A few days after the military coup in Myanmar and detainment of several senior leaders, Pope Francis has intervened and urged the Myanmar military to release the detained leaders.

Pope Francis, on Monday, called for Myanmar's political leaders to be "promptly released". He made the request in a speech to ambassadors to the Holy See.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/protests-erupt-in-myanmar-for-third-consecutive-day-against-military-coup-362069">&nbsp;Protests erupt in Myanmar for third consecutive day against military coup</a>

This is the second time the Pope has intervened and spoked about the matter of Myanmar's military coup in the last two days. Before this, on Sunday he had used the recital of the Angelus prayer to express "solidarity with the people" of Myanmar.

"In these days, my thoughts turn particularly to the people of Myanmar, to whom I express my affection and closeness," he said on Monday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/internet-access-restored-as-myanmar-coup-protests-grow-361966" hreflang="en">Internet access restored as Myanmar coup protests grow</a>

"The path to democracy undertaken in recent years was brusquely interrupted by last week's coup d'etat," Pope Francis said, according to the official translation of his comments.&nbsp; "This has led to the imprisonment of different political leaders, who I hope will be promptly released as a sign of encouragement for a sincere dialogue aimed at the good of the country," he continued.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-fresh-rally-draws-crowds-demanding-end-of-dictatorship-362119">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-fresh-rally-draws-crowds-demanding-end-of-dictatorship-362119/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pope Francis had visited Myanmar in 2017 and has since then held the people of the country close to his heart.

Meanwhile, the generals of Myanmar have warned the locals against the ongoing protests in the country where the locals have been taking to the streets to raise their voices against the illegal detainment of the popular leader Aung San Suu Kyi, and nearly a dozen more other senior leaders of the National League for Democracy Party.

A few days after the military coup in Myanmar and detainment of several senior leaders, Pope Francis has intervened and urged the Myanmar military to release the detained leaders.

A few days after the military coup in Myanmar and detainment of several senior leaders, Pope Francis has intervened and urged the Myanmar military to release the detained leaders. Pope Francis, on Monday, called for Myanmar's political leaders to be "promptly released". He made the request in a speech to ambassadors to the Holy See. Also read| Protests erupt in Myanmar for third consecutive day against military coup This is the second time the Pope has intervened and spoked about the matter of Myanmar's military coup in the last two days. Before this, on Sunday he had used the recital of the Angelus prayer to express "solidarity with the people" of Myanmar. "In these days, my thoughts turn particularly to the people of Myanmar, to whom I express my affection and closeness," he said on Monday. Also read| Internet access restored as Myanmar coup protests grow "The path to democracy undertaken in recent years was brusquely interrupted by last week's coup d'etat," Pope Francis said, according to the official translation of his comments. "This has led to the imprisonment of different political leaders, who I hope will be promptly released as a sign of encouragement for a sincere dialogue aimed at the good of the country," he continued. WATCH| Pope Francis had visited Myanmar in 2017 and has since then held the people of the country close to his heart. Meanwhile, the generals of Myanmar have warned the locals against the ongoing protests in the country where the locals have been taking to the streets to raise their voices against the illegal detainment of the popular leader Aung San Suu Kyi, and nearly a dozen more other senior leaders of the National League for Democracy Party.

Pope Francis urges Myanmar military to immediately release detained leaders

Breaking with tradition,&nbsp;Pope&nbsp;Francis Saturday appointed Frenchwoman Nathalie Becquart as an undersecretary of the synod of bishops.&nbsp;

Currently headed by Cardinal Mario Grech, the Synod of Bishops is a permanent institution established by Pope Paul VI in 1965, in response to the desire of the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council to keep alive the spirit of collegiality engendered by the conciliar experience.

Frenchwoman Nathalie Becquart is one of the two new undersecretaries named Saturday to the synod, where she has been a consultant since 2019.

The 52-year-old is one of the two new undersecretaries named to the synod, the body of bishops that studies major questions of doctrine and where she has been a consultant since 2019.

The appointment signals the pontiff's desire "for a greater participation of women in the process of discernment and decision-making in the church," said Cardinal Mario Grech, the secretary-general of the synod.

"During the previous synods, the number of women participating as experts and listeners has increased," he said.

"With the nomination of Sister Nathalie Becquart and her possibility of participating in voting, a door has opened," the cardinal said.

The synod is led by bishops and cardinals who have voting rights and also comprises experts who cannot vote, with the next gathering scheduled for autumn 2022.

A special synod on the Amazon in 2019 saw 35 female "auditors" invited to the assembly, but none could vote.

The Argentinian-born pope has signalled his wish to reform the synod and have women and laypeople play a greater role in the church.

He named Spaniard Luis Marin de San Martin as the other under undersecretary in the synod of bishops.

Becquart, 52, a member of the France-based Xaviere Sisters, has a master's degree in management from the prestigious HEC business school in Paris and studied in Boston before joining the order.

Breaking with tradition, Pope Francis Saturday appointed Frenchwoman Nathalie Becquart as an undersecretary of the synod of bishops. Currently headed by Cardinal Mario Grech, the Synod of Bishops is a permanent institution established by Pope Paul VI in 1965, in response to the desire of the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council to keep alive the spirit of collegiality engendered by the conciliar experience.

Breaking with tradition, Pope Francis Saturday appointed Frenchwoman Nathalie Becquart as an undersecretary of the synod of bishops. Currently headed by Cardinal Mario Grech, the Synod of Bishops is a permanent institution established by Pope Paul VI in 1965, in response to the desire of the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council to keep alive the spirit of collegiality engendered by the conciliar experience. Frenchwoman Nathalie Becquart is one of the two new undersecretaries named Saturday to the synod, where she has been a consultant since 2019. The 52-year-old is one of the two new undersecretaries named to the synod, the body of bishops that studies major questions of doctrine and where she has been a consultant since 2019. The appointment signals the pontiff's desire "for a greater participation of women in the process of discernment and decision-making in the church," said Cardinal Mario Grech, the secretary-general of the synod. "During the previous synods, the number of women participating as experts and listeners has increased," he said. "With the nomination of Sister Nathalie Becquart and her possibility of participating in voting, a door has opened," the cardinal said. The synod is led by bishops and cardinals who have voting rights and also comprises experts who cannot vote, with the next gathering scheduled for autumn 2022. A special synod on the Amazon in 2019 saw 35 female "auditors" invited to the assembly, but none could vote. The Argentinian-born pope has signalled his wish to reform the synod and have women and laypeople play a greater role in the church. He named Spaniard Luis Marin de San Martin as the other under undersecretary in the synod of bishops. Becquart, 52, a member of the France-based Xaviere Sisters, has a master's degree in management from the prestigious HEC business school in Paris and studied in Boston before joining the order.

'A door has opened': Pope Francis appoints first woman to senior synod post

Pope Francis will meet top Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani during first-ever papal visit to Iraq, as per a senior Catholic cleric. Louis Sako, patriarch of Iraq's Chaldean Catholic Church, said it would be a "private visit" between the two religious figures. The visit will be "without formalities".

Sako hoped that the two religious figures would sign document on "human fraternity for world peace". The document is an inter-religious text condemning extremism that the Pope signed with leading Sunni cleric, the grand imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, in 2019.

Pope Francis will visit Ira from March 5 to 8. He has plans of visiting Baghdad, the northern city of Mosul and Ur, where Abraham is said to have been born.

Iraq once counted more than 1.5 million Christians, but the community has been ravaged by successive conflicts.

Following the US-led invasion of 2003, sectarian warfare prompted followers of Iraq's multiple Christian denominations to flee and attacks by the Islamic State group in 2014 further hit all minority communities.

Now, an estimated 400,000 Christians remain in Iraq.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

Pope Francis will meet top Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani during first-ever papal visit to Iraq, as per a senior Catholic cleric. Louis Sako, patriarch of Iraq's Chaldean Catholic Church, said it would be a "private visit" between the two religious figures.

