More penance and prayers are needed to end the wars underway today and so many "absurd" conflicts, Pope Francis said.

Praying for all those affected by war and thanking those involved in humanitarian aid efforts, the Pope also marked Mother's Day on May 14 by asking everyone to thank and pray to their mothers on earth or in heaven.

After reciting the "Regina Coeli" prayer with an estimated 25,000 people gathered in St Peter's Square, the Pope said, "Let us remember with gratitude and affection all mothers, including our mothers in heaven, entrusting them to Mary, the mother of Jesus."