Francis in Bulgaria and North Macedonia

The Vatican commission studying the history of women serving as deacons in the Catholic Church has been unable to find consensus on their role in the early centuries of Christianity and is yet to give a "definitive response," Pope Francis said May 7.

Pope Francis became the first Catholic pope to visit North Macedonia May 7, in a trip meant to encourage the Balkan nation as it seeks to end a dispute with Greece in order to join the European Union.

Prayers for peace are important, but they must lead those praying to roll up their sleeves, reach out their hands and open their hearts, Pope Francis said at an interreligious meeting in Sofia.

Pope Francis encouraged Iraqi and Syrian refugees adapting to life in Eastern Europe May 6, telling them to have hope despite whatever sufferings they have endured.

God is love, but too many Christians live their faith in a way that undermines any attempt to communicate that essential fact to others, Pope Francis said.

Sofia, Bulgaria: Opening a two-day visit to Bulgaria with a speech outside the presidential palace, Pope Francis said he wished to "respectfully suggest" that Bulgarians "not close your eyes, your hearts, or your minds … to those who knock at your door."