Pope Francis will meet top Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani during first-ever papal visit to Iraq, as per a senior Catholic cleric. Louis Sako, patriarch of Iraq's Chaldean Catholic Church, said it would be a "private visit" between the two religious figures. The visit will be "without formalities". Sako hoped that the two religious figures would sign document on "human fraternity for world peace". The document is an inter-religious text condemning extremism that the Pope signed with leading Sunni cleric, the grand imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, in 2019. Pope Francis will visit Ira from March 5 to 8. He has plans of visiting Baghdad, the northern city of Mosul and Ur, where Abraham is said to have been born. Iraq once counted more than 1.5 million Christians, but the community has been ravaged by successive conflicts. Following the US-led invasion of 2003, sectarian warfare prompted followers of Iraq's multiple Christian denominations to flee and attacks by the Islamic State group in 2014 further hit all minority communities. Now, an estimated 400,000 Christians remain in Iraq. (With AFP inputs)

Pope Francis to meet top Shiite cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani during Iraq visit

Following a request to New Delhi, coronavirus vaccination campaign in Brazil will begin with vaccines delivered from India. Meanwhile, Pope Francis and his predecessor have received Covid-19 jabs. Russian President Vladimir Putin's critic Alexei Navalny&nbsp;risks being jailed for three and a half years, his lawyer said. China has opposed the US's move of banning imports of cotton and tomato from Xinjiang over the forced labour issue.&nbsp;

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Following a request to New Delhi, coronavirus vaccination campaign in Brazil will begin with vaccines delivered from India. Meanwhile, Pope Francis and his predecessor have received Covid-19 jabs.

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Pope Francis and his predecessor, former pope Benedict XVI have received <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Covid-19 jabs</a>, the Vatican confirmed on Thursday.&nbsp;

"The first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine has been administered to Pope Francis and the Pope Emeritus," spokesman Matteo Bruni was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

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There were reports circulating that Francis received the vaccine on Wednesday, but the confirmation from the Vatican came on Thursday.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-boris-johnson-pledges-to-ramp-up-covid-vaccination-rollout-356705/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The 84-year-old has constantly supported the importance of receiving the vaccine and called for an equitable distribution of the jab.&nbsp;

Media reports hinted of Pope Francis receiving the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine, which was authorised by the European Union on December 21 for use.&nbsp;

"There is a suicidal denial which I cannot explain, but today we have to get vaccinated," Francis earlier told Canale 5, urging people to take the vaccine.&nbsp;

In his Christmas message, he said vaccines should be available for all, especially the "most vulnerable".&nbsp;

Pope called for "vaccines for all, especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet".

Earlier, the Vatican in December gave permission to Catholics to take Covid-19 jabs despite being developed from aborted foetuses.

Pope Francis and his predecessor, former pope Benedict XVI have received Covid-19 jabs, the Vatican confirmed on Thursday. "The first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine has been administered to Pope Francis and the Pope Emeritus," spokesman Matteo Bruni was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.

Pope Francis and his predecessor, former pope Benedict XVI have received Covid-19 jabs, the Vatican confirmed on Thursday. "The first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine has been administered to Pope Francis and the Pope Emeritus," spokesman Matteo Bruni was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Also read | Indian Covid-19 vaccines to kickstart Brazilian vaccination program There were reports circulating that Francis received the vaccine on Wednesday, but the confirmation from the Vatican came on Thursday. Watch | The 84-year-old has constantly supported the importance of receiving the vaccine and called for an equitable distribution of the jab. Media reports hinted of Pope Francis receiving the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine, which was authorised by the European Union on December 21 for use. "There is a suicidal denial which I cannot explain, but today we have to get vaccinated," Francis earlier told Canale 5, urging people to take the vaccine. In his Christmas message, he said vaccines should be available for all, especially the "most vulnerable". Pope called for "vaccines for all, especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet". Earlier, the Vatican in December gave permission to Catholics to take Covid-19 jabs despite being developed from aborted foetuses.

Pope Francis, Benedict XVI receive coronavirus vaccines

Pope Francic changed the Catholic Church Law. According to the new law, women will now be allowed to perform certain tasks during mass.

Pope Francis allows women to serve at mass, but cannot be Priests

Pope Francis’ personal doctor has died from COVID-19 complications, bringing into concern Pope's health and well-being.

It is, however, not clear when the doctor was last in direct contact with the Pope, CNN reports.

Fabrizio Soccorsi, 78, was in hospital and was being treated for cancer. He had been the pope`s doctor since 2015.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis said on Saturday he planned to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as early as next week and urged everyone to get a shot, to protect not only their own lives but those of others.

"I believe that ethically everyone should take the vaccine," the Pope said in an interview with TV station Canale 5. "It is an ethical choice because you are gambling with your health, with your life, but you are also gambling with the lives of others."

Vatican City, the smallest independent county in the world, home to about 450 people including Pope Francis, has said it will shortly launch its own vaccination campaign against the coronavirus.

"Next week," the Pope said, "we will start doing it here, in the Vatican, and I have booked myself in. It must be done."

Pope Francis, 84, had part of one lung removed during an illness when he was a young man in his native Argentina, making him potentially vulnerable to the disease.

Vatican City last week said it expected to receive enough COVID-19 vaccine doses in the following days to inoculate all of its residents and its workers who live beyond its walls in Rome.

As part of its vaccination plan, the Vatican said it had bought an ultra-cold refrigerator to store doses, suggesting it will use the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech, which must be stored at about minus 70 degrees Celsius (minus 94 Fahrenheit).

(with inputs)

Pope Francis’ personal doctor has died from COVID-19 complications, bringing into concern Pope's health and well-being. It is, however, not clear when the doctor was last in direct contact with the Pope, CNN reports.

Pope Francis’ personal doctor has died from COVID-19 complications, bringing into concern Pope's health and well-being. It is, however, not clear when the doctor was last in direct contact with the Pope, CNN reports. Fabrizio Soccorsi, 78, was in hospital and was being treated for cancer. He had been the pope`s doctor since 2015. Meanwhile, Pope Francis said on Saturday he planned to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as early as next week and urged everyone to get a shot, to protect not only their own lives but those of others. "I believe that ethically everyone should take the vaccine," the Pope said in an interview with TV station Canale 5. "It is an ethical choice because you are gambling with your health, with your life, but you are also gambling with the lives of others." Vatican City, the smallest independent county in the world, home to about 450 people including Pope Francis, has said it will shortly launch its own vaccination campaign against the coronavirus. "Next week," the Pope said, "we will start doing it here, in the Vatican, and I have booked myself in. It must be done." Pope Francis, 84, had part of one lung removed during an illness when he was a young man in his native Argentina, making him potentially vulnerable to the disease. Vatican City last week said it expected to receive enough COVID-19 vaccine doses in the following days to inoculate all of its residents and its workers who live beyond its walls in Rome. As part of its vaccination plan, the Vatican said it had bought an ultra-cold refrigerator to store doses, suggesting it will use the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech, which must be stored at about minus 70 degrees Celsius (minus 94 Fahrenheit). (with inputs)

Pope Francis’ personal doctor dies from coronavirus complications

The head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis on Monday claimed that women can now read at Mass, but still cannot become priests.

A change in the church law now allows women to do more during Mass and was amended by Francis to allow women to read the Gospel, and also to serve on the altar as eucharistic ministers, attempting to normalise a practice which is already widely accepted around the world.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-celebrates-mass-in-near-empty-service-352214/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Even though exceptions regarding women were made earlier, most roles were limited to men.

Francis claims that the changes were made keeping in mind the "precious contribution" made by women in the church. Pope Francis also added how everyone who's baptised as part of Catholic tradition plays a major role in the mission of the Church.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/capitol-hill-violence-pope-francis-asks-americans-to-protect-democratic-values-355811" hreflang="en">Capitol Hill violence: Pope Francis asks Americans to 'protect democratic values'</a> 
 
Now, the distinctions between the two types of ministries will run much deeper. The distinction between "ordained" ministers like priesthood and those open to laity will remain, as stated by Pope Francis. 
 
As of now, only men can become priests in the Vatican.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pope-francis-personal-doctor-dies-from-coronavirus-complications-355933" hreflang="en">Pope Francis’ personal doctor dies from coronavirus complications</a>

The Catholic Church has been under tremendous pressure to allow women to become deacons or ordained ministers who perform functions that run closer to what priests do. These including baptisms, funerals, and wedding-related ceremonies.

After Francis' first attempt to assess whether women could become deacons failed, the Pope has commissioned another enquiry into the matter. 
 
Once included, women would have a greater say in the ministry and dictates of the church. Critics also believe this could help tackle the shortage of priests across the globe.

The head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis on Monday claimed that women can now read at Mass, but still cannot become priests. A change in the church law now allows women to do more during Mass and was amended by Francis to allow women to read the Gospel, and also to serve on the altar as eucharistic ministers, attempting to normalise a practice which is already widely accepted around the world.

