police on sexual assault claims.

Pope Francis appointed a new ambassador to France on Saturday, following the resignation of an archbishop who has been questioned by police on sexual assault claims. The new envoy is Italian Archbishop Celestino Migliore, 67, who had been serving as the Holy See's ambassador to Russia, the Vatican said. Migliore takes up the post left empty by Luigi Ventura, who resigned in December after reaching the age limit for his post. He had been stripped of his diplomatic immunity in July in an unprecedented move by the Vatican, which is struggling with a wave of allegations of sexual abuse by clerics. Ventura was interviewed by French investigators in April and in May met with his accusers, a traditional practice in French police inquiries. He denied the accusations. A source close to the inquiry told AFP last month that the French probe into the claims remains open. Ventura faces complaints filed by four men, three for alleged sexual assault, including that he repeatedly groped the backside of a junior municipal official at the Paris town hall at a ceremony in January. Two other people have since come forward to report related incidents involving "similar gestures, hands-on buttocks or thighs" that allegedly took place last year. There was also a complaint filed in Ottawa by a man who made similar allegations about an incident in 2008 while Ventura was serving in Canada.

Pope appoints new envoy to France after abuse claims

Pope Francis on Thursday (January 9) urged the United States and Iran to avoid escalation and pursue "dialogue and self-restraint" to avert a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Pope appeals to U.S. and Iran to pursue dialogue, self-restraint

After last month's incident, wherein a disgruntled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-apologises-for-slapping-devotee-after-being-pulled-abruptly-271435">Pope slapped a woman's hand</a> on being abruptly pulled towards her, Pope Francis on Wednesday cheerfully agreed to a nun's request for a kiss... but on a condition.&nbsp;

While the pontiff was walking into the large hall at the start of his weekly audience at the Vatican, a nun shouted in Italian and asked him for a kiss. Pope Francis looked at her and said that she will get a kiss if she doesn't bite. &nbsp;

<img alt="Pope Francis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4288492d-6d67-4265-a868-e507413cb3ea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2817%29_3.jpg" />

Francis then joked, "Stay calm! I will give you a kiss but you stay calm. Don't bite!" news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The nun received a kiss from the pontiff on her right cheek to which she responded saying "Grazie, Papa".&nbsp;

Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pope-francis-gets-pulled-by-woman-frees-himself-from-her-grasp-271404">Furious Pope Francis frees himself from woman's grasp after being pulled abruptly</a>

Last week Pope Francis made headlines after he was caught on camera pulling away from a woman and slapping her hand at St Peter's Square.

While walking through St Peter's Square in the Vatican City, Pope met and greeted people and pilgrims on the sideways when he was abruptly pulled by a woman.

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In the video, the woman could be seen making the sign of the cross as the Pope approached. She abruptly grabbed his hand and pulled him towards her, causing him pain.&nbsp;

A visibly disgruntled Pope slapped the woman's hand to free himself from her grasp and pulled away while exhibiting pain and annoyance.&nbsp;

<img alt="Pope Francis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="992321f0-b754-4815-a332-9cb5a178ea0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2818%29_0.jpg" />

The incident took place when Pope Francis was out to meet and greet people at a New Year's Eve gathering at St Peter's Square. &nbsp;

The pontiff then issued a statement of apology saying that he apologises for the "bad example".

After last month's incident, wherein a disgruntled Pope slapped a woman's hand on being abruptly pulled towards her, Pope Francis on Wednesday cheerfully agreed to a nun's request for a kiss.

After last month's incident, wherein a disgruntled Pope slapped a woman's hand on being abruptly pulled towards her, Pope Francis on Wednesday cheerfully agreed to a nun's request for a kiss... but on a condition. While the pontiff was walking into the large hall at the start of his weekly audience at the Vatican, a nun shouted in Italian and asked him for a kiss. Pope Francis looked at her and said that she will get a kiss if she doesn't bite. Francis then joked, "Stay calm! I will give you a kiss but you stay calm. Don't bite!" news agency Reuters reported. The nun received a kiss from the pontiff on her right cheek to which she responded saying "Grazie, Papa". Watch: Furious Pope Francis frees himself from woman's grasp after being pulled abruptly Last week Pope Francis made headlines after he was caught on camera pulling away from a woman and slapping her hand at St Peter's Square. While walking through St Peter's Square in the Vatican City, Pope met and greeted people and pilgrims on the sideways when he was abruptly pulled by a woman. × In the video, the woman could be seen making the sign of the cross as the Pope approached. She abruptly grabbed his hand and pulled him towards her, causing him pain. A visibly disgruntled Pope slapped the woman's hand to free himself from her grasp and pulled away while exhibiting pain and annoyance. The incident took place when Pope Francis was out to meet and greet people at a New Year's Eve gathering at St Peter's Square. The pontiff then issued a statement of apology saying that he apologises for the "bad example".

