In pictures: Pope's Czech visit

Pope Benedict is welcomed by pilgrims as he arrives to celebrate a Mass near Brno. Photo: 27 September 2009

Pope Benedict XVI has held an open-air Mass near the Czech city of Brno, appealing in front of more than 100,000 people for the country's spiritual renewal.

Many pilgrims wore traditional costumes during the Mass in the capital of Moravia, where most of the nation's 2.5 million Catholics live.

Two lesbian girls hold a silent protest in Brno. Photo: 27 September 2009

But some – like this lesbian couple – used the occasion to stage a silent protest against the Vatican’s opposition to gay marriage.

Pope Benedict XVI in Prague. Photo: 26 September 2009

The Pontiff began his three-day visit to the Czech Republic on Saturday, urging the heavily secular nation to "rediscover the Christian traditions".

Czechs in traditional clothes wait on tarmac at Prague’s Ruzyne airport. Photo: 26 September 2009

The official welcome at Prague's airport was polite - albeit low-key.

A general view of Our Lady Victorious cathederal in Prague, as Pope Benedict XVI sits on the throne in front of the main altar

In Prague's imposing Church of Our Lady Victorious, the Pope said the persecution of the Catholic Church and other faiths by "oppressive" Communist regimes in Central Europe "is not to be underestimated".

Nuns listen to a radio as they wait for the arrival of the Pope Benedict XVI in front of the Church of Our Lady Victorious

Catholic nuns were part of the papal audience...

... as were some children.

A Czech believer holds a rosary while waiting for the arrival of Pope Benedict XVI to the Church of Our Lady Victorious

But the number of Christian believers is said to be diminishing. There are currently more agnostics and atheists than believers in the 10-million nation.