The head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis on Monday claimed that women can now read at Mass, but still cannot become priests. A change in the church law now allows women to do more during Mass and was amended by Francis to allow women to read the Gospel, and also to serve on the altar as eucharistic ministers, attempting to normalise a practice which is already widely accepted around the world. Even though exceptions regarding women were made earlier, most roles were limited to men. Francis claims that the changes were made keeping in mind the "precious contribution" made by women in the church. Pope Francis also added how everyone who's baptised as part of Catholic tradition plays a major role in the mission of the Church. Also read: Capitol Hill violence: Pope Francis asks Americans to 'protect democratic values' Now, the distinctions between the two types of ministries will run much deeper. The distinction between "ordained" ministers like priesthood and those open to laity will remain, as stated by Pope Francis. As of now, only men can become priests in the Vatican. Also read: Pope Francis’ personal doctor dies from coronavirus complications The Catholic Church has been under tremendous pressure to allow women to become deacons or ordained ministers who perform functions that run closer to what priests do. These including baptisms, funerals, and wedding-related ceremonies. After Francis' first attempt to assess whether women could become deacons failed, the Pope has commissioned another enquiry into the matter. Once included, women would have a greater say in the ministry and dictates of the church. Critics also believe this could help tackle the shortage of priests across the globe.

Pope Francis says women can now read at Mass, priesthood still a distant dream

Pope Francis on Sunday voiced his displeasure on the Capitol Hill violence that took place on December 6 and asked Americans to "protect democra values". The attack on the Capitol Building on Wednesday left five people dead including police officer. Pope said the violence was "self-destructive".

"I repeat that violence is self-destructive, always. Nothing is gained by violence and so much is lost," the pope said in his Sunday address.

US authorities and agencies are in process of identifying, arresting and charging people who were involved in US Congress break-in. Dozens have been charged in last few days. FBI has even asked the public to help identify those involved in violence. There is a proliferation of images and videos of the attack.

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"I appeal to the authorities of the country and to the entire population to maintain a lofty sense of responsibility in order to calm things down, promote national reconciliation and protect democratic values that are rooted in American society," Francis said.

Francis said he wanted to send "an affectionate greeting" to all Americans, saying the country was "shaken by the recent siege on Congress".

He said he was praying for those who died "in those dramatic moments" and that the Madonna would help all Americans "keep alive a culture of encounter, a culture of caring, as the master way to build together the common good".

The attack has strongly hurt the USA's reputation worldwide and even tarnished the image of outgoing US President Donald Trump as it were his supporters who attacked the Capitol Building.&nbsp;

The unprecedented attack has spurred Trump's political rivals to bring in impeachment legislation against him on Monday. If the motion goes ahead, this will be a start of a second impeachment process against Trump.

(With Reuters inputs)

Pope Francis on Sunday voiced his displeasure on the Capitol Hill violence that took place on December 6 and asked Americans to "protect democra values". The attack on the Capitol Building on Wednesday left five people dead including police officer.

Pope Francis on Sunday voiced his displeasure on the Capitol Hill violence that took place on December 6 and asked Americans to "protect democra values". The attack on the Capitol Building on Wednesday left five people dead including police officer. Pope said the violence was "self-destructive". "I repeat that violence is self-destructive, always. Nothing is gained by violence and so much is lost," the pope said in his Sunday address. US authorities and agencies are in process of identifying, arresting and charging people who were involved in US Congress break-in. Dozens have been charged in last few days. FBI has even asked the public to help identify those involved in violence. There is a proliferation of images and videos of the attack. × "I appeal to the authorities of the country and to the entire population to maintain a lofty sense of responsibility in order to calm things down, promote national reconciliation and protect democratic values that are rooted in American society," Francis said. Francis said he wanted to send "an affectionate greeting" to all Americans, saying the country was "shaken by the recent siege on Congress". He said he was praying for those who died "in those dramatic moments" and that the Madonna would help all Americans "keep alive a culture of encounter, a culture of caring, as the master way to build together the common good". The attack has strongly hurt the USA's reputation worldwide and even tarnished the image of outgoing US President Donald Trump as it were his supporters who attacked the Capitol Building. The unprecedented attack has spurred Trump's political rivals to bring in impeachment legislation against him on Monday. If the motion goes ahead, this will be a start of a second impeachment process against Trump. (With Reuters inputs)

Capitol Hill violence: Pope Francis asks Americans to 'protect democratic values'

Head of the Catholic church - the Pope on Saturday said he will get vaccinated against COVID-19 next week.&nbsp;In addition, he referred to the opposition against vaccines as&nbsp;"suicidal denial".

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Earlier, Pope Francis had referred to the vaccines as a "glimmer of hope", claiming that they should be given to everybody. During his Christmas message, Pope Francis described the ongoing coronavirus crisis as a period of "darkness and uncertainty".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pope-comes-under-scanner-as-bombshell-report-claims-18-billion-transfer-that-vatican-denies-354473" hreflang="en">Pope comes under scanner as bombshell report claims $1.8 billion transfer that Vatican denies</a>

He had also said vaccines should be given to all, particularly to those most vulnerable and in dire need.&nbsp;

"I call on everyone, on leaders of states, on businesses, on international organisations, to promote cooperation and not competition, to find a solution for everyone: vaccines for all, especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet," the pontiff said.&nbsp;

The Pope also said that the pandemic came at a time when there are already "ecological crisis" and "grave economic and social imbalances" and therefore it is important for each one to consider the other as "brothers and sisters".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pope-criticises-people-going-on-holiday-to-flee-covid-lockdowns-354239" hreflang="en">Pope criticises people going on holiday to flee COVID lockdowns</a>

He also spoke about the children who are stuck in the battle in Syria, Iraq and Yemen and hoped that peace should be established in this region.&nbsp;

"On this day... let us turn our gaze to the many, all too many, children worldwide, especially in Syria, Iraq and Yemen, who still pay the high price of war," the pontiff said.

"May their faces touch the consciences of all men and women of goodwill, so that the causes of conflicts can be addressed and courageous efforts can be made to build a future of peace", he added.

Head of the Catholic church - the Pope on Saturday said he will get vaccinated against COVID-19 next week. In addition, he referred to the opposition against vaccines as "suicidal denial".

Head of the Catholic church - the Pope on Saturday said he will get vaccinated against COVID-19 next week. In addition, he referred to the opposition against vaccines as "suicidal denial". Earlier, Pope Francis had referred to the vaccines as a "glimmer of hope", claiming that they should be given to everybody. During his Christmas message, Pope Francis described the ongoing coronavirus crisis as a period of "darkness and uncertainty". Also read: Pope comes under scanner as bombshell report claims $1.8 billion transfer that Vatican denies He had also said vaccines should be given to all, particularly to those most vulnerable and in dire need. "I call on everyone, on leaders of states, on businesses, on international organisations, to promote cooperation and not competition, to find a solution for everyone: vaccines for all, especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet," the pontiff said. The Pope also said that the pandemic came at a time when there are already "ecological crisis" and "grave economic and social imbalances" and therefore it is important for each one to consider the other as "brothers and sisters". Also read: Pope criticises people going on holiday to flee COVID lockdowns He also spoke about the children who are stuck in the battle in Syria, Iraq and Yemen and hoped that peace should be established in this region. "On this day... let us turn our gaze to the many, all too many, children worldwide, especially in Syria, Iraq and Yemen, who still pay the high price of war," the pontiff said. "May their faces touch the consciences of all men and women of goodwill, so that the causes of conflicts can be addressed and courageous efforts can be made to build a future of peace", he added.

Pope Francis to get vaccinated next week; slams vaccine deniers

The latest financial row has shaken the Vatican to the core as it's worth 1.8 billion dollars.

Allegedly, the amount was transferred from the Vatican to Australia in the last seven years.&nbsp;

However, the Australian bishops did not receive the money.&nbsp;

The transaction reportedly took place between the Vatican and the government of Australia.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-accepts-resignation-of-minsk-archbishop-who-angered-lukashenko-354236">Pope accepts resignation of Minsk archbishop who angered Lukashenko</a>

Canberra says it has not received the money.&nbsp;

The shocking revelation has been made by Australia's own financial watchdog Austrac.&nbsp;

The report says that 1.8 billion US dollars were indeed sent from Rome to Canberra in the last seven years.&nbsp;

Out of this amount, 71.6 million dollars were allegedly sent in 2017, 137.1 million dollars in 2015, 295 million in 2016, 581 million dollars in 2017, 422 million dollars in 2018, 491.8 million dollars in 2019, and 294.8 million dollars in 2020.

