The pope’s comments have provoked consternation among previous admirers, who worry that he is walking back the more pastoral approach to L.G.B.T. Catholics that has been his hallmark, and rejoicing among some of his usual critics, who complain that his persistent emphasis on mercy can sometimes break church doctrine.

Pope Francis expressed his condolences for the death of the 41st president of the United States, George H.W. Bush.

Donations to enter the contest begin at $10.

Although he was addressing some 60 staff and students from the Gesu in Rome, Francis’ message seemed to be addressed to the worldwide Jesuit community.

Pope Francis has been quoted as saying that having gays in the clergy "is something that worries me" and remarking that some societies are considering homosexuality a "fashionable" lifestyle.

It is not easy living with cancer, but there is always some kind of victory that awaits each person on the horizon, Pope Francis told young oncology patients from Poland.