Pope hopes for peace to prevail in the New Year
Pope Benedict XVI said he is convinced peace will prevail in 2013, despite the inequality, terrorism and "unregulated financial capitalism" that afflict the world today.
The Pope celebrated a Mass today in St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican to mark the church's world day of peace.
In his homily, Benedict said despite today's terrorism, criminality and the inequality between rich and poor, he was convinced the "numerous works of peace, of which the world is rich, are testimony to the innate vocation of humanity to peace".
Brits brave cold water for annual New Year's Day dip
Revellers across the UK braved the cold water and took part in the New Year's Day dip to mark the beginning of 2013.
2013 New Year celebrations in pictures
The world looked to 2013, as thousands of revellers joined in celebrating the New Year.