All these transactions are undocumented and the reasons are unexplained. The identity of the recipients is yet to be disclosed.&nbsp;

The bishops in Australia claim they never received a single cent and Vatican officials are stunned too, saying the transaction looks like 'science fiction' and the Vatican does not have that kind of money.&nbsp;

According to Vatican's data, only 980,000 dollars have been sent to Australia since 2014 mostly for payment of salaries to bishops, expenses at the Vatican embassy, pension and travel costs.&nbsp;

This figure is nowhere close to the amount revealed by the Australian watchdog.&nbsp;

Austrac vows to release further details in the days to come, but the bishops in Australia are getting restless.

The controversy is set to explode and the pope's image and reputation are at stake.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The latest financial row has shaken the Vatican to the core as it's worth 1.8 billion dollars. Allegedly, the amount was transferred from the Vatican to Australia in the last seven years.

The latest financial row has shaken the Vatican to the core as it's worth 1.8 billion dollars. Allegedly, the amount was transferred from the Vatican to Australia in the last seven years. However, the Australian bishops did not receive the money. The transaction reportedly took place between the Vatican and the government of Australia. Also read | Pope accepts resignation of Minsk archbishop who angered Lukashenko Canberra says it has not received the money. The shocking revelation has been made by Australia's own financial watchdog Austrac. The report says that 1.8 billion US dollars were indeed sent from Rome to Canberra in the last seven years. Out of this amount, 71.6 million dollars were allegedly sent in 2017, 137.1 million dollars in 2015, 295 million in 2016, 581 million dollars in 2017, 422 million dollars in 2018, 491.8 million dollars in 2019, and 294.8 million dollars in 2020. All these transactions are undocumented and the reasons are unexplained. The identity of the recipients is yet to be disclosed. The bishops in Australia claim they never received a single cent and Vatican officials are stunned too, saying the transaction looks like 'science fiction' and the Vatican does not have that kind of money. According to Vatican's data, only 980,000 dollars have been sent to Australia since 2014 mostly for payment of salaries to bishops, expenses at the Vatican embassy, pension and travel costs. This figure is nowhere close to the amount revealed by the Australian watchdog. Austrac vows to release further details in the days to come, but the bishops in Australia are getting restless. The controversy is set to explode and the pope's image and reputation are at stake.

Pope comes under scanner as bombshell report claims $1.8 billion transfer that Vatican denies

Pope Francis condemned on Sunday people who had gone abroad on holiday to escape coronavirus lockdowns, saying they needed to show greater awareness of the suffering of others. 
 
Speaking after his weekly noon blessing, Francis said he had read newspaper reports of people catching flights to flee government curbs and seek fun elsewhere. 
 
"They didn`t think about those who were staying at home, of the economic problems of many people who have been hit hard by the lockdown, of the sick people. (They thought) only about going on holiday and having fun," the pope said. 
 
"This really saddened me," he said in a video address from the library of the Vatican`s Apostolic Palace. 
 
The traditional Angelus blessing is normally given from a window overlooking St. Peter`s Square, but it was moved indoors to prevent any crowds gathering and limit the spread of COVID-19. 
 
"We don`t know what 2021 will reserve for us, but what all of us can do together is make a bit more of an effort to take care of each other. There is the temptation to take care only of our own interests," he added. 
 
Many countries have imposed strict restrictions to prevent the spread of coronavirus, which has killed some 1.83 million people worldwide, according to the latest Reuters tally.

Pope Francis condemned on Sunday people who had gone abroad on holiday to escape coronavirus lockdowns, saying they needed to show greater awareness of the suffering of others.

Pope Francis condemned on Sunday people who had gone abroad on holiday to escape coronavirus lockdowns, saying they needed to show greater awareness of the suffering of others. Speaking after his weekly noon blessing, Francis said he had read newspaper reports of people catching flights to flee government curbs and seek fun elsewhere. "They didn`t think about those who were staying at home, of the economic problems of many people who have been hit hard by the lockdown, of the sick people. (They thought) only about going on holiday and having fun," the pope said. "This really saddened me," he said in a video address from the library of the Vatican`s Apostolic Palace. The traditional Angelus blessing is normally given from a window overlooking St. Peter`s Square, but it was moved indoors to prevent any crowds gathering and limit the spread of COVID-19. "We don`t know what 2021 will reserve for us, but what all of us can do together is make a bit more of an effort to take care of each other. There is the temptation to take care only of our own interests," he added. Many countries have imposed strict restrictions to prevent the spread of coronavirus, which has killed some 1.83 million people worldwide, according to the latest Reuters tally.

Pope criticises people going on holiday to flee COVID lockdowns

Pope Francis on Sunday accepted the resignation of the Catholic Archbishop of Minsk Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz, who angered the Lukashenko regime and was banned from Belarus by speaking against the country's government and violence against the protestors.

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The Archbishops are supposed to tender their resignation to the Pope when they turn 75 years old, which Kondrusiewicz did on Sunday. However, the Pope decides whether the Archbishop continues or not.&nbsp;

In a statement announcing the Archbishop's resignation, the Vatican said Bishop Kazimierz Wielikosielec of the Diocese of Pinsk in western Belarus would take his place.

Kondrusiewicz, who currently lives in Poland and is a citizen of Belarus, gave an interview to a radio station calling for an end to police violence against protesters and demanding the resignation of strongman Lukashenko, who in August won re-election in a vote the opposition said was rigged.

However, Lukashenko hit back at the Archbishop and accused him of plotting to "destroy the country".&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Belarusians overwhelmingly observe Orthodox Christianity, but the country has small Catholic minorities, observing the Roman rite common in Poland or the Eastern rite found in neighbouring Ukraine.

Pope Francis on Sunday accepted the resignation of the Catholic Archbishop of Minsk Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz, who angered the Lukashenko regime and was banned from Belarus by speaking against the country's government and violence against the protestors.

Pope Francis on Sunday accepted the resignation of the Catholic Archbishop of Minsk Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz, who angered the Lukashenko regime and was banned from Belarus by speaking against the country's government and violence against the protestors. ALSO READ: Jeremy Corbyn's brother arrested again in London's anti-lockdown protests The Archbishops are supposed to tender their resignation to the Pope when they turn 75 years old, which Kondrusiewicz did on Sunday. However, the Pope decides whether the Archbishop continues or not. In a statement announcing the Archbishop's resignation, the Vatican said Bishop Kazimierz Wielikosielec of the Diocese of Pinsk in western Belarus would take his place. Kondrusiewicz, who currently lives in Poland and is a citizen of Belarus, gave an interview to a radio station calling for an end to police violence against protesters and demanding the resignation of strongman Lukashenko, who in August won re-election in a vote the opposition said was rigged. However, Lukashenko hit back at the Archbishop and accused him of plotting to "destroy the country". Belarusians overwhelmingly observe Orthodox Christianity, but the country has small Catholic minorities, observing the Roman rite common in Poland or the Eastern rite found in neighbouring Ukraine.

Pope accepts resignation of Minsk archbishop who angered Lukashenko

Pope Francis ushered in the New Year on Friday with a traditional Angelus blessing from the papal library, pushing through nerve pain that forced him to skip New Year's ceremonies in St. Peter's Basilica.

The pope was unable to attend services on Thursday and again on Friday morning because of sciatica,&nbsp;a relatively common problem that causes pain along the sciatic nerve down the lower back and legs.

It was believed to be the first time since he became pope in 2013 that Francis, who turned 84 last month, has been prevented by health reasons from leading a major papal event.

However, he showed no sign of discomfort as he delivered a noon address and prayer, standing at a lectern in the library of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace.

The papal blessing was moved inside from the usual perch at a window overlooking St. Peter's Square to discourage crowds as Italy is living under tighter COVID-19 restrictions this holiday season.

"Life today is governed by war, by enmity, by many things that are destructive. We want peace. It is a gift," Francis said, adding that the response to the global coronavirus crisis showed the importance of burden-sharing.

"The painful events that marked humanity's journey last year, especially the pandemic, taught us how much it is necessary to take an interest in the problems of others and to share their concerns," he said.

Pope highlighted, in particular, his worries about Yemen, where children are living ''without education, without medicine, hungry''&nbsp;and for the release of the Rev. Moses Chikwe, a bishop in the Owerri archdiocese of Nigeria, who was kidnapped last Sunday by gunmen.

Yemen has been blighted by six years of violence that has pitted a Saudi-led coalition against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement.&nbsp;

"I express my sorrow and concern for the further escalation of violence in Yemen, which is causing numerous innocent victims," Francis said. "Let us think of the children of Yemen, without education, without medicine, famished."

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pope Francis ushered in the New Year on Friday with a traditional Angelus blessing from the papal library, pushing through nerve pain that forced him to skip New Year's ceremonies in St.

