THE recent comment by Cardinal Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals, who described the criticism of the Holy See relating to clerical child sex abuse as “truly incomprehensible” is absurd, unworthy and mischievous.

POPE BENEDICT XVI is unlikely to consider the possibility of a papal visit to Ireland until after Christmas at the earliest, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said after meeting the Pontiff at the Vatican yesterday morning.

POPE Benedict XVI will receive Taoiseach Bertie Ahern in private audience next Thursday, the Government disclosed yesterday.

POPE John Paul appeared at his window to bless the faithful on Easter Sunday but in a dramatic episode that brought tears to the eyes of many, he failed in his attempt to speak.