Mercy sees “how short life is and all the good still to be done”, Pope Francis said yesterday as he led a retreat for priests (first, second and third meditation). Catholic Archbishop Alapati Lui Mataeliga has distanced himself from an appeal by Christian leaders to ban Islam in Samoa. Russia's foreign ministry has deplored the rise of anti-Christian "oppression, violence, persecution and discrimination" in the West. Harumi Ozawa says the bones of an Italian missionary who entered Japan disguised as a samurai shed new light on the country's Christian past. Massimo Faggioli reflects on the changing role of the papal secretary. Fr Anthony Ruff considers why the Vatican is permitting Women’s Ordination Worldwide to demonstrate in its backyard today. And new Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho will voice the character of Pope Francis in an animated film marking centenary of the Fatima apparitions. Follow me on Twitter @lukecoppen for updates throughout the day.