Pope Francis ushered in the New Year on Friday with a traditional Angelus blessing from the papal library, pushing through nerve pain that forced him to skip New Year's ceremonies in St. Peter's Basilica. The pope was unable to attend services on Thursday and again on Friday morning because of sciatica, a relatively common problem that causes pain along the sciatic nerve down the lower back and legs. It was believed to be the first time since he became pope in 2013 that Francis, who turned 84 last month, has been prevented by health reasons from leading a major papal event. However, he showed no sign of discomfort as he delivered a noon address and prayer, standing at a lectern in the library of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace. The papal blessing was moved inside from the usual perch at a window overlooking St. Peter's Square to discourage crowds as Italy is living under tighter COVID-19 restrictions this holiday season. "Life today is governed by war, by enmity, by many things that are destructive. We want peace. It is a gift," Francis said, adding that the response to the global coronavirus crisis showed the importance of burden-sharing. "The painful events that marked humanity's journey last year, especially the pandemic, taught us how much it is necessary to take an interest in the problems of others and to share their concerns," he said. Pope highlighted, in particular, his worries about Yemen, where children are living ''without education, without medicine, hungry'' and for the release of the Rev. Moses Chikwe, a bishop in the Owerri archdiocese of Nigeria, who was kidnapped last Sunday by gunmen. Yemen has been blighted by six years of violence that has pitted a Saudi-led coalition against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. "I express my sorrow and concern for the further escalation of violence in Yemen, which is causing numerous innocent victims," Francis said. "Let us think of the children of Yemen, without education, without medicine, famished."

Pope reappears after pain flare-up, gives New Year's blessing

A scandal has led to a shake-up in the Vatican. The pope has taken a big decision of&nbsp;stripping the Vatican's most powerful office of its financial assets. This has come&nbsp;after dubious investments squandered millions of euros in church donations.

The scandal and the pandemic have now thrown up a bigger crisis for the pope — a budget deficit.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccines-glimmer-of-hope-must-be-given-to-all-pope-francis-352409">Vaccines 'glimmer of hope', must be given to all: Pope Francis</a>

Pope Francis has cut off the purse strings of the secretariat of state — the executive arm of the holy see. All of its financial holdings and real estate assets are being transferred to another office after a rather embarrassing scandal.

More than a year ago,&nbsp;the Vatican had conducted an unprecedented raid. The target was the offices of the banking regulator. The trigger was the mismanagement of donations.

Reports say some of it was used to buy a costly property in London for more than 300 million euros ($366 million) — a price that was well over the market value. The bill was inflated by middlemen by well over 100 million euros, according to one report. A detailed scrutiny of accounts revealed several dubious investments.&nbsp;Reports say&nbsp;they happened without the supervision of the central economic institutions.

Now Pope Francis seems to be taking matters in his own hands as he plans to bring in a committee of outside experts. They are expected to set new financial and ethical guidelines. The Vatican is also looking to tighten its belt as&nbsp;its coffers could be running dry.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-celebrates-mass-in-near-empty-service-352214">WATCH|</a>

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This year, the Vatican is staring a major budget deficit. For most years, it has ranged between 60 to 70 million euros. This year, it could rise up to 100 million euros.

The pandemic has hit the earnings of the church. Collections from the museums of Vatican city tend to deliver a profit of more than 40 million euros. However,&nbsp;this year, all museums remained closed for long periods because of the coronavirus and the Vatican lost millions in revenue.

Pope Francis faces his biggest test now, as he was elected on a mandate to reform the Vatican's finances. However, this task has proved to be a major challenge in the past seven years.

Thanks to the pushback from the Vatican bureaucrats, now the scandals have battered the reputation of the catholic church and the budget deficit are causing more embarrassment.

Last year's budget deficit was plugged using donations meant for the poor, with the deficit now expected to touch 100 million euros. The Pope surey faces challenging times ahead.

A scandal has led to a shake-up in the Vatican. The pope has taken a big decision of stripping the Vatican's most powerful office of its financial assets. This has come after dubious investments squandered millions of euros in church donations.

A scandal has led to a shake-up in the Vatican. The pope has taken a big decision of stripping the Vatican's most powerful office of its financial assets. This has come after dubious investments squandered millions of euros in church donations. The scandal and the pandemic have now thrown up a bigger crisis for the pope — a budget deficit. Also read| Vaccines 'glimmer of hope', must be given to all: Pope Francis Pope Francis has cut off the purse strings of the secretariat of state — the executive arm of the holy see. All of its financial holdings and real estate assets are being transferred to another office after a rather embarrassing scandal. More than a year ago, the Vatican had conducted an unprecedented raid. The target was the offices of the banking regulator. The trigger was the mismanagement of donations. Reports say some of it was used to buy a costly property in London for more than 300 million euros ($366 million) — a price that was well over the market value. The bill was inflated by middlemen by well over 100 million euros, according to one report. A detailed scrutiny of accounts revealed several dubious investments. Reports say they happened without the supervision of the central economic institutions. Now Pope Francis seems to be taking matters in his own hands as he plans to bring in a committee of outside experts. They are expected to set new financial and ethical guidelines. The Vatican is also looking to tighten its belt as its coffers could be running dry. WATCH| × This year, the Vatican is staring a major budget deficit. For most years, it has ranged between 60 to 70 million euros. This year, it could rise up to 100 million euros. The pandemic has hit the earnings of the church. Collections from the museums of Vatican city tend to deliver a profit of more than 40 million euros. However, this year, all museums remained closed for long periods because of the coronavirus and the Vatican lost millions in revenue. Pope Francis faces his biggest test now, as he was elected on a mandate to reform the Vatican's finances. However, this task has proved to be a major challenge in the past seven years. Thanks to the pushback from the Vatican bureaucrats, now the scandals have battered the reputation of the catholic church and the budget deficit are causing more embarrassment. Last year's budget deficit was plugged using donations meant for the poor, with the deficit now expected to touch 100 million euros. The Pope surey faces challenging times ahead.

Pope Francis reorganizes Vatican's financial resources amid coronavirus and dubious investments

Describing vaccines as the "glimmers of hope" in the period of "darkness and uncertainty", Pope Francis on Friday called for "vaccines for all" in his Christmas message.&nbsp;

He said vaccines should be given to all, particularly to those most vulnerable and in dire need.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"I call on everyone, on leaders of states, on businesses, on international organisations, to promote cooperation and not competition, to find a solution for everyone: vaccines for all, especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet," the pontiff said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-sit-at-family-tables-missing-a-familiar-face-who-chief-tedros-shares-christmas-message-352326">'We will sit at family tables missing a familiar face: WHO chief Tedros shares Christmas message</a>

The pope also said that the pandemic came at a time when there are already "ecological crisis" and "grave economic and social imbalances" and therefore it is important for each one to consider the other as "brothers and sisters".

He also spoke about the children who are stuck in the battle in Syria, Iraq and Yemen and hoped that peace should be established in this region.&nbsp;

"On this day... let us turn our gaze to the many, all too many, children worldwide, especially in Syria, Iraq and Yemen, who still pay the high price of war," the pontiff said.

"May their faces touch the consciences of all men and women of good will, so that the causes of conflicts can be addressed and courageous efforts can be made to build a future of peace."&nbsp;

Describing vaccines as the "glimmers of hope" in the period of "darkness and uncertainty", Pope Francis on Friday called for "vaccines for all" in his Christmas message.

Describing vaccines as the "glimmers of hope" in the period of "darkness and uncertainty", Pope Francis on Friday called for "vaccines for all" in his Christmas message. He said vaccines should be given to all, particularly to those most vulnerable and in dire need. Watch | "I call on everyone, on leaders of states, on businesses, on international organisations, to promote cooperation and not competition, to find a solution for everyone: vaccines for all, especially the most vulnerable and most in need in all regions of the planet," the pontiff said. Also read | 'We will sit at family tables missing a familiar face: WHO chief Tedros shares Christmas message The pope also said that the pandemic came at a time when there are already "ecological crisis" and "grave economic and social imbalances" and therefore it is important for each one to consider the other as "brothers and sisters". He also spoke about the children who are stuck in the battle in Syria, Iraq and Yemen and hoped that peace should be established in this region. "On this day... let us turn our gaze to the many, all too many, children worldwide, especially in Syria, Iraq and Yemen, who still pay the high price of war," the pontiff said. "May their faces touch the consciences of all men and women of good will, so that the causes of conflicts can be addressed and courageous efforts can be made to build a future of peace."

