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Pope Francis leaves Ireland with plea for 'sins of church' to be forgiven

Justice must be pursued for victims of clerical abuse, insists Francis

Pope Francis arrives as people gather for the Closing Mass in Phoenix Park Expand
The Pope with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar Expand
Attendees wave flags Expand
A protest march in Dublin Expand
Pope Francis waves from the steps of his plane yesterday Expand
Pope Francis signing the visitors book at Aras an Uachtarain watched by President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina Expand

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Pope Francis arrives as people gather for the Closing Mass in Phoenix Park

Pope Francis arrives as people gather for the Closing Mass in Phoenix Park

Picture: Ronan McGrade

The Pope with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar

The Pope with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar

(Credit too long, see caption)

Attendees wave flags

Attendees wave flags

Getty Images

A protest march in Dublin

A protest march in Dublin

RollingNews.ie

Pope Francis waves from the steps of his plane yesterday

Pope Francis waves from the steps of his plane yesterday

AFP/Getty Images

Pope Francis signing the visitors book at Aras an Uachtarain watched by President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina

Pope Francis signing the visitors book at Aras an Uachtarain watched by President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina

PA

/

Pope Francis arrives as people gather for the Closing Mass in Phoenix Park

By Alf McCreary

Pope Francis made a dramatic plea for forgiveness for the decades of abuse carried out by the Catholic Church before he ended his historic visit to Ireland yesterday.

His strongly-worded statement at the Phoenix Park Mass, to pursue justice for victims of clerical abuse, was handwritten and delivered in Spanish, which took many people including the Italian interpreter by surprise.

A total of 500,000 tickets were snapped up for the Mass in Dublin but the crowd appeared significantly smaller.

The pontiff told those pilgrims who braved the rain: "We ask forgiveness in Ireland, for our abuse of power, conscience and sexual abuses perpetrated by members with roles of responsibility in the Church.

"In a special way we ask pardon for all the abuses committed in various types of institutions run by male and female religious, and by other members of the Church. And we ask for forgiveness for those cases of exploitation through manual work that many young women and men were exploited to."

He was applauded when he also asked for forgiveness for "all the times single mothers had been told that to seek their children, whom they had been separated from, was a mortal sin, and sons and daughters were told the same. This was not a mortal sin".

The pontiff ended the prayer by asking: "Give us the strength to work for justice. Amen."

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There had been criticism from abuse survivors and many others that the Pope had not gone far enough in his opening speech to a wide-ranging and distinguished audience in Dublin Castle shortly after his arrival on Saturday.

By contrast, the speech that day by Taioseach Leo Varadkar was regarded as a firm, direct and balanced warning that the Church must show action in dealing practically with sex abuse, rather that issuing continuing apologies.

Just prior to his apology at Closing Mass, the Pope said he had spent time on Saturday in Dublin with a group of victims of sexual abuse. The group included Fr Patrick McCafferty from Belfast, who suffered clerical abuse in his earlier life.

