Pope Francis makes his first trip Saturday since the Vatican's coronavirus lockdown, though it will be a solitary affair for the crowd-loving Argentine who has had to learn how to be close to the faithful from a distance.

Francis will journey to Assisi, the birthplace of his namesake saint, where he will sign his new encyclical — a document laying out the pope's views on key issues — called "Fratelli tutti", on the importance of fraternity, particularly in these Covid-19 times.

The Vatican has said it will be a private visit to reduce health risks — both to Catholics who usually throng the streets on such occasions, holding aloft babies to be kissed, and for the elderly pontiff himself.

As the virus, which has killed over one million people globally, began to spread around the world earlier this year, Francis reached out through a live-streamed mass, performed alone on Saint Peter's Square.

"Thick darkness has gathered over our squares, our streets and our cities", he said in the historic March address, describing the coronavirus "tempest" as having put everyone "in the same boat", as heavy rain fell around him.

That, and his lonely walk through the deserted streets of Rome to pray at two churches for the end of the pandemic, captured his isolation, but were also seen by Catholics and non-Catholics alike as signs of solidarity and hope.

The pope's lockdown

Saturday's pilgrimage to the Basilica of Saint Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marks a milestone in the pope's slow return to normalcy.

Francis, 83, showed little fear as the virus broke out in Italy in late February, though he was forced to shun his usual practice of shaking hands.

Apart from suffering a cold early on, his health has remained good. Of more concern was frail Benedict XVI, who stepped down in 2013, and lives in the Vatican as "pope emeritus."

In the end, the 93-year-old left a post-lockdown Vatican before Francis, heading to his native Bavaria in June to the bedside of his 96-year-old brother, Georg, who died not long afterwards.

Vatican staff have worked hard to protect both the former and current pope.

Francis opted on his election in 2013 to live in the tiny state's "Santa Marta" guesthouse, instead of the papal apartments, and had been used to dining in the building's shared canteen. It was not clear whether he then stopped eating in company.

Getting out

"Everyone works in his office or from his room, using technology. Everyone is working; there are no idlers here," the pontiff said in an interview with papal biographer Austen Ivereigh in April.

That included Francis, who live-streamed his daily masses from Santa Marta, as well as the weekly Angelus prayers and general audience talks.

Priests were reminded it was their mission to "get out", which many did through social media or video calls.

While the lockdown in Italy and the Vatican gradually lifted from May, Francis remained caged.

Instead, his closest aides, diplomacy chiefs Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, went abroad in his place.

Now it is his turn. While there will be no papal foreign trips this year — for the first time since 1979 — the Assisi outing is expected to go a small way towards charging the batteries of a man who believes a priest's place is with his flock.

Pope Francis makes his first trip Saturday since the Vatican's coronavirus lockdown, though it will be a solitary affair for the crowd-loving Argentine who has had to learn how to be close to the faithful from a distance.

Pope Francis makes his first trip Saturday since the Vatican's coronavirus lockdown, though it will be a solitary affair for the crowd-loving Argentine who has had to learn how to be close to the faithful from a distance. Francis will journey to Assisi, the birthplace of his namesake saint, where he will sign his new encyclical — a document laying out the pope's views on key issues — called "Fratelli tutti", on the importance of fraternity, particularly in these Covid-19 times. The Vatican has said it will be a private visit to reduce health risks — both to Catholics who usually throng the streets on such occasions, holding aloft babies to be kissed, and for the elderly pontiff himself. As the virus, which has killed over one million people globally, began to spread around the world earlier this year, Francis reached out through a live-streamed mass, performed alone on Saint Peter's Square. "Thick darkness has gathered over our squares, our streets and our cities", he said in the historic March address, describing the coronavirus "tempest" as having put everyone "in the same boat", as heavy rain fell around him. That, and his lonely walk through the deserted streets of Rome to pray at two churches for the end of the pandemic, captured his isolation, but were also seen by Catholics and non-Catholics alike as signs of solidarity and hope. The pope's lockdown Saturday's pilgrimage to the Basilica of Saint Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marks a milestone in the pope's slow return to normalcy. Francis, 83, showed little fear as the virus broke out in Italy in late February, though he was forced to shun his usual practice of shaking hands. Apart from suffering a cold early on, his health has remained good. Of more concern was frail Benedict XVI, who stepped down in 2013, and lives in the Vatican as "pope emeritus." In the end, the 93-year-old left a post-lockdown Vatican before Francis, heading to his native Bavaria in June to the bedside of his 96-year-old brother, Georg, who died not long afterwards. Vatican staff have worked hard to protect both the former and current pope. Francis opted on his election in 2013 to live in the tiny state's "Santa Marta" guesthouse, instead of the papal apartments, and had been used to dining in the building's shared canteen. It was not clear whether he then stopped eating in company. Getting out "Everyone works in his office or from his room, using technology. Everyone is working; there are no idlers here," the pontiff said in an interview with papal biographer Austen Ivereigh in April. That included Francis, who live-streamed his daily masses from Santa Marta, as well as the weekly Angelus prayers and general audience talks. Priests were reminded it was their mission to "get out", which many did through social media or video calls. While the lockdown in Italy and the Vatican gradually lifted from May, Francis remained caged. Instead, his closest aides, diplomacy chiefs Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, went abroad in his place. Now it is his turn. While there will be no papal foreign trips this year — for the first time since 1979 — the Assisi outing is expected to go a small way towards charging the batteries of a man who believes a priest's place is with his flock.

Pope in first trip outside Rome since virus lockdown

Pope Francis refused to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo - who has slammed a 'secret' agreement between China and the Vatican. Is the Vatican turning a blind eye to China's persecution of Christians? WION's Palki tells you more.

Gravitas: Pope Francis refuses to meet the US Secretary of State

In 2018, China and the Vatican reached a provisional agreement. But the agreement has failed to stop the oppression of Catholics in China. WION's Palki tells you how China has used this deal to craft its own version of Christianity.

