Authorities in Kentucky have cleared away demonstrators around the county clerk's office who has refused to issue marriage licenses to gay couples. Both supporters and opponents of gay marriage swarmed the office on Tuesday. Clerk Kim Davis has been called to a federal hearing on Thursday.

Pope Francis says he is letting all priests in the church's upcoming Year of Mercy absolve the "sin of abortion" if they seek forgiveness with a contrite heart. The pope said in a letter that he has met many women bearing the scar of this agonizing decision, and said god's forgiveness cannot be denied to those who repent.

A turbulent day on Wall Street. Stocks started the day dropping sharply amid new concerns about China's economy, speficially weak manufacturing numbers. This comes a day after US stocks finished their worst month in more than 3 years.

And pet owners and their beloved animals were blessed in Oaxaca, Mexico to bring them good health and protection in the year ahead. Dogs, cats, birds and even hedgehogs donned colorful garb at the annual event honoring Spanish saint Raymon, keeper of the animals.

Emily Roseman, Associated Press with AP News Minute.