'Don't bite,' says Pope Francis after agreeing to kiss a nun

Pope Francis on Sunday called for dialogue and restraint two days following the assassination of top Iranian military commander Qasem Suleimani, the 62-year-old head of Iran’s Quds Force, by the United States, according to news agency Reuters.

Pope Francis on Sunday called for dialogue and restraint two days following the assassination of top Iranian military commander Qasem Suleimani, the 62-year-old head of Iran’s Quds Force, by the United States, according to news agency Reuters. Speaking at the Sunday Angelus prayer at the Vatican, the pope did not mention Iran by name but spoke of a terrible air of tension that could now be felt in many parts of the world. "I call on all sides to keep the flame of dialogue and self-restraint alight and ward off the shadow of hostility," the Pope was quoted as saying. "War only brings death and destruction." On Friday a US drone strike on a convoy at Baghdad airport killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani, drawing promises of harsh revenge by Tehran.

Pope Francis calls for dialogue and restraint amid growing US-Iran tensions

Pope Francis, in his first message of the new year, denounced on Wednesday (January 1) the use and abuse of women in modern society, and called for an end to the exploitation of the female body.

In New Year message, pope decries violence against women

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-decries-violence-against-women-in-new-year-speech-271421">Pope Francis</a> apologised Wednesday for his widely-viewed slap of a woman who had grabbed his hand as he greeted Catholic faithful on New Year's Eve.

The image of Francis slapping his way free from the clutches of the admirer was an instant hit on social media.

A personal apology followed.

"We lose patience many times," Francis confessed.

"It happens to me too. I apologise for the bad example given yesterday," the head of the Catholic church said before celebrating Mass at the Vatican.

Twitter enthusiasts commented with abandon on the pontiff's prompt riposte to the woman.

Francis had greeted children before the Nativity scene on Saint Peter's square and was turning away when the woman who had crossed herself then cried out something, pulled on his hand and almost caused him to fall.

The 83-year-old pope grimaced before managing to break free by slapping her hand twice.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pope-francis-gets-pulled-by-woman-frees-himself-from-her-grasp-271404">Watch: Furious Pope Francis frees himself from woman's grasp after being pulled abruptly</a>

He continued his tour, walking with some difficulty while maintaining a slightly greater distance from visitors, and gradually relaxed again as he came into contact with other children.

Twitter comments were mostly supportive of the pontiff's instinctive reaction.

"HE IS HUMAN.. Been (sic) a Pope doesn't make you immune to Pain or avoid Reaction to pain," one typical comment read.

In his first Mass of the New Year, the pontiff later denounced "all violence against women" as "a profanation of God, born of a woman."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pope-francis-gets-pulled-by-woman-frees-himself-from-her-grasp-271404">Francis</a> also said women were "the source of life" but deplored that they were constantly "offended, beaten, abused and forced into prostitution" and forced to "supress the life they carry within" them.

He emphasised that the "rebirth of humanity began with a woman," and bemoaned that women's bodies were "sacrificed on the profane altars of advertising, profit, pornography."&nbsp;

Pope Francis apologised Wednesday for his widely-viewed slap of a woman who had grabbed his hand as he greeted Catholic faithful on New Year's Eve. The image of Francis slapping his way free from the clutches of the admirer was an instant hit on social media.

Pope Francis apologised Wednesday for his widely-viewed slap of a woman who had grabbed his hand as he greeted Catholic faithful on New Year's Eve. The image of Francis slapping his way free from the clutches of the admirer was an instant hit on social media. A personal apology followed. "We lose patience many times," Francis confessed. "It happens to me too. I apologise for the bad example given yesterday," the head of the Catholic church said before celebrating Mass at the Vatican. Twitter enthusiasts commented with abandon on the pontiff's prompt riposte to the woman. Francis had greeted children before the Nativity scene on Saint Peter's square and was turning away when the woman who had crossed herself then cried out something, pulled on his hand and almost caused him to fall. The 83-year-old pope grimaced before managing to break free by slapping her hand twice. Watch: Furious Pope Francis frees himself from woman's grasp after being pulled abruptly He continued his tour, walking with some difficulty while maintaining a slightly greater distance from visitors, and gradually relaxed again as he came into contact with other children. Twitter comments were mostly supportive of the pontiff's instinctive reaction. "HE IS HUMAN.. Been (sic) a Pope doesn't make you immune to Pain or avoid Reaction to pain," one typical comment read. In his first Mass of the New Year, the pontiff later denounced "all violence against women" as "a profanation of God, born of a woman." Francis also said women were "the source of life" but deplored that they were constantly "offended, beaten, abused and forced into prostitution" and forced to "supress the life they carry within" them. He emphasised that the "rebirth of humanity began with a woman," and bemoaned that women's bodies were "sacrificed on the profane altars of advertising, profit, pornography."

