IRELAND
The Times (UK)

Cormac Lucey

Francis has done much to address inequality and homophobia but his efforts on this vile part of the church’s history need more work

Next year Pope Francis is scheduled to come to Ireland in what will be the second papal visit since John Paul II popped by in 1979.

The charismatic Argentinian’s visit is likely to be a big success. The pontiff’s appeal to old-style leftists such as President Michael D Higgins will ensure that. Calling inequality the root of social evil, the Pope regularly pressures governments to help the poor and there is much to admire in his simple lifestyle and refusal to move into the papal palace. He is also rumoured to sneak out of the Vatican to talk to the homeless and give them money.

In one of his most celebrated comments, the Pope said: “If someone is gay, and…