Vaccines 'glimmer of hope', must be given to all: Pope Francis

Pope Francis delivered an early Mass Thursday to a small congregation at St Peter's Basilica to comply with Italy's 10 p.m. curfew.

Pope Francis celebrates Mass in near-empty service

A day after the Pope addressed a Christmas gathering, two cardinals close to Pope Francis have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, sources from the Vatican revealed on Tuesday.

One of the cardinals who tested positive is one of the most beloved cardinals who is also known as the "Robin Hood". The 57-year-old&nbsp;Konrad Krajewski is in charge of the charities managed by the Pope.&nbsp;Krajewski was showing symptoms of&nbsp;pneumonia and was put under&nbsp;surveillance in a hospital in Rome.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-will-always-have-your-jobs-pope-francis-assure-vatican-employees-351447">'You will always have your jobs': Pope Francis assure Vatican employees</a>

The 'Robin hood' of Vatican is reported to be someone who is usually in close contact with the Pope. Whether or not, he has been in contact with the Pope recently has not been made clear yet.

Another cardinal is 78-year-old&nbsp;Italian cardinal Giuseppe Bertello. He is&nbsp;president of the governorate of the tiny state of Vatican City. Bertello tested positive for the deadly virus around the same time.

The Pope has often been criticised for refusing to wear masks in public and during, however, his habits have now changed drastically, especially with the second wave taking over the world.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-says-it-is-morally-acceptable-to-get-virus-vaccines-using-abortion-cell-lines-351439" hreflang="en">Vatican permits use of COVID-19 vaccines despite abortion cell lines</a>

Meanwhile, the Pope has promised the Vatican employees that the state will retain their jobs and will keep paying their salaries on time, regardless of the economic condition of the state.&nbsp;

"You are the ones who count the most," he said while extending Christmas wishes to the employees and their families. "No one should lose their jobs (or) suffer the brutal economic consequences of this pandemic."

A day after the Pope addressed a Christmas gathering, two cardinals close to Pope Francis have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, sources from the Vatican revealed on Tuesday.

A day after the Pope addressed a Christmas gathering, two cardinals close to Pope Francis have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, sources from the Vatican revealed on Tuesday. One of the cardinals who tested positive is one of the most beloved cardinals who is also known as the "Robin Hood". The 57-year-old Konrad Krajewski is in charge of the charities managed by the Pope. Krajewski was showing symptoms of pneumonia and was put under surveillance in a hospital in Rome. Also read| 'You will always have your jobs': Pope Francis assure Vatican employees The 'Robin hood' of Vatican is reported to be someone who is usually in close contact with the Pope. Whether or not, he has been in contact with the Pope recently has not been made clear yet. Another cardinal is 78-year-old Italian cardinal Giuseppe Bertello. He is president of the governorate of the tiny state of Vatican City. Bertello tested positive for the deadly virus around the same time. The Pope has often been criticised for refusing to wear masks in public and during, however, his habits have now changed drastically, especially with the second wave taking over the world. Also read| Vatican permits use of COVID-19 vaccines despite abortion cell lines Meanwhile, the Pope has promised the Vatican employees that the state will retain their jobs and will keep paying their salaries on time, regardless of the economic condition of the state. "You are the ones who count the most," he said while extending Christmas wishes to the employees and their families. "No one should lose their jobs (or) suffer the brutal economic consequences of this pandemic."

Two cardinals close to Pope Francis test positive for coronavirus

As the world is battling with a downward spiral in economies, Pope Francis has assured the Vatican employees that their jobs will be safe even during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic.

Talking to the employees and families of Vatican, Pope Francis thanked them for their continuous efforts and assured them of financial security in these tough times.

"You are the ones who count the most," he said while extending Christmas wishes to the employees and their families. "No one should lose their jobs (or) suffer the brutal economic consequences of this pandemic."

The 84-year-old religious leader addressed a gathering to extend wishes of Christmas. The event was organised in the cavernous Paul VI Audience Hall, in a socially-distanced manner with everyone, including the Pope, wearing a face mask to avoid the spread of COVID-19.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-says-it-is-morally-acceptable-to-get-virus-vaccines-using-abortion-cell-lines-351439" hreflang="en">Vatican permits use of COVID-19 vaccines despite abortion cell lines</a>

The Vatican is considered to be the world's smallest state which does not provide any unemployment fund. However, the state has been paying full wages to its workers, which is in direct contrast to the majority of the governments of the developed and developing countries around the world.

The state has incurred several economic losses due to a months-long lockdown followed by a steep decline in tourism. This has also led to the closure of the Vatican Museums. However, the Pope has made sure the workforces of the Vatican are paid their dues on time.

"The pandemic has exposed the plight of the poor and the great inequality that reigns in the world," he said.

He also talked about social inequality and injustice is an even greater virus than the coronavirus and called it "a larger virus, that of social injustice, inequality of opportunity, marginalisation and the lack of protection for the weakest."

The Vatican also allowed scientists to get virus vaccines using abortion cell lines. On Monday, the Vatican said it was ''morally acceptable'' for Roman Catholics to receive COVID-19 vaccines based on research that used fetal tissue from abortions.

As the world is battling with a downward spiral in economies, Pope Francis has assured the Vatican employees that their jobs will be safe even during the coronavirus pandemic.

As the world is battling with a downward spiral in economies, Pope Francis has assured the Vatican employees that their jobs will be safe even during the coronavirus pandemic. Talking to the employees and families of Vatican, Pope Francis thanked them for their continuous efforts and assured them of financial security in these tough times. "You are the ones who count the most," he said while extending Christmas wishes to the employees and their families. "No one should lose their jobs (or) suffer the brutal economic consequences of this pandemic." The 84-year-old religious leader addressed a gathering to extend wishes of Christmas. The event was organised in the cavernous Paul VI Audience Hall, in a socially-distanced manner with everyone, including the Pope, wearing a face mask to avoid the spread of COVID-19. Also read| Vatican permits use of COVID-19 vaccines despite abortion cell lines The Vatican is considered to be the world's smallest state which does not provide any unemployment fund. However, the state has been paying full wages to its workers, which is in direct contrast to the majority of the governments of the developed and developing countries around the world. The state has incurred several economic losses due to a months-long lockdown followed by a steep decline in tourism. This has also led to the closure of the Vatican Museums. However, the Pope has made sure the workforces of the Vatican are paid their dues on time. "The pandemic has exposed the plight of the poor and the great inequality that reigns in the world," he said. He also talked about social inequality and injustice is an even greater virus than the coronavirus and called it "a larger virus, that of social injustice, inequality of opportunity, marginalisation and the lack of protection for the weakest." The Vatican also allowed scientists to get virus vaccines using abortion cell lines. On Monday, the Vatican said it was ''morally acceptable'' for Roman Catholics to receive COVID-19 vaccines based on research that used fetal tissue from abortions.

'You will always have your jobs': Pope Francis assure Vatican employees

The Vatican&nbsp;on Monday said that it was ''morally acceptable'' for Roman Catholics to receive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines</a>&nbsp;based on research that used fetal tissue from abortions.

A note from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Vatican's watchdog office for doctrinal orthodoxy,&nbsp;said the use of such vaccines was permitted as long as there were no alternatives.

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The doctrine office noted that bishops, Catholic groups, and experts have offered “diverse and sometimes conflicting pronouncements” on the matter.

Both the Pfizer Inc and Moderna Inc vaccines have some connection to cell lines that originated with tissue from abortions in the last century, according to the US&nbsp;Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), which issued a separate note to American Catholics last week.

The Vatican note said the granting of moral legitimacy was related to the principle "differing degrees of responsibility of cooperation in evil."

This meant that because the pandemic is such grave danger, such vaccines "can be used in good conscience with the certain knowledge that (it) does not constitute formal cooperation with the abortion from which the cells used in the production of the vaccines derive," the note said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-coronavirus-vaccine-must-be-shared-worldwide-296424">Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide</a>

In the absence of safe vaccines made from other sources, "it is morally acceptable to receive Covid-19 vaccines that have used cell lines from aborted fetuses in their research and production process."

The American bishops said the vaccines employed cell lines drawn from tissue obtained from two abortions that took place in the 1960s and 1970s and that often have been replicated since.

The Vatican note said the use of such vaccines "does not in itself constitute a legitimation, even indirect, of the practice of abortion".

It urged the pharmaceutical industry to develop completely ethical vaccines and governments and international organisations to make them accessible to poorer nations.

The Vatican note said that while the use of vaccines was voluntary, "the common good may recommend vaccination, especially to protect the weakest and most exposed".

