Pope Francis

The split dates from when Christianity first spread through the Roman Empire. Friday's meeting between Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill is the culmination of longstanding efforts to promote dialogue.

The Vatican and the Moscow Patriarchate say it's the first meeting between leaders of the two churches, which split in the 11th century.

It was the first meeting between a pope and an Iranian head of state since 1999, which was the last time an Iranian leader toured Europe.

Thousands of Cubans have been stuck in Costa Rica as they attempt to make their way to the United States.

This year alone, he visited the Central African Republic, issued a major environment document and chaired a contentious meeting of world bishops on family issues. What's next for the Pope?

Pope Francis has issued a decree attributing a second miracle to the founder of the Missionaries of Charity who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.

This is only the 30th jubilee since the Catholic Church began the celebration in the year 1300.

He spoke about bribery, war, water and peace between Muslims and Christians — but stayed silent on gay rights.

The pope arrives in the country on Friday. Commentators James Kassaga Arinaitwe and Viviane Rutabingwa give him a crash course in the country's issues.

Fifty years ago, 40 bishops signed a pledge to make Catholicism a church for the poor. It was soon set aside, but with Pope Francis focused on the downtrodden, that notion could be revived.

The pontiff is expected to address issues of religious tolerance, economic inequality and global warming while he travels through Kenya, Uganda and the war-torn Central African Republic.

During a papal visit, the media swarm and security is intense. He speaks of issues that face the country. After he goes, is there any lasting legacy?