Two popes canonised at single Vatican ceremony attended by Pope Francis and predecessor Benedict
Francis and Benedict attend ceremony to make John XXIII and John Paul II saints, the first time two ex-pontiffs are canonised at the same time
One helped revolutionise the church, becoming an enduring icon among progressive Roman Catholics who view religion as a vehicle for justice and peace.
The other figured in a societal revolution outside the church, earning the adulation of conservatives by battling communism and contributing to the downfall of the Soviet Union.
Cheers and applause rang out across St Peter's Square after the historic double canonisation as many in the crowd fixed their gaze on huge tapestries of the two popes on the facade of the basilica behind Francis.
The mass was also attended by former pope Benedict, who last year became the first pontiff in six centuries to step down. Never before have a reigning pope and a retired pope celebrated mass together in public, much less at an event honouring two of their most famous predecessors.
"We declare and define Blessed John XXIII and John Paul II to be saints and we enrol them among the saints, decreeing that they are to be venerated as such by the whole church," Francis said in his formal proclamation in Latin about 30 minutes into the solemn service.