Pope Benedict XVI advanced the sainthood causes of Pope John Paul II and Pope Pius XII, declaring that both had lived lives of "heroic virtues."

This year’s Vatican Christmas tree is from the Wallonia region of Belgium.

Negotiators from small nations were outraged when an agreement was leaked that included generous emissions for industrialized nations.

“As the legislation moves forward, the Archdiocese of Washington will continue its dialogue with the council,” said Susan Gibbs, spokeswoman for the archdiocese.

“It is inconceivable that with more than 100 world leaders gathered together in one room...they have failed to commit themselves to adequate and binding obligations," said the secretary general of Cidse.

Bishop Howard J. Hubbard, the chair of the committee, called for the development of "specific criteria" for troop withdrawal.