Pope Francis Expresses Concerns Over War Escalation, Denies Resignation Plans, and Announces Apostolic Journeys

Pope Francis Expresses Concerns Over War Escalation, Denies Resignation Plans, and Announces Apostolic Journeys

In a recent interview on an Italian TV program, Pope Francis voiced his apprehensions about the escalating risks of war, echoing his ongoing condemnation of conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Pope, addressing the document Fiducia supplicans, emphasized that "the Lord blesses everyone, everyone, everyone," including couples in "irregular" situations, urging a compassionate pastoral approach.

Reflecting on his role as a confessor, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of taking people's hands instead of passing immediate judgment, emphasizing forgiveness as a vital aspect of the Church's pastoral work. He shared that, in 54 years of priesthood, he had denied forgiveness only once, citing the person's hypocrisy.

Pope Francis expressed his hope for an empty hell, stressing that the Lord is not scandalized by human sins and that God accompanies individuals on their journeys. Turning to the horrors of war, he emphasized the criminal impact on children, citing a recent meeting with Ukrainian children who had lost their ability to smile due to the traumas of conflict.

Pope Francis denounced the arms trade behind wars and conveyed his deep fear of military escalation, particularly with the existence of atomic weapons. He questioned humanity's capacity for self-destruction and drew parallels with the biblical story of Noah's Ark.

Addressing the migration crisis, Pope called for a well-thought-out migration policy, emphasizing the need to eliminate mafias exploiting migrants and advocating for the right of everyone to stay in their own home or migrate.

When asked about the possibility of resignation from the papacy, Pope Francis clarified that it is neither a thought nor a concern at the moment. However, he announced two upcoming Apostolic Journeys—a trip to Polynesia in August and a visit to his native Argentina by the end of the year. The latter, he explained, is prompted by changes in government and a desire to support the country during what he acknowledged as a challenging time.

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