In pictures: The Pope's Ukrainian mass

Pope John Paul II holds mass for thousands of Ukrainian Catholics on the second day of one of his most controversial tours since becoming head of the Roman Catholic church.

Thousands attended the mass on Sunday, held at an airfield near the Ukrainian capital, Kiev

Despite the cold, wet conditions, the Vatican said it was pleased with the numbers attending

The Pope offered prayers for Ukrainian Christians persecuted during the "dark times of the communist terror"

Many in Ukraine hope the Pope's visit will symbolise a new beginning for their country

Some of Ukraine's Orthodox community do not trust the Pope's intentions, and have staged protests

The Pope has also found time to bless the journalists covering his trip