Pope Francis says the Catholic Church has become "too obsessed" with abortion, gay marriage and contraception.

In an interview with an Italian newspaper, the pontiff says the Church should be a "home for all".

He's declared himself a sinner - and says the Catholic Church will fall 'like a house of cards' if it can't strike a balance between politics and spirituality.

The comments are being seen as a major shift in emphasis for the church.

Religious Affairs Correspondent with the Irish Times, Patsy McGarry, says the change in approach comes from the Pope's own life experience.