China-Vatican deal: Did the Pope concede too much? | Gravitas

Why has Pope Francis never slammed China for its persecution of the Uighurs? Why did the Pope stray from the script to avoid mention of Hong Kong? Is this Pope's neutrality or selective activism? WION's Palki makes a case.

Gravitas: The Pope's selective activism

Roman Catholic Church has been banned in China for at least 60 years. Under Pope Francis, the Vatican is trying to change that.

Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern-day China severed ties with the Vatican in 1951 soon after the communist party took over.

China created the Chinese Catholic patriotic association. The Vatican did not give recognition to the association. The association chose its own bishops.

World over, only the pope has the authority to appoint senior catholic clergy. But this rule doesn't apply in China.

Catholics loyal to Rome started underground churches but in the eyes of Beijing, they are illegal. These churches have been demolished and their followers have faced persecution

Pope Francis is perhaps the first Pope in decades to successfully open a dialogue with China. Before him, Pope John Paul the second and Pope Benedict the 16th both tried but failed. Pope Francis is bending the rules for China and considering giving China a say in the appointment of bishops.

In 2018, a provincial agreement was signed. The specifics of this agreement are unclear. The deal allows the Vatican to only confirm the candidates picked by China.

Not everyone in the Catholic Church cheered this arrangement. Hong Kong's outspoken Cardinal Joseph Zen has criticised the deal.

In 2018, he said that the deal will put 12 million Catholics in China in a communist cage. Despite the criticism, the Vatican and China signed the accord in September 2018. On his part, Pope Francis did try to assuage some of the critics.

The Pope wanted the last word on naming bishops in China But the arrangement has failed to halt the oppression of Catholics in China.

More Churches have been demolished, Crosses have been removed, clerics have bee detained at black sites. Online sales of the Bible have been banned.

Talks are believed to be underway to renew the Vatican-China accord. If the deal is extended, the Vatican may continue to turn a blind eye to China's religious persecution and human rights violation. 
&nbsp;

Roman Catholic Church has been banned in China for at least 60 years. Under Pope Francis, the Vatican is trying to change that. Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern-day China severed ties with the Vatican in 1951 soon after the communist party took over.

Roman Catholic Church has been banned in China for at least 60 years. Under Pope Francis, the Vatican is trying to change that. Mao Zedong, the founding father of modern-day China severed ties with the Vatican in 1951 soon after the communist party took over. China created the Chinese Catholic patriotic association. The Vatican did not give recognition to the association. The association chose its own bishops. World over, only the pope has the authority to appoint senior catholic clergy. But this rule doesn't apply in China. Catholics loyal to Rome started underground churches but in the eyes of Beijing, they are illegal. These churches have been demolished and their followers have faced persecution Pope Francis is perhaps the first Pope in decades to successfully open a dialogue with China. Before him, Pope John Paul the second and Pope Benedict the 16th both tried but failed. Pope Francis is bending the rules for China and considering giving China a say in the appointment of bishops. In 2018, a provincial agreement was signed. The specifics of this agreement are unclear. The deal allows the Vatican to only confirm the candidates picked by China. Not everyone in the Catholic Church cheered this arrangement. Hong Kong's outspoken Cardinal Joseph Zen has criticised the deal. In 2018, he said that the deal will put 12 million Catholics in China in a communist cage. Despite the criticism, the Vatican and China signed the accord in September 2018. On his part, Pope Francis did try to assuage some of the critics. The Pope wanted the last word on naming bishops in China But the arrangement has failed to halt the oppression of Catholics in China. More Churches have been demolished, Crosses have been removed, clerics have bee detained at black sites. Online sales of the Bible have been banned. Talks are believed to be underway to renew the Vatican-China accord. If the deal is extended, the Vatican may continue to turn a blind eye to China's religious persecution and human rights violation.

Why is Vatican so keen on engaging with China?

Amid escalating tension between Vatican & the United States, Vatican has denied the Mike Pompeo's request to meet Pope Francis.

Your Story: Pope refuses to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

The&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;and China are preparing to renew a historic deal on the appointment of bishops that has slightly thawed icy relations, much to the displeasure of the US.

Pope Francis has been working hard to repair ties with the Communist country, but his overtures run contrary to US President Donald Trump's efforts to push a religious freedom theme against China in his campaign for a second term.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-silence-is-puzzling-as-chinese-hackers-infiltrate-vatican-316820">Pope Francis' silence is puzzling as Chinese hackers infiltrate Vatican</a>

The president's secretary of state Mike Pompeo went on the offensive last week in an article in US religious magazine First Things, slamming the "horrific" persecution of believers of all faiths in China.

He wrote that many countries had expressed "revulsion" at "accelerating violations of human rights".

"The&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;endangers its moral authority, should it renew the deal", he added on Twitter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-catholic-leader-hopes-ties-with-the-vatican-will-not-fall-foul-of-legislation-308309">Hong Kong: Catholic leader hopes ties with the Vatican will not fall foul of legislation</a>

China's roughly 12 million Catholics have for decades been split between a government-run association, whose clergy are chosen by the atheist Communist Party, and an unofficial underground church loyal to the&nbsp;Vatican.

The latter recognises the pope's authority and is often persecuted for it.

After years of snail-pace negotiations, the&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;sealed a historical "provisional" agreement with Beijing on 22 September 2018, the exact content of which has never been published.

The key novelty however was that both Beijing and the&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;now have a say in appointing Catholic bishops.

Francis immediately recognised eight Chinese bishops that had been appointed by Beijing without his approval.

Since then, two new bishops have been appointed in China, with the nod of the head of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics.

And in a historic step earlier this year, Chinese and&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;foreign affairs ministers met publicly at an international event for the first time in seven decades.

'Very little fruit'&nbsp;

Pope Francis has just given the go-ahead for the renewal of the agreement, which is still in "experimental" mode, for another two years, a source close to the dossier told AFP.

The extension is expected to be signed next month.

