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Pope Francis becomes the first Pope ever to address a Joint Session of the United States Congress. Afterwards, he greets onlookers at the National Mall. He addresses many issues: abortion and the sanctity of life, the importance of the family and of marriage, climate change, immigration and the refugee crises caused by global unrest, proper business conduct, and worldwide abolition of capital punishment.
2015-09-24

In his first public statement since his resignation, former Pope Benedict XVI denies that he covered up child sexual abuse cases involving priests during his tenure.
2013-09-23

Black smoke rises from the Vatican's Sistine Chapel, signalling that Roman Catholic Cardinals had not elected a new pope in the morning session of the second day of voting at their conclave.
2013-03-13

The Vatican announces that the 2013 papal conclave to select a new pope will begin on March 12.
2013-03-8

Pope Benedict XVI announces his resignation, effective February 28 at 8pm CET (7pm UTC). He will become the first pope to resign since Gregory XII in 1415.
2013-02-11

Pope Benedict XVI calls for a political solution to the conflict in Syria during his Christmas message, delivered to thousands of pilgrims in Vatican City.
2012-12-25

Pope Benedict XVI delivers the annual Christmas message at Saint Peter's Square and holds the traditional Mass at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.
2012-12-25

Pope Benedict XVI sends his first Twitter message with an assist using his personal account (pontifex Benedict XVI).
2012-12-12

Pope Benedict XVI adds Arabic to weekly Vatican address in front of pilgrims.
2012-10-10

Pope John Paul II is beatified by Pope Benedict XVI in Saint Peter's Square, Rome.
2011-05-1