Pope tries and fails to influence anti-gay marriage vote

Pope Francis may be hailed as one of the most progressive pontiffs in recent times - saying the internet was "godly", speaking out about climate change and declaring Catholic beliefs consistent with evolution and the Big Bang theory.

However, his recent comments about gay marriage have drawn criticism. In his weekly address at the Vatican last week the Pope appeared to throw his support behind the proposal to ban same-sex marriage in a Slovakian referendum.

I greet the pilgrims from Slovakia and, through them, I wish to express my appreciation to the entire Slovak church, encouraging everyone to continue their efforts in defence of the family, the vital cell of society.

• Pope Francis

Unfortunately for the Pope, the Slovak church, and the country's conservatives, his words failed to draw enough support for the the vote that would have banned same-sex marriage and prevented gay couples from adopting children.

Despite overwhelming support - with over 90 per cent voting in favour - the referendum was not legally binding because so few people - 21.4 per cent of the electorate - turned out to vote. The referendum needed at least a 50 per cent voter turnout to be forced through.

More: This is what Pope Francis has to say about the Charlie Hebdo attack

More: How Pope Francis plans to take on climate change in 2015