We deeply admire the (very serious) work of Pope Francis, but it's been a gusty year at the Vatican and the pontiff has struggled more than once to keep hold of his hat. Here's the lighter side of the pope's year in pictures:
1. New take on the dog collar
2. Papa Smurf
3. Peekaboo
4. 'Doh'
5. Call me Kung Fu Francis
6. The flying saucer
7. 'Err... I can't see where I'm going'
8. Blowing his nose
Evangelical leader resigns canon title over controversial same-sex blessings
Worship leader Ron Kenoly dies at 81
New 'Islamophobia' definition rejected by representatives of all major faiths
Young struggle to understand 'problematic' Jesus
Darlington Nurses, Päivi Räsänen warn US about declining freedom in Britain and Europe
Darlington nurse describes brave stand for biological reality in US speech
Vatican to install showers for the homeless in St Peter's Square
Pope to raffle gifts including panama hat, Fiat Panda and espresso machine to raise money for the poor
Pope Francis: Don't proselytise, instead heal the sick and seek the lost
Why Pope Francis won't meet the Dalai Lama
Pope Francis thanks Salvation Army for teaching him about Christian unity as a small boy
The message, read in Catholic parishes nationwide, warned that further pressure on fuel access would fall most heavily on vulnerable families already struggling to survive.
Foreign pastors are often labelled "national security" threats.
The funding package includes new grants for two national charities working with clergy facing psychological strain and financial pressure.
Fragments of a long-lost medieval shrine honouring St William of York have returned to York Minster for the first time in nearly 500 years, marking a major moment in the cathedral’s history and a highlight of its programme for 2026.
