In an unexpected diplomatic initiative to consolidate the fragile peace accord in Colombia, Pope Francis on Dec. 14 brought together the country's president, Juan Manuel Santos, and his archrival, former president Senator Álvaro Uribe, a strong opponent of the accord.

The pope zoned in forcefully on a central aspect of the life of the Roman Curia, the papal civil service.

The Holy See declared that it is closely monitoring what is happening to the church in China and asked for “positive signals” from Beijing.

The Spanish monsignor was condemned to 18 months in prison for his role in the leaking of Vatican financial documents.

Francis said that at his stage of life one has to move even faster.

Barbara Jatta, 54, is an Italian art historian and graphic arts expert, who had been serving as vice-director of the museums since June.