Pope Francis prays inside St Mary's Pro Cathedral during his visit to Dublin, Ireland. (Stefano Rellandini/Pool Photo via AP) Expand
Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Micheal D. Higgins awaiting Pope Francis arrival at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
Pope Francis is greeted by a delegation of clergy and representatives from Ireland West Airport as he arrives at the airport in Knock in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pilgrims wait for the arrival of Pope Francis at Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo where he will view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis is greeted by a delegation of clergy and representatives from Ireland West Airport as he arrives at the airport in Knock in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
A gust of win blows Pope Francis' cape as he speaks at the Knock Shrine, in Knock, Ireland, Sunday, Aug. 26, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison) Expand
Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Audrey Elliott with the signed Co Mayo jersey by Pope Francis at Ireland West Airport, Knock in County Mayo, which she hopes will lift the Mayo 'curse' so the team can win an All-Ireland title. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. The Co Mayo curse dates back to the last All-Ireland winning Mayo team of 1951 who were said to be cursed on their victory drive home from Dublin with the winning cup. See PA story IRISH Pope Airport. Photo credit should read: Cate McCurry/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis with pilgrims at Knock Shrine, County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
Pope Francis at Knock Shrine, County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
People gather in Dublin's Phoenix park ahead of the arrival of Pope Francis for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope Colour. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Orlagh McGlade, from Armagh, in Dublin's Phoenix park ahead of the arrival of Pope Francis for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope Colour. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Members of the Garda Síochána - the police service of the Republic of Ireland - in the rain await Pope Francis to board his plane to depart from the airport in Knock in County Mayo, after a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
A message to Pope France is tied to the fence of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by the pontiff. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Childrens toys are place at Scoil Mhuire primary school in Tuam, Co Galway in protest to Pope Francis visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. The Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes was set up following claims of mass burials of hundreds of children at the Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrive to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Expand
An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Expand
An aerial view of the crowd / Pope Francis at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrive to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Sex abuse victim William Gorry (left) showing emotions as he joins clerical sex abuse protesters at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Bed sheets with names of deceased children tied to the fence of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by the Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis speaks at the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Expand
People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
The Stand4Truth protest at the Garden of Remembrance to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Micheal D. Higgins awaiting Pope Francis arrival at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Brian Lawless/PA Wire. Expand
Cardinal Kevin Farrell (left) and Pope Francis enjoying the performances at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis speaking at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis speaking at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis waves to the audience as he leaves Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, after attending the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis prays at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis prays at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis speaks to the audience at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Performers at Croke Park in Dublin, prior to the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Crowds and performers at Croke Park in Dublin, in preparation for the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis waves to the crowd as he arrives at the Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia) Expand
Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives at the Croke Park stadium for the Festival of Families, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) Expand
Crowds and performers at Croke Park in Dublin, in preparation for the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
People hold up lights at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, as Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 where he will hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on Christchurch, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on O'Connell Street, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pauline Gallagher (right) with her daughters Amelia and Alana after seeing Pope Francis on College Green, Dublin, as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis greets Aidan Walsh, during a visit to the Capuchin Day Centre on Bowe Street in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis shakes hands with Br Kevin Crowley as he arrives for a visit to the Capuchin Day Centre on Bowe Street in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis speaks during his visit to the Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (Tiziana Fabi/Pool Photo via AP) Expand
Pope Francis during a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis during a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on Christchurch, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis meets with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Dublin Castle as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis meets with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, right, as he arrives at Dublin Castle, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) Expand
Pope Francis signs a guest book as he meets with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia) Expand
Pope Francis arrives for a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin to meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Stephen O'Brien selling bottles of holy water from the St Mary's Pro Cathedral on Talbot Street, Dublin, during the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives for a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin to meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Pairs of baby shoes hang from the railings on Sean McDermott Street in Dublin in memory of the children who died at the Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam, Co Galway, during the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Supporters wait to see Pope Francis outside Our Lady of Lourdes Church on Sean McDermott Street, Dublin, the resting place of Matt Talbot, on the first day of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis at St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, prior to his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis kisses a young girl at the end of his meeting with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia) Expand
Priests await the arrival of Pope Francis to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, where he will meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Crowds wait for Pope Francis at College Green, Dublin, prior to him travelling through Dublin in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis delivers a speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis (left) shakes hands with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar after his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis speaks with President Michael D Higgins in his study during a visit to Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis (left) shakes hands with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar after his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis (centre right) arriving at St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar (centre left) after his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis (centre right) leaves St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar (centre left) after his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis speaks with President Michael D Higgins in his study during a visit to Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis delivers his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis presents Taoiseach Leo Varadkar with a gift as they meet at Dublin Castle during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis signs the arrivals book as he meets with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Dublin Castle as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire Expand
The Hassoun family, (left to right not given) Saif Eddin Hassoun, Sanaa Edris, Mohmoud Al A'Araj, Hasba Hassoun, Lana Al A'Araj (six), Aala Al A'Araj, (four) and Tala Al A'Araj (one), wait to meet Pope Francis following a tree planting ceremony at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives for tree planting ceremony during a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis receives a bouquet of flowers from five-year-old Annalise, daughter of Foreign Affairs minister Simon Coveney, as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Protestors wearing baby shoes, to signify the children who died in mother and baby homes in Ireland, protest in Dublin ahead of the start of the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis is greeted by Archbishop Eamon Martin as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis is greeted by members of the clergy, representatives of Government and the local County Council, as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Bishop Eamon Martin waits for the arrival of Pope Francis at Dublin International Airport, for the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire Expand
Pope Francis waves as he boards an airplane at Rome's Fiumicino international airport, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. The pontiff is traveling to Ireland for a two-day visit on the occasion of the 2018 World Meeting of Families. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) Expand

