Francis’ remarks are likely to antagonise pro-LGBT+ groups,since surrogacy is often used by gay or lesbian partners who want to have children.
Roman Catholic priests can administer blessings to same-sex couples as long as they are not part of regular Church rituals or liturgies,the Vatican said.
The pope,who turns 87 on Sunday,has decided to be buried outside the Vatican.
The best photos from the international wire agencies as chosen by our picture editors.
Russia’s bloody invasion of its neighbour Ukraine is widely seen as an attempt by Moscow to resurrect its empire.
Pope Francis delivered a short,improvised but impassioned address at what has been dubbed the Catholic Woodstock,telling young people nothing is free in life but God’s love.
Francis seems aware that he has limited time to solidify changes he believes necessary for the 21st century church – and where better to display them than a World Youth Day.
Often dismissed as a “sign of defeat”,that essential winter coat is having a moment.
Increasingly,the men who will vote for whoever succeeds Francis,are churchmen supportive of his values.
The 86-year-old pope was taken to hospital after his weekly general audience in St Peter’s Square.
One of the Catholic Church’s leading proponents of the Voice says the PM and the opposition leader bear responsibility for the tone of the debate.