In at least three Latin American countries, Catholics have become religious minorities. 

"Please keep Bishop Murry in your prayers," said the statement, adding that it will provide periodic updates on his health.

Pope Francis said that the use of new digital platforms requires a willingness to accept that "the attachment to the past may prove to be a dangerous temptation."

The 23-month-year-old died on April 28 from complications of a degenerative brain condition.

Cardinal George Pell is set to stand trial on charges of sexual abuse that go back decades.