Thorny issues, such as Chinese Catholic priests suddenly disappearing from their parishes for weeks "at the invitation" of the authorities, are in the meantime being raised with Beijing by&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;diplomats, the source said.

One of the Catholic Church's leading experts on Chinese affairs, Father Bernardo Cervellera, told religious news site Cruxnow.com earlier this month that the deal may have drawn much fanfare but had so far borne "very little fruit".

And he voiced his hope that the&nbsp;Vatican, in renewing the agreement, would be tougher on China.

Diplomatic relations between Beijing and the&nbsp;Holy See&nbsp;broke down in 1951, two years after the communists came to power.

Efforts to rekindle them are hampered by the&nbsp;Vatican's decision to maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The island, with a population of 23 million, is considered by Beijing to be a breakaway Chinese province awaiting reunification.

The&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;is Taiwan's only diplomatic tie in Europe and Cervellera said he feared China will demand it break it off.

A spokesman for China's foreign ministry said Thursday that the interim deal with the&nbsp;Vatican&nbsp;has been "implemented successfully", saying there had been an increase in "mutual trust and consensus".

Pope Francis's right-hand man, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, said mid-September that the Catholic Church's "current interest with China is to normalise the life of the church as much as possible".

He admitted the results so far "have not been particularly striking".

The Vatican and China are preparing to renew a historic deal on the appointment of bishops that has slightly thawed icy relations, much to the displeasure of the US.

The Vatican and China are preparing to renew a historic deal on the appointment of bishops that has slightly thawed icy relations, much to the displeasure of the US. Pope Francis has been working hard to repair ties with the Communist country, but his overtures run contrary to US President Donald Trump's efforts to push a religious freedom theme against China in his campaign for a second term. Also read: Pope Francis' silence is puzzling as Chinese hackers infiltrate Vatican The president's secretary of state Mike Pompeo went on the offensive last week in an article in US religious magazine First Things, slamming the "horrific" persecution of believers of all faiths in China. He wrote that many countries had expressed "revulsion" at "accelerating violations of human rights". "The Vatican endangers its moral authority, should it renew the deal", he added on Twitter. Also read: Hong Kong: Catholic leader hopes ties with the Vatican will not fall foul of legislation China's roughly 12 million Catholics have for decades been split between a government-run association, whose clergy are chosen by the atheist Communist Party, and an unofficial underground church loyal to the Vatican. The latter recognises the pope's authority and is often persecuted for it. After years of snail-pace negotiations, the Vatican sealed a historical "provisional" agreement with Beijing on 22 September 2018, the exact content of which has never been published. The key novelty however was that both Beijing and the Vatican now have a say in appointing Catholic bishops. Francis immediately recognised eight Chinese bishops that had been appointed by Beijing without his approval. Since then, two new bishops have been appointed in China, with the nod of the head of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics. And in a historic step earlier this year, Chinese and Vatican foreign affairs ministers met publicly at an international event for the first time in seven decades. 'Very little fruit' Pope Francis has just given the go-ahead for the renewal of the agreement, which is still in "experimental" mode, for another two years, a source close to the dossier told AFP. The extension is expected to be signed next month. Thorny issues, such as Chinese Catholic priests suddenly disappearing from their parishes for weeks "at the invitation" of the authorities, are in the meantime being raised with Beijing by Vatican diplomats, the source said. One of the Catholic Church's leading experts on Chinese affairs, Father Bernardo Cervellera, told religious news site Cruxnow.com earlier this month that the deal may have drawn much fanfare but had so far borne "very little fruit". And he voiced his hope that the Vatican, in renewing the agreement, would be tougher on China. Diplomatic relations between Beijing and the Holy See broke down in 1951, two years after the communists came to power. Efforts to rekindle them are hampered by the Vatican's decision to maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The island, with a population of 23 million, is considered by Beijing to be a breakaway Chinese province awaiting reunification. The Vatican is Taiwan's only diplomatic tie in Europe and Cervellera said he feared China will demand it break it off. A spokesman for China's foreign ministry said Thursday that the interim deal with the Vatican has been "implemented successfully", saying there had been an increase in "mutual trust and consensus". Pope Francis's right-hand man, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, said mid-September that the Catholic Church's "current interest with China is to normalise the life of the church as much as possible". He admitted the results so far "have not been particularly striking".

Vatican and China prepare to renew historic deal, angering US

Pope Francis on Sunday urdged political leaders to pay heed to what protesters in Belarus were saying. The Pope did not mention Belarus explicitly but his comments have come just as Vatican Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher travelled to Belarus to meet civil authorities and minister. The appeal by the Pope is hence being seen in connection with Belarus protests.

Pope Francis made his appeal during his noontime prayer on Sunday.&nbsp;

In addition to urging leaders to listen to protesters, the Pope appealed protesters to make their demands in a peaceful manner and "without falling into temptation of" aggression and violence. He urged Belarus authorities to respect human rights and civil liberties.

The Pope has previously also spoken about anti-racism protests in the US.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-women-march-was-not-funded-from-abroad-says-opposition-327212">Belarus women march was not funded from abroad, says Opposition</a>

Protests have rocked Belarus ever since presidential elections in August declared Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko a winner. This will be Lukashenko's 6th term as the president. He has been ruling for last 26 years.

Although Pope Francis spoke out in favour of the protesters, it is unlikely that a stronger statement will be forthcoming as Catholic Church is still trying to mend its ways with Orthodox Church that holds religious sway in Belarus and Russia.

Protests in Belarus show no signs of stopping anytime soon. On Saturday, about 10,000 women marched through the capital Minsk demanding resignation from Lukashenko.

Pope Francis on Sunday urdged political leaders to pay heed to what protesters in Belarus were saying. The Pope did not mention Belarus explicitly but his comments have come just as Vatican Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher travelled to Belarus to meet civil authorities and minister.

