"This visit is important because it gives two important signals: The first signal is continuity," demonstrating that "the route opened by John Paul II and followed by Benedict XVI is now going forward," Rabbi Riccardo Di Segni, the chief rabbi of Rome, said. The second signal is a recognition of the importance of mutual respect and dialogue at a time of increasing "violence inspired and sustained by distorted visions of religion."

Interrupted repeatedly with applause at Rome's main synagogue Jan. 17, the pope said the church "recognizes the irrevocability of the Old Covenant and the constant and faithful love of God for Israel."

In the statement, "The Gifts and the Calling of God Are Irrevocable," the Pontifical Commission for Religious Relations With the Jews gives thanks for 50 years of Catholic-Jewish dialogue and looks at some of the theological questions that have arisen in the dialogue and in Catholic theology since the Second Vatican Council.

"The latest progress report confirms that the Holy See has established a functional, sustainable and effective system, aiming at preventing and fighting financial crimes," said Msgr. Antoine Camilleri, under-secretary for relations with states and head of the Vatican delegation to the Moneyval plenary.

"The crowds, the joy, the ability to celebrate even with an empty stomach" were impressions the pope said he would take home with him after his six-day trip to Kenya, Uganda and the Central African Republic. After two years of civil war, the pope told reporters, the people of the Central African Republic want "peace, reconciliation and forgiveness."

"Christians and Muslims are brothers and sisters," created by the same God, he said, and they must act like it.

"Even when the powers of hell are unleashed, Christians must rise to the summons, their heads held high, and be ready to brave blows in this battle over which God will have the last word. And that word will be love and peace," the pope said in an evening homily Nov. 29 at Bangui's cathedral.

Under the Vatican criminal code, it is a crime to take, distribute and publish confidential documents. The Vatican said that if any of the five are not present on Nov. 24, they would be tried in absentia.

"We are approaching Christmas," the pope said, and soon everywhere "there will be lights, decorated trees, even Nativity scenes," but if they are not signs of faith in Jesus and a commitment to following him, then it is "all fake."

The Vatican calendar for the Year of Mercy set aside Sept. 4, 2016 as a possible date for the canonization of Blessed Teresa of Kolkata.