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Pope Francis prays inside St Mary's Pro Cathedral during his visit to Dublin, Ireland. (Stefano Rellandini/Pool Photo via AP)

Pope Francis prays inside St Mary's Pro Cathedral during his visit to Dublin, Ireland. (Stefano Rellandini/Pool Photo via AP)

AP

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Micheal D. Higgins awaiting Pope Francis arrival at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Micheal D. Higgins awaiting Pope Francis arrival at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

Pope Francis is greeted by a delegation of clergy and representatives from Ireland West Airport as he arrives at the airport in Knock in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis is greeted by a delegation of clergy and representatives from Ireland West Airport as he arrives at the airport in Knock in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Pilgrims wait for the arrival of Pope Francis at Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo where he will view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Pilgrims wait for the arrival of Pope Francis at Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo where he will view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis is greeted by a delegation of clergy and representatives from Ireland West Airport as he arrives at the airport in Knock in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis is greeted by a delegation of clergy and representatives from Ireland West Airport as he arrives at the airport in Knock in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

A gust of win blows Pope Francis' cape as he speaks at the Knock Shrine, in Knock, Ireland, Sunday, Aug. 26, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)

A gust of win blows Pope Francis' cape as he speaks at the Knock Shrine, in Knock, Ireland, Sunday, Aug. 26, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison)

AP

Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Audrey Elliott with the signed Co Mayo jersey by Pope Francis at Ireland West Airport, Knock in County Mayo, which she hopes will lift the Mayo 'curse' so the team can win an All-Ireland title. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. The Co Mayo curse dates back to the last All-Ireland winning Mayo team of 1951 who were said to be cursed on their victory drive home from Dublin with the winning cup. See PA story IRISH Pope Airport. Photo credit should read: Cate McCurry/PA Wire

Audrey Elliott with the signed Co Mayo jersey by Pope Francis at Ireland West Airport, Knock in County Mayo, which she hopes will lift the Mayo 'curse' so the team can win an All-Ireland title. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. The Co Mayo curse dates back to the last All-Ireland winning Mayo team of 1951 who were said to be cursed on their victory drive home from Dublin with the winning cup. See PA story IRISH Pope Airport. Photo credit should read: Cate McCurry/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Pope Francis during a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo to view the Apparition Chapel and to give the Angelus address, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis with pilgrims at Knock Shrine, County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Pope Francis with pilgrims at Knock Shrine, County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

Pope Francis at Knock Shrine, County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Pope Francis at Knock Shrine, County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

People gather in Dublin's Phoenix park ahead of the arrival of Pope Francis for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope Colour. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

People gather in Dublin's Phoenix park ahead of the arrival of Pope Francis for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope Colour. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Orlagh McGlade, from Armagh, in Dublin's Phoenix park ahead of the arrival of Pope Francis for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope Colour. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Orlagh McGlade, from Armagh, in Dublin's Phoenix park ahead of the arrival of Pope Francis for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope Colour. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Members of the Garda Síochána - the police service of the Republic of Ireland - in the rain await Pope Francis to board his plane to depart from the airport in Knock in County Mayo, after a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Members of the Garda Síochána - the police service of the Republic of Ireland - in the rain await Pope Francis to board his plane to depart from the airport in Knock in County Mayo, after a visit to Knock Holy Shrine, in County Mayo, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Clerical sex abuse protesters assemble at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