Pope Francis on Sunday urdged political leaders to pay heed to what protesters in Belarus were saying. The Pope did not mention Belarus explicitly but his comments have come just as Vatican Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher travelled to Belarus to meet civil authorities and minister. The appeal by the Pope is hence being seen in connection with Belarus protests. Pope Francis made his appeal during his noontime prayer on Sunday. In addition to urging leaders to listen to protesters, the Pope appealed protesters to make their demands in a peaceful manner and "without falling into temptation of" aggression and violence. He urged Belarus authorities to respect human rights and civil liberties. The Pope has previously also spoken about anti-racism protests in the US. Also Read | Belarus women march was not funded from abroad, says Opposition Protests have rocked Belarus ever since presidential elections in August declared Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko a winner. This will be Lukashenko's 6th term as the president. He has been ruling for last 26 years. Although Pope Francis spoke out in favour of the protesters, it is unlikely that a stronger statement will be forthcoming as Catholic Church is still trying to mend its ways with Orthodox Church that holds religious sway in Belarus and Russia. Protests in Belarus show no signs of stopping anytime soon. On Saturday, about 10,000 women marched through the capital Minsk demanding resignation from Lukashenko.

Pope Francis urges leaders to listen to Belarus protesters

In a book published on Wednesday about,&nbsp;Pope Francis has been quoted saying that&nbsp;enjoying a well-cooked meal and sexual intercourse are not sinful activities and are simply "divine".

The book, titled "TerraFutura, conversations with Pope Francis on integral ecology" has been published by&nbsp;Italian writer and gourmet Carlo Petrini. the book is a collection of interviews with the Pope.

"Pleasure arrives directly from God, it is neither Catholic, nor Christian, nor anything else, it is simply divine," he has been quoted in the book.

"The Church has condemned inhuman, brutish, vulgar pleasure, but has on the other hand always accepted human, simple, moral pleasure," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/creation-is-groaning-pope-francis-urges-countries-to-follow-paris-climate-agreement-324509">Also read|&nbsp;'Creation is groaning': Pope Francis urges countries to follow Paris Climate Agreement</a>

He also used the eample of a 1987 Danish film called "Babette's Feast"&nbsp; saying that the movie is a "hymn to Christian charity, to love."

He goes on to say that while these thoughts have existed in the Church in the past, he believes that this is&nbsp;"a wrong interpretation of the Christian message".

He goes on to explain that eating and indulging in sexual intercourse is important to keep human bodies healthy and fit. "The pleasure of eating is there to keep you healthy by eating, just like sexual pleasure is there to make love more beautiful and guarantee the perpetuation of the species," the Pope said.

The Pope said there is no place for&nbsp;"overzealous morality" in the church now. He also feels that opposing views to this has often caused harm in this history, and its impact can be seen till date.

In a book published on Wednesday about, Pope Francis has been quoted saying that enjoying a well-cooked meal and sexual intercourse are not sinful activities and are simply "divine".

In a book published on Wednesday about, Pope Francis has been quoted saying that enjoying a well-cooked meal and sexual intercourse are not sinful activities and are simply "divine". The book, titled "TerraFutura, conversations with Pope Francis on integral ecology" has been published by Italian writer and gourmet Carlo Petrini. the book is a collection of interviews with the Pope. "Pleasure arrives directly from God, it is neither Catholic, nor Christian, nor anything else, it is simply divine," he has been quoted in the book. "The Church has condemned inhuman, brutish, vulgar pleasure, but has on the other hand always accepted human, simple, moral pleasure," he added. Also read| 'Creation is groaning': Pope Francis urges countries to follow Paris Climate Agreement He also used the eample of a 1987 Danish film called "Babette's Feast" saying that the movie is a "hymn to Christian charity, to love." He goes on to say that while these thoughts have existed in the Church in the past, he believes that this is "a wrong interpretation of the Christian message". He goes on to explain that eating and indulging in sexual intercourse is important to keep human bodies healthy and fit. "The pleasure of eating is there to keep you healthy by eating, just like sexual pleasure is there to make love more beautiful and guarantee the perpetuation of the species," the Pope said. The Pope said there is no place for "overzealous morality" in the church now. He also feels that opposing views to this has often caused harm in this history, and its impact can be seen till date.

People who like food and sexual intercourse are not sinners, says Pope Francis

The coronavirus pandemic is exacerbating inequalities between rich and poor, Pope Francis said on Wednesday, calling for universal vaccines not reserved just for the wealthiest.&nbsp;

As the virus continues to claim lives and wreak havoc on economies around the world, the Pope in recent months has tried to use all his moral force to demand a new post-pandemic society, more respectful of the poor and the environment.&nbsp;

The call for social justice is a familiar theme sounded by the leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics around the world, who witnessed poverty and a crippling economic crisis first hand at home in Argentina. &nbsp;

"It would be sad if, for the vaccine for Covid-19, priority were to be given to the richest,"&nbsp;said Francis during his traditional Wednesday audience broadcast live from his private Vatican library.

"It would be sad if this vaccine were to become the property of this nation or another, rather than universal and for all."

Pharmaceutical companies are in a race to be the first to launch a vaccine against the disease, which has killed nearly 775,000 people worldwide since its emergence at the end of December. Some governments have struck deals with companies, hoping to secure exclusive supplies of the vaccines when developed.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization has called for widespread access. Director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Tuesday that governments "must prevent vaccine nationalism".&nbsp;

"The pandemic has exposed the plight of the poor and the great inequality that reigns in the world. And the virus, while it does not distinguish between people, has found, in its devastating path, great inequalities and discrimination. And it has exacerbated them!" he said.

Concurrent with a cure for the coronavirus, he said, the world "must also cure a larger virus, that of social injustice, inequality of opportunity, marginalisation, and the lack of protection for the weakest."

It was not enough to focus on assistance to the poor, but rather to "resolve the problems that lead us to provide aid."

Jorge Bergoglio -- the birth name of Francis -- &nbsp;pleaded for an economy that "brings benefits to the common people" and decried profits "not linked to the creation of dignified jobs".

