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
Understanding the reasons for the conviction of Päivi Räsänen
Report warns of continued anti-Christian hostility across Europe during April
Christians petition for protection of pastors in Colombia following murders
Pastor Greg Locke's 20-year-old son dies from drug overdose
Who was Mother Julian of Norwich and why is she important?
Young Christians engaging with Bible more, survey finds
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
Christian charities Home for Good and Safe Families UK are calling on churches across Britain to play a greater role in supporting vulnerable children.
Eritrea is sometimes called the "North Korea of Africa".
A survey conducted on behalf of environmental charity Green Christian has suggested that only a minority of churches take into account ethical concerns when serving food and drink.
The 79-year-old Protestant missionary has been missing for more than six weeks.