A message to Pope France is tied to the fence of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by the pontiff. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

A message to Pope France is tied to the fence of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by the pontiff. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Childrens toys are place at Scoil Mhuire primary school in Tuam, Co Galway in protest to Pope Francis visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. The Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes was set up following claims of mass burials of hundreds of children at the Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Childrens toys are place at Scoil Mhuire primary school in Tuam, Co Galway in protest to Pope Francis visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. The Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes was set up following claims of mass burials of hundreds of children at the Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrive to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrive to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

PA

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

PA

An aerial view of the crowd / Pope Francis at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

An aerial view of the crowd / Pope Francis at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrive to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrive to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Sex abuse victim William Gorry (left) showing emotions as he joins clerical sex abuse protesters at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Sex abuse victim William Gorry (left) showing emotions as he joins clerical sex abuse protesters at the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street in Dublin, prior to marching to the Garden of Remembrance to hold a protest to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Bed sheets with names of deceased children tied to the fence of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by the Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Bed sheets with names of deceased children tied to the fence of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by the Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis speaks at the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis speaks at the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

An aerial view of the crowd at Phoenix Park in Dublin as Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

PA

People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

The Stand4Truth protest at the Garden of Remembrance to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

The Stand4Truth protest at the Garden of Remembrance to coincide with the Papal Mass at Phoenix Park, before walking to the site of a nearby former Magdalene laundry, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

People hold up names of children as they gather to protest at the site of the former Tuam home for unmarried mothers in County Galway, where a mass grave of around 800 babies has recently been uncovered, during the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives to attend the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Pope Francis at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Micheal D. Higgins awaiting Pope Francis arrival at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Micheal D. Higgins awaiting Pope Francis arrival at the Phoenix Park, Dublin for the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis attends the closing Mass at the World Meeting of Families at Phoenix Park in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday August 26, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Brian Lawless/PA Wire.

Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Brian Lawless/PA Wire.

PA

Cardinal Kevin Farrell (left) and Pope Francis enjoying the performances at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Cardinal Kevin Farrell (left) and Pope Francis enjoying the performances at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis speaking at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis speaking at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis speaking at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis speaking at Croke Park in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis waves to the audience as he leaves Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, after attending the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Pope Francis waves to the audience as he leaves Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, after attending the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis prays at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis prays at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis prays at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis prays at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis speaks to the audience at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis speaks to the audience at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Performers at Croke Park in Dublin, prior to the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Performers at Croke Park in Dublin, prior to the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Crowds and performers at Croke Park in Dublin, in preparation for the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Crowds and performers at Croke Park in Dublin, in preparation for the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis waves to the crowd as he arrives at the Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis waves to the crowd as he arrives at the Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

AP

Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives at the Croke Park stadium for the Festival of Families, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Pope Francis arrives at the Croke Park stadium for the Festival of Families, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

AP

Crowds and performers at Croke Park in Dublin, in preparation for the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Crowds and performers at Croke Park in Dublin, in preparation for the arrival of Pope Francis who will join an audience of 82,500 and hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

People hold up lights at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, as Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 where he will hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

People hold up lights at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, as Pope Francis joins an audience of 82,500 where he will hear five testimonies by families from Ireland, Canada, Iraq, and Africa, during the Festival of Families event, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on Christchurch, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on Christchurch, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on O'Connell Street, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on O'Connell Street, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pauline Gallagher (right) with her daughters Amelia and Alana after seeing Pope Francis on College Green, Dublin, as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

Pauline Gallagher (right) with her daughters Amelia and Alana after seeing Pope Francis on College Green, Dublin, as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis greets Aidan Walsh, during a visit to the Capuchin Day Centre on Bowe Street in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis greets Aidan Walsh, during a visit to the Capuchin Day Centre on Bowe Street in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis shakes hands with Br Kevin Crowley as he arrives for a visit to the Capuchin Day Centre on Bowe Street in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis shakes hands with Br Kevin Crowley as he arrives for a visit to the Capuchin Day Centre on Bowe Street in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis speaks during his visit to the Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (Tiziana Fabi/Pool Photo via AP)