Pope Francis apologises for slapping devotee after being pulled abruptly

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pope-francis-gets-pulled-by-woman-frees-himself-from-her-grasp-271404">Pope Francis</a>, in his first message of the new year, denounced on Wednesday the use and abuse of women in modern society and called for an end to the exploitation of the female body.

Speaking in a packed St&nbsp;Peter's Basilica, the pope also defended women's rights to migrate in search of a better future for their children and condemned those who only thought about economic growth rather than the well-being of others.

"All violence inflicted on women is a desecration of God," the pope said in his homily.

"How often is a woman's body sacrificed on the profane altar of advertising, profit, pornography, exploited as a surface to be used," he said, adding that the female body "must be freed from consumerism, it must be respected and honoured."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pope-francis-gets-pulled-by-woman-frees-himself-from-her-grasp-271404">Watch: Furious Pope Francis frees himself from woman's grasp after being pulled abruptly</a>

The pope has regularly sought to defend women's rights during his pontificate and in April told the Roman Catholic Church it had to acknowledge a history of male domination and sexual abuse of women.

"We can understand our level of humanity by the way we treat a woman's body," he said on Wednesday.

He also used his homily to address another theme close to his heart, immigration, saying women who moved abroad to provide for their children should be honoured and not scorned.

"Today even motherhood is humiliated because the only growth that interests us is economic growth," he said.

"There are mothers, who risk perilous journeys to desperately try to give the fruit of the womb a better future and are judged to be redundant by people whose bellies are full of things, but whose hearts are empty of love."

Pope Francis, in his first message of the new year, denounced on Wednesday the use and abuse of women in modern society and called for an end to the exploitation of the female body.

Pope Francis, in his first message of the new year, denounced on Wednesday the use and abuse of women in modern society and called for an end to the exploitation of the female body. Speaking in a packed St Peter's Basilica, the pope also defended women's rights to migrate in search of a better future for their children and condemned those who only thought about economic growth rather than the well-being of others. "All violence inflicted on women is a desecration of God," the pope said in his homily. "How often is a woman's body sacrificed on the profane altar of advertising, profit, pornography, exploited as a surface to be used," he said, adding that the female body "must be freed from consumerism, it must be respected and honoured." Watch: Furious Pope Francis frees himself from woman's grasp after being pulled abruptly The pope has regularly sought to defend women's rights during his pontificate and in April told the Roman Catholic Church it had to acknowledge a history of male domination and sexual abuse of women. "We can understand our level of humanity by the way we treat a woman's body," he said on Wednesday. He also used his homily to address another theme close to his heart, immigration, saying women who moved abroad to provide for their children should be honoured and not scorned. "Today even motherhood is humiliated because the only growth that interests us is economic growth," he said. "There are mothers, who risk perilous journeys to desperately try to give the fruit of the womb a better future and are judged to be redundant by people whose bellies are full of things, but whose hearts are empty of love."

Pope Francis decries violence against women in New Year speech

Pope Francis on Tuesday made headlines when he was caught on camera pulling away from a woman who was part of a crowd at St Peter's Square.&nbsp;

While walking through St Peter's Square in the Vatican City, Pope met and greeted people and pilgrims on the sideways when he was abruptly pulled by a woman.

In the video, the woman could be seen making the sign of the cross as the Pope approached. She abruptly grabbed his hand and pulled him towards her, causing him pain.&nbsp;

A visibly disgruntled Pope slapped the woman's hand to free himself from her grasp and pulled away while exhibiting pain and annoyance.&nbsp;

The incident took place when Pope Francis was out to meet and greet people at a New Year's Eve gathering at&nbsp;St Peter's Square.&nbsp;

Last year, a video featuring Pope Francis went viral wherein he was seen repeatedly withdrawing his right hand to avoid it being kissed by a long line of people.

The incident dates back to the pontiff’s visit to a Catholic shrine in Loreto last year.

The footage went viral and the pope’s refusal quickly entered what is known as the Catholic cultural wars between conservatives and progressives.

The Vatican did not clarify why was the pontiff not keen on having devotees kiss the silver ring on his right hand. It seemed the people did not know the correct protocol.&nbsp;

“It’s high time kissing bishops’ rings disappears altogether. It’s just ridiculous and has nothing to do with tradition. It’s an import from monarchies. Much of the pomp around bishops should be ditched,” Tweeted Jesuit priest Russell Pollitt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pope Francis on Tuesday made headlines when he was caught on camera pulling away from a woman who was part of a crowd at St Peter's Square. While walking through St Peter's Square in the Vatican City, Pope met and greeted people and pilgrims on the sideways when he was abruptly pulled by a woman.

