"We have a pope who is concerned about the environment, about mercy, compassion and love, and a deep passion, care and concern for the poor and for displaced peoples roaming the face of this earth."

Boehner, who described himself as “a regular guy who used to have a big job,” for his part praised Biden for coming to the table, no matter how strong their differences.

Many Armenians view the pontiff favorably for his moral stance on pressing world issues and for his elevation of an Armenian monk to the rank of doctor of the church.

The court seeks to accommodate "petitioners' religious exercise while at the same time ensuring that women covered by petitioners' health plans receive full and equal health coverage, including contraceptive coverage."

Venezuela's opposition warned the embattled leader that if he tries to block an attempt to hold a recall referendum, society could "explode."

"We feel because of our values, the choice was this, but that didn't mean it was easy."