"And what a scandal it would be if all the economic assistance we are observing -- most of it with public money -- were to focus on rescuing those industries that do not contribute to the inclusion of the excluded," he said.&nbsp;

The coronavirus pandemic is exacerbating inequalities between rich and poor, Pope Francis said on Wednesday, calling for universal vaccines not reserved just for the wealthiest.

The coronavirus pandemic is exacerbating inequalities between rich and poor, Pope Francis said on Wednesday, calling for universal vaccines not reserved just for the wealthiest. As the virus continues to claim lives and wreak havoc on economies around the world, the Pope in recent months has tried to use all his moral force to demand a new post-pandemic society, more respectful of the poor and the environment. The call for social justice is a familiar theme sounded by the leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics around the world, who witnessed poverty and a crippling economic crisis first hand at home in Argentina. "It would be sad if, for the vaccine for Covid-19, priority were to be given to the richest," said Francis during his traditional Wednesday audience broadcast live from his private Vatican library. "It would be sad if this vaccine were to become the property of this nation or another, rather than universal and for all." Pharmaceutical companies are in a race to be the first to launch a vaccine against the disease, which has killed nearly 775,000 people worldwide since its emergence at the end of December. Some governments have struck deals with companies, hoping to secure exclusive supplies of the vaccines when developed. The World Health Organization has called for widespread access. Director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Tuesday that governments "must prevent vaccine nationalism". "The pandemic has exposed the plight of the poor and the great inequality that reigns in the world. And the virus, while it does not distinguish between people, has found, in its devastating path, great inequalities and discrimination. And it has exacerbated them!" he said. Concurrent with a cure for the coronavirus, he said, the world "must also cure a larger virus, that of social injustice, inequality of opportunity, marginalisation, and the lack of protection for the weakest." It was not enough to focus on assistance to the poor, but rather to "resolve the problems that lead us to provide aid." Jorge Bergoglio -- the birth name of Francis -- pleaded for an economy that "brings benefits to the common people" and decried profits "not linked to the creation of dignified jobs". "And what a scandal it would be if all the economic assistance we are observing -- most of it with public money -- were to focus on rescuing those industries that do not contribute to the inclusion of the excluded," he said.

Pope calls for social justice and vaccines for all

Pope Francis on Sunday called for justice and rights to be respected in Belarus, where tens of thousands of people have been taking to the streets urging President Alexander Lukashenko to quit after allegedly rigged presidential election.

Pope Francis on Sunday called for justice and rights to be respected in Belarus, where tens of thousands of people have been taking to the streets urging President Alexander Lukashenko to quit after allegedly rigged presidential election. "I appeal for dialogue, to refuse violence and respect justice and rights," the pontiff said in his Sunday Angelus message, speaking from his balcony in St. Peter's Square. The pope added that his thoughts were with "dear Belarus" and that he had closely followed the situation after the vote. The European Union is looking to impose sanction on Belarus as a response to a violent crackdown in which at least two protesters have been killed and thousands detained. Pope Francis also said that he kept praying for Lebanon and "other dramatic situations in the world that cause suffering". Lebanon is in turmoil after an August 4 blast at Beirut's port killed more than 172 people, injured 6,000, left 300,000 homeless and destroyed swathes of a city already in deep financial crisis.

Pope Francis appeals for justice to be respected in Belarus

Pope Francis on Saturday called for dialogue between Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan on Saturday, urging them not to let a dispute over a dam on the Nile lead to conflict.

Pope Francis on Saturday called for dialogue between Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan on Saturday, urging them not to let a dispute over a dam on the Nile lead to conflict. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which is being built some 15 km (9 miles) from Ethiopia's border with Sudan, has become a major source of discord between the three countries. Also read: Why River Nile is bone of contention between Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia "I invite all parties involved to continue on the path of dialogue so that the eternal river will continue to be a source of life, which unites and does not divide, which nurtures friendship, prosperity and fraternity and not enmity, misunderstanding and conflict," the pontiff said. He was giving his Angelus message for Assumption Day, the most important Catholic feast dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Egypt, which fears the dam project could lead to water shortages upstream, has threatened to withdraw from the latest round of discussions. Sudan is concerned about the dam's safety.

Pope calls for dialogue between Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan to resolve Nile dam issue

Uighurs in China are among the most persecuted ethnic minority communities in the world. Religious leaders are condemning China, but Pope Francis remains quiet. Is a 2018 deal between the Vatican and Beijing the reason behind the silence?

Gravitas: Pope Francis' Silence On Uighurs In China

More than 70 faith leaders have publicly condemned China for their treatment towards Uighur Muslims.&nbsp;

"Uighurs are facing a human tragedy not seen since the holocaust," the statement has been signed by Imams, Rabbis and at least five serving Bishops.

Conspicuous by his absence is Pope Francis. The activist pope, who has a track record of being vocal about human rights.

The joint statement by faith leaders means that the clear aim of the Chinese authorities is to eradicate the Uighur identity, similar to the genocide of Jews during World War-II.

The religious leaders' statement referred to drone footage showing hundreds of blindfolded and shackled men. They appear to be Uighur Muslims or members of other minority ethnic groups. It's a transfer of inmates taking place on a railway platform.

People being forcibly pushed on to trains, beards of religious men being trimmed, women being sterilised and, the concentration camps.

The spectre has urged a Jewish organisation in the UK to write a letter to China's ambassador in London.

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The warning is clear, Germany has rightly paid a heavy price for its persecution of the Jewish people.&nbsp;The world will neither forgive nor forget a genocide against the Uighur people.

But Pope Francis remains silent who has been the most outspoken pope ever.&nbsp;Extending support to the environment, poverty and LGBT campaigns. He has been a proponent of inter-religious dialogue too.

In 2014, after he was elected pope, the Muslim community called him a friend.&nbsp;He is the only pope to visit the largely Islamic West Asia.

In 2017 while delivering a speech in Myanmar he demanded respect for the Rohingyas.

China and the Vatican are expected to talk in September regarding the appointment of bishops to the churches in China.

