Some people always will want to destroy unity and stifle prophets, Pope Francis said on the feast of Saints Peter and Paul.

Among the many titles under which Catholics invoke Mary, Pope Francis has asked them to add “Mother of Mercy”, “Mother of Hope”, and “Comfort of Migrants”.

The Eucharist heals people of their wounds, emptiness and sadness, and gives them the strength to share Christ’s loving mercy with others, Pope Francis said.

Pope Francis has last week advanced the sainthood causes of two women and 11 men, including a miracle attributed to Blessed Charles de Foucauld.

Pope Francis prayed for people living in countries where COVID-19 is still causing a huge number of deaths, and he cautioned people in Italy to continue to be careful and follow health precautions.

Together with a religious sister who survived COVID-19 and a woman who lost her mother to the deadly virus, Pope Francis led the recitation of rosary by asking Mary to intercede to save the world from the pandemic.

St Peter’s Square was open to the public on 24 May, the Solemnity of the Ascension, and scores of visitors turned up for Pope Francis’ midday prayer and blessing.

The Vatican has last weekend announced that it will commemorate the fifth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment with a yearlong series of initiatives dedicated to the safeguarding and care for the Earth.

More than 100 young adults are this weekend expected to virtually attend the Sacramentum conference, organised by Catholic Youth Ministry Perth (CYM). However, this time, from their homes, and at no cost.

As countries continue to reel from the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic, Pope Francis offered prayers for the men and women who have been unable to work.