Pope criticizes Catholic church emphasis on abortion, gays
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 20 September 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Pope criticizes Catholic church emphasis on abortion, gays, 20 September 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/526103621b.html [accessed 19 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
September 20, 2013
Pope Francis also says he envisions a greater role for women in the 1.2 billion-member church.
Pope Francis I says the Catholic Church should distance itself from an obsession with teachings on abortion, contraception, and homosexuality.
The pontiff said the church must become more merciful or risk the collapse of its entire moral edifice "like a house of cards."
In an interview on September 19 with the Italian Jesuit journal "Civilta Cattolica," Francis said he envisioned a greater role for women in the 1.2 billion-member church.
However, he suggested that role would not include a change in the current ban on female priesthood.
The pope said Catholic priests should not be cold, dogmatic bureaucrats, and added that the confessional "is not a torture chamber."
Francis's approach contrasts starkly with that of his conservative predecessor Benedict, who stepped down in February.
Based on reporting by AFP, AP, and Reuters
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