The two sides are expected to renew an agreement that was signed in 2018. As per that agreement, China recommends the bishops, the pope approves them.

The Vatican agreed to these terms just to ensure Christianity stays alive in communist China&nbsp;but Pope Francis soon realised China arm-twisted the Vatican.

China set two-conditions. First, do not interfere with religious matters in China. Second, break ties with the Taiwanese government.

The Pope is bowing to China. He has neither spoken about the Uighurs nor&nbsp;supported protests in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

More than 70 faith leaders have publicly condemned China for their treatment towards Uighur Muslims. "Uighurs are facing a human tragedy not seen since the holocaust," the statement has been signed by Imams, Rabbis and at least five serving Bishops.

More than 70 faith leaders have publicly condemned China for their treatment towards Uighur Muslims. "Uighurs are facing a human tragedy not seen since the holocaust," the statement has been signed by Imams, Rabbis and at least five serving Bishops. Conspicuous by his absence is Pope Francis. The activist pope, who has a track record of being vocal about human rights. The joint statement by faith leaders means that the clear aim of the Chinese authorities is to eradicate the Uighur identity, similar to the genocide of Jews during World War-II. The religious leaders' statement referred to drone footage showing hundreds of blindfolded and shackled men. They appear to be Uighur Muslims or members of other minority ethnic groups. It's a transfer of inmates taking place on a railway platform. People being forcibly pushed on to trains, beards of religious men being trimmed, women being sterilised and, the concentration camps. The spectre has urged a Jewish organisation in the UK to write a letter to China's ambassador in London. The warning is clear, Germany has rightly paid a heavy price for its persecution of the Jewish people. The world will neither forgive nor forget a genocide against the Uighur people. But Pope Francis remains silent who has been the most outspoken pope ever. Extending support to the environment, poverty and LGBT campaigns. He has been a proponent of inter-religious dialogue too. In 2014, after he was elected pope, the Muslim community called him a friend. He is the only pope to visit the largely Islamic West Asia. In 2017 while delivering a speech in Myanmar he demanded respect for the Rohingyas. China and the Vatican are expected to talk in September regarding the appointment of bishops to the churches in China. The two sides are expected to renew an agreement that was signed in 2018. As per that agreement, China recommends the bishops, the pope approves them. The Vatican agreed to these terms just to ensure Christianity stays alive in communist China but Pope Francis soon realised China arm-twisted the Vatican. China set two-conditions. First, do not interfere with religious matters in China. Second, break ties with the Taiwanese government. The Pope is bowing to China. He has neither spoken about the Uighurs nor supported protests in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Chinese pressure? Pope Francis remains silent on Uighur Muslims

Pope Francis has called for international solidarity with Lebanon on Sunday after a massive explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and injuring 6,000. France has stepped in to help the country and is hosting an international donors conference to aid reconstruction efforts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bishop-who-defended-indigenous-people-dies-in-brazil-aged-92-319164" hreflang="en">Bishop who defended indigenous people dies in Brazil aged 92</a>

The pope urged all the church leaders in Lebanon to lead by example.

"Last Tuesday's catastrophe calls on all of us, starting with the Lebanese people, to work together for the common good of this beloved country," he said.

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The church in Lebanon should stay close to the people in their hour of need, with "solidarity and compassion", he said, speaking after weekly prayers in Saint Peter's Square.&nbsp;

"I also renew my appeal for generous help from the international community," he added.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron is currently hosting an UN-backed virtual conference to drum up aid for Lebanon after the massive Beirut port blast.

(Inputs from AFP)

Pope Francis has called for international solidarity with Lebanon on Sunday after a massive explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and injuring 6,000. France has stepped in to help the country and is hosting an international donors conference to aid reconstruction efforts.

Pope Francis has called for international solidarity with Lebanon on Sunday after a massive explosion in Beirut killed over 150 people and injuring 6,000. France has stepped in to help the country and is hosting an international donors conference to aid reconstruction efforts. Also read: Bishop who defended indigenous people dies in Brazil aged 92 The pope urged all the church leaders in Lebanon to lead by example. "Last Tuesday's catastrophe calls on all of us, starting with the Lebanese people, to work together for the common good of this beloved country," he said. × The church in Lebanon should stay close to the people in their hour of need, with "solidarity and compassion", he said, speaking after weekly prayers in Saint Peter's Square. "I also renew my appeal for generous help from the international community," he added. French President Emmanuel Macron is currently hosting an UN-backed virtual conference to drum up aid for Lebanon after the massive Beirut port blast. (Inputs from AFP)

Pope Francis urges international solidarity for Lebanon

Pope Francis has appointed six women to the 15-member Council for the Economy. These are some of the most senior roles offered to women in the Vatican City as of now.

Pope Francis appoints six women to Vatican Economic Council

China and Vatican expected to hold talks in September regarding the appointment of bishops to the churches of China.

The two sides are expected to renew an agreement that was signed in 2018. But China does not believe in playing fair and, therefore, decided to hack the Vatican.

China targeted the Vatican's computers and the holy see study mission to China which is a group of informal Vatican diplomats based in Hong Kong negotiating the catholic church's status with China.

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The infiltrations began in early May by a state-sponsored Chinese group.

Experts say the modus operandi was very similar to recent Chinese-approved hacking operations. One of the attacks reportedly came in the form of a fake letter.

&nbsp;Beijing has already bought the pope's silence as he does not say a word against China. He does not even exercise the little power he has in the selection of bishops for China.

Experts say China infiltrated the Vatican as it wanted to find out the Vatican's relation to Hong Kong mission. It also wanted to snoop on the group's position on Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement.

China has previously launched cyberattacks on Buddhist Tibetans, Uighur Muslims and Falun Gong practitioners outside China.&nbsp;

When asked about the allegations of hacking the Vatican, China called itself a defender of cybersecurity.&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, to impress China the Vatican has maintained a stoic silence on Uighurs and Hong Kong.&nbsp;

The pope even chose to skip a portion of his Sunday address script just because it referred to the Hong Kong security law.&nbsp;

The world is pulling up Beijing for its hammering of international law, cybersecurity and global health but the Vatican is quiet?

