“During the cordial discussions, satisfaction was expressed for the good existing bilateral relations between the Holy See and the United States of America, as well as the joint commitment in favour of life, and freedom of worship and conscience” – The Holy See Press Office.

The legacy of the Treaty of Rome is to continue the work begun by previous generations who courageously and prophetically sought to establish a better future for all – Bishop Noel Treanor.

His Holiness baptises 28 infants during a joyful – if noisy – Sistine Chapel Mass.

The Vatican Museums include the Sistine Chapel and more than 50 different galleries with 200,000 objects in its collections, 20,000 of which are on public display. There are 27,000 square feet of frescoes, and 4.35 miles of exhibit space.

The opening sequence of the concert is a screen presentation of creation with the Sistine Chapel Choir.

“When they asked if I wanted to be the first contemporary artist to play in the Sistine Chapel, I didn't know what to say because usually there's this other guy who sings.”

“Don’t just prepare your rucksacks and your banners – but your hearts and minds as well”.

In new book, Pontiff states “The Church does not exist to condemn people, but to bring about an encounter with the visceral love of God’s mercy.”