The elderly may be "hidden exiles" who are marginalised and treated as burdens within their own families.

Young people to provide sign of 'visible communion' in Strasbourg.

From January, Roman parishes to apply to attend Pope’s daily Mass at Casa Santa Marta.

Some of those discriminated against live in countries where human rights are guaranteed 'on paper'.

Pontiff called on God to protect the earth “frequently exploited by human greed and rapacity.”

"We easily forget how deeply the narrative of Jesus, Mary and Joseph has shaped Ireland and Europe."

Time spent in prayer followed by a private meeting at Mater Ecclesiae monastery.

Papal trip will include Mass in Bethlehem.

“Family and home go together.”

Unprecedented interest has people queuing in Dublin store waiting for reprints to arrive.

Annual charity appeal to be launched by the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin.

Twenty-five metre Christmas tree gifted by Bavarian town to Vatican City.

"We must discover ways and structures to do so," Bishop Brendan Leahy suggests.

Pontiff warns of “tragic phenomenon” of human trafficking, in which the “unscrupulous prey on the lives and the desperation of others.”

'Pope Francis effect' results in marked upsurge in interest in the papacy in 2013.

"The speed with which he has captured the imaginations of millions who had given up on hoping for the church at all."

"A true visionary and a powerful advocate for the need to engage in the harsh realities created by conflict in a spirit of truth, justice and human rights."

Pope Francis described as a man of "extraordinary prophetic vision and stature."

Church leader expresses “horror” at brutal killing in the Phoenix Park.

Pontiff tells leaders of religious orders they should not tolerate corruption.

Pontiff prays for peace in the Holy Land, Syria and the Middle East.

"Most striking witness” to contemplative life given by Pope Emeritus - Bishop Boyce.

“I’m not contagious, but (the Pope) didn’t know that."

Mass to be offered for the people of the Philippines and Syria in Armagh on Sunday.

Pontiff urges pilgrims to look up the date of their baptism and celebrate it.

Archbishop Martin asks that proceeds be directed towards relief efforts for two disasters.

Pontiff deeply saddened by destruction and loss of life caused by super typhoon.

Crowds unite with Pope in prayer for healing of gravely ill child.

Media speculation focuses on Irish theologian from TCD.

By then there will be 106 cardinals under 80 who are therefore eligible to vote in a conclave.