Pope Francis on Tuesday made headlines when he was caught on camera pulling away from a woman who was part of a crowd at St Peter's Square. While walking through St Peter's Square in the Vatican City, Pope met and greeted people and pilgrims on the sideways when he was abruptly pulled by a woman. In the video, the woman could be seen making the sign of the cross as the Pope approached. She abruptly grabbed his hand and pulled him towards her, causing him pain. A visibly disgruntled Pope slapped the woman's hand to free himself from her grasp and pulled away while exhibiting pain and annoyance. The incident took place when Pope Francis was out to meet and greet people at a New Year's Eve gathering at St Peter's Square. Last year, a video featuring Pope Francis went viral wherein he was seen repeatedly withdrawing his right hand to avoid it being kissed by a long line of people. The incident dates back to the pontiff’s visit to a Catholic shrine in Loreto last year. The footage went viral and the pope’s refusal quickly entered what is known as the Catholic cultural wars between conservatives and progressives. The Vatican did not clarify why was the pontiff not keen on having devotees kiss the silver ring on his right hand. It seemed the people did not know the correct protocol. “It’s high time kissing bishops’ rings disappears altogether. It’s just ridiculous and has nothing to do with tradition. It’s an import from monarchies. Much of the pomp around bishops should be ditched,” Tweeted Jesuit priest Russell Pollitt. (With inputs from Reuters)

Watch: Furious Pope Francis frees himself from woman's grasp after being pulled abruptly

A visibly indignant Pope Francis had to pull himself away from a woman in a crowd in St. Peter's Square on Tuesday (December 31) after she had grabbed his hand and yanked him towards her.

Disgruntled Pope Francis pulls himself free from woman's clutch

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-urges-abolition-of-nuclear-weapons-at-nagasaki-ground-zero-264149">Pope Francis</a> celebrated Christmas Eve Mass in St. Peter's Basilica as thousands watched it on large screens ushering in Christmas celebrations on Tuesday.

The Pope told the crowd gathered at the Vatican that "you may have mistaken ideas, you may have made a complete mess of things, but the Lord continues to love you."

"Christmas reminds us that God continues to love us all, even the worst of us," Francis, 82, said as people in large numbers gathered to hear the Pope's sermon.

"How often do we think that God is good if we are good and punishes us if we are bad. Yet that is not how he is," the Pope said.

"Let us contemplate the child and let ourselves be caught up in his tender love. Then we have no further excuse for not letting ourselves be loved by him," Francis said, adding,"whatever goes wrong in our lives, whatever doesn't work in the Church, whatever problems there are in the world, will no longer serve as an excuse. It will become secondary, for faced with Jesus' extravagant love, a love of utter meekness and closeness, we have no excuse."

As is customary, Pope Francis will deliver his Christmas message on Wednesday from the central balcony at St. Peter's Basilica.

"At Christmas all the world looks to us, to Bethlehem," he said while delivering his message to the people as church bells rang out.

"Special greetings to our brothers and sisters in Gaza, with whom I celebrated Christmas two days ago," he added. 
&nbsp;

Pope Francis celebrated Christmas Eve Mass in St. Peter's Basilica as thousands watched it on large screens ushering in Christmas celebrations on Tuesday. The Pope told the crowd gathered at the Vatican that "you may have mistaken ideas, you may have made a complete mess of things, but the Lord continues to love you.

Pope Francis celebrated Christmas Eve Mass in St. Peter's Basilica as thousands watched it on large screens ushering in Christmas celebrations on Tuesday. The Pope told the crowd gathered at the Vatican that "you may have mistaken ideas, you may have made a complete mess of things, but the Lord continues to love you." "Christmas reminds us that God continues to love us all, even the worst of us," Francis, 82, said as people in large numbers gathered to hear the Pope's sermon. "How often do we think that God is good if we are good and punishes us if we are bad. Yet that is not how he is," the Pope said. "Let us contemplate the child and let ourselves be caught up in his tender love. Then we have no further excuse for not letting ourselves be loved by him," Francis said, adding,"whatever goes wrong in our lives, whatever doesn't work in the Church, whatever problems there are in the world, will no longer serve as an excuse. It will become secondary, for faced with Jesus' extravagant love, a love of utter meekness and closeness, we have no excuse." As is customary, Pope Francis will deliver his Christmas message on Wednesday from the central balcony at St. Peter's Basilica. "At Christmas all the world looks to us, to Bethlehem," he said while delivering his message to the people as church bells rang out. "Special greetings to our brothers and sisters in Gaza, with whom I celebrated Christmas two days ago," he added.

Pope Francis leads Christmas celebrations with midnight mass at Vatican

Pope Francis turned 83 on Tuesday (December 17) but he celebrated his birthday five days later with a group of sick children from the "Santa Marta" Paediatric Dispensary.

Pope celebrates birthday with sick children

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