“It became clear that the line in the sand had turned into a canyon. This protocol graciously allows us to continue to live out the mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, albeit in different expressions,” says Methodist Bishop Thomas Bickerton.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life tells Intercom "the Roman Curia is overloaded with clerics, and it shouldn’t be like that.”

Prefect of the Vatican’s new Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life has said he believes Pope Francis’ visit to Ireland will change some of the negativity here towards the Catholic Church.

Mauritius prelate studied for the priesthood in Ireland, while the Prefect of the new Dicastery for Laity, the Family and Life was born in Dublin.

"All lives matter: black, white, Muslim, Christian, Hindu. We are all children of God and all human life is precious.”

Bishop Kevin J. Farrell is a brother of Bishop Brian Farrell who is based in the Vatican.