Pope Francis speaks during his visit to the Capuchin Day Centre for Homeless in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (Tiziana Fabi/Pool Photo via AP)

AP

Pope Francis during a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis during a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis during a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis during a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on Christchurch, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis waves to the waiting crowds on Christchurch, Dublin as he travels in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis meets with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Dublin Castle as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Pope Francis meets with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Dublin Castle as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis meets with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, right, as he arrives at Dublin Castle, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Pope Francis meets with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, right, as he arrives at Dublin Castle, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

AP

Pope Francis signs a guest book as he meets with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis signs a guest book as he meets with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

AP

Pope Francis arrives for a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin to meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin to meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Stephen O'Brien selling bottles of holy water from the St Mary's Pro Cathedral on Talbot Street, Dublin, during the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Stephen O'Brien selling bottles of holy water from the St Mary's Pro Cathedral on Talbot Street, Dublin, during the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives for a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin to meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for a visit to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin to meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Pairs of baby shoes hang from the railings on Sean McDermott Street in Dublin in memory of the children who died at the Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam, Co Galway, during the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pairs of baby shoes hang from the railings on Sean McDermott Street in Dublin in memory of the children who died at the Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam, Co Galway, during the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

PA

Supporters wait to see Pope Francis outside Our Lady of Lourdes Church on Sean McDermott Street, Dublin, the resting place of Matt Talbot, on the first day of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Supporters wait to see Pope Francis outside Our Lady of Lourdes Church on Sean McDermott Street, Dublin, the resting place of Matt Talbot, on the first day of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

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Pope Francis at St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, prior to his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis at St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, prior to his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

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Pope Francis kisses a young girl at the end of his meeting with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Francis kisses a young girl at the end of his meeting with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, in Dublin, Ireland, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. Pope Francis is on a two-day visit to Ireland. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

AP

Priests await the arrival of Pope Francis to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, where he will meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Priests await the arrival of Pope Francis to St Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, where he will meet with recently-married couples, and couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

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Crowds wait for Pope Francis at College Green, Dublin, prior to him travelling through Dublin in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

Crowds wait for Pope Francis at College Green, Dublin, prior to him travelling through Dublin in the Popemobile during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis delivers a speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis delivers a speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis (left) shakes hands with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar after his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis (left) shakes hands with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar after his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

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Pope Francis speaks with President Michael D Higgins in his study during a visit to Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis speaks with President Michael D Higgins in his study during a visit to Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis (left) shakes hands with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar after his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis (left) shakes hands with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar after his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis (centre right) arriving at St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar (centre left) after his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis (centre right) arriving at St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar (centre left) after his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis (centre right) leaves St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar (centre left) after his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis (centre right) leaves St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, with Taoiseach Leo Varadakar (centre left) after his speech, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis speaks with President Michael D Higgins in his study during a visit to Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

Pope Francis speaks with President Michael D Higgins in his study during a visit to Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: WMOF18/Maxwell Photography/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis delivers his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Pope Francis delivers his speech in St Patrick's Hall at Dublin Castle, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Yui Mok/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis presents Taoiseach Leo Varadkar with a gift as they meet at Dublin Castle during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Pope Francis presents Taoiseach Leo Varadkar with a gift as they meet at Dublin Castle during his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis signs the arrivals book as he meets with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Dublin Castle as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

Pope Francis signs the arrivals book as he meets with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Dublin Castle as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire

PA

The Hassoun family, (left to right not given) Saif Eddin Hassoun, Sanaa Edris, Mohmoud Al A'Araj, Hasba Hassoun, Lana Al A'Araj (six), Aala Al A'Araj, (four) and Tala Al A'Araj (one), wait to meet Pope Francis following a tree planting ceremony at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

