Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Tig Notaro among comedians to meet pope at the Vatican [Video]

Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert were among the many comedians from around the world who visited the Vatican on Friday morning at the behest of Pope Francis.

More than 100 humorists hailing from 15 countries were invited to meet the pontiff for a meeting organized to “establish a link” between the entertainers and the Roman Catholic Church.

“In the midst of so much gloomy news, you denounce abuses of power, you give voice to forgotten situations, you highlight abuses, you point out inappropriate behavior,” Francis told the group.

The jokesters were also lauded for spreading “peace and smiles” and making viewers “think critically” through their work.

“When you manage to bring intelligent smiles to the lips of even a single spectator, you also make God smile,” the pope said.

He then praised the comedians for their ability to unite people through laughter.

“While communication today often generates conflict, …