China and Vatican expected to hold talks in September regarding the appointment of bishops to the churches of China. The two sides are expected to renew an agreement that was signed in 2018.

China and Vatican expected to hold talks in September regarding the appointment of bishops to the churches of China. The two sides are expected to renew an agreement that was signed in 2018. But China does not believe in playing fair and, therefore, decided to hack the Vatican. China targeted the Vatican's computers and the holy see study mission to China which is a group of informal Vatican diplomats based in Hong Kong negotiating the catholic church's status with China. × The infiltrations began in early May by a state-sponsored Chinese group. Experts say the modus operandi was very similar to recent Chinese-approved hacking operations. One of the attacks reportedly came in the form of a fake letter. Beijing has already bought the pope's silence as he does not say a word against China. He does not even exercise the little power he has in the selection of bishops for China. Experts say China infiltrated the Vatican as it wanted to find out the Vatican's relation to Hong Kong mission. It also wanted to snoop on the group's position on Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement. China has previously launched cyberattacks on Buddhist Tibetans, Uighur Muslims and Falun Gong practitioners outside China. When asked about the allegations of hacking the Vatican, China called itself a defender of cybersecurity. Meanwhile, to impress China the Vatican has maintained a stoic silence on Uighurs and Hong Kong. The pope even chose to skip a portion of his Sunday address script just because it referred to the Hong Kong security law. The world is pulling up Beijing for its hammering of international law, cybersecurity and global health but the Vatican is quiet?

Pope Francis' silence is puzzling as Chinese hackers infiltrate Vatican

Luigi Ventura, Pope Francis's former ambassador to France will stand trial for alleged sexual assault, according to newswire AFP.

Ventura had resigned from his post after police had questioned him on sexual assault charges. Ventura is set to appear in court in November.

He was also accused by four male of sexual misconduct. Ventura has denied the allegation. A similar complaint was also filed in Ottawa when Ventura was serving in Ottawa in 2008.&nbsp;

The church has been hit by a plethora of sexual assault charges in the past few years. Last month, Pope Francis has asked the Polish Bishop Edward Janiak to step down over alleged sexual abuse of children.

Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Grzegorz Rys to run the Polish diocese of Kalisz.

In March, Pope Francis had accepted the resignation of French Cardinal Philippe Barbarin,69 for failing to report an alleged paedophile priest. The French cardinal was accused by victims of ignoring child abuse cases.

A Lyon court had convicted Barbarin but a French appeals court had overruled it as Barbarin was given a six-month suspended jail sentence before it was overturned by the court. The judge said that Barbarin should have reported the incidents.

Last year, the Pope had abolished the rule of "pontifical secrecy" in cases of sex abuse investigations. The pope issued two documents which forbade imposing obligation of silence on those who report sex abuse or allege to have been the victim.

The documents known as rescriptum is when the Pope can use his authority to rewrite specific articles of canon law or parts of previous papal documents.

&nbsp;

Luigi Ventura, Pope Francis's former ambassador to France will stand trial for alleged sexual assault, according to newswire AFP. Ventura had resigned from his post after police had questioned him on sexual assault charges.

Luigi Ventura, Pope Francis's former ambassador to France will stand trial for alleged sexual assault, according to newswire AFP. Ventura had resigned from his post after police had questioned him on sexual assault charges. Ventura is set to appear in court in November. He was also accused by four male of sexual misconduct. Ventura has denied the allegation. A similar complaint was also filed in Ottawa when Ventura was serving in Ottawa in 2008. The church has been hit by a plethora of sexual assault charges in the past few years. Last month, Pope Francis has asked the Polish Bishop Edward Janiak to step down over alleged sexual abuse of children. Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Grzegorz Rys to run the Polish diocese of Kalisz. In March, Pope Francis had accepted the resignation of French Cardinal Philippe Barbarin,69 for failing to report an alleged paedophile priest. The French cardinal was accused by victims of ignoring child abuse cases. A Lyon court had convicted Barbarin but a French appeals court had overruled it as Barbarin was given a six-month suspended jail sentence before it was overturned by the court. The judge said that Barbarin should have reported the incidents. Last year, the Pope had abolished the rule of "pontifical secrecy" in cases of sex abuse investigations. The pope issued two documents which forbade imposing obligation of silence on those who report sex abuse or allege to have been the victim. The documents known as rescriptum is when the Pope can use his authority to rewrite specific articles of canon law or parts of previous papal documents.

Pope's ex-envoy Luigi Ventura to stand trial on sex assault charges

Pope Francis said on Sunday (July 12) he was hurt by Turkey's decision to make Istanbul's Hagia Sophia museum a mosque, the latest religious leader to condemn the move.

Pope "very pained" by decision to turn Istanbul's Hagia Sophia museum into mosque

Pope Francis said Sunday he was "very distressed" over Turkey's decision to convert the Byzantine-era monument Hagia Sophia back into a mosque. "My thoughts go to Istanbul.

Pope Francis said Sunday he was "very distressed" over Turkey's decision to convert the Byzantine-era monument Hagia Sophia back into a mosque. "My thoughts go to Istanbul. I'm thinking about Hagia Sophia. I am very distressed," the pope said. A top Turkish court on Friday revoked the Byzantine-era Hagia Sophia's status as a museum, clearing the way for it to be turned back into a mosque, according to reports. Also read - In pics: Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia's fate hangs in balance The Council of State, which was debating a case brought by a Turkish NGO, cancelled a 1934 cabinet decision and ruled the UNESCO World Heritage site would be reopened to Muslim worshipping. The proposal has been criticised by several religious and political leaders, including the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarch, spirtual leader of the world’s Orthodox Christians, as well as Greece, France and the United States. Also read: UNESCO warns Turkey against Hagia Sophia mosque conversion US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the Greek government have also urged Turkey to keep the building as a museum. Converting Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia monument from a museum to a mosque would be “unacceptable”, a senior official in the Russian Orthodox Church said on Saturday. Erdogan has described foreign criticism over the proposal as an attack on Turkey’s sovereignty. As 2023 approaches, this structure is his lifeboat in sailing through the ongoing economic crisis.

