The pope's words can be read as an answer to those who hope his pontificate may end soon.

Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos had said the pontiff promised him he would visit Colombia if the government and the rebel group signed a peace agreement.

Four cardinals are pressing their case and arguing that the issue is dividing the Catholic Church.

Pope Francis encouraged Cardinal Lacroix and the bishops from Quebec to be a missionary church, “a church that goes out, reaches out to people.”

Being a saint doesn't require spending long hours in prayer, but rather living life open to God in good times and in bad, Pope Francis said.

The consolidation is a work in progress. The brethren have mixed feelings about it, and their provincials know it.