The camps of the Dakota protest are places of spiritual education, challenge and growth.

“We’re trying to do something for our nation,” says Taylor Charging Crow. “We’re risking our lives. We’re risking our families.”

The decision is a victory for the several thousand camped near the construction site.

"The Catholic community of east Tennessee continues to pray for those who have been affected by the terrible wildfires in Gatlinburg and other communities across the region," Bishop Richard F. Stika said.

The pope said there was a "weak response" in most international policies to promoting the common good.