Pope Francis voices distress over Turkey's Hagia Sophia conversion to mosque

From refusing to support the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement to maintaining silence when China decided to remove crosses from its Church - Pope Francis has never spoken a word against Beijing. At the latest, the Pope strayed away from his script to avoid mentioning Hong Kong. Is this the Pope's neutrality or politics?

Gravitas: Did the Pope turn his back on pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong?

Pope Francis has asked the Polish Bishop to step down after&nbsp;Church leaders in Poland announced that they were referring Bishop Edward Janiak to the Vatican for eventual judgement.

Janiak was accused of protecting the priests who allegedly&nbsp;sexually abused children.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-thanks-angelic-doctors-in-his-first-post-lockdown-audience-307296">Also read:&nbsp;Pope Francis thanks 'angelic' doctors in his first post-lockdown audience</a>

Pope Francis has now appointed an administrator on Thursday to run the Polish diocese of Kalisz. However, Janiak will remain the Bishop of Kalisz till the accusations are proved.

The Pope has appointed Archbishop Grzegorz Rys of the city of Lodz as apostolic administrator, a temporary post.

The incident came to light&nbsp;when a film 'Playing Hide and Seek'&nbsp;by brothers Tomasz and Marek Sekielski showed how Janiak did not take any action against the priests who had sexually abused children. The movie, that gathered 23 million views on YouTube, focused on the different ways the Bishop shielded the paedophiles.

Pope Francis has asked the Polish Bishop to step down after Church leaders in Poland announced that they were referring Bishop Edward Janiak to the Vatican for eventual judgement.

Pope Francis has asked the Polish Bishop to step down after Church leaders in Poland announced that they were referring Bishop Edward Janiak to the Vatican for eventual judgement. Janiak was accused of protecting the priests who allegedly sexually abused children. Also read: Pope Francis thanks 'angelic' doctors in his first post-lockdown audience Pope Francis has now appointed an administrator on Thursday to run the Polish diocese of Kalisz. However, Janiak will remain the Bishop of Kalisz till the accusations are proved. The Pope has appointed Archbishop Grzegorz Rys of the city of Lodz as apostolic administrator, a temporary post. The incident came to light when a film 'Playing Hide and Seek' by brothers Tomasz and Marek Sekielski showed how Janiak did not take any action against the priests who had sexually abused children. The movie, that gathered 23 million views on YouTube, focused on the different ways the Bishop shielded the paedophiles.

Pope Francis replaces Polish Bishop who is accused of hiding sexual predators

The drastic reduction in pollution during coronavirus lockdowns around the world should lead to greater concern for the environment as restrictions are lifted, Pope Francis said on Sunday (June 21).

Pope says coronavirus should spark new environmental awareness

Pope Francis has appealed for peace from both sides in the ongoing Libyan civil war. He has urged the international community to take steps to protect the&nbsp;refugees and migrants.

In his Sunday afternoon address at the&nbsp;St. Peter's Square, he said he was pained to see the ongoing Libyan civil war.

"Please! I urge international bodies and those who have political and military responsibilities to restart, with conviction and resolve, the search for a path towards an end to violence, leading to peace, stability and unity in the country," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/education-is-listening-and-celebrating-life-pope-francis-says-in-video-conference-with-latin-first-ladies-304315">Also watch:&nbsp;'Education is listening and celebrating life', Pope Francis says in video conference with Latin first ladies</a>

Talking about the pandemic and the apparent deteriorating condition of the refugees and migrants in the Libyan migration detention centres, he said, "There is cruelty. I call on the international community - Please! - to take their plight to heart ... Brothers and sisters, we all have responsibility in this. No-one can consider themselves dispensed from this."

Libya has been suffering due to a destabilized&nbsp;central authority since dictator Muammar al-Gaddafi was overthrown by NATO-backed rebels in 2011.

The streets of war-torn Libya are usually seen being patrolled by&nbsp;armed groups, and the country has had rival parliaments and governments in the east and the west for the past few years now.

This has been causing severe tense and violent environment in the country.&nbsp;Libya is divided between the Libyan National Army (LNA) and the rival Government of National Accord (GNA) with nations split over their support of the LNA or the GNA.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pope Francis has appealed for peace from both sides in the ongoing Libyan civil war. He has urged the international community to take steps to protect the refugees and migrants.

Pope Francis has appealed for peace from both sides in the ongoing Libyan civil war. He has urged the international community to take steps to protect the refugees and migrants. In his Sunday afternoon address at the St. Peter's Square, he said he was pained to see the ongoing Libyan civil war. "Please! I urge international bodies and those who have political and military responsibilities to restart, with conviction and resolve, the search for a path towards an end to violence, leading to peace, stability and unity in the country," he said. Also watch: 'Education is listening and celebrating life', Pope Francis says in video conference with Latin first ladies Talking about the pandemic and the apparent deteriorating condition of the refugees and migrants in the Libyan migration detention centres, he said, "There is cruelty. I call on the international community - Please! - to take their plight to heart ... Brothers and sisters, we all have responsibility in this. No-one can consider themselves dispensed from this." Libya has been suffering due to a destabilized central authority since dictator Muammar al-Gaddafi was overthrown by NATO-backed rebels in 2011. The streets of war-torn Libya are usually seen being patrolled by armed groups, and the country has had rival parliaments and governments in the east and the west for the past few years now. This has been causing severe tense and violent environment in the country. Libya is divided between the Libyan National Army (LNA) and the rival Government of National Accord (GNA) with nations split over their support of the LNA or the GNA. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pope Francis calls for help to end Libyan civil war

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