World Jewish Congress president Ronald Lauder visits Pope Francis while inaugurating the organization’s 'representative office to the Holy See' late last week

In his second round of remarks since the terror onslaught on Saturday, the religious leader calls for the 'immediate release' of the roughly 200 people abducted

Ursula von der Leyen says Europe stands with Israel, supports its right to defend itself; Germany offers aid, including military if wanted; pope calls for hostages to be freed

New appointees expected to help Francis reform church and cement his legacy; Latin Patriarch Pizzaballa says nomination will 'raise the voice of Jerusalem'

Pierbattista Pizzaballa, 58, chosen by pontiff along with 20 others; church head expresses hope for dialogue between Israel and Palestinians, given recent violence

86-year-old pontiff has hernia repaired two years after part of his colon was removed

Pontiff calls for recovery of 'European spirit,' warns against 'withdrawing into oneself' during speech in Budapest to audience including anti-immigrant prime minister

Bloodshed 'threatens desired climate of trust and mutual respect needed to resume dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians' pontiff says in traditional sermon

After hospitalization for bronchitis, 86-year-old pontiff battles hoarseness, talks about 'solitude of sickness' during Mass address at St. Peter's Square

86-year-old pontiff smiles and jokes with the crowd as he headed to Vatican to begin preparations for Holy Week and Easter, the most important week in the Christian calendar