The Vatican on Monday said that it was ''morally acceptable'' for Roman Catholics to receive COVID-19 vaccines based on research that used fetal tissue from abortions.

The Vatican on Monday said that it was ''morally acceptable'' for Roman Catholics to receive COVID-19 vaccines based on research that used fetal tissue from abortions. A note from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Vatican's watchdog office for doctrinal orthodoxy, said the use of such vaccines was permitted as long as there were no alternatives. The doctrine office noted that bishops, Catholic groups, and experts have offered “diverse and sometimes conflicting pronouncements” on the matter. Both the Pfizer Inc and Moderna Inc vaccines have some connection to cell lines that originated with tissue from abortions in the last century, according to the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), which issued a separate note to American Catholics last week. The Vatican note said the granting of moral legitimacy was related to the principle "differing degrees of responsibility of cooperation in evil." This meant that because the pandemic is such grave danger, such vaccines "can be used in good conscience with the certain knowledge that (it) does not constitute formal cooperation with the abortion from which the cells used in the production of the vaccines derive," the note said. Also read: Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide In the absence of safe vaccines made from other sources, "it is morally acceptable to receive Covid-19 vaccines that have used cell lines from aborted fetuses in their research and production process." The American bishops said the vaccines employed cell lines drawn from tissue obtained from two abortions that took place in the 1960s and 1970s and that often have been replicated since. The Vatican note said the use of such vaccines "does not in itself constitute a legitimation, even indirect, of the practice of abortion". It urged the pharmaceutical industry to develop completely ethical vaccines and governments and international organisations to make them accessible to poorer nations. The Vatican note said that while the use of vaccines was voluntary, "the common good may recommend vaccination, especially to protect the weakest and most exposed".

Vatican says it is 'morally acceptable' to get virus vaccines using abortion cell lines

Pope Francis urged countries on Saturday to work towards net zero carbon emissions and committed Vatican City - the world`s smallest state - to reaching the target by 2050.

Francis, who has championed environmental causes since his election in 2013, told a U.N. climate summit the 108-acre (44-hectare) city-state surrounded by Rome would be doing its bit to fight climate change.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilian-model-going-to-heaven-after-pope-francis-likes-her-image-on-instagram-344246">Brazilian model going to 'heaven' after Pope Francis likes her image on Instagram</a>

"The current pandemic and climate change, which are not only environmentally relevant, but also ethically, socially, economically and politically, affect, above all, the lives of the poorest and most fragile," he said in a video message to the summit.

"In addition to adopting some measures that cannot be postponed any longer, a strategy is needed to reduce net emissions to zero," Francis said.

He committed the Vatican "to reducing net emissions to zero by 2050," as well as intensifying environmental management efforts and furthering the rational use of natural resources such as water and planting more trees.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-make-first-trip-from-vatican-to-iraq-in-march-2021-348143">Pope Francis to make first trip from Vatican to Iraq in March 2021</a>

A Vatican statement said the city-state was moving ahead with plans to substitute all its combustion engine cars with electric or hybrid vehicles.

It said the Vatican, which began installing solar panels in 2008 and banned single-use plastic bags last year, was now recycling 65% of its waste and aimed to reach 75% in 2023.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-installs-new-cardinals-including-first-african-american-346172">Pope installs new cardinals, including first African-American</a>

In his address, Francis said the Holy See was committed to promoting, in Catholic schools and elsewhere, "an education for integral ecology" to favour development and sustainability and encourage economic policies that respect the environment.

In 2015, Francis wrote a landmark encyclical "Laudato Si" (Praised Be) on the need to protect nature. It backed scientific evidence that human activity was to blame for global warming.

Francis also strongly backed the Paris agreement to limit the global rise of temperatures and has said he was saddened by U.S. President Donald Trump`s decision to withdraw from it.

Pope Francis urged countries on Saturday to work towards net zero carbon emissions and committed Vatican City - the world`s smallest state - to reaching the target by 2050.

Pope Francis urged countries on Saturday to work towards net zero carbon emissions and committed Vatican City - the world`s smallest state - to reaching the target by 2050. Francis, who has championed environmental causes since his election in 2013, told a U.N. climate summit the 108-acre (44-hectare) city-state surrounded by Rome would be doing its bit to fight climate change. Also read| Brazilian model going to 'heaven' after Pope Francis likes her image on Instagram "The current pandemic and climate change, which are not only environmentally relevant, but also ethically, socially, economically and politically, affect, above all, the lives of the poorest and most fragile," he said in a video message to the summit. "In addition to adopting some measures that cannot be postponed any longer, a strategy is needed to reduce net emissions to zero," Francis said. He committed the Vatican "to reducing net emissions to zero by 2050," as well as intensifying environmental management efforts and furthering the rational use of natural resources such as water and planting more trees. Also read| Pope Francis to make first trip from Vatican to Iraq in March 2021 A Vatican statement said the city-state was moving ahead with plans to substitute all its combustion engine cars with electric or hybrid vehicles. It said the Vatican, which began installing solar panels in 2008 and banned single-use plastic bags last year, was now recycling 65% of its waste and aimed to reach 75% in 2023. Also read| Pope installs new cardinals, including first African-American In his address, Francis said the Holy See was committed to promoting, in Catholic schools and elsewhere, "an education for integral ecology" to favour development and sustainability and encourage economic policies that respect the environment. In 2015, Francis wrote a landmark encyclical "Laudato Si" (Praised Be) on the need to protect nature. It backed scientific evidence that human activity was to blame for global warming. Francis also strongly backed the Paris agreement to limit the global rise of temperatures and has said he was saddened by U.S. President Donald Trump`s decision to withdraw from it.

Pope commits Vatican to net zero carbon emissions by 2050

Pope Francis is all set to become the first Pope in history to visit Iraq on a four-day trip in March 2021,&nbsp;the Vatican reported on Monday.

The announcement was made by the&nbsp;Spokesman Matteo Bruni who reported the Pope will be visiting the capital Baghdad, as well as Ur, a city linked to the Old Testament figure of Abraham, and Erbil, Mosul and Qaraqosh in the plain of Nineveh.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-installs-new-cardinals-including-first-african-american-346172">Pope installs new cardinals, including first African-American</a>

As of now, the trip has been planned for March 5-8. However, a set programme has not been laid out yet and will soon be finalised, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic. "The programme of the journey will be made known in due course, and will take into consideration the evolution of the worldwide health emergency," Bruni said.

This trip has been planned after the Vatican received an invitation from the&nbsp;Iraqi government and the local Catholic Church. The aim of this historic trip, as per sources, is to provide comfort and hope to the Christians who have been stuck and forced to flee from Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries due to the ongoing wars, conflicts and humanitarian crisis.

Iraqi President Barham Salih said in a post on Twitter that the trip "will be a message of peace to Iraqis of all religions &amp; serve to affirm our common values of justice &amp; dignity."

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Due to the ongoing pandemic, all trips scheduled for the Pope in 2020 were cancelled, making this the first overseas trip of Pope Francis after November 2019.

Lately, Iraq has been struggling to bring peace into the country borders with the rising tension in the middle-eastern countries and an ongoing conflict between the government and citizens.

Pope Francis is all set to become the first Pope in history to visit Iraq on a four-day trip in March 2021, the Vatican reported on Monday. The announcement was made by the Spokesman Matteo Bruni who reported the Pope will be visiting the capital Baghdad, as well as Ur, a city linked to the Old Testament figure of Abraham, and Erbil, Mosul and Qaraqosh in the plain of Nineveh.

Pope Francis is all set to become the first Pope in history to visit Iraq on a four-day trip in March 2021, the Vatican reported on Monday. The announcement was made by the Spokesman Matteo Bruni who reported the Pope will be visiting the capital Baghdad, as well as Ur, a city linked to the Old Testament figure of Abraham, and Erbil, Mosul and Qaraqosh in the plain of Nineveh. Also read| Pope installs new cardinals, including first African-American As of now, the trip has been planned for March 5-8. However, a set programme has not been laid out yet and will soon be finalised, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic. "The programme of the journey will be made known in due course, and will take into consideration the evolution of the worldwide health emergency," Bruni said. This trip has been planned after the Vatican received an invitation from the Iraqi government and the local Catholic Church. The aim of this historic trip, as per sources, is to provide comfort and hope to the Christians who have been stuck and forced to flee from Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries due to the ongoing wars, conflicts and humanitarian crisis. Iraqi President Barham Salih said in a post on Twitter that the trip "will be a message of peace to Iraqis of all religions & serve to affirm our common values of justice & dignity." × Due to the ongoing pandemic, all trips scheduled for the Pope in 2020 were cancelled, making this the first overseas trip of Pope Francis after November 2019. Lately, Iraq has been struggling to bring peace into the country borders with the rising tension in the middle-eastern countries and an ongoing conflict between the government and citizens.