The Hassoun family, (left to right not given) Saif Eddin Hassoun, Sanaa Edris, Mohmoud Al A'Araj, Hasba Hassoun, Lana Al A'Araj (six), Aala Al A'Araj, (four) and Tala Al A'Araj (one), wait to meet Pope Francis following a tree planting ceremony at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives for tree planting ceremony during a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for tree planting ceremony during a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

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Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. Photo credit: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis receives a bouquet of flowers from five-year-old Annalise, daughter of Foreign Affairs minister Simon Coveney, as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis receives a bouquet of flowers from five-year-old Annalise, daughter of Foreign Affairs minister Simon Coveney, as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins, at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Protestors wearing baby shoes, to signify the children who died in mother and baby homes in Ireland, protest in Dublin ahead of the start of the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Protestors wearing baby shoes, to signify the children who died in mother and baby homes in Ireland, protest in Dublin ahead of the start of the visit to Ireland by Pope Francis. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

PA

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

Pope Francis arrives for a meeting with Irish President Michael D Higgins and wife Sabina , at Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park, Dublin, as part of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Danny Lawson/PA Wire

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Pope Francis is greeted by Archbishop Eamon Martin as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis is greeted by Archbishop Eamon Martin as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Pope Francis is greeted by members of the clergy, representatives of Government and the local County Council, as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Pope Francis is greeted by members of the clergy, representatives of Government and the local County Council, as he arrives at Dublin International Airport, at the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Bishop Eamon Martin waits for the arrival of Pope Francis at Dublin International Airport, for the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Bishop Eamon Martin waits for the arrival of Pope Francis at Dublin International Airport, for the start of his visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 25, 2018. See PA story IRISH Pope. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

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Pope Francis waves as he boards an airplane at Rome's Fiumicino international airport, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. The pontiff is traveling to Ireland for a two-day visit on the occasion of the 2018 World Meeting of Families. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Francis waves as he boards an airplane at Rome's Fiumicino international airport, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2018. The pontiff is traveling to Ireland for a two-day visit on the occasion of the 2018 World Meeting of Families. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

AP

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Pope Francis prays inside St Mary's Pro Cathedral during his visit to Dublin, Ireland. (Stefano Rellandini/Pool Photo via AP)

In his final engagement yesterday before leaving for the airport, Pope Francis returned to the theme of child abuse in an address to his Irish bishops. He said: "A recurrent theme of my visit has been the Church's need to acknowledge and remedy, with evangelical honesty and courage, past failures with regard to the protection of children and vulnerable adults.

"In recent years you as a body have moved resolutely forward, not only by undertaking paths of purification and reconciliation with victims of abuse, but also with the help of the National Board of Safeguarding Children, by establishing a stringent set of norms aimed at ensuring the safety of young persons.

"In these years all of us have had our eyes opened to the gravity and extent of sexual abuse in various social settings.

"In Ireland, as elsewhere, the honesty and integrity with which the Church chooses to confront this painful chapter in her history can offer an example and a warning to society as a whole."

Despite the wet weather, many thousands at the open air mass earlier received communion from nearly 2,000 volunteers.

The Pope also issued a heartfelt statement thanking everyone who had made the visit possible.

He said: "I am sure that the success of this World Meeting of Families is due to the quiet and persevering prayers of the people."

Right to the end there was an awareness that history was being made in an Ireland that had changed dramatically since the last papal visit, by Pope John Paul II, in 1979.

The Papal Mass in Dublin came hours after Francis called for firm action in pursuing justice for church abuse victims.

On the second day of his weekend visit, he said the crimes committed by members of the church had left an "open wound".

At an address at the holy shrine of Knock, in Co Mayo, yesterday morning, he said no-one could fail to be moved by stories of young abuse victims who were "robbed of their innocence" and left with "painful memories".

Thousands who came to see the Pope at a site revered by Irish Catholics applauded as he urged decisive steps to bring truth to the victims.

"I beg the Lord's forgiveness for these sins and for the scandal and betrayal felt by so many others in God's family," he said.

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