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
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International Christian Concern reported more than 80 incidents in India, some of them violent, over Christmas.
Already more Christians are killed for their faith in Nigeria than all other countries combined.