Pope Francis to make first trip from Vatican to Iraq in March 2021

Pope Francis has installed 13 new cardinals, including the first African-American to hold the high rank, further expanding the pontiff's impact on the group that will one day elect his successor.

The cardinals were installed in a ceremony, known as a consistory, on Saturday.

Nine of the 13 are under 80 and eligible under Church law to enter a secret conclave to choose the next pope from among themselves after Francis dies or resigns.

It was Francis' seventh consistory since his election in 2013. He has now appointed 57% of the 128 cardinal electors, most of whom share his vision of a more inclusive and outward-looking Church.

Thus far, he has appointed 18 cardinals from mostly far-flung countries that never had one, nearly all of them from the developing world. In Saturday's consistory, Brunei and Rwanda got their first cardinals.

While Europe still has the largest share of cardinal electors, with 41%, it is down from 52% in 2013 when Francis became the first Latin-American pope.

The nine new electors come from Italy, Malta, Rwanda, the United States, the Philippines, Chile, Brunei and Mexico.

In his homily, Francis told the men to keep their eyes on God, avoid all forms of corruption, and not succumb to a "worldly spirit" that can accompany the prestige and power of their new rank.

Wilton Gregory, the 72-year-old archbishop of Washington, DC, becomes the first African-American cardinal at a time the United States is examining race relations after a spate of police killings of unarmed Black people.

Everyone in the basilica except the pope wore a mask. Each new cardinal removed theirs when they knelt before him to be invested, except Gregory, who kept it on.

Gregory made headlines in June when he blasted President Donald Trump's visit to a Catholic shrine in Washington, after police and soldiers used tear gas and rubber bullets to clear protesters so Trump could be photographed in front of a historic Washington church holding a Bible.

Gregory said he found it "baffling and reprehensible that any Catholic facility would allow itself to be so egregiously misused and manipulated".

Catholic conservatives condemned Gregory and sided with Trump.

Gregory was one of a handful of new cardinals who were quarantined for about 10 days in their rooms in the Vatican guest house where the pope also lives. Cardinals from Brunei and the Philippines could not travel and will receive their ring and hat from a papal delegate.

Four non-electors over 80 were given the honour after a long service to the Church. The most prominent is Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, an Italian-American who has worked around the world and is one of the Church's top experts on immigration.

(with inputs)

Pope Francis has installed 13 new cardinals, including the first African-American to hold the high rank, further expanding the pontiff's impact on the group that will one day elect his successor.

Pope Francis has installed 13 new cardinals, including the first African-American to hold the high rank, further expanding the pontiff's impact on the group that will one day elect his successor. The cardinals were installed in a ceremony, known as a consistory, on Saturday. Nine of the 13 are under 80 and eligible under Church law to enter a secret conclave to choose the next pope from among themselves after Francis dies or resigns. It was Francis' seventh consistory since his election in 2013. He has now appointed 57% of the 128 cardinal electors, most of whom share his vision of a more inclusive and outward-looking Church. Thus far, he has appointed 18 cardinals from mostly far-flung countries that never had one, nearly all of them from the developing world. In Saturday's consistory, Brunei and Rwanda got their first cardinals. While Europe still has the largest share of cardinal electors, with 41%, it is down from 52% in 2013 when Francis became the first Latin-American pope. The nine new electors come from Italy, Malta, Rwanda, the United States, the Philippines, Chile, Brunei and Mexico. In his homily, Francis told the men to keep their eyes on God, avoid all forms of corruption, and not succumb to a "worldly spirit" that can accompany the prestige and power of their new rank. Wilton Gregory, the 72-year-old archbishop of Washington, DC, becomes the first African-American cardinal at a time the United States is examining race relations after a spate of police killings of unarmed Black people. Everyone in the basilica except the pope wore a mask. Each new cardinal removed theirs when they knelt before him to be invested, except Gregory, who kept it on. Gregory made headlines in June when he blasted President Donald Trump's visit to a Catholic shrine in Washington, after police and soldiers used tear gas and rubber bullets to clear protesters so Trump could be photographed in front of a historic Washington church holding a Bible. Gregory said he found it "baffling and reprehensible that any Catholic facility would allow itself to be so egregiously misused and manipulated". Catholic conservatives condemned Gregory and sided with Trump. Gregory was one of a handful of new cardinals who were quarantined for about 10 days in their rooms in the Vatican guest house where the pope also lives. Cardinals from Brunei and the Philippines could not travel and will receive their ring and hat from a papal delegate. Four non-electors over 80 were given the honour after a long service to the Church. The most prominent is Archbishop Silvano Tomasi, an Italian-American who has worked around the world and is one of the Church's top experts on immigration. (with inputs)

Pope installs new cardinals, including first African-American

For the first time, Pope Francis has referred to Muslim Uighurs in China as a “persecuted” community.

In a new book titled “Let Us Dream: The Path to A Better Future”, Francis also urged world governments to set up a universal minimum wage, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. The book includes a 150-page collaboration with Austen Ivereigh, Pope’s English language biographer.

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"I think often of persecuted peoples: the Rohingya, the poor Uighurs, the Yazidi," he said in a section. He also addressed the persecution of Christians in Islamic countries. This marked the first time that the Pope mentioned Uighurs. He has spoked about Myanmar’s Rohingya and Iraq’s Yazidi on earlier occasions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pompeo-says-china-treatment-of-uighurs-gravest-threat-to-religious-freedom-338812" hreflang="en">Pompeo says China treatment of Uighurs 'gravest threat' to religious freedom</a>

The Pope spoke about economic, social, and political changes which he says are required to address inequalities after the end of this pandemic. The book is set to go on sale on December 1. He also out at anti-maskers, and claimed that those who perceived masks as an imposition from the state are “victims only in their imagination”.

Pope Francis also praised those who protested against the death of George Floyd, who was killed by White police officers in the United States.&nbsp; According to activist groups and governments, China is holding 1 million Uighur Muslims in camps in Xinjiang, where crimes against humanity and genocide is taking place.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/apple-rallying-against-bill-to-stop-forced-uighur-labour-344963" hreflang="en">Apple rallying against bill to stop forced Uighur labour</a>

China claims that the camps are education centres and are part of the country’s deradicalisation efforts.

Pope Francis also criticised trickle-down economics, whereby the basic belief is that tax breaks and incentives for wealthy businesses will eventually benefit society and create jobs.

He referred to it as “the false assumption of the infamous trickle-down theory that a growing economy will make us all richer”.

For the first time, Pope Francis has referred to Muslim Uighurs in China as a “persecuted” community. In a new book titled “Let Us Dream: The Path to A Better Future”, Francis also urged world governments to set up a universal minimum wage, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19.

For the first time, Pope Francis has referred to Muslim Uighurs in China as a “persecuted” community. In a new book titled “Let Us Dream: The Path to A Better Future”, Francis also urged world governments to set up a universal minimum wage, especially in the aftermath of COVID-19. The book includes a 150-page collaboration with Austen Ivereigh, Pope’s English language biographer. "I think often of persecuted peoples: the Rohingya, the poor Uighurs, the Yazidi," he said in a section. He also addressed the persecution of Christians in Islamic countries. This marked the first time that the Pope mentioned Uighurs. He has spoked about Myanmar’s Rohingya and Iraq’s Yazidi on earlier occasions. Also read: Pompeo says China treatment of Uighurs 'gravest threat' to religious freedom The Pope spoke about economic, social, and political changes which he says are required to address inequalities after the end of this pandemic. The book is set to go on sale on December 1. He also out at anti-maskers, and claimed that those who perceived masks as an imposition from the state are “victims only in their imagination”. Pope Francis also praised those who protested against the death of George Floyd, who was killed by White police officers in the United States. According to activist groups and governments, China is holding 1 million Uighur Muslims in camps in Xinjiang, where crimes against humanity and genocide is taking place. Also read: Apple rallying against bill to stop forced Uighur labour China claims that the camps are education centres and are part of the country’s deradicalisation efforts. Pope Francis also criticised trickle-down economics, whereby the basic belief is that tax breaks and incentives for wealthy businesses will eventually benefit society and create jobs. He referred to it as “the false assumption of the infamous trickle-down theory that a growing economy will make us all richer”.

Pope Francis refers to Uighur Muslims as a 'persecuted' group for the first time

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