"The South Sudanese people have suffered too much these past years and are awaiting—with great hope—a better future, especially the permanent end of conflicts and a long-lasting peace," Pope Francis said.

As the U.S. bishops begin their meetings with Pope Francis, held every five years, here are some of the topics that need to be discussed.

What were the results of the Amazon synod?

In a statement issued late Nov. 7, James Rogers, the USCCB's chief communications officer, took issue with Ivereigh's account.

Pope Francis urged greater efforts to reform prison systems, address the root causes of crime and ensure acceptance and reintegration once a person completes his or her sentence.

Francis said that “to follow Jesus among the crucified” in today’s world involves many tasks.